Friends Wilderness Center

Please visit our new web site at www.friendswilderness.org for the most helpful information.

Friends Wilderness Center is a remarkable and unique Quaker-affiliated wilderness preserve and spiritual sanctuary and retreat center within a 1400-acre preserve 15 minutes east of Charles Town, West Virginia, 20 minutes south of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, or 1.5 hours west of DC Beltway. The land stretches from Appalachian Trail ridge to Shenandoah River valley. We welcome all who respect the Center's mission and resources. We offer: - self-directed or guided personal retreats; - camping on basic campsites or in a rainproof wooden yurt or in a large treehouse; - hiking and wildlife watching; - hospitality at our homey Niles Cabin(having two guest bedrooms, shared bath, kitchen, great room, patio); - monthly presentations or discussions or "walk and talks" led by guest speakers on Quaker and other beliefs and perspectives, spirituality, nature, and/or creative expression. See "events" section at this web site. Our Cabin seats 20 and can be used for events such as organizational retreats. If you are interested in being a presenter for one of our events, or want to propose a topic, please let us know - we may be able to "comp" the presenter a night's stay and meals at our Niles Cabin. Our preserve is a low-impact, quiet area abounding with wildlife, ponds, streams, hiking trails, and the large treehouse, which can seat 25. We typically offer our outdoor events even if there is some risk of a rain shower. Heavy rains would postpone/cancel any outdoor event. If not sure weather is too much a threat, call before driving out. Keep in mind that weather can be different (wetter or drier) that what is viewed in Wash., DC area. To reach us by car, get directions directly from our Resident Manager, Sheila Bach. Do not rely on yahoo Maps, MapQuest, etc.! All individuals, children, families & small groups respectful of the purpose and resources of FWMC are welcome to visit for the day or stay 1 or more nights. Advance notice is needed. Visitors to FWC need not be Quaker or religious or very 'spiritual.' Overnight in the Niles Cabin costs $50 per person a night, healthy dinner & breakfast included. Much less if you camp out (maximum is 4 people) on living room floor. We suggest a donation for daytime visits or events (in accord with your means). Annual membership in FWC is available for individuals at $25 or families for only $40. Members receive newsletter, email notices, and a special event invitation. Camping, some events, and Niles cabin overnight stays have modest fees.

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