Upon returning from chaperoning my child’s 6^th grade class trip to the Marin Headlands as part of the Nature Bridge Program, I feel compelled to give this outfit a major shout-out as one of the best camps for children.   I wasn’t sure what to expect prior to attending this 2-night camp, but the experience turned out to be a phenomenal one.   

What is Nature Bridge?

Nature Bridge is an educational outfit that hosts school overnight field trips to the Marin Headlands. The camp is situated at Fort Cronkhite, near Rodeo Beach.  Bunk beds are set up in the old military structures, and one of the structures has a kitchen with chefs that prepare meals for the students.  These meals are excellent.  We all know that children are huge food critics, and I did not hear one negative comment about meals. 

Nature Bridge teaches children about safeguarding the environment while experiencing nature.   There are many educational topics covered, and many of them focus on steps to better the world around us.  The educators review waste with the students and teach them the importance of decreasing our garbage in the environment.  The educators also provided lessons on ecology, reviewing native versus non-native plants, introducing the children to the many different types of rocks on the beach, and having the children assist with counting seal pups on the beaches.  They also had a wet lab with a hands-on tide pool for children to experience touching hermit crabs and other small ocean life.

What I loved about Nature Camp was the blend of education and exploration.  The educators were super kind and positive. Children were treated incredibly well.  The educators demonstrated respect, and that set the tone of the children to follow.      

Key Features of Nature

• Hiking: Fort Cronkhite and Nature Bridge is located in one of the best spots for hiking.  Just out the door are a ton of different hiking trails. The educators led the children on multiple hikes during our time there, all while appreciating nature, looking for wildlife, and noticing details that would otherwise go unappreciated.  One of the best hikes we took was one out to Point Bonita Lighthouse.  The backdrop was the Golden Gate Bridge, and on the rocky beaches below were seals and sea lions with their pups.  All the hikes promise breathtaking views.
• Camping: Sleep-away camp provides many wonderful new experiences and memories for children.   For a camping trip to be successful, children must be able to pack and organize their belongings (this is a bigger task than most people realize), and they must flash independence when packing their gear for the day or tidying up their bunk areas in the morning.  Even for children afraid of spending a night away from home, going away to camp, even for a few nights, helps boost independence and appreciation for what they have back home.  A hot shower feels super good when returning home, a familiar bed is much more appreciated, and even the attitude toward family members is so much better after being stuck with classmates for multiple days.
• Education: Beyond just fun, Nature Bridge Marin is committed to enriching the minds of young visitors. Through expert-led environmental education programs, children and teens learn about the ecosystem, sustainability, and the importance of conservation. It’s a hands-on learning experience that will stay with them long after the trip ends.
• Environment: The preservation and appreciation of the natural world are at the core of Nature Bridge Marin’s ethos. By visiting, your child is supporting conservation efforts and being taught crucial environmental values.

What about pets?

Pets are not allowed at Nature Bridge Camp.   However, this particular area of the Marin Headlands is open to the public, and dogs are welcome!  While hiking with the children, we met multiple dogs on the trails.  It is recommended to keep dogs on leashes, and to keep them close.  There are some parts of the trail that are on a cliff-edge, and even the most sure-footed dog could go kerplunk into the ocean below if not careful.

If visiting the area with dogs, please check the weather!  Most of the time, this area of the SF Bay Area is covered by a marine layer, but a hot day can be especially HOT.  I recommend avoiding these trails in the heat, as dogs can succumb to heat stress.   And never EVER leave your dog in the car while you hike!  

Do NOT let dogs play in the surf.  Just like with children, the Pacific Ocean has wicked rip currents that will take experienced swimmers out to sea. 

Final Thoughts

This is a destination worth visiting.  Please speak with your children’s school teacher or principal about using Nature Bridge for an field trip overnight adventure! The children will learn as much in nature as they will in the classroom, and they will build memories for a lifetime.

While the Nature Bridge Camp is not suitable for tourists, the Marin Headlands, Fort Cronkhite, and Rodeo Beach are well worth the visit!  Bring your dog along for them to enjoy it as well.   And, if you pre-plan well, you can coordinate this visit with a tour of the Marine Mammal Center.  Please see my other MomsTribute blog entitled "Aquatic Conservation can be Very Interesting for Kids" about this family-friendly destination!

Laura D