This unique, small nature camp interweaves exploration of the natural world with games, song, story, music arts, hiking, and swimming. Roaming the fields, forest, stream, and pond, campers learn plant, animal and earth science, participate in overnight trips, and then pursue their strongest interests in a project of their own design. Mornings are for workshops and projects. Each afternoon brings a fresh selection of hikes, arts and other activities. Evening programs are small group options or whole group gatherings.

One of the first nature camps for children in the US, BCWS was founded in 1963 and has been in continual operation ever since. Our creative approach combines scientific knowledge with variety and laughter, as well as time for quiet contemplation, engendering personal growth alongside respect and sensitivity for the natural world.

BCWS builds a friendly, non-competitive community. There is one staff member for every three campers. Groups are small and there is plenty of individual attention. Campers often stay in touch through the winter, and return year after year.

The director is back for her 33rd year. The staff, mostly former BCWS campers, are high school, college, graduate students and teachers. They are knowledgeable in specific areas of the natural world and bring their education, experience, energy, creativity and sense of humor to each moment.

BCWS is located in a secluded 500 acre sanctuary in the Appalachian Mountains, 2 1/2 hours from Washington D.C. The forest and meadows shelter a wide diversity of plant and animal life. The spring-fed stream and pond support a rich aquatic ecosystem and provide good swimming. The night sky is speckled with stars.

The spacious main lodge includes an all-purpose room with open-hearth fireplace, dining porch, field study and work areas, infirmary, and library. The canopy walkway is 10 minutes walk from the lodge. Staff and campers share meals family style. Campers sleep in two staff-supervised screened porches, which invite in fresh air and the night sounds.

An Adult Weekend was created at the request of parents who were themselves wishing to remain at BCWS in the cool green foliage, watching the sunset from the mountaintop, sleeping to the sound of owls and katydids, waking to birdsong, and trying their hands at the various activities and inactivities. The population includes adults in their 20s to 70s, some of whom are entirely new to the program. Some are constantly active, some take time in the hammocks, by the pond, or on a solitary stroll. The staff are always available with workshops or hikes, but all the schedule is optional for participants. The food includes vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, and is designed to appeal to adult palates.