This community began in 2012 when a science teacher received a grant and took families camping with the help of an amazing volunteer team. She saw how powerful community engagement could be and how time outside enriches people’s lives. Today, we carry that vision forward because we believe time together, and time outdoors, truly matters.
Bringing people together for quality time outside.
Community — Together is better
Quality Time — Make time that matters
Nature — Step outside, feel connected
Adventure — Say yes to what’s out there
Visit Nature Places
Fish, Paddle, and Swim
Build Outdoor Skills
Camp and Hike
We partner with Texas Outdoor Family (TOF), a program of Texas Parks & Wildlife that hosts camping workshops in state parks across Texas. TOF reduces barriers to getting outside by providing the camping gear groups need, such as tents, stoves, lanterns, and equipment for activities like kayaking, fishing, swimming, geocaching, mountain biking, and stargazing. Available activities vary by park.
Our NTKO leaders have completed TOF’s Outdoor Leadership Training and progressed through every tier of workshop leadership. As a Tier 3 partner, we can run our own workshops independently: TOF provides the gear, and NTKO leads the experience. Our team also has first‑aid training, youth‑safeguarding training, and combined experience in education and the military.
Because of this partnership, our members receive a reduced rate, about 60% off the regular TOF cost. This includes park entry fees, campsite fees, and all camping and recreational equipment.
TOF cannot issue refunds due to state payment processes. If TOF cancels an event, we will work with you to reschedule, and your payment will roll over as a credit for a future trip.
During our camping trips, members only need to bring food, clothing, and personal items. TOF provides all other gear unless noted on the event calendar.
How much does it cost to be a member?
Membership is free.
Event fees are listed on the calendar and the RSVP password comes by email. Need it again? Contact us!
What happens after I join?
Once you complete the Membership Directory form, we’ll confirm your information and send a welcome message with the password to our event calendar. This is a great time to ask any questions or share ideas!
You can explore upcoming activities and RSVP for any that interest you. We take your privacy seriously and only use your contact information to register you for event, and we’ll always let you know when that happens.
As a member, you’ll get periodic email updates about new events, activities, and ideas simple adventures that fit in busy schedules. You’re welcome to reach out with questions or share ideas anytime.
Already a member and can’t find the password? Just reach out—we’re happy to help.
Can I drop off my child at an event?
No.
To keep everyone safe and supported, youth must attend with a parent or guardian who stays for the entire event. Adults are responsible for supervising their youth, and youth cannot be dropped off alone.
Do you only host camping events?
While camping events are what we are most known for, we also try and have other outdoor and indoor events, too!
In the past we've planned trips to the gulf coast, gone "glamping" and stayed in cabins and hotels, gone swimming at a local park or splash pad, visited zoos, aquariums, and water parks, and hosted day visits to local parks.
Have an idea for an outdoor event or activity? We'd love to hear about it!
What if I have little or no experience camping and doing outdoor activities?
No worries if you’re new to spending time outside—many in our community started the same way. We’ll teach you the simple skills you need to have a fun, safe, and successful experience.
All activities are ‘challenge by choice,’ which means you’re always invited but never required to participate.