In accordance with Western Carolina University’s policies in response to COVID-19, the Highlands Biological Station is currently closed to the public, but is open to researchers and faculty on a limited basis. Researchers and faculty interested in reserving research and residential space should contact the HBS office (828-526-2602) for information on availability, rates, and reservations. Field courses, workshops, and HBS Nature Center programming are cancelled for the 2020 season. The HBS Botanical Gardens remain open, except for trails that are closed due to construction.

Highlands Biological Station

Research & Teaching Laboratory, Nature Center, Botanical Garden and Foundation

Fostering research and education focused on the rich natural heritage of the Highlands Plateau, while preserving and celebrating the biological crown of the southern Appalachian Mountains.

Virtual Learning

While HBS is closed, check out these great resources for at home naturalist activities and video tours of our gardens.

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Events Calendar

Check out everything going on at HBS.  Includes academic courses, nature center programs, special events, and more!

Calendar

Station Research

Research facilities at the Highlands Biological Station support a wide range of field and laboratory investigations. Explore the history of the facilities and history of research at the Highlands Biological Station.

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Botanical Garden 

Explore our living laboratory.

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Nature Camp

Sign up here for summer 2020!

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Contact Us

Our helpful staff is here to assist you with your visit, research and support of the Highlands Biological Station. Find the best contact for your needs here.

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Highlands Biological Station is a multi-campus center of Western Carolina University,

a unit of the University of North Carolina System.

Contact Us

For General Inquiries please call 828.526.2602

265 North Sixth Street
Highlands, NC 28741

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