Camp In. Camp Out. Camp On.
Temple Ambler EarthFest and Ambler Arboretum Present:
The Great American Campout 2020
Welcome to the Adventure!
Temple University Ambler EarthFest Presents and the Ambler Arboretum of Temple University are excited to provide essential information about camping, hiking and exploring nature for new and experienced campers alike. Rather than a day or a weekend, through these webpages, we're going to be celebrating the Great American Campout all summer and fall!
The National Wildlife Federation’s Great American Campout is a celebration of camping as a way to connect with nature and wildlife. The benefits from outdoor play for mind, body and spirit are well-documented and help to create a lasting connection to nature and wildlife, which promotes happiness and good health.
Unfortunately, due to current circumstances, we cannot host the Great American Campout on campus. The health and safety of our campus visitors is our top priority! So, we're doing the next best thing. We’re bringing the campout to you!
From backyard astronomy to hammock camping, from why a firefly glows to the importance of leaving nature as you found it, we are sharing essential information and tips on camping, hiking, and exploring your world! Oh, yes, and there will be s’mores!
The National Wildlife Federation's Campout theme this year is "Camp In. Camp out. Camp on." There's never been a better time to safely and responsibly connect with nature. Pitch a tent or build a fort from the comfort of home. Grab your gear and head for the backyard or an open park. No matter where you are, take some time to enjoy the nature that connects us all! Learn more about Camping Out (Or In)!
Now that you've set up base camp, it's time to do a little exploring! Grab your pack and put on your boots (or sneakers). It's time to go hiking! Hiking consists of walking in natural environments. While often equated to mountainous or hilly regions, any scenic terrain will do, from the trails in your local park to the woods near your backyard! Learn more about Going Hiking!
Whether you're hiking, camping or simply enjoying the outdoors in your backyard, there is so much to explore! You don't have to go far to find a rich diversity of animals, insects, plants and more! With the right tools and resources, you can learn about why a firefly glows, what native species inhabit the nearby woods, and which insects are roaming around your yard. Or grab a telescope and look to the skies to make amazing stellar observations. Learn more about Making Discoveries!
Near and far, there is an entire world to discover. While COVID-19 may prevent exploring places far and wide right now, we are happy to bring some of our global adventures to you. From the Dominican Republic to an American Conservation Experience, from hiking the Continental Divide to taking an eco tour in Ecuador, our faculty, students, and staff clearly show that Temple Owls are excited to explore anywhere! Learn more about Exploring Your World!
Let our Great American Campout online celebration be just the beginning of your journeys to discovery. Our event contribitors provide a wonderful resource for information and educational activities. There are also numerous other online resources to help you engage in and explore the world around you. Discover More to Explore!
Our Event Contributors
We couldn’t do this without the help of a lot of friends. We’d like to thank our event partners and content contributors, the Delaware Valley Chapter of the Appalachian Mountain Club, the Delaware Valley Amateur Astronomers, the Philadelphia Insectarium and Butterfly Pavilion, the National Wildlife Federation, Leave No Trace, ProRanger Philadelphia and the Temple University Kinesiology Department!