Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Burgundy Center for Wildlife Studies Summer Camp Programs
Founded in 1963, we are one of the nation's longest-running nature camps for children and adults. Our mission is to immerse participants in nature, integrate learning with life, and cultivate personal growth and stewardship of the natural world. Accredited by the American Camp Association, our programs serve ages 8 to adult through co-ed sessions in a 611-acre wildlife sanctuary in West Virginia. Our small community of no more than 36 campers fosters creativity, respect, and growth through hands-on exploration of local flora, fauna, and geology. Staff incorporate humor, hiking, arts, and music into daily programming while addressing broader concepts like ecology and conservation.Alumni have become natural scientists, environmental policy experts, and outdoor educators, while others carry their love of nature into diverse careers. We maintain a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring all members feel welcomed and celebrated regardless of background. Our facility, Coopers Cove Wildlife Sanctuary, has expanded through conservation efforts supported by the Coopers Cove Conservation Fund. With decades of experience and a proven track record of impacting lives, we continue to inspire generations through immersive nature education.
Services
Summer Camp Programs
Adult Weekend Retreats
Junior Programs
Senior Programs
Environmental Education
Wildlife Sanctuary Tours
Conservation Workshops
Details
- Year established: 1963
Highlights and features
- We offer 60+ years of experience in nature-based education and camp programming.
- Our 611-acre wildlife sanctuary provides unparalleled access to diverse ecosystems for study.
- Small camper groups ensure personalized attention and meaningful mentorship opportunities.
- We maintain a 100% commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion principles.
- Our alumni network includes environmental professionals and outdoor educators nationwide.
Associations and certifications
- American Camp Association
What people say
Love animals
Respect for nature
Memorable experiences
Personal growth
Lifelong connections
Services
Summer Camp Programs
Our summer camps provide immersive nature experiences for ages 8 to adults in a 611-acre wildlife sanctuary. Participants engage in hands-on learning about local ecosystems through hiking, wildlife observation, and conservation projects. The program emphasizes community living, personal growth, and environmental stewardship through daily activities integrating science, arts, and outdoor exploration.
Adult Weekend Retreats
Three-day adult retreats offer immersive nature experiences for participants aged 21+. Activities include guided wildlife observations, conservation workshops, and evening astronomy sessions. The program combines educational programming with opportunities for personal reflection in a wilderness setting, fostering renewed appreciation for natural ecosystems through experiential learning.
Junior Programs
Seven-day programs for 8-10 year olds focus on foundational nature education through structured exploration. Campers learn basic ecology through hands-on activities like bird watching, plant identification, and stream studies. The curriculum develops environmental awareness while building social skills through group activities and creative expression in natural settings.
Senior Programs
Two-week sessions for 11-15 year olds combine advanced ecological study with leadership development. Participants engage in citizen science projects, conservation research, and wilderness survival skills. The program emphasizes critical thinking about environmental issues while fostering personal growth through mentorship opportunities and community responsibility.
Environmental Education
Our educational programs integrate science, arts, and humanities through immersive outdoor learning. Curriculum covers ecology, astronomy, and conservation practices through field studies and experiential activities. Participants develop scientific literacy while exploring connections between human communities and natural ecosystems through guided exploration and project-based learning.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We offer programs for children aged 8-10, teens aged 11-15, and adults aged 21+ through our summer camp sessions.
What makes your camp unique?
Our 611-acre wildlife sanctuary provides unparalleled access to nature with small camper groups ensuring personalized attention and meaningful mentorship opportunities.
Are electronic devices allowed?
We do not permit cell phones or electronic devices to maintain focus on nature immersion, except for cameras and books.
How do you handle camper communication?
We encourage letter writing and provide email-to-mail service. Phone calls are only permitted in emergencies to prioritize staff attention to campers.
What conservation initiatives do you support?
Through the Coopers Cove Conservation Fund, we protect local ecosystems by acquiring land, removing invasive species, and promoting native biodiversity.
Do you offer financial assistance?
While not explicitly stated, we recommend contacting our director for information about available support options for camp attendance.
Reviews (4)
Carolyn R.
Jan 16, 2021
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My girls have been blessed to attend this camp! They look forward to this magical place every summer!!
Efrem Solomon
Nov 23, 2020
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I love coming to the Cove every time I am here. I learn things about the world around me and myself. I have grown because of this place and the people that safeguard it.
C. Taylor
Nov 07, 2020
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One of the best places on earth. Period. Vini, David and their dedicated staff provide incredibly meaningful experiences for every visitor. We always feel recharged after even a brief visit at the Cove.
Rebecca B.
Jun 11, 2019
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I went to the adult weekend they offer which was amazing! The staff was so wonderful! Not only were they kind but they were so knowledgeable about the local flora and fauna. They offered so many activities from early morning hikes to high ropes courses to classes on wildlife and plants. The camp itself is amazing with plenty of beautiful space simply to relax in if that's what you want to to and plenty of hammocks as well. The staff was the best part of the trip you could tell they all loved working together and wanted everyone who visited to have a great time. I had an amazing time at the adult
