500 acres hosted by Terrie And Thomas E.
Welcome to our Hipcamp; we are excited that you are here!
Are you drawn to the outdoors and filled with fond memories of summer camp days? Wellspring Mountain has been a tranquil haven for 75 years, evolving from its early beginnings as an apple orchard turned wilderness therapy camp, its now home to Wellspring Mountain Botanical Sanctuary & The Eclectic School of Herbal Medicine. Come experience this captivating property that has brought respite and retreat for many over the years!
The majestic Saddle Mountain, just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, cradles Wellspring Mountain Botanical Sanctuary. Here, nature flourishes with lush foliage and a variety of wildlife that quench their thirst from spring water-fed creeks and streams. We are delighted to share this picturesque paradise with outdoor aficionados and nature lovers alike!
Over three decades, our lovely grounds served as a boy's camp until it closed in 2010. We took up residence in 2015 and have worked diligently to bring the property back to life. Though there is still much progress yet to be made, even with limited resources, we've managed some impressive renovations!
Only 10 miles away by road, the Blue Ridge Parkway is less than a mile from the property peak, if you fancy a mountain scramble! Our mile-long driveway connects to the Surry County's Scenic Bicycle Trail and there's an abundance of options for biking, hiking, and paddling within 20 miles from camp. There's never been a better time to experience nature at its best when you visit us!
As you explore the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountain region, it's important to familiarize yourself with the wildlife you may encounter. Here's a comprehensive guide to common wildlife, including benefits, and potential precautions associated with each species:
White-tailed Deer:
Encounter: Deer are commonly seen throughout the region, especially during early morning and dusk.
Precautions: While generally harmless, deer may become aggressive if they feel threatened or if you approach them too closely.
Black Bear:
Encounter: Black bears are present in the Blue Ridge Mountains. They usually avoid human contact but can occasionally be seen foraging for food.
Precautions: Bears are generally not aggressive unless provoked. To avoid conflicts, ensure that you don't leave food or trash outside, and maintain a safe distance if you encounter a bear.
Eastern Box Turtle:
Encounter: Box turtles are terrestrial and can be found in forested areas. They are known for their distinctive appearance and slow movement.
Precautions: Box turtles are harmless and typically retreat into their shell when approached. Avoid disturbing or handling them to prevent stress or injury.
Timber Rattlesnake:
Encounter: Timber rattlesnakes are venomous snakes found in rocky areas and forests. They have a distinctive rattle on their tail.
Precautions: While rattlesnakes generally avoid human contact, if provoked or cornered, they may bite. Stay on marked trails, watch where you step, and give them a wide berth if encountered.
Eastern Copperhead:
Encounter: Copperheads are venomous snakes commonly found in the Blue Ridge Mountains. They prefer rocky, forested areas.
Precautions: Copperheads can deliver a painful but rarely fatal bite. Stay on designated trails, wear sturdy footwear, and be cautious when exploring rocky terrain.
Eastern Boxelder Bug:
Encounter: Boxelder bugs are common insects that gather in large numbers on trees, buildings, and rocks.
Precautions: Boxelder bugs are harmless to humans. They may be a nuisance if they invade buildings in search of warmth during cooler months.
Red-tailed Hawk:
Encounter: Red-tailed hawks are majestic birds of prey commonly seen soaring in the sky or perched on tree branches.
Precautions: Hawks are not dangerous to humans, but it is advisable to keep small pets on a leash when outdoors to prevent them from being mistaken as prey.
Eastern Garter Snake:
Encounter: Garter snakes are common snakes found in a variety of habitats, including forests, fields, and gardens. They have distinctive stripes running along their body.
Benefits: Garter snakes help control populations of rodents and insects.
Eastern Rat Snake:
Encounter: Rat snakes are large, nonvenomous snakes that can be found climbing trees or hiding in rock crevices.
Benefits: Rat snakes play a crucial role in rodent population control, making them beneficial to human habitats.
Harmless Mammals:
Eastern Chipmunk:
Encounter: Chipmunks are small, striped rodents commonly seen scurrying around in wooded areas, gathering and storing food.
Benefits: Chipmunks help disperse seeds, contributing to the growth of plants and trees in the ecosystem.
Eastern Cottontail Rabbit:
Encounter: Cottontail rabbits are small mammals with distinctive white tails that can often be spotted hopping through fields and forest edges.
Benefits: Cottontail rabbits are important prey species for predators and contribute to the natural balance of the ecosystem.
Eastern Gray Squirrel:
Encounter: Gray squirrels are abundant in the Blue Ridge Mountains. They are known for their bushy tails and acrobatic climbing skills.
Benefits: Squirrels play a role in seed dispersal and provide a food source for predators such as hawks and owls.
Eastern Box Turtle:
Encounter: Box turtles are terrestrial and can be found in forested areas. They are known for their distinctive appearance and slow movement.
Benefits: Box turtles are important for seed dispersal and nutrient cycling in the forest ecosystem.
Virginia Opossum:
Encounter: Opossums are nocturnal mammals with a rat-like appearance. They are often seen scavenging for food at night.
Benefits: Opossums help control populations of insects, rodents, and ticks. They are also resistant to many diseases, including rabies.
Eastern Gray Squirrel:
Encounter: Gray squirrels are abundant in the Blue Ridge Mountains. They are known for their bushy tails and acrobatic climbing skills.
Precautions: Squirrels are generally harmless and tend to avoid human contact. However, be cautious of them near food sources, as they may attempt to steal or damage food left unattended.
Eastern Wild Turkey:
Encounter: Wild turkeys are commonly spotted in the region, particularly in open fields and wooded areas.
Benefits: These birds play an important role in maintaining the ecosystem by controlling insect populations. Seeing them can also be a delightful experience.
American Black Vulture:
Encounter: Black vultures are scavenger birds often seen soaring in the skies, especially near open fields and forests.
Benefits: Black vultures help maintain the cleanliness of the environment by feeding on carrion. They play a crucial role in the natural decomposition process.
American Beech Tree:
Encounter: American beech trees are widespread in the Blue Ridge Mountains and are known for their smooth gray bark and distinctive leaves.
Benefits: These trees provide important habitats for various wildlife species, offer shade during hiking, and contribute to the overall forest ecosystem.
Poison Ivy:
Encounter: Poison ivy is a plant found in wooded areas, often with three shiny green leaflets and a vine-like growth pattern.
Precautions: Contact with poison ivy can cause allergic dermatitis in many people. It's important to learn to identify the plant and avoid direct contact to prevent skin irritation.
Virginia Creeper:
Encounter: Virginia Creeper is a climbing vine found in forests and along trails. It has five leaflets and is often mistaken for poison ivy.
Benefits: While it may resemble poison ivy, Virginia Creeper does not cause dermatitis. It provides food and shelter for birds and adds aesthetic value to the environment.
Blackberry Bushes:
Encounter: Blackberry bushes are common in the Blue Ridge Mountains, producing delicious edible fruits during the summer months.
Benefits: Blackberries are a local delicacy and offer a tasty snack for hikers and wildlife alike. Be mindful of thorns when picking them.
Mountain Laurel:
Encounter: Mountain laurel is a flowering shrub that graces the Blue Ridge Mountains with its beautiful pink and white blossoms.
Benefits: The mountain laurel is a beloved native plant, adding beauty to the landscape and serving as a valuable food source for various pollinators.
Remember to enjoy the benefits of the natural environment while being cautious and knowledgeable about potentially harmful plants like poison ivy. Stay on marked trails, observe wildlife from a safe distance, and have a memorable time exploring the wonders of the Blue Ridge Mountains!
With endless outdoor and recreational spaces for you to explore, it's no wonder why many people can't resist staying on the mountain! Our visitor area offers ample recommendations that you won't want to miss out on. Plus, we're always happy to provide suggestions while you're here if there's something specific your family is looking for. Come see what all the fuss is about - adventure awaits!
If you have any questions please don't hesitate to reach out. If you would like to see more pictures we are on Instagram @wilderness_camping_nc
and FB @wellspringmountain
If you would like to learn more about the herbal school, find us at @eclecticschoolofherbalmedicine
Happy Trails!
Terrie and Thomas
