Engaging and Inspiring Through Discovery in Science & Nature
contactus@campdiscoverysc.org
208 Claude Bundrick Road
Blythewood, SC 29016
OUR HISTORY
“Beauty in humble things has a healthful effect on the soul.” ~ Donna Johnson, Founder
What started as a dream about bringing together people of diverse ages and backgrounds in a special place of “discovery” became a reality in 1985 when recreation therapist, Donna Johnson, founded what is now known today as Camp Discovery.
Camp Discovery originated as a recreation therapy program serving children and youth in most need throughout our community. Since then, the populations that the Camp serves have continued to expand alongside the Camp's offerings that now include hands-on, nature-based experiences for people of all ages and backgrounds.
As we look ahead, Camp Discovery remains dedicated to serving our community through innovative engaging programs and activities delivered in a safe, supportive natural setting.
Who We Are
Camp Discovery is a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization. Our mission is to engage and inspire through discovery in science and nature.
Many children today do not have opportunities to learn through first-hand experiences in Nature, spending much of their time indoors behind a screen. Yet, our children are the stewards of our future and will be responsible for the ecological health of our planet. Camp Discovery's programs sow the seeds for lifelong learning and stewardship by allowing children to reclaim moments of wonder and discovery that have vanished from childhood; moments that are an integral part of shaping who we become as adults.
From school and youth groups to families and community organizations, there is something for everyone at Camp Discovery! Situated on 116 scenic acres of forests, fields, creeks and streams in Blythewood, the campus provides an ideal outdoor learning environment for year-round exploration and hands-on learning. Our nature-based programs provides real-world learning to enrich both minds and hearts for the health and well-being of people, our community and planet.
Since 1985, Camp Discovery has reached more than 15,000 children and youth from across the Midlands through hands-on learning experiences in Nature.
Mission & Vision of Camp Discovery
The mission of Camp Discovery is to engage and inspire through discovery in science and nature.
The vision of Camp Discovery is to cultivate the power of discovery as a process leading to the health and well-being of people, the community, and the planet.
There are four sacrosanct core beliefs in all Camp Discovery programs:
1. Camp Discovery believes discovery occurs through experiential learning in nature.
2. Camp Discovery encourages building relationships with the self, others, and the natural world.
3. Camp Discovery helps create, nurture, and grow the capacity of leaders for our future.
4. Camp Discovery supports the development of critical and creative thinking to impact positive change.
What We Do
Earth Keepers summer camp
In-person field studies
On-demand style pre-recorded and interactive virtual field studies
Faculty retreats and trainings
Community outreach
Low ropes challenge course
Host community groups
