North Carolina Educational State Forests

The North Carolina Forest Service operates a system of seven Educational State Forests (ESFs) designed to teach the public - especially school children - about the forest environment.

Each forest features self-guided trails that include exhibits, tree identification signs, a forest education center and a talking tree trail. Specially trained rangers are available to conduct classes for school and other youth groups. Teachers or group leaders choose from a selection of 30-minute programs that cover all aspects of the forest environment - from soil, water and wildlife to timber and forest management.

North Carolina's Educational State Forests offer a variety of classes compatible with teaching objectives listed in the N.C. Department of Education science curriculum.