Camp Discovery

Camp Discovery's mission is to engage and inspire through discovery in science and nature. Camp Discovery offers real-world learning experiences to cultivate the power of discovery as a process enriching wellness. Our team believes discovery occurs through experiential learning in nature. Camp Discovery encourages building relationships with the self, others, and the natural world. Camp Discovery is proud to be an official NASA GLOBE Model Camp through our partnership with NASA Langley.

Camp Discovery's purpose is to provide educational programs focused on the natural world. Our mission is to "Engage and Inspire Through Discovery in Science and Nature". With 116 acres of conserved forests, meadows, creeks, and wetlands, Camp Discovery offers an ideal setting for students to explore nature and learn about the science behind natural processes. Originally founded in 1985 by Donna Johnson as a recreation therapy program for youth with various disabilities, Camp Discovery shifted its focus to environmental education and nature-based experiences for youth and the community following Ms. Johnson's departure in 2012.

Today, Camp Discovery provides a diverse range of field study experiences for students from pre-K through 7th grade, aligning with the SC State Science Standards required for each grade level and assessed in 4th and 6th grade through the SC READY Science assessment. Our programs cover a broad array of topics related to the natural environment, such as habitats, animal and plant adaptations, life cycles, stream health, weathering and erosion, and citizen science initiatives in partnership with the NASA GLOBE.

Testimonials

"For many students in Title 1 schools, economics can often be a barrier to enriching learning experiences like those provided by Camp Discovery. Brilliant future scientists and engineers might not have the chance to discover their potential if not exposed to the unique, authentic setting provided here." Elementary Science Coordinator