1929 Mountain Nature Camp Photo: A.B. Brooks
Mission
Oglebay Institute owns and operates the Terra Alta Mountain Camp as a part of its Environmental Education department. This unique Appalachian habitat fosters the interpretation of natural history of the surrounding area. In addition to serving as a prime study site, it is a base for exploration of other regional natural wonders.
For nine months a year, recognized national and regional experts offer quality programs in natural history, environmental education, and related fields. The multifaceted and integrated program offerings are designed primarily, but not exclusively, for adults 16 years of age and over.
The vision forged by the 78-year tradition of Terra Alta experience is more than ever relevant today: enable people through the experience of the beauty of the natural setting to appreciate the marvels of nature and to encourage true stewardship of its wonders.
Hill Hunger
I think that something in the hill child dies
when he is taken to the level lands;
A man bred by the ocean understands,
and he will tell you that his sick heart sighs
For hiss of surf: and all his being cries
for roar of waves and spray upon his hands.
Ever beneath his weary feet the sands,
ever a sail before his searching eyes.
And so, I think the hill child always sees
that broken line inked in against the skies,
Where saffron sunset drops to meet the trees
upon the hilltop and the nighthawk flies,
And when his mind cannot recapture these
I think that something in the hill child dies.
-- Lillian Mayfield Roberts