Celebrating 60 Years!

kids sitting in amphitheater setting with desert background

As we celebrate the monumental 60th Anniversary of Camp Cooper, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our cherished camp community for sharing their treasured memories. This milestone is not just a celebration of the years gone by but a testament to the adventure, environmental education, and fun that have been the cornerstone of our journey. We invite everyone to continue sharing their stories, photos, and mementos, as we collectively look back on six decades of unforgettable experiences at Camp Cooper.

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Chris Goforth

Chris Goforth remembers her formative day visit to Camp Cooper in the late 1980s as a vivid second-grade adventure. A student of Duffy Elementary at the time, she was captivated by a lesson on snakes while basking in the sun on the amphitheater steps, an experience that sparked a lifelong passion for the desert. This initial encounter set the stage for her return as a CATTS Fellow during her graduate studies at UofA, where she spent a year leading environmental education programs. She delved into the unique characteristics of local wildlife and flora, such as the impressive digestive capabilities of javelinas and the green bark of palo verde trees. These experiences not only deepened her connection to nature but also guided her career path towards environmental education. This led to a significant role at an educational field station in North Carolina and shaped her ongoing work in leading citizen science initiatives, confirming her commitment to environmental stewardship and education.

Kellie McCune

Kellie remembers her time at Camp Cooper fondly. During her tenure from 2016 to 2020 as a staff member, affiliated with the University of Arizona, she witnessed numerous memorable moments. One such instance occurred early one morning with a group of local Tucson students. As they stood atop a wash, a herd of deer appeared across from them. The children were mesmerized, observing the deer in their natural habitat, which contrasted sharply with the urban desert they were used to. Their excitement and quiet wonder at witnessing such a scene was a profound reminder of the impactful, educational potential of direct interaction with nature. These moments at Camp Cooper have not only shaped Kellie's approach to education but have also deeply influenced how she raises her own children, instilling in them a lasting reverence for the natural world.

Monica Montano

"Camp Cooper has been a special place for my family and me. My first visit was as a chaperone for my son’s 3rd-grade class. We spent the night in a small tent, enjoying hikes, exploring the area, and sharing BBQ hamburgers and hotdogs with friends—it was a truly unforgettable experience!

Now, as a teacher, I bring my 2nd-grade class to the half-day program. Each visit is filled with smiles and stories from the students, and together we’ve created our own wonderful memories.

Camp Cooper’s lessons have made a lasting impact on me and my students. By teaching us about the animals, plants, and ecosystems in our neighborhood, it has inspired a deeper care for nature and sustainable living. The students come away more connected to and respectful of the world around them."

Celebrating 60 Years!

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