Our rangers conduct vibrant and fun curriculum based programs for schools, churches, and civic groups throughout El Malpais NCA (National Conservation Area); and, by special arrangements, outdoors off-site, as well as in the classroom. We are partnered with local schools and colleges, Hands on the Land, and Take it Outside. We follow the ethic of "no child left inside".  We use powerful inquiry-based methods based on the successful teaching techniques of the ancestors. The lava flows, the volcanos, the sandstone cliffs, the wildlife, the ancestral cultural sites, and the homestead sites all make vivid inspiration for a group to connect with the natural world amid beauty. Many classes have been interested in the local expressions of volcanic connections with life creation and life destruction; or the ancestrals' successes and failures in the face of climate and political changes.

Groups from pre-school families to senior groups need only contact us with their visit date and curriculum to apply. The NCA has nearly 250, 000 acres of BLM managed public lands; and much of it is wilderness. The BLM Ranger Station is a great place to start the adventure. It is located 15 miles from Grants, New Mexico, and 9 miles south of I-40 exit 89 on State Road 117. There is a formal campground just 2 miles south.

Programs are free and by appointment throughout the year. The more advance notice, the more likely we can accommodate your visit and tailor our efforts specially for your needs. The BLM Ranger Station is open 7 days a week (except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day) from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.

Appropriate Ages: programs for all ages, and programs suited for specific ages