Pathfinders

San Diego boasts one of the most temperate climates in the world, with abundant ecosystems, breathtaking landscapes, and incredible natural resources. Yet, our vibrant city life often overshadows these natural wonders. Pathfinders is an outdoor enrichment program dedicated to reconnecting children with the land and teaching them to care for it. Through immersive, hands-on camps and enrichment sessions, we aim to foster eco-consciousness, empathy, and deep connection to the environment in the hearts and minds of the next generation.

Our Programs

  • School Break Adventure Camps

    Our School Break Adventure Camps offer exciting, nature-based sessions on most school closure days, specifically aligned with the academic calendars for San Diego Unified, Coronado Unified, and La Mesa-Spring Valley School Districts.

  • Year-Round Enrichment Sessions

    Our year-round enrichment sessions offer children ages 5-13 an opportunity to explore the wonders of the natural world and their role in protecting it. From urban gardening and regenerative agriculture to soil science, biodiversity, and sustainability, each unique 6-12 week session fosters curiosity, critical thinking, and hands-on learning to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards.

  • Trailside Tutoring

    Trailside Tutoring empowers students in grades 6-12 to excel in STEAM subjects through immersive, outdoor-based learning. By blending rigorous academics with place-based exploration, our programs prepare students to exceed state standards while fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and a strong connection to the natural world.

“In the end, we will conserve only what we love; we will love only what we understand; and we will understand only what we are taught.”

— Baba Dioum

We Believe

  • We believe in the power of hands-on experiences in nature to foster a deep, lasting commitment to environmental stewardship.

  • We believe that every living thing is interconnected, and understanding this connection nurtures respect and responsibility for the earth.

  • We believe in celebrating biodiversity and teaching children the importance of preserving it for future generations.

  • We believe that slowing down in nature fosters mindfulness, teaching children the importance of presence and reflection in a fast-paced world.

  • We believe that learning about ecology empowers children to become thoughtful stewards of the environment.

  • We believe that a connection to the land fosters a sense of place, helping children feel grounded in and responsible for the spaces they inhabit daily.

  • We believe that spending time in nature builds resilience and adaptability, qualities that help children approach challenges in daily life with patience and creativity.

  • We believe that cultivating empathy for animals and plants helps children develop empathy for others, inspiring everyday acts of compassion and support within their families and communities.

  • We believe that play is essential to learning, growth, and joy. Through unstructured play in nature, children develop creativity, problem-solving skills, and confidence that extend into all areas of their lives.