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. 24, 2018

The Road To Dolly’s

  If you’ve ever ventured into Pisgah National Forest, you’re probably familiar with the ice cream shop that sits just by the entrance to the park — Dolly’s Dairy Bar, affectionately called “Big Scoop” by Eagle’s Nesters.  But the road to Dolly’s from camp is more than just a left on Everett Road — campers […]

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AUG. 1, 2018

The Outdoor Academy: Grit Before Grit Was Cool

  Part I At about 3am on day four of Semester 46’s five-day Student-led Trek, I woke to rain pattering against my tarp.  The weather had been pleasant so far, but there were ample signs that a change was coming: wispy cirrus clouds, stiffening breezes, a halo circling the waxing moon. Half asleep and half […]

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NOV. 17, 2017

Be the Spark on #GivingTuesday

A fire takes a lot of work to build, from the smallest tinder and kindling to logs, oxygen, and heat, each part is important to keep the fire alive. It also takes regular tending to keep the fire going.  By making a monthly gift to the Annual Fund you can ensure the fire never dies and provide opportunities for future generations to grow in this community we create each day.

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