Texas Children in Nature Network- RGV (TCiNN-RGV) is launching the Library Explorer Adventure Pack (LEAP) in eight libraries across Hidalgo and Cameron Counties in the Rio Grande Valley. Featuring 10 different nature themes, the backpacks come filled with activities, journals, books, field guides, tools, and equipment to help families get active and explore the great outdoors. They will be available for a two-week check-out period to library patrons. In addition, families who visit any of the three State Parks in Cameron and Hidalgo Counties with the pack during the two-week check-out period will also receive free entry for up two 2 adults (ages 13 and up) and accompanying children (ages 12 and under).

In collaboration with Driscoll Health Fund and The Texas Department of State Health Services, the LEAP program will also include monthly health and nature education programs that will promote physical activity, healthy living, and a connection to the natural world.

We would like to thank our sponsors for funding the LEAP program, and Texas Parks & Wildlife Department for providing the State Park Waivers. We would also like to thank the City of Pharr Parks and Recreation, Estero Llano Grande State Park, Texas Master Naturalist, Texas Master Gardeners, the Department of Health and Human Resources, and the rest of the Texas Children in Nature Network Rio Grande Valley regional collaborative partners for their support of this program.

The goal of Library Explorer Adventure Pack (LEAP) Program is to connect children and their families to nature and the outdoors while developing new skills that promote physical activity, healthy habits and behaviors, mental health, and sustainable living.

With the LEAP Backpack*, visit one of the State Parks below, and receive FREE ENTRY for 2 people, ages 13 and up, plus free entry for children, ages 12 & under.

*Good for the 2-week check-out window.

Bentsen-RGV State Park, Mission,TX

Estero Llano Grande State Park, Weslaco,TX

Resaca de la Palma State Park, Brownsville,TX