Sonoran Desert Wildlife Adventure

Difficulty Rating: 🥾(Foundational)

Discover the diverse wildlife community of our local Sonoran Desert this summer! Campers will explore the unique and rather thriving ecosystem over the course of a weeklong summer experience. This camp is not only an exploration of our Tucson area but will also take campers to the Sky Islands of Mount Lemmon and Madera Canyon, with an included trip to the Arizona Sonoran Desert Museum. Join us for a week of WILDLIFE!

Weekly Highlights

  • Mount Lemmon: Travel to our pine-covered Sky Island Retreat, a haven for both people and animals. Explore the trails, observe rare birds, and identify local wildlife
  • Madera Canyon: Traverse the beautiful oaklands south of Tucson as we search for bears, squirrels, and hidden oases. Get ready for a day of fun hikes and outdoor adventure!
  • Arizona Sonoran Desert Museum: Experience animals up close in this experience with an included animal show, plus time to tour the museum grounds. Bring your water bottle and a stronger thirst for knowledge.

Physical Demands & Requirements

This trip is designed for beginner level hikers, with participants interested in Wildlife.

  • Hiking/Walking: Must be able to carry a small backpack with a water bottle. Experience on short hikes is recommended but not required. 
  • Supportive soled shoes (ie. gym sneakers) are required. No flat-soled shoes (like casual sneakers or sandals) are permitted. Closed-toe shoes are preferred on daily adventures. 
  • Heat: Because summer programs are subject to seasonal heat, all campers are required to have a water bottle. If a student does not have one, we can provide it upon request.

What’s Included

This week we provide the essentials: entrance fees and transportation. Daypacks for daily use may be available upon request. Prior to departure, an itinerary and packing list will be emailed to ensure your camper is fully prepared for daily experiences. 

Jacob Ball
Jacob Ball

Adventure Guide

Jake Ball combines a love for the outdoors with over 10 years of experience in education. A former high school science teacher and is certified EMT, he creates safe, engaging adventures that emphasize Leave No Trace practices and inclusive play. Drawing from his background in sustainable, farm-to-table education, Jake brings a unique perspective to outdoor learning. Passionate about the Sonoran Desert, fly fishing, and fostering kindness, he looks forward to sharing meaningful outdoor experiences with every camper.

Mackenzie Fritz
Mackenzie Fritz

Adventure Guide

Mackenzie Fritz is an avid backpacker, educator, and outdoor enthusiast who loves helping others discover the joy of adventure. In Fall of 2024, she completed a solo thru-hike of the 800-mile Arizona Trail from the Mexico border to Utah! When she’s not exploring trails, she works as a speech-language pathologist supporting students with diverse communication needs. Mackenzie is passionate about connecting more women to the outdoors, creating beginner-friendly retreats, and teaching skills that build confidence and resilience. She holds Wilderness First Responder and CPR certifications, and is a registered yoga teacher (RYT-200). Off the trails, you might find her enjoying local coffee shops, reading, or planning her next adventure. With every camper, she hopes to spark curiosity, inspire awe, and foster a lifelong love of the outdoors.

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Week 1 -OA | Sonoran Desert Wildlife Adventure
Starts Mon, Jun 1st 2026 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
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Catalina Foothills High School
Price: $378.00 Grades 2nd - 4th
Instructors:
  • Jacob Ball
  • Mackenzie Fritz
DateTimeLocation
Mon, Jun 1st 2026 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Catalina Foothills High School
Tue, Jun 2nd 2026 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Catalina Foothills High School
Wed, Jun 3rd 2026 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Catalina Foothills High School
Thu, Jun 4th 2026 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Catalina Foothills High School
Fri, Jun 5th 2026 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Catalina Foothills High School