Earth Day 2024

Love your Mother Earth. Celebrate Earth Day all month!

Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park invites you to celebrate Earth Day with us the entire month of April. Bring your class for a day of hands-on education and adventure in one of our beautiful NC State Parks. Interactive programs will teach students about the world around them and how to be a good steward of the environment. Reserve your date for this unforgettable experience.

Morning Programs

The Need for Trees

We all know trees are important, but do we totally understand the roles they play in everyday life? Join a Ranger to lead your class through an introduction to the life cycle of a tree, basic tree ID and impressive facts about our forest friends. At the end of the program, each student will have the opportunity to get their hands dirty and plant a small tree to take home.

Planet Protectors

Be a part of the solution! Humans can have many positive impacts on the environment. In this program, your students will learn how as they explore the Three Rs: reducing, reusing and recycling. At the end of the program students will race through our obstacle course made from reused materials.

Toxins, Teeth, Tails and Talons

All native animals have adaptations that help them survive in the wild. Students will be amazed at some of the incredible adaptations of both predators and prey right outside our doors. Students will get up close and personal with our live animal ambassadors and experiences these adaptations firsthand.

Secretive Salamanders

Did you know that 17 percent of the world’s salamanders live in the southeastern US? We are so lucky to have these special, secretive amphibians inhabiting our region. Students will learn more about salamanders and what they can do to protect them and conserve their habitats.

Afternoon Options

Guided Hikes

The best way to see the Park is to get out and explore. Depending on the age of your students, we would be happy to arrange some grade-appropriate guided hikes after lunch. Ask for more details when you call to register.

Nuts and Bolts

Who: Elementary and Middle School Classes

When: Programs are offered on weekdays throughout the month of April. If you’re unable to make it during the month, let us know and we’ll look for a date that can work for you. Typically, programs begin at 9:30am and conclude by noon for lunch. Guided hikes can be arranged for the afternoon. These times can vary depending on individual school schedules and group size.

Cost: $9 per student includes admission for the day plus all programs and materials. One adult chaperone per 10 students is admitted at no cost. Additional adults are $14 each. To register, contact our Groups and Education office at 828-625-9611, ext. 1837 or [email protected] to reserve your date.

Resources

Need help with transportation costs? The Friends of North Carolina State Parks Yip-ee program may be able to help. Get more information here.