Nature Camp is a private, non-profit, residential, co-ed summer camp specializing in natural history and environmental science education, one of the oldest of its kind in the country. Since 1942 Nature Camp has sought to train a corps of interested, knowledgeable youth, from 5th through 12th grade, to conserve and protect the environment and to become wise stewards of the earth's natural resources.
Because of [our childrens'] experiences in that beautiful, magical place under the guidance of such nurturing, intelligent and creative young people, they look at the earth through different eyes. Nature Camp's legacy to me includes a strong appreciation for the importance of fair play, the value of diversity in nature and among people, (and) the strength of community.
Because of [our childrens'] experiences in that beautiful, magical place under the guidance of such nurturing, intelligent and creative young people, they look at the earth through different eyes. Nature Camp's legacy to me includes a strong appreciation for the importance of fair play, the value of diversity in nature and among people, (and) the strength of community.
Services
In 1939 Helen Worth Gordon, Conservation Specialist of the U.S. Forest Service hosted the executive committee of the Virginia Federation of Garden Clubs on a tour of points of interest and educational value within the George Washington National Forest. During that tour Mrs. Gordon suggested a nature camp for children as a worthwhile project for the Federation.
Nature Camp offers a wonderful experience to young people of the appropriate ages who are interested in natural history and environmental science, and we strive to provide a camping and educational experience of the highest quality at the lowest possible cost. We recognize, however, that some families may be unable to afford the full cost of tuition.
The summer staff typically numbers 20-25, with 16-20 bunkhouse counselors. Counselors personally meet campers when they arrive, help them get settled in the bunkhouses, give them a tour of the facilities, and continue to offer encouragement and support throughout the session. With a capacity of 90 campers, Nature Camp achieves a ratio of four or five campers per counselor.
Please note that all footwear (including water shoes) must be completely closed at the toes and heel. Girls are permitted to wear sandals only for the final evening's Closing Ceremony. Toiletry items, insect repellent, disposable cameras, notebooks, paper, and writing utensils are available for purchase in the canteen.
Who attends Adult Session? Teachers and Educators looking to gain skills, understanding, and lesson plan ideas from their peers that they can pass on in their classes. Retired life-long learners. Garden club members. Home schooling Moms and Dads. College-age counselors from the Summer sessions for kids, learning from their elder educators (and teaching some classes themselves).
Reviews (9)
Cara S.
Sep 03, 2021
Report
I attended nature camp in the 2000s and have made the trip back to visit several times. It is probably the best thing I ever did as a kid. I learned so much about nature, science, and philosophy. I got the opportunity to get out of my shell, make friends, and grow into a person Im proud to be. I'm so glad the camp is still there, largely unchanged, bringing kids, counselors, and other visitors together to this very special place in Appalachia.
Callie Houghland
Sep 03, 2021
Report
Daniel D.
Aug 19, 2021
Report
My child and I were looking forward to the opportunity to experience the great outdoors, learn something about the environment, and we were hoping to make some new friends. Unfortunately as a newcomer, my camper was ostracized by campers and counselors who put their personal political views at the forefront of their interactions. I am hopeful camp leadership can find a way to balance kindness and outreach with the personal politics of the regular camp attendees. If not, the camp will eventually be reserved to host only its very political leaning group and this lovely locale will be lost to anyone
Natalie D.
Jul 21, 2021
Report
The camp itself is in a beautiful, secluded location along a creek just off the Blue Ridge parkway. It has a volleyball court, basketball hoops, swimming pool, and tether ball courts. Children required to wear masks, regardless of vaccination status. This was not an ideal situation with July 2021 Virginia heat and humidity for an outdoor camp that involves hiking, sports and activities. Since it was also required that participants show a negative COVID-19 test 1-2 weeks prior to attendance and a negative rapid COVID-19 test upon arrival, I believe the students should have been able to have
Wilson Greenlaw
Jan 06, 2020
Report
Robert Liebold
Jul 27, 2019
Report
Mary Kate
Jul 17, 2017
Report
Three generations of my family have had the good fortune to partcipate in this wonderful camp experience. Our lives have been forever changed because of this beautiful place. It has not only taught us respect for our environment but also the effect our contributions have on the world around us. Hopefully future generations will be able to continue this tradition.
Melody Barnes
Jul 05, 2017
Report
Autumn Santiago
Jun 12, 2015
Report
