School Programs

Blue Ridge Discovery Center provides schools with unique field trips that combine art, science, exploration, and fun! Each field trip is tailored to the goals of each participating school. Located at the base of the highest mountain in Virginia, our classroom is the forest, streams, and meadows where students can learn outdoors.

Overnight field Trips

Give your class an unforgettable trip to Virginia's highest mountains and stay in our historic 1925 schoolhouse on the Blue Ridge Discovery Center campus. Your students will learn core education standards in an inspiring outdoor setting through hands-on experiential programs. All meals, lodging, and instruction are covered within the cost of the program. Learn more.


Day field trips

Bring your students to Blue Ridge Discovery Center where they will learn about  the local ecology through engaging hands-on activities. Work with our staff to meet your individual classroom goals. Activities generally add up to a 4-6 hour program. Learn More.


Our Curriculum

An individualized program and itinerary is developed in discussion with your school based on your class grade, size, goals, and the season. All of our programs align with your state standards of learning and are led by highly educated staff who provide hands-on experiential learning that exponentially increases the absorption of the lessons. Learn more.

OUr Campus

Blue Ridge Discovery Center campus includes a 17,250 square foot historic schoolhouse that features classrooms, auditorium, library, dining hall and dormitories; a stone amphitheater; nature trails meandering along streams and wetlands, an educational rain garden, a picnic pavilion, recreation field and more! Learn more.

Financial Assistance

If your school is within our local region including Grayson County, Smyth County, and Washington County there is potential financial assistance to cover all or part of your class participation in our programs. Please contact us to learn more about assistance currently available!