Heartwood: Oaks
Heartwood is divided into three distinct groups: the Acorns, Saplings, and Oaks. The Oaks group is designed to provide an opportunity for long-time students to continue challenging themselves in a group of peers who share their level of ability and passion for learning.
The Oaks has a NEW application process and is no longer by invitation only. Click here for more information on the Oaks group.
Ages: 11-14
Location:
Shope Creek Wilderness
Pick-Up & Drop-Off Options:
Haw Creek Commons (with shuttle van)
Shope Creek Wilderness
Please see the info below in the Logistics section.
Time: 9:30 am - 4:15 pm
Inclusive of drop-off & pick-up window
Dates:
Wednesdays, February 26 - May 21
Breaks for Rivercane Rendezvous 4/16
12 program days total
Price: $780
- Monthly payment plan available
- $100 non-refundable deposit due at registration
- Work-Trade & Tuition Assistance are available
NEW Oaks Application Process:
NOTE: Returning Oaks DO NOT need to fill out an application.
If your child is interested in joining the Oaks, first go ahead register for the program to save your spot. Then, after registering, have your child complete this short online application. If the applicant is not accepted into the Oaks program they will be offered a spot in a different program or a full refund including the deposit will be provided.
Registration
Registration is now closed for Spring 2025.
Please note: Shope Creek shuttle van reservations are separate "camps" to add to your order, at no additional charge, as space is limited.
Why Choose Forest Floor?
We help children have fun, be healthy, and achieve their fullest potential with nature connection mentoring.
- Health benefits of nature connection
- Learn wilderness skills & traditional crafts
- Meet new friends and reunite with old ones
- Unforgettable adventures every day
- Skilled and caring mentors
- Exciting wilderness experiences
- Convenient in-town drop-off & pickup
- Boost long term cognitive & social development
Logistics
Drop-off/Pick-up Locations
This program takes place at Shope Creek Wilderness with shuttles available from Haw Creek Commons.
Parents may drop-off and pick-up at the program location or at Haw Creek Commons for van transportation. To reserve space on the shuttle vans, please add the shuttle van "program" for the appropriate day to your order.
Haw Creek Commons (with van shuttle)
315 Old Haw Creek Road, Asheville NC
Drop-off between 9:30 am - 9:45 am
Pick-up between 4:00 pm - 4:15 pm
Shope Creek Wilderness (program site no shuttle)
472 Shope Creek Road, Asheville, NC
Drop-off between 9:45 am - 10:00 am
Pick-up between 3:45 pm - 4:00 pm
Clothing and Gear
Our programs are all-outdoors, with rain shelters available as needed. Children must arrive each morning fully prepared with a backpack, packed lunch, and clothes appropriate for being out in the weather. Families new to Forest Floor may need to purchase additional gear to ensure their children will be fully equipped for wet and colder weather as the season progresses. For a full packing and clothing list see our FAQ.