Learning Beyond the Classroom: Outdoor education at Nosoca Pines Ranch

Every spring, the Carolina Conference Education Department hosts one of its most enriching and memorable events—Outdoor Education—at the beautiful Nosoca Pines Ranch. The program, held this year on October 7-9, is specially designed for 5th and 6th grade students across the conference, providing them with a hands-on learning experience like no other.

Outdoor Education is all about bringing the classroom outside. This year’s event featured a dynamic mix of classes, all taught in the fresh air and natural surroundings of Nosoca. Teachers, office staff, and even one 11th-grade student from the Carolina Conference stepped up to lead engaging and creative activities across a wide range of subjects. This year’s offerings included pickleball, orienteering and map making, shelter building, bully prevention, kites, paper airplanes, and walking sticks.

But Outdoor Education is more than just outdoor learning. At its heart, it is a spiritual experience. Each year, the event is centered around a specific worship theme. This year’s theme was “I AM: Revealing God, Discovering Me.”

Throughout the weekend, students explored what it means to know the great “I AM”—God—and how learning more about His character helps us understand our own identity and purpose. The camp pastor led morning and evening worships, creating space for reflection, connection, and worship amid the natural beauty of Nosoca.

A highlight of every Outdoor Education event is the special guest presenter, and this year’s was a huge hit. Jay Bell from Reptiles 101 brought a fascinating live animal presentation, featuring snakes, lizards, and turtles. Students not only got to see these amazing creatures up close, but also learned about their habits, behaviors, and importance in the ecosystem. It was an exciting and educational experience that had students buzzing with curiosity and amazement.

Our amazing and fearless Education Department Team pictured with Jay Bell and some of his slithery friends.

With 135 students in attendance, this year’s Outdoor Education at Nosoca Pines Ranch was a joyful, meaningful, and impactful time. It gave students the chance to disconnect from screens, breathe in the outdoors, bond with new friends, explore their world, and grow in their faith.

—by Esmeralda Paulino