Claytor Nature Center

Claytor Nature Center is part of the University of Lynchburg and provides opportunities for faculty and student research in environmental sciences, biology, climate change and ecology, among other disciplines. Claytor Nature Center also provides environmental and nature education to children and adults through hands-on, experiential learning. Claytor Nature Center also helps build community--among University departments (such as art, sciences, counseling, education), the local community in Bedford, Virginia, the broader community of Central Virginia, and beyond. We are staffed with coaches and CliftonStrengths trained facilitators for leadership workshops. Claytor has a variety of facilities: education building with lab and meeting/seminar room; picnic pavilion; observatory; farmhouse; and ecolodge (accommodates up to 16 in bunk style housing).

Mission: The mission of the University of Lynchburg Claytor Nature Center is to engage our community in the enjoyment, appreciation, and study of our diverse natural habitats in the Virginia Piedmont and Blue Ridge regions, toward the advancement of the well-being of all people and the environment.