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Students in life jackets paddling canoes on a lake ringed by fall foliage

Standards-Based Mountain Exploration Field Study

Exploration Hannon is a mountain geology and ecology field study program designed around the processes and skills of scientific inquiry.

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Students holding worksheets during an outdoor lesson in the forest

Key Topics

Mountain Geology & Ecology

Mountain geology and ecology involves studying the formation of the Appalachian Mountains, plate tectonics, plant and animal interactions, terrestrial ecosystems, and the impact of natural processes and human activities on Earth's landforms.

Stream Mapping

Stream mapping involves identifying water features in mountain streams, measuring the speed and flow of the river through experiments and data collection, and constructing model boats for racing based on gathered evidence and observations.

Aquatic Ecology

Aquatic ecology involves scientific investigations in mountain streams, testing water quality, and exploring biotic and abiotic factors in the ecosystem.

Map & Compass

In the Map & Compass activity, students learn to read topographical maps, navigate using a compass, and combine these skills to explore a distinctive landform and ecosystem.

Camper smiling at a picnic table during a mealGroup of students posing on a large rock beside a mountain streamStudent sifting stream sediment through a mesh strainer
"My favorite class was Aquatic Ecology. No activity was my least favorite, I LOVED THEM ALL! I learned about different species of plants and animals and how to have a good attitude. It was SO much fun and I want to come back!!!"
Log lodge surrounded by tall trees

Located in Sunset, SC

Camp Hannon

Located in Sunset, SC, roughly an hour outside of Greenville. Visitors will experience the beauty of South Carolina’s upstate, all while partaking in guided activities, both group and individual, to immerse themselves in the mountain ecosystem. Whether you’re looking to foster community through intense team-building experiences or simply explore the great outdoors, come find your inspiration for adventure at Camp Hannon today.

We have additional activities available

Campers paddling canoes on the lake

Canoeing

Camper in a helmet and harness scaling a wooden climbing wall

Climbing Tower

Camper in a helmet and harness suspended among the trees

Leap of Faith

Two campers in helmets smiling while holding a belay rope

Rappelling

Instructor guiding a camper through a rope challenge as the group watches

Teams Course

*Adventure activities may have . Please ask about additional details and pricing.

Instructor pointing out features of the forest to a group of students on a trail

Three wonderful days

Program Details

Our typical program runs from Monday-Wednesday or Wednesday-Friday. We also offer one- and two-day programs depending on your priorities.

We have a full-service kitchen, gym, swimming area, and sleeping capacity for 140 students.

Exploration Hannon logo over a forested mountain ridge
"The trip would be better if I got to stay here longer. I learned that “mucky” waters aren’t so “mucky”, how to canoe, how to shoot a bow, how to make a fire, how to build a shelter and so much more"