Nature Day Camp, Session 3
With this last session of Nature Day camp, BRDC’s summer season has come to an end! Once we get started, it’s crazy how quickly time passes.
With this last session of Nature Day camp, BRDC’s summer season has come to an end! Once we get started, it’s crazy how quickly time passes. Luckily, we had the same amazing crew that we did in 2023! Nature Day camp is one of my personal favorites because of the freedom it allows. Our other camps have plenty, but they do also have set activities that need to be done in a day (paddle or hike x miles). With Day Camp, we get to follow the kids' interests. We have activities that we plan for, but rarely even end up doing half of them!
Day 1: Habitats
Our morning was filled with rain! But not to worry, we got to spend extra time investigating BRDC’s different specimens and learning about nature journaling. We even ventured out into the rain garden to collect fresh specimens, before bringing them to the safety of the porch for sketching. After that, we discussed what makes a habitat (food, water, shelter, and space) and brainstormed what a forest habitat would look like. Every camper got to contribute to our whiteboard-home. Then, each camper designed their own forest critter costume so we could play the competition game. The rain finally let up after lunch and we drove up to Elk garden and headed into the woods to look for interesting things to journal about. And it turns out that our brainstormed forest looked pretty similar to the one we were in! We made it back just in time for pick-up!
The competition game- survival of the fittest! You need three pompoms to make it to the next round- food, water, and shelter. Drought, fires, and human impact can limit resources.
Day 2: Birds
The weather was still a little iffy with scattered downpours, so we spent the morning learning about what makes a bird, a bird. And then campers got to hold actual bird parts! When talking about how a bird’s beak can tell you about its diet, it helps to compare specimens. A Great Blue Heron, Great Horned Owl, and Ruby-throated Hummingbird have very different beaks, and different food sources and behaviors that go with them. We even got to test how waterproof feathers are using the rain outside! (Great Blue Heron wings make a great umbrella in a pinch) To really understand bird anatomy, we also played bird body bingo by coloring and labeling some diagrams. After lunch we headed to the Whispering Waters trail, where we did a short loop and saw lots of different mushrooms and salamanders! And got to (safely) climb on a perfectly-placed boulder. Again we made it back right at pick-up time!
Day 3: Insects
Our most popular topic BY FAR with this group. With a shift in weather, insects were out in full force. Mr. B taught everyone about insect anatomy and the different insect groups before we grabbed our nets and headed up to Skulls Gap to see what we could catch! We saw plenty of grasshoppers, bees, and butterflies. Mr. B and Ms. Olivia were pretty good at transferring insects from net to container, and only a few precious catches were lost. But in the direct sun, it can get hot quickly! We headed back to campus for lunch before we wandered back into the rain garden for more net time! It really did take up most of our day- which we absolutely love to see! One of the coolest snags was probably a thread-waisted wasp. We also introduced two new activities- the caterpillar races and camouflage hide-and-seek! To compete in the caterpillar races, all you need is a thin scrap of paper and a straw. After coloring, it just takes a couple folds to get it into an “inchworm” position. Campers used different techniques to blow their caterpillars across the table to the finish line. Camouflage hide-and-seek is pretty straight-forward. The entire rain garden is available as hiding space (as long as campers are mindful of the plants), and they need to try their hardest to blend in with their surroundings so that they don't get found- just like an insect! Every year we’re impressed by the new hiding spots we see. And, while hiding, one of the campers found a dead wasp midway up a plant stalk that had been overtaken by a parasitic fungus. What luck!
The final round- Wyatt used his unique caterpillar rolling technique to squeeze out a win!
Day 4: Water
Usually a camper-favorite, we bumped water day up from Friday because we had two campers who couldn’t attend our last day. In the morning, we talked about different salamander species that can be found around BRDC, and each camper picked one species to be an expert on. They had to make very detailed drawings- some salamander patterns can be hard to differentiate. An important lesson we learned was that salamanders have thin, sensitive skin and they need to be handled with care. So before we went down to Dela’s branch, we made sure to rinse our hands with just water and grab jars to observe our amphibious friends with. (We also had a longest worm contest, and the winner was fed to the native Brook Trout in our classroom) After lunch, everyone grabbed their water shoes and we made our way across the street to Big Laurel for some macroinvertebrates! One of our tools, the seine net, requires 3 people, so the campers had to work as a team. We had a great collection of crayfish, giant stoneflies, common stoneflies, waterpennies, aquatic worms, caddisflies, and more! When we returned to the schoolhouse, we did bring some macros back for the Brook Trout.
Day 5: wilderness skills and interests
Our last day! Stella brought her own butterfly container- a huge, mesh box- so we spent the better part of the morning trying to fill it with as many species as we could find. The kids also tested our net-to-jar transfer abilities by trying to max out the number of silver-spotted Skippers or bumble bees we could successfully get in one container. (We hit 4 for both before they started to escape and it got a little too crowded) Though we never managed to catch a Monarch to complete our collection, we released our captives. Then we moved from the garden to the woods…. it was time for shelter-building! When we got out there, we saw the remains of last day camp’s effort and knew… ours had to be BIGGER and BETTER! So we set to work. First building the structure, and then by lining the inside with leaves and the outside with some decorations. Everyone managed to squeeze in for the picture (except Mr. B and Ms. Olivia)- can you see all 8 of them? After that, we took a minute to do some paper crafts (specifically, paper airplanes). When Ms. Olivia debuted her gliding “Turkey Vulture” airplane, everybody wanted to make their own. And then we had a contest to see whose airplane could go the farthest! (It was Mr. B’s) Lastly, we learned how to use a compass to kick off our end of camp treasure hunt! Following clues and their camp experiences, the kids ran around campus in the rain until they made it to the dining hall…. where ice cream was waiting for them! After enjoying our tasty treat, we got together for one last picture in our camp shirts and then everyone headed home.
Wilderness Expedition 2024
Our last overnight camp of the 2024 summer season. How the time flies by! We had a great group of campers, better weather than we expected, and some amazing views! And we hiked almost 30 miles!
Our last overnight camp of the 2024 summer season. How the time flies by! We had a great group of campers, better weather than we expected, and some amazing views! And we hiked almost 30 miles!
Day 1: Wilson Creek (2.5 miles)
Campers arrive, and we work on cramming all our personal gear into the vehicles. After a quick snack to get us started, we headed up to basecamp- Scales campground! Affectionately called a “hiking trail for cars”, the road to Scales is just a few miles, but takes us about 45 minutes to drive. It’s much less stressful if you’re in charge of driving the high ground-clearance BRDC work truck. Finally emerging from the woods and entering the grassy clearing, we’re shocked to see… cows? Cows around the campground are par for the course, but inside the fence? That was new. The weather forecast was still looking a little rainy, so we went ahead and set up tents and our kitchen, just in case. Once everyone was settled, we grabbed the macroinvertebrate gear and took a quick jaunt down to Wilson Creek. We found plenty of black-bellied salamanders (Desmognathus quadromaculatus), some small crayfish, and two northern watersnakes (Nerodia sipedon). On our way back to camp, we all munched on allegheny blackberries (Rubus allegheniensis) and highbush blueberries (Vaccinium corymbosum). We also stopped for a quick bog-stomping break! But everyone was still plenty hungry for a walking taco dinner, followed by biscuits on a stick around the campfire!
Day 2: Little Wilson Creek Wilderness (8 miles)
After getting to know the cows, who enjoy eerily hanging around the bathroom at night and munching grass right around our tents, we decide to call them Bessie, Gertrude, and Fanny. They’re pretty good company, except for the presents that they like to leave behind. We got an early-ish start today to try to avoid the afternoon storm that’s predicted to roll in. Climbing up Stone Mountain and watching as our campsite gets smaller and the view gets better is a fun experience! Day 1 is a great chance to practice map skills and orienteering with Brendan! After that, we skirted just around the top of Third peak (4928 ft), and over Second peak (4843 ft) and First peak (4610 ft). Our long snack break was right by the Little Wilson Creek. We made it back right before the weather turned. Which allowed us to introduce camper-favorite activity: Whittling! Armed with knives, wood blocks, Kevlar gloves, and knowledge on blood circles, most of the campers dove right into their custom projects. One camper mentioned a water snake that was hiding behind the bathroom trashcan, and everyone ran over to watch Drew try and get it out. It was feisty! In the evening, we sat around the campfire and Shep regaled us for 30 minutes with an improvised story so epic that it cannot be described. And when it got dark enough, manhunt started!
Day 3: Lewis Fork Wilderness (8 miles)
The weather forecast was fluctuating a lot today, so we headed out a little later and hoped for the best. Starting on the Crest Trail, we again got to watch our campsite get smaller and smaller as we climbed the gradual hill. Along the way, we found a great snack spot nestled within a boulder pile with lots of (safe) climbing opportunities. Drew also introduced the group to the game Codeword, where you’re given a secret word/phrase and have to use it without getting caught. Some notable phrases: fat frog legs, laminated licorice, fergalicious, the hills are alive with music, size 13 crocs, and the singing bats of the Caspian Sea. For 20 minutes on this hike we were caught in an intermittent torrential downpour, but that was the only rain we got while hiking, so it was worth it! It did end up being a good lesson on how quickly trenchfoot can set in, and how uncomfortable it can be to hike in wet boots. But they trooped through it! On our return down the Crest Trail, we encountered wild ponies in the woods! And back at camp, we met the fourth and fifth cows in the herd who had been keeping us company. Now that the others were outside the fence, where they belonged, Georgina and her baby, Butters, made an appearance.
Day 4: Mount Rogers (8 miles)
Today was the day… time to backpack up to Mount Rogers! We took it easy in the morning, giving our tents time to dry as everyone reorganized their stuff. The only things you take up the mountain are the things you really need! While we relaxed, some campers worked on sketches in their nature journals, others put the finishing touches on their whittling projects. Annabelle and Esme created adorable nature-themed sculptures out of Babybel cheese wax. (Unfortunately no pictures were taken and they melted on the truck’s dash in the hour it took us to unload gear and say goodbye) After a hearty dinner, the hike began! It was an adjustment for some getting used to the pack size, but we made great time heading up to Rogers. Along the way, we stopped at a giant rock that we VERY CAREFULLY climbed up so we could appreciate the view, and get a good look at Mount Rogers from afar. We walked right past our campsite, and became the tallest people in Virginia! For about 45 minutes. We ate a snack, looked for (and found) Weller’s (Plethodon welleri) and Pygmy (Desmognathus wrighti) salamanders, and appreciated the beautiful and rare spruce-fir forest that we were in. Then it was time to backtrack a mile and a half to set up camp! Once everything was settled, we hustled to the top of Pine Mountain to catch the sunset, but instead got an amazing, spooky, experience in heavy fog. We had a quick campfire before heading to bed, tired from the day.
Day 5: Back to Scales (3.5 miles)
Everyone woke up early today, ready to get back down the mountain. After so many long days, today’s hike was a breeze! And mostly down-hill, so that helped! We made it back to camp by 10:00, did the final pack-up, loaded into the vehicles, and headed down the mountain. When we got back, Lisa had a lovely surprise waiting for us… PIZZA! Goodbyes are a little easier on a full stomach. The staff had a great week, and we hope all our campers felt the same! It felt almost too quiet once all the campers left.
New River Expedition 2024
Last Wednesday, 12 campers and 4 naturalist educators headed out on a 29.5 mile journey down the New River…. and what a trip it was!
Last Wednesday, 12 campers and 4 naturalist educators headed out on a 29.5 mile journey down the New River…. and what a trip it was!
Day 1: Wagoner Access to Riverbend (1.5 miles)
The naturalist educators spent the morning putting the finishing touches on all the efficiently-packed gear we’d assembled over the past week (shout out to Cade and Brendan) and enjoyed a quick, quiet lunch before the craziness of the next few days! Campers and their adults started rolling up to the schoolhouse at 2:00PM for check in. This year we had a full roster! After tossing everyone’s personal gear into the bed of the truck, doing some introductions, and reviewing rules, we headed to our starting point an hour and a half away. Drew gave the campers a quick run-down on water safety (emergency whistles, paddle signals, etc) and then the adventure really began! Within the first 10 minutes, we saw a beaver (Castor canadensis) swimming by the shoreline! 1.5 miles passed in the blink of an eye, and we were pulling up on the shores of our first campsite. Riverbend is remote- no cell service, an outhouse a half mile away, and no water source. But that’s what makes it everyone’s favorite! Cade took some campers fly fishing, others waded for crayfish (we’ll never forget Kyle Crawdad, who’s a failure for committing tax fraud). After a delicious walking taco dinner, we crowded around the campfire and told stories- some silly, some scary. And of course, ate s’mores!
Fly Fishing with Naturalist Educator Cade
Day 2: Riverbend to 221 Access (8 miles)
You know it’s going to be a great day when you wake up to the smell of pancakes and bacon! We’re so spoiled in the first 24 hours of NRE. The theme of today’s journey? SWIMMING! All three of our stopping points were great swimming spots. Ariel’s Riptide has a strong current great for floating, or fighting your way upstream. Trying to perch on Ariel’s rock is a balancing act not for the faint of heart. After limboing under the low-bridge, we spent our lunch hour snorkeling and trying to grab an elusive northern watersnake (Nerodia sipedon). Right before the end of our day, we stopped at a wide, shallow stretch with shady shores to go fly fishing and search for macroinvertebrates. Plus we saw plenty of bluehead chub (Nocomis leptocephalus) nests! When we pulled up to 221, the kids demonstrated their impressive bucket brigading skills to get ALL of our gear (kayaks and canoes included) to our campsite. We had a relaxing evening of games before we explored 221’s trails in the dark. We didn’t have any luck calling in a barred owl (Strix varia) on our walk, but one started calling as soon as we got back to camp! Throughout the night, bold raccoons (Procyon lotor) wandered through our camp, trying to get their paws on our precious food buckets… and skillfully avoiding Drew sleeping in one of the canoes.
Ariel’s Rock (under Naturalist Educator Olivia) and Riptide
Day 3: 221 Access to Allegheny Access (15 miles)
Today, we were hustling. Going 15 miles in a day is no easy feat. And the campers handled it like champs. Our first break was at the big rock, before our first real rapid. These rapids are split into two paths: one goes straight downriver but is steep and rocky, the other has a sharp turn but is full of water that creates a quick current. Last year taught us to take the sharp turn! Our next stop in the day was very different- a calm, wide stretch of river when we rafted up and did drive-thru PB&Js. Last, but not least, we made it to Old Rusty’s Falls, our second major rapid. Named affectionately after our first river camp session last year, when Cade and Olivia capsized the canoe and lost our stove in the river. The kids made it look easy! And we know from our Rusty recovery mission during our second session that it's a great swimming spot to cool down towards the end of a long day. When we finally paddled into Allegheny Access and unloaded everything, everyone was dead tired. So we took a nice long break and then ate a hearty dinner. Our evening was filled with a nature walk (collecting chanterelles that we cooked up), sculpting mud faces, manhunt, and riddles! Plus, admiring the special New River candle that Cade makes for every river camp out of a decorated can and Baby Bell cheese wax. We were all so tired that nobody stayed up too late!
Campers learned about the importance of accurate mushroom ID- some were fooled by Jack-o-lantern mushrooms!
Day 4: Allegheny Access to 93 Bridge (4 miles)
Our last day! Time passes so quickly on the river. No crazy rapids or huge distance in front of us today (and some of us still sore from yesterday’s miles), we weren’t in any rush to make it to the end of our trip. We made time for a last game of battleship and enjoyed some bird watching. When we did make it to 93 Bridge, the snack feast began! All our leftover snacks and food were up for grabs (and man did they disappear quickly). And then we loaded our gear up and headed back to BRDC.
Our final raft-up, right before we reached 93 Bridge. We struggled a little to get the right formation, but it came together in the end! Every person shared their favorite part of the trip.
Another amazing New River Expedition in the books- even knowing the route, the river is different every time. We couldn't have asked for a better crew, better weather, or better river conditions, and are excited for next year’s trip already!
The whole 2024 gang! (Not pictured: Mrs. Lisa, transporter of gear and boats!)
Fifteen Fun Native Fish Facts!
Summer Fly Fishing Camp is back! Join us August 6-10 for a week of tying, casting, and catching! To celebrate the return of this beloved BRDC camp, here’s fifteen fun fish facts.
Summer Fly Fishing Camp is back! Join us August 6-10 for a week of tying, casting, and catching! To celebrate the return of this beloved BRDC camp, here’s fifteen fun fish facts, all about some of the awesome freshwater fish found natively here in Virginia’s creeks, streams, and rivers!
1) There are 226 species of freshwater fish in Virginia.
2) Fish in the family Ictaluridae (the catfish family) do not have scales.
3) Fish in the genus Etheostoma (which includes many darters, though ‘darters’ is a broad term that applies to a few genuses) do not have a swim bladder! This helps them stay safe and sheltered near the bottoms of streams.
4) The Banded Sculpin, Cottus Carolinae, is nocturnal. They prefer to rest during the day, and hunt at night.
This Bluegill, a native member of the perch family, is so named for the silver-blue band and dark blue spot along the gill slit
5) There are 48 species of perch in Virginia (members of the family Percidae), including species of darters and dace. These beautiful, vibrantly colorful fish are referred to as “aquatic butterflies” or “living jewels.”
6) The Candy Darter, Etheostoma osburni, is a particularly colorful darter. Featuring bold red stripes across its blue, green, and yellow body, this rainbow of a fish would look right at home in a tropical coral reef. But it wouldn’t feel at home there - the Candy Darter’s only home is the Kanawha River system, which flows through West Virginia and Virginia.
7) The Channel Catfish, Ictalurus Punctatus, can lay 10,000+ eggs per spawn! Of course, many of these eggs are eaten before they fully develop, providing a great source of food in our aquatic ecosystems.
Brook Trout play a big role cycling nutrients through the ecosystem
8) Freshwater fish help cycle nitrogen, phosphate, and other key nutrients through the ecosystem, and help maintain the balance of these nutrients in streams. Fish move nutrients from aquatic to terrestrial environments when they are consumed by terrestrial predators, and they carry nutrients upstream to small tributaries when they migrate to spawn.
9) The Northern Hogsucker, Hypentelium Nigricans, is a messy bottom-feeder that sucks up debris in the beds of moderately sized creeks. Darters and dace will follow behind the hogsucker as it forages, eating the food it stirs up.
This Banded Sculpin has left its hiding spot between rocks. Notice its camouflage and large mouth
10) Banded Sculpin, a species in the Cottidae family, are skilled ambush predators. They’ll hide in cavities under rocks and logs, waiting until the moment is juuuust right, then BAM! They’ll strike in a split second, opening their mouth fast enough to suck in their prey! In a flash, whoever was unlucky enough to pass by is gone and the sculpin has already retreated back into hiding.
11) Many freshwater fish are living hosts for freshwater mussels. Some mussels have adapted to develop organs that look very convincingly like fish food. They’ll tempt fish into trying a bite, but instead of food, the fish receives a mouthful of hitchhiking mussel larvae! The baby mussels catch a ride throughout the river system before dropping off somewhere new.
12) Before spawning begins in late spring, male central stonerollers, Campostoma anomalum, grow large facial tubercles. These modified scales on their heads help them to- you guessed it- roll stones and build a nest. From May through early June, females pick suitable nests to lay their eggs.
13) River chub get their species name Nocomis micropogon from a pair of small organs on either side of their mouth called barbels. In fish with well-developed barbels, such as catfish, these are the sensitive “whiskers.” But the river chub’s are very small, so its latin name micropogon literally translates to “tiny beard”
14) Brook trout, Salvelinus fontinalis, like many of their Salmonid cousins, make an incredible migration before spawning each fall. During summer, a brook trout may swim up to 80 miles upstream into small tributaries in search of a suitable spawning location before October. There are three populations, which are named for where they travel between spawns- the Great Lakers, the Salters/Sea-Runners, and the Eastern Brook Trout, which is the population we have here in the Blue Ridge and spends its entire life between large rivers and tiny mountain creeks.
Brook Trout rising on a fishing fly, showing off its defining pattern
15) We had to include a second fun fact for a fan-favorite! The Brook Trout is the only native trout to our waters in the Blue Ridge, while other species- brown trout and rainbow trout- were introduced as game fish. The best way to identify brook trout is by the beautiful squiggly design on their top side. This pattern is called a Turing pattern, and it appears all over in nature!
New River Expedition-Take 2
Last week, more campers joined our guides on one more four-day, 30-mile kayaking trip down the New River.
Another successful New River Expedition for the books! Last week, campers joined our guides on a second four-day, 30-mile kayaking trip down the New River. These strong paddlers covered more than 13 miles in a single day, braving two “canoe tipper rapids.”
Along the way, they took a few breaks to swim and snorkel the river. The nights were full of catching fireflies and telling riddles around the campfire. The campers had the opportunity to see (and even catch) several amazing species that live along the New River including a bald eagle, rock bass, water snake, and painted box turtle.
While at campsites, we took a few hikes to explore the forest that grows alongside the river. There were plenty of fresh blackberries to snack on, and they even got to fry up some foraged chanterelle and oyster mushrooms as an appetizer for the last dinner. It was another great expedition. We can’t wait to do it again next year!
New River Expedition Recap
The first New River Expedition of 2023 is already over! Check out our recap of the trip!
The BRDC campus was quiet last week as our team of guides were floating down the New River with 10 awesome campers. Spanning 29.5 miles over four days, from Wagoner Access in North Carolina to the 93 Bridge in Virginia, campers carried their personal gear on their kayaks, while the guides carried the essentials.
The kids were troopers. Stopping for snacks on a big rocks and lunch under shady trees, the breaks were enjoyed by all. Luckily, the only capsizes were staff related! The kids became pros at kayaking, setting up hammocks and snorkeling. We had a great time and hope they return for another kayaking expedition!
Nature Day Camp!
Get the recap on Nature Day Camp Session 2!
For the past week, BRDC’s campus has been filled with joyous laughter and genuine nature excitement from our Nature Day campers. This camp included 13 eager young naturalists ready to learn about all the wonders of the Blue Ridge. Throughout the week, campers were able to discovery trees, salamanders, butterflies, birds, and more! They explored BRDC’s campus, Elk Garden, and Grindstone campground to see the full scope of what our region has to offer. While participating in these hands-on activities, campers documented all of their findings in nature journals, which is an important aspect of BRDC programs.
We are always excited to have day campers on our campus and we hope to see them again during another programs!
2023 BRDC Summer Camps
Sign your young nature-lover up for one of our overnight summer camps!
BRDC Overnight Summer Camp registrations are still open! Camps we are offering this year are Wilderness Expedition, Discovery camp and two sessions of our New River Expedition. These camps are perfect for any young naturalist who enjoys learning about nature through outdoor adventures. Click on the links below to learn a little more about each camp. These camps are filling up quickly, so sign up to secure your spot today!
2022 Summer Camp Registrations Are OPEN!
Registrations are now open for 2022 Summer Camps.
We are excited to announce that registrations for the 2022 Summer Programs and Overnight Adventures are now OPEN!
BRDC offers a unique variety of summertime experiences suitable for youth ages 6-17 (please see individual Camp webpages for details). We feel confident that we have something for everyone -- kayaking and backpacking, fly fishing, survival skills, science experiments, and everything in between! We welcome novice and experienced naturalists who are interested in old-fashioned fun, learning about nature, and developing a sense of connection to this beautiful place that we call home. See the list of camps that will be offered next summer below. Please follow this link if you would like to be taken directly to the Summer Camps overview webpage, where you will be able to select the camp you’re interested in and Sign-Up: https://blueridgediscoverycenter.org/camps
New River Expedition
Primitive Skills
Wilderness Expedition
Fly Fishing Adventures
Nature Day Camp
Summer Camp Wrap-Up
As summer 2021 closes in, so do BRDC’s summer camps. The camps may have only lasted 4-5 days, but the camaraderie and memories will last a lifetime. Each camp brought unique experiences and challenges, as well as new skills and admiration of the Blue Ridge.
As summer 2021 closes in, so do BRDC’s summer camps. The camps may have only lasted 4-5 days, but the camaraderie and memories will last a lifetime. Each camp brought unique experiences and challenges, as well as new skills and admiration of the beautiful Blue Ridge.
New River Expedition
25 miles down the winding New River made for an exciting start to the overnight camps. Snorkeling, swimming, games, and hikes were all included in this exhilarating trip. Battleship and Ninja were games that sparked competition and fun; while exploring riverside plants and animals, kept us curious and enthusiastic. The heavy rain didn’t cause us to lose our spirits, but the occasional rock in the water may have caused a lack of balance! We waited for the rain to pass by skipping rocks and adventuring along the riverside. In the heat of the day, we cooled off by swimming in the river and resting under a refreshing waterfall. Fishing spiders, slimy salamanders, and crayfish were some of our favorite critter friends found along the way. The campers were always a delight, especially during our fun games or as we bonded around the fire.
Primitive Skills
During this week, campers learned primitive technology that can be used in survival situations. By the end of camp, they were no strangers to fire building; as Joe Flowers helped teach several methods to catch a spark. We were also involved in shelter building, flint knapping, and foraging. Something often asked while pointing at a plant or fungus was, “is it edible,” as we walked through the woods. Using the wild plants and fungi that we harvested, we made teas, dyes, and salad toppings. Carrie Sparks showed us other ways to utilize wild plants that we may initially consider weeds and appreciate them for the medicinal or edible properties they hold. Other skills gained from camp were basket weaving, cordage making, knife safety, and primitive trapping. Perhaps the greatest things from this week were the appreciation for primitive skills and friendships that go beyond camp.
Wilderness Camp
Adventure was no stranger to us during this week in the Lewis Fork Wilderness. Days were spent hiking and exploring the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, finding critters, eating blueberries, and singing our way into the mountains. We spent our nights under the stars, with the Milky Way visible in the clear night sky as lightning bugs flashed and the campfire crackled. The highlight of our trip was backpacking to the highest point in Virginia to the peak of Mt. Rogers, then sleeping in the clouds. Journaling our findings was a must, as we encountered many different species of plants, animals, and fungi. Campers learned basic navigation skills, binocular usage, and proper backpacking techniques. Birding was one of many interactive lessons, especially being on the hunt for the Northern saw-whet owl.
Fly Fishing
Fly fishing in the Blue Ridge was a great way to send off the summer. We fished in creeks, ponds, and rivers, in hopes that everyone could catch a big one. Fishing for the endemic brook trout made for a challenge to the campers, but the beauty of the pristine mountain streams made it worthwhile. Campers practiced casting daily in order to ensure they all could perform “the perfect cast.” Fly tying became a nightly ritual before turning in for bed. Music by the fire (and in the van!) was a great way to bond. Many of the campers were friends of years past. It was an enjoyable and unforgettable experience where old friends were reacquainted and new friendships were formed. And...everyone caught a fish! We consider that a success!
Thank you to the campers who participated this summer. All of you brought something special to each trip. We hope to see you all again soon!
2021 Summer Camp Registrations Now Open!
Registrations for the 2021 Summer Camps & Overnight Adventures are now open. Read on to learn more about next year’s lineup for youth ages 6-17!
Registrations for the 2021 Summer Programs & Overnight Adventures are now open.
Youth ages 6-17 will benefit from Blue Ridge Discover Center’s unique approach to summertime experiences. Our lineup of outdoor programs and adventures is suitable for introducing the most novice naturalist to nature and promoting natural curiosity and self-discovery in meaningful, fun-filled learning activities.
Science in Nature Day Camps
Ornithology Weekend
New River Expedition
Primitive Skills New!
Wilderness Expedition
Fly Fishing Adventures
BRDC is committed to your family's safety. All Blue Ridge Discovery Center programs will follow up-to-date recommended health and safety guidelines that are in effect at the time of the program.
Kicking Off a Summer of Discovery
From festival to forest to field, there is much to discover across the Blue Ridge during the summer. Check out what we have been up to with our friends!
From festival to forest to field, there is much to discover across the Blue Ridge during the summer. Check out what we have been up to with our friends!
A Weekend of Music and Fun
On June 15th, we had the opportunity to not only participate in the Wayne Henderson Music Festival, but also to provide the 2019 children’s activities. Despite the past record of rainy days, the sun paid a visit for the day to make the weather even more beautiful for the full day ahead. Throughout the day while getting to listen to the amazing performances, we got to make journals, leaf poundings, buttons, and other crafts. In addition to creating things together, we also got to listen to storytelling and participate in rope trick lessons, courtesy of some of our incredible volunteers.
Konnarock Discovery Day Camp: Session I
On June 17th, we kicked off the first session of our Discovery Day Camp based out of Konnarock! Despite the prevailing storms that came throughout the week, we got to participate in activities that focused on every aspect of the nature around us. From collecting and learning about different trees of the area, to having first-hand experiences with native and non-native animals, everyday was a little adventure.
Galax Discovery Day Camp: Session I
This past week, Blue Ridge Discovery Center had the pleasure of providing Discovery Day Camp for kids in the Galax area! Every day was focused on a different aspect of nature. We explored all things from birding to stream ecology and hydrography! The students learned so much, including what constitutes an owl pellet (pictured). All in all, the week was a success and our campers walked away with a greater appreciation for the physical world around them.
Discovery Day Camp Photo Album
2019 Summer Outside Initiative
Looking ahead to 2019, Blue Ridge Discovery Center will be launching its Summer Outside Initiative in an effort to connect even more youth to the wonders of the Blue Ridge for an exciting and memorable summer! With technology having such a strong presence in the daily lives of youth in the 21st Century, there has never been a more important time to get outdoors and reconnect with the myriad of benefits provided by this magnificent, natural resource.
Looking ahead to 2019, Blue Ridge Discovery Center will be launching its Summer Outside Initiative in an effort to connect even more youth to the wonders of the Blue Ridge for an exciting and memorable summer! With technology having such a strong presence in the daily lives of youth in the 21st Century, there has never been a more important time to get outdoors and reconnect with the myriad of benefits provided by this magnificent, natural resource.
What is the Summer Outside Initiative?
The Summer Outside Initiative encompasses multiple outdoor education day camp and overnight camp programs held in various locations throughout Southwest Virginia from June through August. Some camps cover a range of topics while others have focused themes, such as ornithology and fly fishing. Full camp descriptions are available on our website at: blueridgediscoverycenter.org/camps/.
Who can participate?
Youth aged 6-15 are welcome to participate in our camps, regardless of experience. Specific ages vary by camp; see camp descriptions on our website for more details.
What makes the Summer Outside Initiative different?
Our goal, new for 2019, is to offer each of our four week-long day camp programs for FREE. By offering the program at no cost to participants, we are able to reach even more youth in our core service region. This includes: Smyth, Washington, Grayson, Wythe, Carroll, Ashe, and Alleghany Counties, as well as the city of Galax. Every $125 raised will cover the cost of the day camp program for one child.
How can I help?
To raise money for our scholarship fund, Blue Ridge Discovery Center is participating in #GivingTuesday, a national fundraiser event as an antidote to Black Friday and Cyber Monday. As a bonus, Facebook and PayPal are teaming up to match donations made through Facebook up to $7 million. Your contribution could have twice the impact! Donation matching begins at 8:00 am on the 27th and continues until funds run out.
If your own childhood was made up of quests through the woods, catching critters, and playing outside until long after dark, you’ll likely understand how important this opportunity is. If you would like to be an integral part of our mission, please mark your calendar and make a donation to BRDC through our Facebook page Donate button at 8:00 am on November 27th. *Donations made prior to this will not be matched.*
Thank you for your support!
Announcing 6 Camp Scholarships in partnership with Friends of Mount Rogers!
BRDC is seeking applicants for six full scholarships ($795 value) to our Discovery Camp, July 31 - August 5, Ages 9-12 or 13-15. Location: Base Camp, Troutdale, VA
BRDC is seeking applicants for six full scholarships ($795 value) to our Discovery Camp, July 31 - August 5, Ages 9-12 or 13-15. Location: Base Camp, Troutdale, VA
The Rudolph and Louise Tilson Scholarship Fund was generously provided by The Friends of Mount Rogers in support of youth exploration of the Mount Rogers area. Rudolph Tilson absolutely loved Grayson county and the Mount Rogers area, and was an active Boy Scout leader, avid camper, and outdoorsman his whole life.
The Friends of Mount Rogers is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the appreciation and enjoyment of the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area by supporting it and its heritage through education, cooperation, financial assistance, and volunteer service. For more information, visit: www.friendsofmountrogers.org
The scholarships are available for the under-served youth in Grayson, Carroll, Galax, Ashe, Alleghany, Smyth and Washington counties. Qualifications include demonstrated financial need and residence within the core focus area.
To apply for the scholarship, please fill out the following form and mail to Blue Ridge Discovery Center: Scholarship Application Form
The scholarship application will be open until July 1st, 2017. On July 5th, BRDC will notify the recipients of the scholarships!
For more information on the Camp, visit http://blueridgediscoverycenter.org/discoverycamp/
To learn more about the scholarship contact info@blueridgediscoverycenter.org or call 276.293.1232
Wilderness Backpacking Camp June 27-July 1
One of the most rewarding opportunities of the summer is discovering more of the Blue Ridge in the company of exceptional guides on this multi-day backpacking expedition. On the trail, you’ll observe and document the wildlife we encounter along the way, including unique birds, trees, plants, insects, mushrooms, salamanders, and many others.
Tue-Sat, June 27-July 1
5 days / 4 nights
Ages 13-17
Location: Mount Rogers, VA
SIGN-UP
One of the most rewarding opportunities of the summer is discovering more of the Blue Ridge in the company of exceptional guides on this multi-day backpacking expedition. On the trail, you’ll observe and document the wildlife we encounter along the way, including unique birds, trees, plants, insects, mushrooms, salamanders, and many others.
Learn new wilderness skills including meal preparation, orienteering, primitive technology and fire building! Join us on this journey through the highest mountains of the Blue Ridge and experience moss laden spruce-fir forests, shrub balds, and the best vistas in the East! (Backpacks, tents and sleeping pads provided).
Visit blueridgediscoverycenter.org/wildernessbackpacking, call 276.293.1232, or email info@blueridgediscoverycenter.org for more information.
Now Hiring Summer Camp Interns!
Enjoy spending time outdoors? Love to hike, camp, and fish? Have experience working with kids?Utilize your skills & take advantage of all that the Blue Ridge Mountains have to offer! BRDC is seeking interns for the 2017 Summer Camp season.
Enjoy spending time outdoors? Love to hike, camp, and fish? Have experience working with kids?
Utilize your skills & take advantage of all that the Blue Ridge Mountains have to offer! BRDC is seeking interns for the 2017 Summer Camp season.
Expected Dates: 10 weeks, June- August 2017
Location: Grayson County, VA
Stipend: $300/wk plus housing
Summer Camp interns will be responsible for leading and implementing outdoor experiences for children in a small group setting, under the guidance of BRDC staff. They will also be responsible for the general safety and development, growth, and skill achievement of the participants. The incumbent will provide high quality outdoor educational and recreational experiences for participants based on the BRDC mission.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Responsibilities will include camper safety, assisting in crafts, games, hikes, animal encounters, behavior management, assisting in the preparation of meals, and other camp activities, assisting in the set up, clean up, and running of camps. Interns will be expected to use their education and specialized skills to lead related camp activities.
QUALIFICATIONS
Must be 18 years of age
Must be enrolled in college level courses
Experience working with youth a plus
Interest in the fields of Education, Environmental Studies or Biology, or Recreation
Special interests in aquatic insects, entomology, herpetology, ornithology, dendrology, etc
Outdoor/camping skills - fire building, cooking on fire and/or cook stoves, storytelling/games, backpacking
Specialized skills a plus - fly fishing, watercrafts (canoe/kayak/raft), orienteering, pioneering/bushcraft
Explorers Adventure Camp II
Campers had a very hot week of outdoor fun! Saddle Creek conditioned the air and provided the kids with several creek related programs and the occasional and unscheduled full immersion.
Campers had a very hot week of outdoor fun! Saddle Creek conditioned the air and provided the kids with several creek related programs and the occasional and unscheduled full immersion.
The week began with a bird walk and a snake show. Claire Gleason once again shared her famous corn snake, Sylvester, which we compared to a black rat snake provided by BRDC.
Rick Cavey helped our campers learn to tie knots and lash together what became a Native American kitchen. One day the campers visited Rick and Jen's Wagon Wheel Farm to harvest veggies for our noon soup, cooked over a fire, completing the outdoor kitchen experience.
Ellie and Roald Kirby brought two art projects to camp, along with some tall tales and a woodland hike. Jane Floyd helped the kids create, from found natural objects, small sculptures of their own design. Lisa Benish led a snorkeling adventure in the New River, where the campers discovered a decaying Muskellunge much to their amusement and our disgust.
Among other programs we set up a moth sheet for morning examinations, captured and identified aquatic invertebrates, dissected owl pellets, searched for and identified several species of salamanders, caught and released many crayfish (including females with egg masses attached), participated in two treasure hunts, played a variety of games and documented our discoveries and experiences in personal journals.
For our grand finale, Charlotte Hanes and Kim Lawson brought ice cream and fixings to share.
Many thanks to Heidi Breedlove, Susan and Claire Gleason, Carol Broderson, the Caveys, the Kirbys, Lisa, Kim, Charlotte and the Old Hickory Council, Boy Scouts of America, for use of their property.
New River Expedition- Summer Fun!
There is no grander journey than pushing off from shore in a boat on a one-way trip to wherever the current carries you! On July 14, intrepid explorers from throughout the region did just that. Launching our kayaks and canoes from the King's Creek access along the South Fork of the New River, we began a four day journey down the currents of the New. With the guides paddling the canoes full of gear, the kids were free to explore the river at their own pace.
There is no grander journey than pushing off from shore in a boat on a one-way trip to wherever the current carries you!
On July 14, intrepid explorers from throughout the region did just that. Launching our kayaks and canoes from the King's Creek access along the South Fork of the New River, we began a four day journey down the currents of the New. With the guides paddling the canoes full of gear, the kids were free to explore the river at their own pace. After navigating our first class II rapid we made our way to the forks of the New where the North and South branches meet. With the flow of the river a bit stronger we made quick work of getting to Alleghany Access where we pitched camp for the next two nights.
We began the second day with fly casting lessons in the field beside camp and took the new found skills to the water where the kids casted poppers towards smallmouth bass to no avail. The group then gathered in the water for some freshwater snorkeling up the river. After lunch and some ultimate frisbee we went on a mushroom foray along the trail and came back with a sack full of chanterelles! With the recent rain and heat we found a seeming endless variety of mushrooms along the path including a number of boletus, old man of the woods, chicken of the woods, and cinnabar chanterelles. Taking a break from the trail the kids searched for salamanders in an adjacent creek and watched a northern water snake eat a large minnow with the tail flapping as it went down.
While the chanterelles simmered on the stove, we launched the kayaks for a skills challenge in the deep hole by Big Rock. With a tennis ball as the "bomb" we played "battleship" on the open seas. Boats crisscrossed the river in a furry until the lone survivor was left. After returning to camp and wolfing dinner we alternated between ultimate frisbee and dives into the river. Oreo smores came out for dessert and when night set in we strapped on headlamps and went on an owl prowl in the pines. Needless to say, everyone slept like rocks the second night.
Anxious to hit the river the crew packed up their gear with efficiency the third day and off we went down the river. After crossing into Virginia the paddlers navigated boulder fields and islands with ease. With their new found confidence they left our mule, Vincent, in their wake! The big challenge of the day came with the portage around Field's Dam where the crew worked together to overcome knee high mud, steep banks and rocks to get all of the gear and boats around the dam safely.
Downriver we took a short break to marvel at the massive nest made by bald eagles at the head of an island. After some games and a snack, the raft of kayaks made their way with ease to our second camping destination: a series of secluded islands on river bank left. The kayaks shot through a secret passage gated by an overhanging tree and beached on the sands of an island that was all ours. The group studied some butterflies, strung up a laundry line, pitched camp and gathered rocks for a fire circle. After we got all settled, we headed up the creek cut donning snorkeling masks. They found many of the usual suspects, but as we arrived at the main channel up popped Jack with the exclamation that he had found a hellbender! Everyone looked at him skeptically but didn't openly question the assertion because he was clearly carrying something... and sure enough it was a baby hellbender! Initial excitement turned to awe as everyone clamored to get a look. We placed it in the photarium for clear views of its beady eyes, long claws and flattened tail.
Later that night, around the campfire, the pirates of the island had a vote to name the island they had staked as theirs. The results came in with consensus for Hell's Isle, short for Hellbender's Island. The group explored Hell's Isle up and down, finding a massive four trunked sycamore tree and rock outcrops that protected the camp area from floods.
The last day brought the final camp break down and a slow paddle on a burning hot day that included lots of swimming and a challenging Class II rapids at the end. We finished the expedition with a dip in the "pool" before exiting the river at Cox's Chapel low water bridge and returning to society.
Seeking Scholarship Applicants for Camp
BRDC is seeking applicants for full scholarships ($450 value) to our Mount Rogers Wilderness Camp. The scholarships were provided by The Friends of Mount Rogers National Recreation in support of youth exploration of the Mount Rogers area.
BRDC is seeking applicants for full scholarships ($450 value) to our Mount Rogers Wilderness Camp.
The Rudolph and Louise Tilson Scholarship Fund was generously provided by The Friends of Mount Rogers in support of youth exploration of the Mount Rogers area. Rudolph Tilson absolutely loved Grayson county and the Mount Rogers area, and was an active Boy Scout leader, avid camper, and outdoorsman his whole life.
The Friends of Mount Rogers is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the appreciation and enjoyment of the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area by supporting it and its heritage through education, cooperation, financial assistance, and volunteer service. For more information, visit: www.friendsofmountrogers.org
The scholarships are available for the under-served youth in our core focus region including the counties of Grayson, Ashe, Allegheny, Carroll, Smyth, Wythe and Washington along with the City of Galax. Qualifications include demonstrated financial need and residence within the core focus area.
To apply for the scholarship, please fill out the following form and mail to Blue Ridge Discovery Center: Scholarship Application Form
The scholarship application will be open until July 22nd, 2016. On July 25th, BRDC will notify the recipients of the scholarship!
For more information on the Camp, visit http://blueridgediscoverycenter.org/mount-rogers-wilderness-experience/
To learn more about the scholarship contact info@blueridgediscoverycenter.org or call 276.293.1232
Blue Ridge Explorers Overnight Camp
Fourteen intrepid explorers joined BRDC for four days and three nights of adventure packed fun during the Blue Ridge Explorers Camp. We kayaked, hike Whitetop Mountain, and swam in the New River, but most importantly we learned what it means to be a Naturalist.
Fourteen intrepid explorers joined BRDC for four days and three nights of adventure packed fun during the Blue Ridge Explorers Camp.
Camp began with a Naturalist Journaling lesson to set the tone but then shifted to serious leisure with "Hammocking 101" by Joe Flowers.
Attention quickly turned to the river where we set minnow traps and did some snorkeling with Lisa Benish.
The day finished with a little Appalachian heritage lesson and a friendly competition of classic Highland's games. With a little time left after dinner we hiked to the ridge to play games, watch the sunset and catch fireflies.
That night, the skies cleared and the stars sparkled. We got out the 60x birding scope and studied the moons of jupiter. We could see Jupiter's red lines but we were all stunned at how well we could see the ring around Saturn.
Is it an Osprey or a Bald Eagle?
The second day kicked off with a birding hike where we studied the riparian corridor of the New River. Ultimately the camp observed or heard over thirty species of birds. The most surprising find though was a gnarly male hellgrammite resting in the grass.
Male Adult Dobsonfly (Hellgrammite)
Upon return to camp, Joe Flowers led a basic compass navigation course and tree climbing lesson.
That afternoon we loaded into kayaks and headed for the river! The kids led a 3 hr paddle down the New, seeing a Bald Eagle nest, lighting a spark fire on an island to dry off, and discovering a Mallard nest in the weeds. They also ditched their boats and navigated the rapids on their backs to get some wet time.
After dinner it was time for some local old time tunes around the campfire! The Yates family band tuned up their instruments along the river and picked the evening away with the kids joining in the chorus! Dessert featured the camp favorite: campfire grilled banana boats!
As night approached, so did massive thunderstorms from West Virginia. The camp battened down the hatches and weathered the worst of it in the vehicles. Half the kids were enthralled by the display of lighting and thunder, the other half were terrified. They all survived the night and we let them sleep in a bit the second morning.
We began Friday with an exploration of the mixed hardwood forest where we found lots of salamanders. Drew's sharp eyes even spotted a tiny spring peeper on a leaf!
The hot and sunny day called for a swim in the river, but this time we put on life jackets and headed for Field's Dam where they kids leaned into the water gushing over the dam, floated down the rapids and leaped off the rocks. Instead of walking back to camp we floated like a big human raft downriver. At the exit Caroline found a dragonfly that had just hatched out of it's case!
Not having had enough, we packed the cars with a picnic dinner and hit the road to the second highest peak in Virginia: Whitetop Mountain. Hiking down to Buzzard's Rock we studied 1 billion year old Cranberry Gneiss, marveled at the grassland balds, searched for salamanders along the woodland slope, filled up our canteens in a spring, slipped into the fern laden spruce forest and watched the sunset from the most beautiful vista in the east!
Even after a day like that, the kids were not done. When we got back to camp they rolled their sleeping bags out on the grass to watch the stars, then begged to get the scope back out. After studying the usual suspects we turned our sights towards satellites. Reece was able to locate the international space station and two of us got to view it very clearly through the scope!
After a peaceful night's sleep the camp woke to a foggy morning and a Bald Eagle sitting on a snag across the river. After some coal baked apples for breakfast we headed out and Amelia and Caroline led us to some rocky slopes and wetland bottoms for exploration.
The camp finished up with one last swim in the river and a little bit of fly fishing. At lunch, Joe demonstrated the most traditional form of fire building: friction fire with a bow string. To put a nice cap on a great camp a bald eagle did one final soar over camp to say goodbye and the kids charged up the hill to their parents as full of energy as ever!
