Outdoor Science and Learning
Learn about the ecology and history of the National Forests through interpretive trails, visitor centers and discovery centers.
Search for Outdoor Science and Learning Opportunities
Ammons Branch Campground
Site Open
Dispersed camping along Bull Pen Road. Four dispersed sites are available with picnic tables and lantern hangers. A pit toilet is available. Please pack in and pack out.
Andy Cove Trailhead
Site Open
Is now part of the Kids in Parks initiative. This trail offers an interactive experience while fostering increased physical activity for children and their families.
Art Loeb Trailhead, Davidson River
Site Open
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Bald Knob Ridge TR 186
Site Temporarily Closed
From NFSR 472 the trail ascends switchbacks to the ridge. It offers good views of the Black Mountains and passes through stands of red spruce and Fraser fir trees. Several primitive campsites are in…
Balsam Lake Lodge
Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains on the Nantahala District, Balsam Lake Lodge offers a special getaway for groups who reserve the whole facility for $170 on weekdays to $200 on weekends, per…
Bear Pen TR 176
Site Temporarily Closed
This trail provides nice views of the Craggy Mountains to the southeast. It offers many possible loop trails and ascends steeply at times with some switchbacks. The trail also crosses several streams…
Bent Creek Experimental Forest
Site Open
Established in 1927 to study rehabilitation of cutover, degraded forests, Bent Creek is the oldest experimental forest in the East. The area is now used to research current issues that threaten or…
Big Butt TR 161
Site Open
The trail gently climbs in a southeasterly direction to the Wilson Range and switchbacks during its elevation gain. Eventually the trail levels out to join an old four-wheel drive road which follows…
Big Ivy Area, Coleman Boundary
Site Temporarily Closed
The Big Ivy, Coleman Boundary area is located on the Appalachian Ranger District near Barnardsville, NC. "Ivy" is the local name for the mountain laurel shrub.This area is beautiful, remote, mountain…
Big Tom Gap TR 191A
Site Temporarily Closed
The trail provides good views including Maple Camp Bald to the northeast. It offers loop opportunities with the Buncombe Horse Range Trail, Mount Mitchell Trail and the Black Mountain Crest Trail.…