Thirty boys and 30 girls, randomly selected from Title 1 schools, are divided into six groups of 10. Each group is paired with two teachers and two High School mentors who spend the week guiding the children through what is, for many, their first time to camp or experience nature.

The first two days the children are bused in and spend their time touring the refuge and learning about wildlife conservation, leave no trace, healthy lifestyles and safety. The schedule focuses on creating bonds between participants, teachers, mentors and staff.

On Wednesday, participants hike nearly three miles to the campground where they will pitch their tents, home for the next two nights. Thursday the children spend the majority of their time learning to fish or practicing their archery skills. While the days are filled with activities, the nights are typical camp fun with camp fires, s’mores, storytelling and night hikes.

Aside from wildlife conservation, Nature Quest focuses heavily on encouraging hiking as a way to stay fit. A partner of the event, the Southwest Oklahoma Fit Kids Coalition, conducts classes promoting healthy lifestyles. The program is made possible thanks to partnering organizations, including the Friends of the Wichitas, Lawton Public Schools and the local Job Corps. 

View the most current Nature Quest flier or contact the refuge to learn more about Nature Quest.