Dec. 10, 2023 | 2 to 5 p.m.
Claytor Nature Center
Driven by vision and generosity, the late A. Boyd Claytor III donated the 18th century Cloverlea Farm and farmhouse to the University of Lynchburg in 1998 (then Lynchburg College) to serve as an education and research center for environmental study and to preserve the land for future generations. The entire 491-acre Claytor Nature Center has been placed under a conservation easement with the Virginia Outdoors Foundation (VOF). This easement permanently protects the land from development and requires the use of best management practices with forests and other natural resources on the property.
Located at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Claytor contains freshwater streams, woodlands, wetlands, grasslands, rare plants, wildlife, and a portion of the Big Otter River.
Claytor also boasts a hiking trail system, small-group campground, and amphitheater. The Virginia Claytor Memorial Gardens, created in memory of the late Mrs. Claytor, adorn the property with formal flower, herb, and shrub plantings.
In 2016, Lynchburg College alumnus Bob Kibler donated 21 acres of land to expand the Claytor Nature Center to its current 491 acres.
Mission
The mission of the University of Lynchburg Claytor Nature Center is to engage our community in the enjoyment, appreciation, and study of our diverse natural habitats in the Virginia Piedmont and Blue Ridge regions, toward the advancement of the well-being of all people and the environment.
Beliefs
- Human well-being depends on environmental well-being.
- The outdoors and nature are for everyone. Period.
- We are all responsible for upholding the three pillars of sustainability: social, economic, and environmental.
Values
- Passion for the environment and sustainability
- Holistic approach to learning and well-being
- Community building
- Belonging
Supporters
Thanks to the following for their support!
We welcome all individuals and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth or related medical conditions including lactation), marital status, veteran status, disability, age (40 and over), sexual orientation, gender identity, or religion.