Once upon a time, in the incredibly lush and leafy state of Oregon, there thrived a group of kids who possessed a chronic case of nature-itis. These weren't your everyday, tablet-tapping, cereal crunching, sock-misplacing rascals. Oh no! These were the Oregon Nature Ninjas! Oregon, the magical state where it seems someone has taken a giant green paintbrush and splashed it all over. From the enchanting Crater Lake to the towering Mount Hood, from the playful Pacific coastline to the whispering Willamette Valley, the state is a treasure trove of natural wonders. Now, let me introduce you to our cool imaginary character, Squiggles, the Squirrely Sasquatch. Squiggles, with his rainbow fur and shoes made of moss, was the ultimate guide for these adventurous kiddos. When the Nature Ninjas embarked on their daily expeditions, Squiggles would pop up from behind a tree or tumble down a hill, always ready with a giggle-inducing tip or a tongue-twisting fact about Oregon’s bewitching biodiversity. The Nature Ninjas, in their grass-stained jeans and sunflower yellow hats, roamed across Oregon’s wild terrains, their laughter echoing through the woods. They’d climb up the tallest Douglas firs, or trace the trails of the Columbia River, their faces lit up with the thrill of discovery and the joy of being one with nature. In Oregon, trees became their towers, rivers their racing tracks, and every pebble, pinecone, or peculiarly shaped cloud was a puzzle waiting to be solved. With Squiggles the Squirrely Sasquatch by their side, the Oregon Nature Ninjas were not just exploring the outdoors, but also embarking on the grandest, funniest, and greenest adventure of their lives.

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best nature programs in Bend, OR

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For over 50 years, Frontier Camp has been dedicated to making disciples of Jesus by sharing God’s Word amidst the beauty of His creation. Since our founding in 1969, we’ve been licensed by the Texas Department of State Health Services and are proudly accredited by the American Camping Association. We’re also a member of the Christian Camping and Conference Association. Our mission is to use Christian camping and outdoor recreation as a means to support local churches in fulfilling the Great Commission—evangelizing people of all ages and discipling believers toward deeper maturity in Christ. Frontier Camp offers a dual ministry: during the summer, we host a 10-week youth camp, and throughout the rest of the year, we serve as a retreat facility for churches and like-minded religious organizations. Whether through summer camps or retreats, our goal remains the same: to expose people to Christ and encourage their spiritual growth through His Word and by reflecting His character in everything we do. While we provide top-notch recreation and exciting programming, the heart of our camp is the spiritual impact, rooted in the truth of God’s inerrant Word.

Grapeland, TX 75844-8101
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Most youth organizations talk about preparing kids for the future or future leadership positions. This is great, but we believe kids and teens are leaders now. They don't need to wait for the future to shape the world. We help youth be the best 7-year-old they can be or the best 17-year-old. We guide kids and teens of all ages to boost their confidence and unlock their potential so they can thrive—where they are now. Thrive{ology} is our research-based approach to teaching every kid or teen how to be a better friend, student, son, daughter, member of society, sister, brother...today. Every Camp Fire program across the country uses Thrive{ology} to teach youth to identify sparks, develop a growth mindset, learn goal management, and take time to reflect.

Bend, OR 97708