SANTA FE – New Mexico State Parks invites Girl Scouts from across the state to get outside, explore and maybe discover a new favorite state park during Girl Scouts Love State Parks weekend, Sept. 12-13.
Girl Scouts may participate in one of several organized troop events planned throughout the state or create their own adventure at any of the 35 state parks.
"New Mexico's state parks are places where curiosity can turn into a lifelong connection with the outdoors," said EMNRD Acting Secretary Erin Taylor. "We are proud to give Girl Scouts from across New Mexico an opportunity to explore these incredible places, learn something new and see themselves as the next generation of leaders and stewards of their state parks."
Girl Scouts Love State Parks is a nationwide initiative offered by Girls Scouts of the USA in partnership with the National Association of State Park Directors. Each year, Girl Scouts across the country head outdoors for hiking, wildlife watching, watersports, stargazing, stewardship activities and other experiences designed to build confidence and strengthen their connection with the outdoors. New Mexico has been a long-standing partner in the Girl Scouts Love State Parks initiative, with early and consistent collaboration between New Mexico State Parks and Girl Scouts of New Mexico Trails.
Previous events in New Mexico have introduced Girl Scouts to activities ranging from fishing and archery to wildlife programs, nature hikes and camping.
"New Mexico's State Parks provide an incredible classroom for girls to explore, challenge themselves, and discover what they are capable of," said Celia Tellez, CEO of Girl Scouts of New Mexico Trails. "Girls Scouts Love State Parks is about more than spending a weekend outside. These experiences build confidence, curiosity and a sense of responsibility for the places we all share. We are grateful to New Mexico State Parks for helping make that experience even more accessible to Girl Scouts and their families."
Several parks will host official Girl Scouts Love State Parks programs and troop activities throughout the weekend. Participation in an organized event is not required to take advantage of free day use. Girl Scouts are encouraged to grab their troop, family or fellow scouts and choose their own state park adventure.
Free day use applies Sept. 12-13 to girls presenting an approved Girl Scout uniform or camp T-shirt. The offer covers day-use admission only and does not include overnight camping, reservation fees or other applicable charges.
Girl Scouts and families can find participating events, registration information and additional details through Girl Scouts of New Mexico Trails at: www.nmgirlscouts.org/girlscoutslovestateparks
