Summer Camps
Our mission is to inspire curiosity, discovery, and stewardship through the wonders of the Blue Ridge. Our camps connect youth to nature through immersive, interest-driven programming led by skilled guides who foster curiosity and autonomy. With hands-on learning and a low staff-to-child ratio, campers develop critical thinking skills and life-enriching hobbies for years to come.
Scholarships are a key part of our camps and are given for both MERIT and NEED. If your kid has a drive to attend one of our camps, we encourage you to fill out the Scholarship Application.
Overnight Camps
Ornithology Camp
ages 11-17
Experience the thrill of birding in the Blue Ridge, spotting eagles, woodpeckers, and more with expert guides and top-notch gear. Sharpen your skills, explore careers in ornithology, and identify up to 100 species while enjoying games, science projects, and stunning scenery.
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New River Expedition
Ages 11-17
Join our New River Expedition summer camp for 4 days of kayaking, camping, and exploring one of the world’s oldest rivers! Build confidence, leadership, and teamwork as you paddle nearly 30 miles and discover the river’s rich biodiversity. It’s an unforgettable adventure where the current leads the way!
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Wilderness Expedition
Ages 11-17
Join our guided backpacking expedition in the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area to explore wildlife, learn backcountry skills, and experience the beauty of the Blue Ridge. With expert naturalists, you'll master orienteering, fire building, and Leave No Trace while enjoying stunning scenery. Gear is provided—bring your sense of adventure!
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Discovery Camp
Ages 11-14
BRDC's Discovery Camp is a 5-day adventure exploring the Blue Ridge through hiking, kayaking, and citizen science. Campers discover unique ecosystems, rich biodiversity, and make lasting friendships in nature.
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Day Camps
Nature Day Camp
ages 6-10
BRDC places a strong emphasis on developing a desire to know more about nature and acquiring a deep respect for the place we call home. Our focus is on natural curiosity and self-discovery by engaging children in meaningful, fun-filled learning activities. Our campus provides a dynamic setting for campers to do science experiments, study habitats, and learn about the local plants and wildlife. This day camp will focus on the importance of symbiotic relationships between our flora and fauna.
Highlight Activities: Catching bugs & butterflies, collecting and pressing plants and flowers, snorkeling in the creek, observing wildlife through binoculars, citizen science projects, and art through journaling.
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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.
Camp Scholarships
Our scholarships are provided by people who care about the future of the Blue Ridge and support our mission through generous donations and volunteer support. Through these scholarships we provide opportunity to those in need and those who desperately want to elevate their knowledge of the Blue Ridge.
Applications can be submitted based on NEED and/or MERIT. Limited scholarships are available for particular BRDC summer camps (please refer to camp descriptions).