Field trips are 2 hours long where students rotate through each of the 4 stations for 30 minutes each. The amount of students will determine group sizes for each rotation.

Sturgeon City Environmental Education Center offers a variety of field trip options for schools and community groups that are looking to enrich their educational experiences with hands-on learning opportunities in nature.

For groups less than 20 students, the cost of the field trip will be a flat rate of $160. 

We’re thrilled to host your group at Sturgeon City! To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, here’s what you can expect:

Upon Arrival
Please plan to arrive at least 10 minutes before your scheduled start time. This allows ample time for your group to unload from the buses and get ready for an exciting day of learning! Our physical address is 50 Court Street, Building 100, Jacksonville, NC 28540.

Group Organization
We tailor our group organization to provide the best possible experience for everyone:

• For groups larger than 50-60 students: Your students will be divided into four smaller groups. Each group will rotate through our engaging stations, spending 30 minutes at each, for a total experience of two hours.
• For groups of fewer than 50-60 students: Your students will be split into two groups. Each group will spend one hour with each of our dedicated educators. You’ll switch educators halfway through, ensuring everyone gets to experience both of the two exciting lessons.
• For groups of fewer than 30 students: Your students will remain as one group. Your groups will spend two hours with one of our dedicated educators, experiencing four engaging lessons. 
• Note: There is a flat rate of $160 for less than 20 students.

Clothing and Apparel
We encourage students to wear comfortable clothing that’s suitable for outdoor activity. Our field trips often involve moving between different buildings and stations, which may require walking outside. Dressing appropriately will help ensure a comfortable and enjoyable day for everyone! We recommend closed-toe shoes.

Parents and Chaperones
Parents and chaperones are warmly welcome to join our field trips! Please note that there is an $8 per person field trip charge for all attending parents and chaperones. Siblings are also welcome; if they plan to participate in the field trip activities, we kindly ask that they also pay the $8 fee. Children aged 2 and under are free. We kindly request that chaperones actively supervise their assigned student groups.

Lunch
If you choose to enjoy lunch at our facility, your group will have a dedicated 30-minute lunch period. You’ll eat in one or two of the designated rooms located in our main building (50 Court Street, Building 100). We do not have a microwave or vending machines for student use.

Bus Parking
Buses can pull directly up to the front of our building for convenient student drop-off. After unloading, we kindly request that buses be moved to the designated parking lot located behind our main building. This helps ensure clear access for other visitors and emergency vehicles.

Payment
The cost for our field trips is $8 per person, and teachers are free. We accept cash, credit cards, or checks. Payment can be made on the morning of your field trip, or if preferred, we can provide an invoice for your school or organization to mail a check to us later. Please make checks payable to “Sturgeon City.”

Gift Shop
Don’t forget to visit our small gift shop table, where you can purchase merchandise! We accept cash, credit cards (including Google Pay and Apple Pay), and checks. Merchandise prices range from $1 to $35.

Restrooms
Restrooms are available in our main building and are clearly marked. Please encourage students to use the restroom before the field trip begins to minimize interruptions during activities.

Accessibility
Sturgeon City aims to be accessible to all visitors. If you have specific accessibility needs or require accommodations, please notify us in advance so we can best prepare for your visit.

Safety Guidelines
For the safety and enjoyment of all, we ask that all students and chaperones follow the instructions of Sturgeon City staff at all times. Please remain with your assigned group and do not wander off. In case of an emergency, staff will provide clear instructions.

We look forward to welcoming you and your students to Sturgeon City for an unforgettable educational adventure!