Carl Schenck established the Biltmore Forest School on a portion of the Biltmore Estate as the first school for forestry education in the US — using abandoned farm buildings as classrooms, offices, and “dorms.” Many graduates of the Biltmore Forest School went on to become the first generation of American professional foresters. The schoolhouse on the current Cradle of Forestry grounds is a replica of this original structure.
A large portion of the Biltmore Estate had been sold to the US Government after the death of George Vanderbilt, and in 1916 it was officially designated as Pisgah National Forest. Part of the stone posts from this photo can still be seen near the FIND Outdoors headquarters in Pisgah Forest, NC (near Brevard).
In 1972, our organization, the Cradle of Forestry in America Interpretive Association (CFAIA) was established to help the US Forest Service with operations at the Cradle of Forestry Visitor Center, specifically retail.
An addendum was made to the original mission statement of the CFAIA: “and to offer educational, recreational, and interpretive opportunities about forest and water resources.” With that addition, CFAIA added educational programs to help educate site visitors on the importance of our public lands, and the significance of these sites.
Shortly after 2010, the organization was awarded the bid to manage campgrounds and visitor centers in North Georgia, including the scenic Anna Ruby Falls and Brasstown Bald. With those additions to our portfolio, by the late 2010s CFAIA was operating 20+ sites in three different states.
As CFAIA had grown tremendously in reach and purpose, it had also outgrown the original name. The Cradle of Forestry in America would always be the foundation of our story, but it was no longer the only focus of our mission. It was time to redefine ourselves.
We partnered with a branding agency, Creative+, who helped us redefine our identity. In 2020 our new brand was launched: FIND Outdoors, Forest-Inspired Nature Discovery — it is both who we are and what we do. Watch the full brand launch video below.
We maintain and operate outdoor recreation, education, and camping facilities across the southeast and beyond, to help you connect with nature.
Through this connection, we hope to instill good stewardship of natural resources, so that together, we can preserve our forests for future generations. Through Forest-Inspired Nature Discovery, we help people FIND Outdoors.
Our story is rooted in education about the forest. Our passion is to help people become inspired. Our goal is to help people connect with nature. Our drive is to help people learn through discovery. Through forest-inspired nature discovery, we help people FIND Outdoors.
In the wake of Hurricane Helene, our people and places are facing significant challenges. Your support is crucial in helping us restore and reopen these vital spaces.
Here’s how your donation can make a profound impact:
Your contribution will directly fund the rebuilding of bridges and boardwalks damaged by flooding, rerouting heavily eroded trails, and clearing debris from our beautiful outdoor areas. These spaces are not just paths and parks; they are the backdrop for family memories, adventures, and connections to nature.
We’re committed to empowering our communities with the knowledge and resources to prepare for future emergencies, ensuring everyone can enjoy the great outdoors safely.
Many people who care for public lands have been affected by the storm. Your generosity will help provide them with vital support during this challenging time.
