Jose's Story

Connect with nature. And each other

A journey through the desert is more than most people think - challenging, spiritual, peaceful. It's all this and more for Jose González whose journey's help him reconnect to nature and his community.

Venturing outdoors can be better with a community

Wandering alone can be nice, but I’ve found that I truly prefer to hike with others. Whether it’s a big or small adventure, getting out there with others makes the experience better in three simple ways:

1. It Builds On What You Already Have In Common

For many Latinxs, culture plays a big part in social gathering. Sharing humor, stories, and other relatable experiences make any outing more memorable. And familiar comforts (like a good carne asada, for example) draw people together. Venturing outdoors with that spirit allows us to build on our commonalities to create closer relationships, and to expand our ambicultural identity. For instance, I am Latino, American, and outdoorsy.

2. You Can Teach Or Learn From One Another

If you’re new to hiking, or to a specific landscape, someone with more experience can help support you. Similarly, if you’re more knowledgeable, you can give a novice good tips or a helping hand. When we’re together, we help each other grow and connect. And in the process, we also connect with nature.

3. Wonder Is Better When Shared

The spirit of wonder is alive and well in the outdoors. And it’s really exciting to share that feeling with others. Whether it’s scrambling over rocks, pointing to wildlife, or staring at the sunset and sharing a story – we’re going beyond the physical and tapping into the heart of the experience. Personally, I feel wonder most in the desert: the landscape reminds me of the special, fragile, and powerful connection we have to life.

In sum, if you’re venturing out for the first time, it’s okay to do it alone, but if you’re open to going with colegas (colleagues) and amigxs (friends), I highly recommend it. A few closing tips: The most important things to bring are water, sun protection, snacks, and a first aid kit. But don’t forget an appreciation for your surroundings—and a spirit for exploration and adventure.

So, con ganas (with gusto), curiosity, and adventure —vamos (go) outdoors!

What I find most important is that sense of connection and community.
Jose Gonzalez | Latino Outdoors
Jose Gonzalez

Latino Outdoors

Jose Gonzalez

José González is the founder of Latino Outdoors, an organization focused on expanding and amplifying the Latinx experience in the outdoors and by making the outdoors a safe and welcoming place for all people. He is an experienced K-12 educator, environmental education advisor, outdoor education instructor, and university adjunct faculty.

Class C Motorhome icon

Class C Motorhomes

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Desert

Desert Connections and Memories
Desert Connections and Memories
Desert Connections and Memories
Desert Connections and Memories
Desert Connections and Memories
Desert Connections and Memories
Desert Connections and Memories
Desert Connections and Memories
Desert Connections and Memories
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Class C Motorhome
Class C Motorhome Cockpit and Bunk

Cockpit and Bunk

Class Cs use the cabin space above the cockpit as a loft bed.

Class C Motorhome Private Bedroom

Private bedroom

Class Cs are large enough to include a separate bedroom with a king or queen size bed, closet space, and additional storage.

class c bathroom

Full Bathroom

This type of RV is equipped with a full size dry bath with a toilet, sink, and shower or bath.

Class C Motorhome Living Area

Living area

The living area can be made larger with slide-outs for a roomy living, dining and kitchen area.

Drivable

Class C Motorhomes

Built on an automotive van frame with a wider body section attached to the original cab, class C motorhomes are easily recognizable by the over-the-cab portion that is often an optional sleeping area.

  • Sleeps up to 8 people
  • Can tow another vehicle for side trips
  • Loft for extra sleeping space
  • Full-sized kitchen and bathroom
  • Storage