Families from the Westwood and Cole neighborhoods in Denver came out to SPREE HQ on Saturday for a day out in the sun and a night under the stars. We had 13 different families come to enjoy Johnson Habitat Park with us and the My Outdoor Colorado coalition.
Families arrived in the afternoon and collected their camping gear – tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, and headlamps were provided for free thanks to the Westwood Gear Library (thanks, DPR!). Families were shown how to set up their tents, and they got all of their gear ready for night time. After that, we had an opening circle, led by Mary, our fantastic Community Connector. After families had a chance to get to know one another – and us! – we had some free time. Many lawn games were played, kids explored with a park scavenger hunt, nets were used to catch ladybugs and grasshoppers, and some folks went down to the South Platte River to dip their toes in the water and cool off.
We cooked hot dogs over the fire for dinner, and of course everyone made sure to leave room for s’mores. After dinner, families continued to relax outside and play lawn games until it was time for bed.
The next morning, we all packed up our gear and enjoyed some bagels for breakfast. We had a fabulous time and loved getting to see our returning camp out friends, as well as meeting new families! Can’t wait to see you all next year.
Week 3: Habitat Hiking Along the River