Naturalist Week Adult Summer Camp

Spend a week at “adult summer camp” inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park – and come home changed.

Naturalist Week is a nature-based learning retreat for adults who care about the world and want to reconnect with it in a deeper, more meaningful way. Consider it a summer camp for adults, complete with curiosity-fueled field explorations, restful evenings by the campfire, swim time by the Middle Prong, and a welcoming community of people who love learning outside.

Naturalist Week is for adults who want to deepen their relationship with the living world — not through lectures, but through direct experience, expert guidance, and a community of like-minded learners.

Step out of your daily routine and spend a week immersed in the wonders of Great Smoky Mountains National Park to expand your outdoor skills and rekindle a sense of curiosity. Unleash your inner naturalist with the unforgettable experience of living, learning, and playing in the midst of North America’s most biologically diverse region.

From birding and animal tracking to plant identification, cultural exploration, stargazing, and campfire storytelling, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to dive into your personal interests. The schedule changes year to year, so returning participants always find fresh adventures. Check out last year’s schedule.

Program highlights:

• Five all-inclusive days of learning, playing, and relaxing inside the Smokies.
• Sessions on nature art, birding, plant ID, animal tracking, cultural history, and more.
• Evening programs featuring storytelling, music, and naturalist talks.
• A welcoming community of inquisitive learners eager for connection led by Tremont’s seasoned educators.

Naturalist Week welcomes a broad community of adults. In previous years, participants have ranged in age from their early 20s to their mid-90s, all enjoying a highly rated experience. It’s an excellent option for solo travelers, since many people come on their own and quickly form lasting friendships in our safe, welcoming environment. The program is flexible: you can choose the length and difficulty of hikes, join workshops that match your interests, or simply take quiet time to enjoy the mountain setting.

Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or someone seeking a gentler introduction to the Smokies, you’ll find a place here. No prior experience is required – just curiosity and a willingness to spend time outdoors. Comfortable lodging, hearty meals, and expert naturalist guides help you focus fully on learning, connection, and renewal.