Get ready to embark on an adventure of a lifetime at Naturalist Week, the ultimate summer camp for adults, hosted by Tremont! Step out of your daily routine and dive deep into the breathtaking Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This one-of-a-kind program is designed to unleash your inner naturalist and provide you with an unforgettable experience of living, learning, and playing in the midst of North America’s most biologically diverse region.
From birding to animal tracking, plant identification to cultural exploration, stargazing to campfire storytelling, and much more, this week-long overnight camp promises to reignite your childlike curiosity and amazement. You will be part of a community of fellow learners, led by experienced naturalists, who share your thirst for hands-on outdoor experiences. Check out our tentative schedule.
At Naturalist Week, you will witness nature’s wonders up close and enhance your outdoor skills, no matter your experience level. Whether you are new to spending time outdoors or have been on your naturalist journey for decades, you will find yourself deeply connected to the natural world and inspired to continue your exploration long after the camp is over.
Plus, if you attended last year, get ready for new experiences! This year’s itinerary includes exciting additions like Wine and Art Night and High Country Day. You’ll have the opportunity to explore several high-elevation sites, including Andrews Bald and Gregory Bald, where you can witness naturally hybridizing azaleas in bloom.
Join us at Naturalist Week, where adventure and discovery await!
Cost: $899
Registration includes instruction, food, and lodging in our dorm inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Already registered? Check out the welcome letter for required readings, a tentative itinerary, and other essential details for your stay. Please review our latest COVID-19 precautions prior to your visit.
Can’t attend in person? Keep an eye out for details about our virtual Naturalist Week, taking place the same week from wherever you are. Sign up for emails to be notified when more info is announced.
Want more naturalist fun? Check out our Southern Appalachian Naturalist Certification Program!
Valid parking tags are required on any vehicles parking for longer than 15 minutes inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park as part of the Park it Forward program; this includes when parked at Tremont.
Please purchase your parking tag in advance, not when you arrive. Click here to
purchase your daily or weekly pass online. All revenue will stay in the park to provide sustainable, year-round support focusing on improving the visitor experience, protecting resources, and maintaining trails, roads, historic structures, and facilities.
Learn more about Park it Forward. Questions You May Have About Naturalist Week
Do I have to first attend a Southern Appalachian Naturalist Certification Program course to attend Naturalist Week?
Not at all! In fact, this is a great place to start to get a taste for the types of Tremont programming you want to explore more.
Will I get credit toward completing the Southern Appalachian Naturalist Certification Program and getting my certificate from the University of Tennessee Non-Credit Program by attending Naturalist Week?
Naturalist Week is similar to ‘elective’ courses we occasionally offer such as Geology and Lichens. While it is a part of the larger Southern Appalachian Naturalist Certification Program, it is not one of the eight required courses and does not count toward certification.
Can I attend for just part of the week?
Naturalist Week is a full-package deal. Though we recognize coming for five days is a commitment, building community and forming bonds with others is an important aspect of the week. Besides, we expect this immersive experience to be a life-changing experience for many people. You don’t want to miss any of it!
Can I bring children?
Naturalist Week is intended for adults ages 18 and up. Consider coming to Smoky Mountain Family Camp for an awesome multi-generational adventure.
Why weekdays instead of over the weekend?
Summer is one of our busiest seasons and we need to provide our staff with a break between programs. You may choose to extend your stay in the area by camping at a nearby campground before or after the week.
I attended last year – will this year be the same?
Yes and no! While the scope of the week will remain the same and some sessions from previous years will reoccur, there are always LOTS of new activities each summer.
Cover photo by Erin Rosolina.
