Program Teaches Kids Wonders of Outdoors

Forty-two children will converge at Sunland Recreation Center tonight for a free overnight camp-out.

The goal of the Wonderful Outdoor World camp-out is to interest youngsters in outdoor recreation and teach them about the natural environment, said Mona Curry, recreation director at the center.

“Children in this area, they don’t have the opportunity to camp,” she said.

Among those who have rarely or ever camped out is 9-year-old Kurt Davidson of Tujunga. “It’ll be fun,” he said. “We’re going to learn to use a grill and use a lantern.”

“I think I went with my mom once when I was little,” said Jessie Allen, a 7-year-old girl from Tujunga.

Curry said many of the participants from low-income families will receive sleeping bags, flashlights and T-shirts they can keep when they go home Saturday afternoon.

Amid various activities, administrators at the Los Angeles Zoo plan to bring some animals for a “Creatures of the Night” presentation.

“I’ve always wanted a snake,” Kurt said. “I’m looking forward to the zoo bringing animals.”

In addition, campers will gaze at the stars, plant trees, learn about fire safety and first aid and, of course, toast marshmallows.