People making smores around campfire

Introduction to Camping with the Museum! 

Ready to trade in the city lights for a starry night? Join the Natural History Museum for a playful, fun-filled adventure at Silverwood Lake—designed for first-time and novice campers! This isn't just any camping trip; it's your chance to explore the great outdoors with friendly Museum experts who will guide you every step of the way.

Imagine strolling through nature with knowledgeable guides, sharing stories around the campfire, and sleeping under a canopy of stars—all while learning the ins and outs of camping in a welcoming and supportive environment. And don’t worry about the gear—we've got you covered! From a tent and comfy sleeping bag to a sleeping pad and delicious meals, all you need to bring is your sense of adventure, enthusiasm for trying something new, and personal essentials.

This program is specifically designed for NHM Community Partners, and it’s absolutely free! But space is limited to just 40 campers, and participants must be 5 years old or older. So, pack your curiosity, grab your spot, and get ready for a memorable night under the stars with fellow nature lovers. 

People pointing and looking for birds
Campers enjoying a nature walk and birding with Museum Scientist, Dr. Allison Shultz.
Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

Details

Dates: 

The campout starts on the evening of Friday, November 22  and ends on Sunday morning, November 24. 

Location: 

Silverwood Lake, California.  Free transportation is available from the Natural History Museum. 

We will provide: 

  • Transportation from NHM (900 Exposition Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90007)
  • Camping gear (tent, sleeping bag & sleeping pad)
  • Water bottle
  • Camping chair
  • Flashlight
  • Meals

You will bring: 

  • Change of clothes. We recommend dressing in layers as weather conditions may change throughout the day.
  • Personal items: toiletries, medications, etc.

I am interested! How do I sign up?

Complete the interest form below by October 1, 2024.  

When will I hear back from the Museum? 

We will alert everyone if they are confirmed to attend or have been placed on the waitlist by October 15, 2024.  As a reminder, we only have 40 spaces for this program, and participants must be five (5) years old to attend. This program is exclusively for NHM Community Partners.  

People walking on trail
Campers go on a nature stroll with Museum experts.
Gilmar Flores

What can I expect to do while camping with the Museum? 

Get ready for an unforgettable two-night camping adventure! Upon arrival, you'll settle in and kick off the weekend with an opening circle where you’ll get to know your fellow campers. As the sun sets, gather around the campfire for a delicious dinner followed by everyone's favorite—s'mores!

Your Saturday will be packed with nature-filled fun. Start the day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a wildlife walk guided by our expert team. In the afternoon, you'll get hands-on with camera trapping, guided by a wildlife biologist, and explore your creative side with a journaling art activity. As evening falls, embark on a Nature Night Hike to discover the mysteries of the nocturnal world. We’ll wrap up the day with dinner, reflections on our adventures, and another cozy campfire under the stars. 

On Sunday, after breakfast, we’ll pack up our tents and gather for a final reflection activity to share our thoughts and memories. Before you head home, we'll send you off with some special giveaway items to remember your time at Silverwood Lake. It’s a weekend full of new experiences, learning, and connecting with nature!

Questions?

Please do not hesitate to contact us at community@nhm.org with any questions.

 


This campout is a program of the Wild L.A.: Explore the Amazing Nature In and Around L.A. grant-funded program. This program is funded by the Outdoor Equity Grants Program, created through AB 209 and administered by California State Parks, Office of Grants, and Local Services.