Come Learn Outside With Us!

Join us at Camp Comfort for one of our Fridays at the Park!

We’ll spend the day learning about our local ecosystems, engaging in fun, hands-on activities, and of course, looking for wildlife together.

Ages: 4.5–8

Time: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Cost: $125 per class (= $25/hour)

• A $50 deposit (non-refundable) secures your child’s spot.

• The remaining $75 is collected at check-in.

• Need-based scholarships are available—please ask if finances are a barrier.

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Dates

• September 26

• October 17, October 31

• November 14

• December 12

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Location

Camp Comfort

11969 N Creek Rd, Ojai, CA 93023

Camp Comfort is a lovely shaded park with many trees and a shallow creek (knee-deep at its deepest). It isn’t wilderness, but it’s a safe and wonderful place for exploring ecosystem dynamics. The park also has a playground and a large open field for games and activities.

When you arrive, you’ll see our check-in table set up to the right of the parking area. Each child will receive their custom nature journal, along with decorating supplies so they can start making it their own right away. If your child is feeling nervous or shy, you’re welcome to hang out for a few minutes until they feel settled.

Parking: The park charges $2 if you plan to stay beyond drop-off or pick-up (even just for a short visit). Quick drop-off and pick-up are free.

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Check-In & Payment

• First-time families: Please allow extra time for a few additional permission slips (Liability Waiver, Photo/Video Release, Behavioral Agreement, and a printed copy of your sign-up form in case anything needs updating).

• Daily sign-in/out: An approved parent or guardian must sign their child in and out. Only individuals listed as a parent/guardian or emergency contact, with ID, will be allowed to pick up. Please update your list if others (like a grandparent or neighbor) might help with pickup.

• Payment: Unless other arrangements are made, the remaining $75 balance is collected at or before initial check-in. Cash or check (payable to Pacific Wildlife Institute) is preferred, but we can also accept Zelle, Venmo, or Cash App.

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What to Bring

• Lunch & Snacks: Peanut-free, with plenty of snacks.

• Water Bottle: Refillable and required—we’ll pause for water at least once an hour.

• Sunscreen: Even in shade, sun protection matters. We’ll reapply together about every two hours unless you’d prefer otherwise.

• Clothing: Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothes your child can move freely in. Quick-dry shorts are especially helpful.

• Shoes: Sturdy and easy to take on/off for creek time. Velcro or quick-lace shoes work well. Sport sandals are okay. Please avoid flip-flops, slides, or Crocs as the only shoe.

• Optional: Binoculars, hat, sunglasses.

• Please Do Not Bring: Toys, video games, water guns, or valuables.

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Daily Topics

Each Friday will explore a different part of our Southern California ecosystems through:

• Nature journaling (custom journal provided and used daily for sketching, note-taking, and reflection)

• Hands-on exploration with provided materials (owl pellets, butterfly nets, specimen containers, craft supplies)

• Games, stories, and group activities

The core themes repeat, but the focus species and activities change each week, making every session unique for returning students.

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Safety

• Both Andrew and Bridgett are Certified Wilderness First Responders (NOLS), with training to manage outdoor emergencies.

• Children are supervised at all times and we maintain a very low adult-to-student ratio (1:5 or better).

• Creek policy: No swimming or rough play. Children may explore with hands or feet, but never beyond the knees. If you’d prefer your child skip creek activities, just let us know.

• We take regular breaks for water, snacks, and sunscreen.

During program contact:

• Andrew Nelson: (805) 320-7936

• Bridgett Nelson: (805) 422-6143

FAQ

Can parents help or participate?

Not during the program itself. To keep consistency and safety, we limit direct adult involvement to staff. That said, Camp Comfort is a public park—you’re welcome to enjoy the space nearby, and watching quietly from a distance is absolutely fine.

How many kids are in the group?

We keep groups small and personal: no more than 10 children, with at least one adult for every five kids.

What is the refund policy?

• The $50 deposit is non-refundable (it secures your child’s spot and helps us begin preparing materials).

• The $75 balance is generally non-refundable once paid, since it goes directly toward supplies, staff, and permits.

• However—we understand life happens. If your family experiences something unexpected, especially financial hardship, please reach out. We’re always willing to have a conversation.

What if my child has allergies or medical needs?

Please share any details during registration or check-in. We take this very seriously and will do our best to support your child’s needs.

What if it rains?

Light rain is part of the adventure! We’ll continue with a few adjustments. If there’s heavy rain or safety concerns, we’ll notify you of changes or backup plans.

How do I apply for a need-based scholarship?

Simply reach out to us via email, and we’ll send you a short scholarship application. We are passionate about making our programs accessible to families of all income levels and will do our best to support you.