Planning a Field Trip

"I was moved by this place. It is amazing. I'm at peace when I'm up here. I would love to share this place with the ones I love. Thank you for the experience of a lifetime."

Can my school come to visit?

Lots of students come to the sanctuary every year. Some come for a tour, others stay for several days and help, and still others come for classes. We have tours and programs for students ranging from Head Start to college age.

Where do we stay?

Students often camp in the spring, summer, or fall at nearby Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park. Groups can also stay in a local youth hostel or local hotels. For details, see accommodations.

Does it cost anything to visit Best Friends?

No, all educational tours for school groups are free of charge.

What will we do during our visit?

The Education staff works with each group leader to arrange a program that suits your requirements and meets the needs of the Sanctuary.

Working here includes hands-on activities in the animal areas such as feeding, grooming, exercising, poop scooping, socializing and cleaning. Groups may also help with other projects designed to benefit the Sanctuary such as trail building, fence painting, etc. 

When can we visit?

Your group can visit any time of the year. You do need to call in advance and schedule a date and time for your visit. This program is very popular, so be sure to call as early as possible.

What should we wear?

Wear comfortable work clothes, sturdy (closed-toe) walking shoes, and long pants. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, a full water bottle, and a camera (if you want to take photos).

A tip for contact lens wearers: most people find glasses more comfortable than contacts because of frequent breezy conditions and blowing sand. 

What the students think who've visited: