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.
Learning Opportunities
Whether you’re looking to expand your knowledge about our diverse region or are pursuing courses at the advanced undergraduate/graduate level we have offerings for everyone.
Nature Center Camps
Camp registration is open! The Nature Center offers a series of 4-day nature day camps for ages 4 to 14. From Wetlands Wizards to Mad Scientists, we’ve got a camp for you!
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.
Highlands’ Deep Roots
Sign up for our summer education event focused on trees June 28-29, 2019.
Nature Center Programs
Check out our weekly program schedule including animal feedings, garden tours, and more! Join us for Nature Center Nights to experience Highlands after dark!
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.
Travel with the HBS & HBF to the Galápagos Islands!
HBS Executive Director and Darwin expert Dr. Jim Costa will lead this exciting ship-based expedition to the fabled islands that Darwin visited in 1835. We will travel in Darwin’s footsteps as we visit spectacular islands teeming with amazing wildlife, from iconic giant tortoises and marine iguanas to blue- and red-footed boobies, frigatebirds, and the famous Darwin’s finches!
Where: Quito & Galápagos Islands, visiting 7 islands aboard the expedition vessel Santa Cruz II
Why: Adventure, exploration, and fun in support of the Highlands Biological Station & Foundation!
The Latest from the Highlands Biological Station
2019 Nature Center Nights
The Nature Center offers a series of nature day camps each summer for ages 4 to 14. Younger campers will have fun exploring the outdoors and learning about plants and animals through a variety of activities and games. Older campers will conduct scientific research,…
2019 Nature Center Weekly Programs
The Nature Center offers a series of nature day camps each summer for ages 4 to 14. Younger campers will have fun exploring the outdoors and learning about plants and animals through a variety of activities and games. Older campers will conduct scientific research,…
2019 Kids Camps
The Nature Center offers a series of nature day camps each summer for ages 4 to 14. Younger campers will have fun exploring the outdoors and learning about plants and animals through a variety of activities and games. Older campers will conduct scientific research,…
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