Camp Brookside Environmental Education Center

Overview

A restored 32‑acre island campus on the New River at Brooks, this is the park’s hub for hands‑on learning, group retreats, and citizen science. It sits opposite the rumble of Brooks Falls (a class III rapid), so you get constant river music and front‑porch views with your camp vibes.

What You'll Find

• Seven rustic cabins (total capacity up to 38), a communal wash house with warm showers, and a large mess hall with a commercial kitchen set up to feed a crowd.
• Wi‑Fi across the grounds, a library, board and outdoor games, and some field study tools for programs.
• A wrap‑around porch with rockers facing Brooks Falls, plus a one‑mile public island trail and a public boat launch area.
• Practicals: bring your own bedding, pillow, and towels. The kitchen is well equipped (place settings to about 50); bring consumables like paper towels, coffee filters, and food storage. Cleaning products are provided. There’s a laundry room with washers/dryers (bring detergent).

How to Visit

Camp Brookside is available spring through fall for short‑term leasing by groups—schools, nonprofits, families, and businesses—and occasionally hosts public ranger‑led programs. The grounds include public elements (the island trail and boat launch), but facilities like cabins, kitchen, and restrooms are for lessees and program participants only. No pets on the island (service animals permitted). Cooking is in the mess hall only; campfires belong in the designated ring.

Why It’s Special

It’s the rare place where classic summer‑camp charm meets a modern, education‑forward setup—rocking‑chair river views, bunk‑house camaraderie, and an easy loop to a riverside flatrock community. Expect anglers at the launch and the steady presence of the river; after rains, Brooks Falls puts on a show. In early summer, look for native wildflowers along the trail.

A Bit of History

Opened in 1947 by the Electro Metallurgical Company (Union Carbide) as a two‑week residential camp for employees’ children, Camp Brookside ran for decades before the National Park Service acquired the site and, after a substantial restoration, reopened it in May 2016 as an environmental education center.

Best Time to Visit

• For group stays: spring and fall bring mild temps and fewer bugs; weekdays typically have better availability. Early and late light paints Brooks Falls beautifully, and evenings on the porch are prime.
• For a quick stop: aim for mornings to walk the island trail before anglers and boat traffic pick up. After heavy rain, expect louder water and slick rock—use caution.

Good to Know

• The facility is fenced; there’s small public parking outside for anglers and trail access. Facilities are not open for general day use.
• The river edge can be deceptive—Brooks Falls is a class III rapid. Supervise kids and stay prudent around the water.
• Trash pack‑out applies for lessees; expect simple camp rules that keep the place tidy and safe.