Canyon Country Outdoor Education
Canyon Country Outdoor Education (CCOE) is a cooperative venture between the National Park Service, local school districts, and nonprofit organizations in southeast Utah. Field trips are conducted to Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Hovenweep National Monument, Natural Bridges National Monument and other areas.
The goals for this program are:
The curriculum materials CCOE uses are available for download. They are designed for grades one through six engaging with desert habitats, but they could be adapted for other grades and other ecosystems.
Internships with the CCOE program are available spring and fall. If you like children and working outdoors, consider applying for one of these opportunities partnering with San Juan County School District.
To learn more about the program or obtain help in adapting lesson plans, please contact:
National Park Service
Please note that outdoor education staff are only available during the school year (August to June). If you need assistance outside of this time, please contact the park directly.
Did You Know?
Lizards, including the colorful collared lizard, are one of the most frequently seen animals at Natural Bridges. When not chasing flies or basking in the sun, they are often seen doing what appears to be push-ups. Scientists believe this and other behaviors signal dominance and facilitate courtship.