Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest near Robbinsville is a living memorial to writer/poet Joyce Kilmer, best known for the poem, “Trees.” Located by Lake Santeetlah in the Nantahala National Forest, it is about 25 miles from Andrews. The Forest is a rare example of an old growth cove hardwood forest, an extremely diverse forest type unique to the Appalachian Mountains. Take a two-mile easy hike to see poplar, hemlock, red and white oak, basswood, beech, and sycamore.

Welcome to the Folk School's website! www.folkschool.org It's not the same as actually being here, but we hope that you get a taste of how much fun it can be. For some it's an energizing, creative boost. For others, it's a peaceful learning vacation. For most, it's a worthwhile experience that is treasured for years to come. 

For more than 90 years, the Folk School has encouraged all students and guests to become a part of the community through all-school activities such as concerts, dances, presentations and meals. People with varying interests are given a chance to come together through song, art, nature, gardening, cooking, storytelling and writing. 

Fields of the Wood is a religious park of more than 200 acres in Cherokee County, North Carolina, owned by the Church of God of Prophecy. It is best known for its 300-foot-wide, mountainside representation of the Ten Commandments.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee. The sprawling landscape encompasses lush forests and an abundance of wildflowers that bloom year-round. Streams, rivers and waterfalls appear along hiking routes that include a segment of the Appalachian Trail. An observation tower tops Clingmans Dome, the highest peak, offering scenic views of the mist-covered mountains.

Andrews is surrounded by legendary fishing waters. The Nantahala River has hosted national trout fishing tournaments; and four mountain lakes – Nantahalah, Chatuge, Fontana, and Hiawassee – provide excellent Stillwater fishing. Or you can fish in our own small lake.

Nantahala Outdoor Center is one of the nation’s largest outdoor recreation companies. Over a million guests visit NOC annually to embark on a diverse collection of more than 120 different whitewater rafting and land-based itineraries. Learn to kayak at NOC’s world-renowned Paddling School, soar through the trees on NOC's multiple zip lines, travel to foreign countries with NOC’s Adventure Travel program, test the latest outdoor gear and shop at our three LEED-certified flagship retail stores or enjoy NOC’s resort amenities such as our three restaurants and multi-tiered lodging.