At BCWS, we take pride in stepping lightly on the land. Our dwellings are close to one another, tucked in a forested area along the stream. One can walk 5 minutes away and be immersed in the serenity of the natural world.
The spacious main lodge is a simple pole barn structure that includes
- an all-purpose room with open-hearth fireplace
- kitchen and dining area
- field study and work areas
- infirmary
- bookstore
- darkroom
- library
- bathrooms
Campers live in two staff-supervised sleeping porches, where screens invite in fresh air and the night sounds.
A timber frame barn provides additional gathering and workspace large enough to hold the entire camp.
The canopy walkway is 10 minutes walk from the lodge.
BCWS has its home in Cooper’s Cove Wildlife Sanctuary, an open valley that extends into classic West Virginia hills and hollows. Formerly a farm, the land comprises 506 acres of forest and meadows that now shelter a wide diversity of plant and animal life.
Unusual ferns and mushrooms are interspersed among an abundance of wildflowers. Campers regularly encounter owls, thrushes and warblers. Deer are a common sight; the calls of foxes and flying squirrels are common sounds.
The spring-fed stream and pond support a rich aquatic ecosystem including macroinvertebrates, salamanders and turtles – as well as providing good swimming. The dark night sky is speckled with stars.
