Recreation Northwest provides opportunities for people to be introduced to beginner and intermediate experiences, learning the health benefits of time in nature. We do this through custom experiences for people of any age and group size. Our experiences can take place in any local (Whatcom County) park or open space, and we can cater to your individual or group needs. Our programming takes place on the ancestral homelands of the Coast Salish Peoples. Please reach out with any questions or to plan your experience at:
Benefits of the program:
Decreases mental health struggles
Stress Reduction: Time in nature lowers cortisol levels and promotes a sense of calm.
Improved Emotional Regulation: Mindfulness and sensory activities help students manage strong emotions and feel more in control.
Better Focus & Concentration: Nature offers a restorative break from overstimulation, improving attention and learning capacity.
Increases Social Connection
Stronger Peer Relationships: Shared outdoor experiences encourage teamwork, empathy, and trust.
Safe, Supportive Environment: A structured program where kindness, respect, and inclusion are core values.
Opportunities for Leadership: Students can lead mindfulness practices, set intentions, and guide activities.
Increases Awareness
Increased Self-Awareness: Reflection activities help students understand their thoughts, feelings, and actions.
Confidence Building: Trying new activities in a supportive setting encourages risk-taking and resilience.
Sense of Purpose: Connecting with nature and community fosters responsibility and stewardship.
Promotes Connection to Nature
Deeper Environmental Awareness: Students learn about local ecosystems, trees, and plants of the Pacific Northwest.
Mindfulness Through the Senses: Using sight, sound, smell, touch, and taste to anchor themselves in the present moment.
Long-Term Wellness Habits: Encourages spending time outdoors as a tool for mental health, creativity, and balance.
We offer custom wellness experiences for individuals, small groups, and corporate retreats to learn the health benefits of nature and provide an opportunity for team building in a natural setting. We are constantly evolving and expanding our programming for more people to “Get Your Dose of Nature.”
Nature Immersion / Naturalist
As a public health professional, Elizabeth Nelson is our lead Nature Immersion / Naturalist guide working with guests of all ages. People will learn methods for mindfulness in nature, essential outdoor recreation skills, and familiarity with the landscape. As stewards of our public lands, we will also demonstrate how to recreate responsibly, leave no trace, and show respect for others as we enjoy our public parks, open space, and waterways.
Where to Stay
If you are visiting Bellingham, we offer great deals for you to stay in style at either Bellingham’s SpringHill or TownePlace Suites Marriott as our host hotels. We have other local lodging friends we work with and recommend: Recreation Northwest Local Lodging – Host Hotel and Partners
When We Go
Year-round! We offer custom experiences so you can plan to go when you need.
Our Values
Our core philosophy is Be SAFE, Have FUN, Show RESPECT. We are also members and follow these practices:
Recreate Responsibly Coalition
Think Local First & Towards Zero Waste – Sustainable Connections
