Second Annual Wildlife Explorers Environmental Camp Connects Youth, Nature, and Culture
- aorcutt8
- Jun 16
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 6

June 3rd through June 5th, 2025, the Caddo Nation of Oklahoma, the Comanche Nation of Oklahoma, and numerous other Native American tribes joined forces with the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge to host the second annual Wildlife Explorers Environmental Camp — an inspiring gathering dedicated to fostering a deeper understanding of the environment, cultural heritage, and the importance of respecting Mother Earth.
This multi-day event offered young tribal members a meaningful opportunity to connect with the natural world while honoring their rich cultural traditions. It aimed to instill respect for the environment, promote cultural pride, and inspire future generations of Native youth to become active stewards of their lands and waters.
Day 1:
The youth separated into groups and explored various stations designed to educate and engage. They learned water testing techniques—crucial for monitoring the health of local waterways—emphasizing the importance of respecting and safeguarding natural resources. Participants also built terrariums to better understand terrestrial ecosystems and how plant and animal life coexist. Traditional hand games, passed down through generations, reinforced cultural heritage, emphasized the value of community, and tradition. The day wrapped up with energetic relay races, encouraging teamwork.
Day 2:
The second day focused on learning about wildlife and the environment through hands-on presentations. The Ft. Sill Apache tribe shared their knowledge about macroinvertebrates and vertebrates—key indicators of ecosystem health—highlighting the importance of respecting all living creatures. The Kiowa tribe of Oklahoma helped the youth build solar-powered RC cars, fostering understanding of renewable energy and technological innovation. The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge showcased the tools and equipment used in wildland firefighting, stressing the importance of protecting natural habitats from devastating wildfires. Following lunch, participants enjoyed a guided tour of the refuge’s native wildlife habitats, observing animals and plants native to the region and learning how each plays a vital role in maintaining the balance of nature. This day reinforced the connection between humans and nature, emphasizing the sacred responsibility of caring for the earth.
Day 3:
The final day took the children to the Medicine Park Aquarium, where they explored native aquatic and terrestrial species. Observing otters, amphibians, native birds, and local plants, the youth learned about the rich biodiversity that surrounds and sustains their communities. Otter feeding demonstrations and close encounters fostered a sense of wonder and respect for these creatures. The experience underscored the importance of protecting native habitats and respecting all living beings. Lunch provided an opportunity for reflection and camaraderie, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for environmental stewardship.
Throughout the event, special thanks were extended to all tribes and organizations whose collaboration made this meaningful experience possible:
The Caddo Nation of Oklahoma
The Commanche Nation of Oklahoma
The Delaware Nation of Oklahoma
The Ft. Sill Apache Tribe
The Apache Tribe of Oklahoma
The Kiowa Tribe of Oklahoma
The Wichita Tribe of Oklahoma
The Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribe
Wildlife Refuge of Oklahoma
The Friends of Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
Their partnership exemplifies how working together can inspire positive change and cultural preservation.

This camp highlights the vital importance of nurturing a stewardship mindset among Native youth—teaching them to respect, understand, and cherish Mother Earth and their cultural roots. By connecting traditional knowledge with modern environmental practices, we equip the next generation to protect and honor their land, waters, and heritage.
Organizers proudly look forward to continuing this tradition of learning, cultural pride, and environmental care. Together, we can ensure that our youth carry forward the sacred duty of caring for the earth. See you next year!
Comentários