In the spirited and enchanting state of North Carolina, where the Blue Ridge Mountains kiss the sky and the Atlantic Ocean whispers to the sandy shores, there exists a bustling community of child nature enthusiasts. They are led by an eccentric and lovable character named Peculiar Pete, a mythical possum with a floppy straw hat and a penchant for belly laughs. His fur, a mix of gray and white, shimmers like stardust under the warm Carolina sun. Pete, is not your typical possum. You see, he doesn't play dead; rather, he plays alive! Peculiar Pete and his gang of enthusiastic young adventurers spend their days engaging in all kinds of fun and educational outdoor activities. From climbing the highest peaks of the Appalachian Mountains to spy on the sky hugging hawks, to snorkeling in the shallow waters of the Outer Banks to say hello to the playful dolphins, these kids are never short on excitement. They investigate every nook and cranny of the Great Smoky Mountains, where they gather around Pete, with eyes wide and hearts ablaze, listening to his tales about the legendary Cherokee warriors. Their laughter rings through the lush forests of Pisgah as they race each other to find the most colorful mushrooms, or tumble down sand dunes at Jockey’s Ridge, cackling like mad sandpipers. This isn't just a gang of kids, oh no! They are the young knights and sorceresses of nature, armed with binoculars and butterfly nets, their imaginations their most powerful tool. In the wild lands of North Carolina, they learn, they explore, they laugh, and under the watchful eyes of the twinkling stars and the ever-so-cool Peculiar Pete, they thrive.
Read morebest nature programs in Zirconia, NC
Chi-Slam Table Tennis Club (Age 6–Adult) is Chicago’s premier table tennis destination, welcoming players of all ages and skill levels—from beginners just getting started to advanced competitors. Founded in 2003 and located at 2412 W. North Ave, Chi-Slam offers everything a table tennis enthusiast could want: one-on-one and youth lessons, open play sessions, league play, table rentals, and even pro shop selections like Butterfly equipment. Lessons are tailored by Coach Ardy, who brings over 20 years of experience and a passion for teaching that not only builds skill but also fosters confidence, coordination, and competitive spirit. Whether you’re looking for a fun after-school activity or serious training for tournaments, Chi-Slam delivers a community-oriented, energetic environment that makes every swing count.
. We believe in the power of nature to connect us to our true selves, and we strive to help boys find joy in the beauty of our natural world. At Camp Arrowhead, we foster a spirit of brotherhood by inviting boys to get curious, get creative, and to get comfortable with a community of friends that will be with them through thick and thin. We prioritize kindness and respect and believe it is important to celebrate our differences and to learn from each other. We strive to create a culture of acceptance and inclusivity where every camper is seen and heard.
At Green River Preserve, children experience the wonders of nature in a non-competitive and supportive environment. Our 3,400 acre private wildlife preserve in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina is an idyllic setting for campers to explore and bond with their peers. Our program encourages the development of important skills such as perseverance, curiosity, communication, optimism, creativity, and GRIT. Campers learn to appreciate themselves, their environment, and each other. With a limited enrollment of 112 campers per session, our summer camp is designed to be both physically and emotionally comfortable. We offer 1,2, and 3 week sessions for campers in the rising 1st through 9th grades as well as high school expedition programs for rising 9th graders through college freshmen.