Our Center and Its Future

The Center Campus

Blue Ridge Discovery Center is a Southwest Virginia destination centered around our mission to inspire curiosity, discovery, and stewardship through the wonders of the Blue Ridge. Located in one of the most biologically diverse areas in the world, our campus consists of a Residential Education Facility, Biological Field Station, Nature Trails, Campground with Pavilion.

The MASTER PLAN

The Future Visitor Center

The BRDC Visitor Center will be an immersive connection point for families, retirees, tourists, and adventurers to access the breadth of natural assets that Southwest Virginia has to offer. The Visitor Center will feature visitor services, an interpretive center (with interpretive grounds), retail sales, and equipment rentals.

Restrooms, a water bottle filling station, a dog walk area, snacks, Wi-Fi, and an electric vehicle charging station will make the Visitor Center a must-stop on this popular route for anyone whose destination is BRDC, the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, the Appalachian Trail, the Virginia Creeper Trail, and/or Grayson Highlands State Park. Guidebooks, tools for exploration, camping/backpacking supplies, and other items to aid in nature exploration will be available for purchase. Kayaks, fly fishing gear, children’s explorer packs, binoculars, and other equipment will be available for rent. 

This easily accessible facility will also serve as an interpretive center with maps, interpretive displays, nature trails, ADA accessible pathways and wetlands, community programs, and changing exhibits to help guests situate themselves to the ecology, geography, and geology of the region.

Project Status

In May 2022, BRDC has completely restored the 1925 Historic Schoolhouse that is now home to our Residential Education Programs and Naturalist Rallies. We have also completed accessible trails, a rain garden, and a wetland for exploration. A covered Pavilion provides shade, a place to have a meal, and serves as an outdoor classroom for programs on campus.

Currently, BRDC staff is hard at work raising funds for the Visitor Center and its exhibits. This additional feature for the Campus that will truly make the Blue Ridge Discovery Center a destination to treasure.

A Lasting Impact for Southwest Virginia

You can play a key role in the creation of the Center by making a tax-deductible contribution today!