Did you know?
Eagle’s Nest Camp was established in 1927 by educators. Today more than a third of our counselors study or work as educators.
Did you know?
Many of our Outdoor Academy students return home after their semester ahead of their peers academically.
Did you know?
Hante has traveled to many places: Australia, New Zealand, Ecuador, Mexico, Costa Rica, Spain, France, Iceland, Canada, and Ghana.
Did you know?
Our campers enjoy sitting with table families, making bread, and eating veggies fresh from the garden.
Did you know?
Outdoor Academy students spend ¼ of their semester paddling, climbing, and backpacking in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Did you know?
Eagle's Nest is home to several rare plants. We are working with the Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy to provide protected space for them.

“Experiential education for young people, promoting the natural world and the betterment of human character.”

L ocated in Western North Carolina our summer camp and academic semester school provide transformative wilderness and cultural adventures. For over 85 years the Foundation has focused on fostering profound individual development, connection to the natural world and responsible action to our local and global communities. Eagle’s Nest Foundation is a non-profit educational organization whose programs are designed for young people ages 6-18.

Eagle's Nest Camp

since 1927
An hour from Asheville, our residential summer camp for young people ages 6-18 encourages growth and wonder, teaching them what it means to belong... to rocks and rivers, forests and friends.
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The Outdoor Academy

a semester school
Rooted in nature, OA is a semester school focusing on intellect, environment, community, and craft. Our students engage in rigorous academics while cultivating a deep sense of place through environmentalism and outdoor adventure.
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Hante Adventurers

a hero's journey
Through climbing, canoeing, and backpacking on wilderness and cultural expeditions, Hante Adventures challenge teens to grow as leaders and reach a deeper understanding of themselves within a supportive group. Explore the world with us!
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EAGLE'S NEST PROGRAM BLOGS

JUL. 11, 2019

Mary Poppins Jr. the Musical!

As the campers filed into the new lodge with eyes full of anticipation to see their friends perform, chatter filled the air. I saw the cast and crew peep through the curtains with a mixture of excitement and nervousness of going on stage. The costuming and set design team have been working together with the […]

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JUN. 27, 2019

The Betterment of Human Character: Where are We Headed?

In last week’s blog post, OA History and Natural Sciences teacher Ted Weseman reflected on a Spring Break visit to the United States Naval Academy to see Dr. Roger Herbert, our previous Director of The Outdoor Academy. Roger just completed his first year on the USNA faculty, teaching ethics to all second-year students, and Ted […]

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JUL. 12, 2019

Hante Boundary Waters Update

We just got back from spending 16 days on trail exploring the Boundary Waters of Minnesota learning about and getting to know the environment around us. We spent our days paddling and portaging 150 miles in the wildlife and beautiful scenery we’ve called home.  Looking back on our trip we have countless highlights, some of […]

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