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College of Natural Resources
Forestry and Environmental Resources

FER GSA Group Camping Trip

November 24, 2025
A group of students stand together by a lake during autumn, with warm sunset light and colorful fall trees in the background. - FER GSA Group Camping Trip - Forestry and Environmental Resources NC State University
Group hike through the woods to the lake

The department’s Graduate Student Association organized an overnight camping trip at Jordan Lake State Recreation Center in early November (November 8 & 9). We kicked-off the trip with a picnic lunch and then headed to Parkers Creek Campground to set-up camp. 

The weather couldn’t have been better with high 60s and sunny skies – and changing fall leaves made the whole weekend colorful. The students with a dendrology background couldn’t help but look at the forest as a living laboratory. 

The image shows a group of people walking along a forest trail. Tall trees with autumn-colored leaves line both sides, and the ground is covered in grass and fallen leaves. The group is moving away from the camera.
Group hike through the woods to the lake

After a hike to the lake for sunset, a dozen of us enjoyed roasting hotdogs around the fire and experimenting with craft supplies. It turns out, fall leaves make a great painting canvas!

The image shows five autumn leaves arranged on a wooden surface. Three of the leaves have been decorated with white painted patterns—dots, swirls, and small designs—while the other two are natural, showing red, yellow, and orange fall colors. The wood background gives the scene a rustic, warm look.
Leaf crafts

This group of nature lovers were in their element, and quality time together led to sharing ideas, life hacks, and conspiracies – especially when playing a game of Secret Hitler (highly recommended).

Six people gathered around a large, brightly burning campfire in a metal fire pit at night, with one person tending the flames.
Cooking dinner

Thank you to the department for funding the campsite and meals, and to all who took time to participate. It was a great reminder that time outdoors is good for the soul. Students already look forward to continuing this tradition next year!

Two people smiling at a wooden picnic table in a sunny, autumn campsite. A board game and a green kettle are on the table, surrounded by pine trees, fallen leaves, a tent, and a hammock.
Playing Wingspan