Highlands Biological Station
Educational Programs
for curious minds of all ages.
A vibrant hub for biological research and a welcoming place of learning for students, educators, and lifelong learners.
The Highlands Biological Station, a multi-campus center of Western Carolina University, serves as both a vibrant hub for biological research and a welcoming place of learning for students, educators, and curious minds of all ages.
Find Your Program
Explore immersive, hands-on learning in a unique field station environment.
Field Courses
Enroll in one- or two-week summer field courses designed for undergraduate and graduate students, professionals, and nature enthusiasts.
View Field CoursesWorkshops
Join us for one-day workshops covering a wide variety of natural science topics throughout the season.
View WorkshopsGroup & University Programs
HBS provides housing, lab space, and customized programming for visiting university and college groups. We're proud to host the UNC-Chapel Hill Institute for the Environment fall semester program.
Highlands Field Site (IE)Lectures & Events
Special programs like the Zahner Conservation Lectures and Climate Conversations series — check our calendar for what's coming up.
Upcoming EventsIgnite curiosity and connect students with the natural world.
Classroom Outreach
Our educators bring engaging, STEM-based environmental programming directly into local schools.
School Outreach ProgramsField Trips
Plan a visit to HBS! We offer guided field trips — including overnight options — where students can:
- Explore the native plant Botanical Garden
- Search for salamanders in local streams
- Use scientific tools like microscopes
Create lasting memories through nature-based learning and fun.
Summer Camps
Hands-on science, outdoor exploration, and discovery await kids of all ages during our seasonal offerings.
2026 Nature CampsNature Center
Visit our on-site Nature Center featuring exhibits and family-friendly programming focused on the Southern Appalachians.
Visit the Nature CenterNature Center Nights
Evening programs for families to explore the Southern Appalachians together.
Learn MoreKids Hike Highlands!
A self-guided challenge encouraging kids to explore local trails and wild spaces.
Take the ChallengeZahner Lecture Series
Conservation talks from leading voices in Southern Appalachian science.
See the Series