STEAM in the PARK Blog

Day 3 | Voices, Justice & Care Golden Gate STEAM in the PARK

6/23/2025

Today at #STEAMinthePARK, we crossed the bay in search of stories—and found them in both expected and unexpected places.

Our morning began on Alcatraz Island, where Ranger Benny invited us to peel back the layers of history. While many know Alcatraz as a prison, Benny reminded us it’s also a place of resistance, remembrance, and reclamation. We stood in the footprint of the 1969–71 Indian Occupation of Alcatraz, where Native activists from across tribes gathered to demand justice and recognition. Their voices echoed through time, reminding us that Goal 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions starts with truth-telling.

We listened to stories of those wrongfully accused, of the incarcerated, and of communities who’ve always fought to be heard. And we asked ourselves: Who still isn’t being heard? What stories still need to be told?

In the afternoon, we traveled to the Marine Mammal Center, where we met another kind of silent witness—rescued seals and sea lions. These animals are on the front lines of climate change, impacted by warming oceans, plastic pollution, and harmful algal blooms. But here, Goal 13: Climate Action was more than a lesson—it was a lifeline. Scientists, vets, and volunteers are working tirelessly to heal what’s been harmed. We left reminded that advocacy isn’t always loud—it’s also in the quiet work of care.

Before the campfire, we gathered together and opened our hearts. The conversations were deep and, honestly, a little scary. How do we take all of this back to our classrooms? How do we hold space for justice, equity, and care in our own schools and communities? But something powerful happened in that circle: we decided we’re going to do it—together.

And while we didn’t see the sun tonight—hidden behind a thick layer of fog—and the air was cold enough to make us huddle a little closer, we were still so glad to be together. The fog may have chilled the air, but it didn’t touch the fire we’re building inside.

Because sometimes, all it takes is a spark to start a fire of change.

Onward to Day 4. We’re ready. 💛

Golden Gate STEAM in the PARK — Day 2 Highlights

6/22/2025

What. A. Day.

We kicked things off with sunshine and science as Ambassador Emily led us on a morning Pollinator Hunt that had everyone buzzing. From a fast-paced game of Pollinator Taboo to identifying native vs. invasive plants and planning our very own pollinator gardens, the morning bloomed with curiosity and collaboration. The conversations about how we can protect our pollinators were as powerful as the resources we shared.

Then we made our way up to the historic Battery above the NatureBridge Bluff Campus—an old concrete structure tucked into the hillside, once used for defense, now being reclaimed by nature. During our If These Walls Could Talk journaling session, campers reflected on the tension of fear and bravery that must have filled this place. We stood surrounded by wildflowers and salt air, thinking deeply about time, land, and legacy.

After lunch, we had a surprise—an exclusive tour of the Nike Missile Site, a Cold War-era defense base tucked into the Marin Headlands. Although closed to the public on Sundays, it opened just for our crew. Ranger James was exceptional, walking us through the towering missiles, radar systems, and engineering marvels of the site. I’ll admit—I’m a pacifist. But standing there, thinking about the 19-year-olds who lived and served here for years, I felt a mixture of reverence and sorrow. With so much happening in the world right now, I couldn’t help but wonder: Why are we so slow to learn from the past?

This afternoon, we shifted to art mode. With paintbrushes in hand, we combined the spirit of Monet’s impressionism with Manet’s realism, capturing the beauty of our surroundings—wild landscapes, bunkers reclaimed by nature, and that ever-present sea breeze. The creativity was flowing.

Ambassador LeAnn then guided us through Sound Mapping, inviting us to close our eyes and listen. We mapped the world around us through sound—waves, wind, footsteps on gravel—and compared it to what people might have heard in this same spot a hundred years ago. It was haunting, grounding, and powerful.

We closed the night with a screening of “Out There: A National Park Story”. I’ve seen it more times than I can count, and it still brings tears to my eyes. These stories, these places, and these people matter.

Tomorrow, we head to Alcatraz and the Marine Mammal Center—two places with very different stories but equal parts wonder. We’re ready.

#STEAMinthePARK #GoldenGateAdventures #NatureAndHistory #PollinatorPower #SoundMapping #NikeMissileSite #ManetMeetsMonet #IfTheseWallsCouldTalk #OutThereFilm

Day 1 at Golden Gate STEAM in the PARK

6/21/2025

What a start! This is our very first camp here at Golden Gate National Recreation Area, and wow—what a welcome we received. Campers arrived today to sunshine, blue skies, and views that quite literally took our breath away.

Nestled in the Marin Headlands, our home for the week is NatureBridge, perched on the bluffs between ocean, bridge, and bay. On one side, the mighty Pacific. On another, the Golden Gate Bridge standing strong in the fog-free air. And to the north, the rolling Marin Headwaters stretch out in all their green-and-golden glory. We're living inside a postcard.

But this isn’t just any campsite—NatureBridge sits on the historic site of a WWII-era military bunker, once part of the coastal defense system. These old buildings have stories to tell, and this week we’re listening. It’s a powerful reminder of the layers of history woven into these landscapes.

After getting settled in, we kicked off with a book exchange (our campers always come through!), followed by a scenic walk to the trail near Point Bonita Lighthouse. The ocean breeze was energizing, and so were the connections already forming.

Tonight’s dinner? Three kinds of pasta, garlic bread, salad, fresh fruit, and brownies that should win an award. Massive kudos to our cooks—seriously!

After dinner, we gathered for Birds of a Feather, an activity that celebrates the unique traits each camper brings to our flock. And then, as if the day hadn’t already been magical enough, we watched the sunset melt into the water at the edge of the world.

Campfire stories, laughter, and the promise of a big adventure tomorrow. Golden Gate—you’ve set the bar high.

#STEAMinthePARK #GoldenGateAdventures #CampOnTheCliffs #NatureBridgeMagic

Olympic Family Camp: A Reflection from the Airport Lounge

6/19/2025

This dream was Steve’s.

I remember it so clearly—Acadia 2022 had just ended, and we were tucked into a hotel room for the night, tired but dreaming. Steve turned to me and said, “What if we created a camp for families? A place where educators could refuel—but bring the people they love most along for the journey?”

That’s who Steve is. He’s always been about family, connection, and making space for belonging. It’s what drew me to him in the first place.

Since Acadia 2023, we’ve welcomed over 100 families into that dream. And this past week at Olympic? It might just be our favorite chapter yet.

Fifty-three humans. All gathered in one space. Different ideas. Different backgrounds. Different stories. But one shared purpose: to find hope and peace through community.

And we did.

We laid flat on the forest floor for Belly Botany, discovering whole ecosystems just beneath our feet. We tested creek water and learned about the Crescenti Trout, a species found only here. We hiked (almost) to the top of Storm King, felt the mist of Marymere Falls, and witnessed Ranger Coady’s now-famous waterfall dance. PS- Ryan made it to the top of Storm King the next morning.

We crafted red cedar roses with the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe, who reminded us what it means to make choices for the next 70 years, not just today. We read, jumped off bridges into the lake, played Left, Right, Dice, and filled our Joy Jar with moments that truly mattered.

And we ended it all with a forest dance party that felt like it belonged in a fairytale.

Now we’re sitting in the airport lounge—charging our devices, sipping caffeine like it’s magic, and letting the quiet settle in.

Our hearts are full.
Our purpose renewed.
And come Saturday, we’ll be ready to meet our next group of campers at Golden Gate.

Because this dream keeps going.
And we’re still saying yes.

With love,
Dacia & Steve 💛

Olympic Family Camp – Day 4

6/19/2025

We started the day face down in the dirt... but in the best possible way! Our Belly Botany adventure had us lying flat on the forest floor, peering through pocket microscopes to explore the world beneath our feet. Spoiler alert: it’s teeming with life—tiny critters, curious crawlers, and more than a few squeals of delight.

Next up: water testing the creek that feeds Lake Crescent. We learned about the Crescenti Trout, a fish found nowhere else in the world—endemic, elusive, and totally fascinating. And just when we thought science couldn’t be more fun, Ranger Coady busted out The Salmon Flop—a new dance that has us all questioning our dignity (and balance). 🐟🕺

The afternoon was wide open for family choice—some hiked, some napped, some braved the chilly water with bridge jumps, and a few wandered off to the magical Hoh Rainforest. There were shoppers, explorers, and readers by the water—everyone finding their own rhythm in this wild, beautiful place.

Dinner? Thai food that hit the spot—huge thanks to our amazing NatureBridge chefs. Then it was on to a few new traditions: Left, Right, Dice, Camp Charades, and a very serious (and slightly gross) field study: Scat Investigations. Things got wild when we transformed our knowledge into... Scat S’mores. Yep. You heard us. Whoppers and Raisinets may never be the same.

Before we wrapped up, we added to our Joy Jar—tiny notes of gratitude and delight. We were especially excited to hear Dreya proudly add her third joy of the week to the collection. That little jar is filling up fast with some pretty big feelings.

We closed the night with our beloved Firefly Ceremony under the tall trees—grateful, glowing, and dancing our hearts out in the rainforest. Followed by a dance party in the forest that even fairies would have been proud of.

Good day.
Tired, Boss. Tired.

Olympic STEAM in the PARK – Day 3 Reflections

6/18/2025

There are days that slip by, and then there are days that settle in and stay with you—and today felt like one of those. Paddling across Lake Crescent in traditional Salish canoes, surrounded by misty mountains and glassy water, it felt like time slowed down just enough for us to notice the details—the laughter between strokes, the quiet strength of teamwork, and the beauty of a place that’s held stories for thousands of years.

A few unofficial canoe races may have broken out (you know who you are), and we learned that Lake Crescent is nearly 650 feet deep, carved by ancient glaciers and steeped in natural wonder.

After lunch, some campers hit the trails. They gave Storm King a valiant effort—didn’t quite reach the top today, but several are already planning a rematch tomorrow. Others headed to Marymere Falls, where cool mist and ranger wisdom made for a perfect pairing. Rangers Alex and Coady led us with heart, and yes, Coady pulled off a flawless waterfall dance with just a little encouragement from me. 💃

The afternoon shifted to creativity with a Manet & Monet-inspired art session, co-led by camper and fantastic art teacher Laura Lester. With brushes in hand and forest light all around, we painted what we saw—and maybe what we felt, too.

Dinner was burrito night, and the day closed with a truly special moment: time spent with members of the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe. They welcomed us with stories and taught us to make wooden red cedar roses, a beautiful tradition rich in meaning and memory.

It was a day full of movement and stillness, of learning and laughter, of nature and community. And we can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings. 💚
#STEAMinthePARK #OlympicReflections #CanoesAndCedar #HeartWideOpen

Olympic Family Camp: Day 2 Highlights

6/17/2025

We began the day with two of our favorite traditions—our Book Buddy Exchange and our Mascot Handoff! Campers of all ages gathered together to trade books, share stories, and kick off a day of discovery. And in true Family Camp spirit, we passed along our beloved camp mascots, Odder and Olly (yes, there’s a baby otter now!), to a group that radiated leadership, kindness, and helpfulness. Tonya, Melody, and Tracy were the perfect team to give them a day to remember. 🦦💛📚

Then it was off to Salt Creek and Crescent Beach, where the tidepools welcomed us with a vibrant world beneath the surface. We spotted:
🌟 Sea stars in every color
🌊 Sea anemones and cucumbers nestled in rocky crevices
🪼 Jellyfish, moon fish, barnacles, mussels, snails, and more

The rangers were phenomenal—helping us slow down, look closer, and really see the magic of the marine ecosystem.

After lunch in the park, we settled into a quiet journaling session to capture our sea adventures in words and sketches. That flowed right into a pollinator lesson with our fantastic ambassadors, where Q-tips became pollen collectors for our field journals (though for a moment, we definitely thought Dawn was handing out earwax—words really do matter! 😂).

Dinner was a delicious Italian feast, and the evening brought even more exploration with our “Log Investigator” field study—where we had our first sightings of banana slugs! 🟡🐌

We closed out the day gathered together for a beautiful outdoor screening of “Out There: A National Park Story.” Every time we watch it, it feels more powerful—especially surrounded by a community that’s learning, laughing, and growing together.

Special thanks to our incredible ambassadors—at Family Camp, when you serve, your whole family becomes part of the adventure. And that’s exactly what makes it unforgettable. 💛

#FamilyCampMagic #TidepoolAdventures #STEAMinthePARK #OdderAndOlly

Olympic Family Camp – Day 1 Highlights

6/15/2025

We’ve officially kicked off Family Camp here at Olympic with a full house—53 campers strong! For some, it’s their first dive into this magical experience, and for others, it’s a joyful reunion with camp friends who feel more like family.

We started our journey with a quiet moment in the FairyTale Forest, grounding ourselves through forest bathing and setting intentions for the days ahead. (Yes, even the youngest campers had goals!)

After a delicious dinner of fire-roasted chicken and mashed potatoes, we jumped into our first group activity: Birds of a Feather. Watching our families “migrate” in the chilly evening air brought a lot of laughs—and a lot of fast flapping!

And for the first time ever... our campers are taking their birds to bed! We can’t wait to see those bedtime bird selfies roll in. 🐦💤

We closed out the night with a crackling campfire and gooey s’mores. Tomorrow? We head to the tidepools to explore what’s waiting beneath the waves. 🌊🔥🦅

#FamilyCampOlympic #STEAMinthePARK #BirdsInBed #CampMagic #Day1Done

Day 5 Reflections from the Potomac- STEAM in the PARK

6/13/2025

If you could’ve stood where we stood—feet on the banks of the Potomac, taking it all in—you’d understand the quiet strength of this place.

Over the past five days, this small but dedicated group didn’t just take part in a program—we had real conversations, asked hard questions, and uncovered what it means to help students find their voices. We left with a clearer sense of how to support them in becoming stewards of the Earth, protectors of its stories, and leaders for the future.

The land reminded us—gently but clearly—that we are part of something much bigger. And through every moment, the voices of the Piscataway people were present. Their stories reminded us that stewardship isn’t new—it’s inherited. It comes with responsibility, and it calls for us to listen.

Chuck Sams, former Director of the National Park Service, encouraged us to seek out and amplify the voices of the people—those whose stories are rooted in the land, whose perspectives have often been overlooked. That reminder shaped everything we experienced this week.

Last week, we learned from the Paiute in Bryce Canyon. This week, we listened to the Piscataway along the Potomac. Each place brought its own history, but the message was the same: listen with care, honor what you learn, and carry it forward.

To our ambassadors, Robyn and Patty—thank you. You guided us with honesty, encouragement, and deep knowledge. Your leadership made this experience what it was.

It ended today. But the conversations—and the responsibility—continue.

Next, we head to Olympic National Park—ready to keep learning, listening, and leading. #STEAMinthePARK

Day 4 at Potomac River (Day 12/90)

6/12/2025

Today felt like the kind of day you tuck away in your heart and pull out when you need to remember the good. 🦋

We began by wading into the wonder of macroinvertebrates with Educator Kim, using dip nets along the boardwalk and in the wetland edges. Tiny legs. Big impact. Then, just when we thought it couldn’t get better—bald eagles soared above our heads, like nature had choreographed it just for us. 🦅🦅🦅

Ambassador Robyn helped us trace the path of a water droplet through the Water Cycle, and we took on a Biodiversity Blitz using our belly botany scopes—microscopes that remind us there’s beauty we miss when we don’t look close enough. 🔬🌿

In the afternoon, Theresa Cullen invited us into the story of Alice Ferguson and her family—a tale of art, land, and legacy. Standing on the back lawn, paintbrushes in hand, the Potomac River and Mount Vernon in the distance, we channeled our inner Manet and Monet.

Then came the hill. And like clockwork, LeAnn and Angie rolled right down it, laughter trailing behind them. Sometimes joy just has to roll out.

We wandered through the Piscataway Visitor Center, cooled off with ice cream at BJ’s, and crafted our own pizzas on the Blackstone. Simple things. Shared well.

After dinner, we circled back for games, reflections, and the Firefly Ceremony on the boardwalk. Frogs, snakes, snapping turtles, birds—and us. All glowing.

Check. Check. Check.
#STEAMinthePARK #Day11of90 #PotomacRiverPeace #BellyBotanyBliss #FireflyFriendships