Contact

Forest School is an outdoor, child-led learning approach that takes place in a natural environment. Instead of a traditional classroom, children learn through play, exploration, and supported risk-taking. At The WYLD Lands, we focus on building resilience, social skills, and a deep connection to the earth.

We welcome explorers aged 3 to 12 years old. To ensure a safe and successful experience in the woods, all participants must be fully potty trained.

 Safety and mentorship are our priorities. We maintain a low 6:1 youth-to-teacher ratio, allowing our staff to provide individualized attention and guidance during activities like tool use and creek exploration.

There is no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing! Please follow these guidelines:

• Footwear: Closed-toe shoes are mandatory (sturdy sneakers or hiking boots). No sandals or flip-flops are allowed.

• Clothing: We recommend bright colors for visibility and safety. Long pants and long sleeves are suggested to protect against scratches and insects, even in warmer weather.

Layers: Since the temperature under the forest canopy can be cooler than in the sun, dressing in layers is always a good idea.

Children should bring a backpack containing the following every day:

• A full change of clothes: Including socks, underwear, and a spare pair of shoes.
  
• Water Shoes: Crocs or similar shoes for creek play.
  
• Hydration: A non-spill water bottle (water only, please—no juice or soda).
• Sun & Bug Protection: A hat (for sun or warmth), sunscreen, and bug spray.
• Towel & Wet Bag: A towel and a small reusable bag for wet or muddy clothes.
• Food: A bag lunch (for Homeschool Seedlings) or a healthy snack (for Summer Camp).
  
• Summer camp kiddos need a packed lunch and snacks. For the homeschool seedlings morning programs require a packed lunch. Afternoon seedling programs require snacks only since they happen after lunch.

All programs meet at the Highland Park Picnic Pavilion. A staff member will be stationed there to assist with a car-side drop-off and pick-up process. Note: Use “Highland Drive, North Wilkesboro” in your GPS to find the park entrance.

We embrace the rain! Some of our best learning happens while exploring mud and watching how the forest landscape changes. We only cancel or move indoors in the event of extreme weather, such as lightning, high winds, or unsafe temperatures.

Yes! We teach children how to safely handle whittling tools, hammers, and other equipment through a “risk-benefit” model. Before any tool is used, students receive a one-on-one safety talk and are closely supervised by our mentors.

Absolutely. We believe the forest belongs to everyone. We offer income-based scholarships for all our programs. Please use the Contact Page to start the application process.

To begin the enrollment process, please fill out the WYLD Lands Interest Form on our website. Our Coordinator, Madison Bryan, will follow up with next steps.