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About US

Since 1989, our vision of open-hearted children, who become open-minded adults, has inspired everything we do. It’s been the core engine driving our outdoor day camps, field trips, and leadership training for children and teens across Durham, Wake, and Orange Counties in North Carolina.

WE CREATE SAFE SPACES 

Founded as a natural history cooperative by Dave Cook and Wayne Poole in 1989, we’ve grown to serve more than 75,000 children through seven locations and 2,265 camps and field trips. We received our non-profit status in 1991.

Schoolhouse of Wonder celebrates individuality: We support and celebrate our diverse community members of all races, genders, ages, religions, and identities, and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome to share their authentic selves. Through our programs, children develop their sense of self while increasing their confidence, independence, decision-making, and problem-solving skills, as well as their empathy toward others.

Locations
Camps & Field Trips
Children

Our

Vision

We believe open-hearted children become open-minded adults. Schoolhouse of Wonder is a welcoming community where each person is inspired to learn, play, and grow into their best selves.

Our

Mission

We shape kind, curious, and confident kids through nature-based outdoor activities.

Our

Values

Empathy. 

We prioritize relationships and build connection. Everyone deserves to be witnessed, heard, and respected.

Accountability. 

We take responsibility for our actions. We are grateful for the chance to learn and grow from successes and failures.

Belonging. 

We value community — embracing each person for who they are and welcoming differences.

Growth. 

We teach self-awareness, model kind confidence, and encourage independence.

Curiosity. 

In nature, we are all students. Life should be filled with adventures and a sense of wonder.

Our Award Winning Outdoor Summer Camps