Quinta Mazatlán is one of the best places in McAllen to learn, explore, and enjoy the outdoors all summer long.
Nature Discovery Camps (Ages 5–8)
Young nature enthusiasts can spend their summer exploring the outdoors through hands-on activities, wildlife encounters, art projects, photography, and scientific discovery. These half-day camps are designed to build curiosity, confidence, and appreciation for nature while keeping campers engaged through fun outdoor adventures.
Nature’s Rhythms: June 9–12 | July 7–10
Campers explore the connections between nature, music, storytelling, and mindfulness while developing creativity and confidence.
Wonders of Wildlife: June 16–19 | July 14–17
Take a deeper look into the Tamaulipan Thorn Forest and discover native birds, plants, and wildlife while learning how to identify species and explore local habitats.
S.T.E.A.M. in Nature: June 23–26 | July 21–24
Children explore science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics through hands-on experiments, outdoor investigations, and creative nature-based projects.
Nature Discovery Camps (Ages 9–13)
Older campers can dive deeper into environmental science, conservation, and outdoor exploration through immersive learning experiences designed specifically for pre-teens and young teens.
Camp TALON: June 9–12 | July 7–10
Campers become junior ornithologists by learning bird identification techniques, conservation practices, and field observation skills while exploring local habitats.
Geology Rocks: June 16–19 | July 14–17
Future geologists discover the wonders of Earth’s formation through experiments, rock identification, and hands-on investigations into natural history.
Bio-Brilliance: June 23–26 | July 21–24
Participants explore biodiversity, ecosystems, and wildlife conservation while gaining a greater appreciation for the natural world.
Weekly Summer Programs
Beyond summer camps, Quinta Mazatlán offers weekly programs that allow visitors to experience nature, wellness, and outdoor learning throughout the season.
Rooted Yoga
6:30 PM – 7:30 PM | June 3, 17 | July 1, 15 | August 12 & 26 | $5 Donation
Bring your yoga mat, blanket, blocks, and water bottle for a relaxing outdoor yoga experience led by experienced instructors.
Tai Chi
Saturdays | 9 AM – 10 AM | June – August | Free with Park Admission
Enjoy a welcoming introduction to Tai Chi in a peaceful outdoor setting while improving balance, flexibility, and mindfulness. All ages welcome.
Forest Tots
Saturdays | 10 – 11:30 AM | Ages 3–5 | $5 Per Child
Young children can discover nature through stories, sensory play, and hands-on activities designed specifically for early learners.
STEM Stops
Saturdays | Free with Parking Admission
11:00 AM–12:00 PM | 1:00 PM–2:00 PM | 3:00 PM–4:00 PM
Families can participate in interactive STEM activities that explore science, engineering, technology, and mathematics through nature. All Ages welcome.
Pollinator Appreciation Day
June 14 | 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM | Free with Admission
Celebrate pollinators and learn about the important role bees, butterflies, and other species play in local ecosystems. All Ages welcome.
CUE Summer Programs
Quinta Mazatlán’s CUE (Center for Urban Ecology) Summer Programs offer educational experiences focused on conservation, gardening, wildlife, and environmental stewardship.
Pollinator Workshop
June 13 | 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM | Fee: $10 | Older Youth & Adults
Learn about pollinators and the important role they play in supporting healthy ecosystems.
Tiny Forest Seed Collection & Tour
July 10 | 8:30 PM – 10:30 PM | Ages 14+
Help collect native plant seeds while learning about McAllen’s Tiny Forest Initiative.
Mothing by Moonlight
July 18 | 9:00 PM – 12:00 AM | All Ages | $5
Discover the fascinating world of moths and other nighttime insects during this unique evening event.
Plant Propagation
August 1 | 9 AM – 11:30 AM | Older Youth & Adults | Fee: $10
Learn how to grow plants through seed germination and propagation techniques.
Tiny Forest Seed Collecting & Tour
August 7 | 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM | All Ages | Free
Join conservation efforts by helping collect native seeds and learning about ecological restoration. Volunteer Registration required.
Garden Preparation Workshop
August 15 | 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM | Older Youth & Adults | Fee: $10
Prepare your garden for the upcoming season with tips on soil preparation, pruning, and native plant care.
Cactus & Container Gardening
August 29 | 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM | Older Youth & Adults | Fee: $10
Learn how to create and maintain thriving cactus and container gardens with guidance from experienced gardeners.
Even More Summer Fun at Quinta Mazatlán
In addition to camps and workshops, Quinta Mazatlán offers special opportunities for families, volunteers, and young photographers throughout the summer.
Summer Volunteer Hours
- Fridays, June 5 – August 28
- 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM
- Ages 14 and older
- Help with habitat stewardship, program preparation, and conservation projects
Special Summer Programs
- Summer Solstice Celebration: June 18 | 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM | Fee: $5
- Chicharra Festival: July 23 | 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM | Fee: $5
Free Kids Photo Contest
- Ages 5–18
- Photograph nature in the Rio Grande Valley
- Optional June and July classes available
- Awards event held August 15 at Quinta Mazatlán
- Every child receives a free T-shirt and recognition during the awards ceremony
Whether you’re looking for educational camps, outdoor adventures, conservation workshops, or family-friendly activities, Quinta Mazatlán offers some of the most unique and fun things to do in McAllen all summer long.
