Kilbride Nature Sanctuary

Kilbride Nature Sanctuary

Welcome to The Kilbride Nature Sanctuary

Upon the generous gift of alumnus Bill (‘72) and Mary Kilbride, Tennessee Wesleyan University established the Kilbride Nature Sanctuary with a mission to educate future generations on environmental sustainability and native species, to promote outdoor leadership and recreation for students and to protect historical property and wildlife. The sanctuary encompasses 92 acres along the Tennessee River in Dayton, TN.
Property Features
  • Forested areas including a trail system for hiking and biking
  • Native grasses habitat including a trail system for hiking
  • Dock at the river
  • Pavilion with picnic table
  • Bunkhouse (sleeps six)
  • Main building with classroom (equipment includes microscopes), bathroom, and small kitchen area with sink and refrigerator
Opportunities for Middle and High Schools

Dr. Jeannie Long, Kilbride Nature Sanctuary Director, has over twenty-seven years’ teaching experience at the high school and college level.  She has an MS in Environmental Science and a PhD in Science Education, National Board Certification (NBCT) and has received the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). 

Field Trips, Classroom Visits, and Professional Development workshops are free to all area middle schools and high schools.

Please contact Dr. Long jlong@tnwesleyan.edu to schedule a field trip, classroom visit, or professional development workshop.

Opportunities and Events for Tennessee Wesleyan University students, faculty, and staff

TWU students complete internships and research at Kilbride Nature Sanctuary. Following, are a few of the annual events that allow students, faculty, and staff to enjoy our beautiful sanctuary:

  • Sandhill Cranes Celebration at Kilbride Nature Sanctuary
    The Sandhill Cranes Celebration at Kilbride Nature Sanctuary is generally held in January and provides students, faculty, staff, and other members of the community with an opportunity to view the sandhill cranes and other migratory bird species. Additional activities include hiking, learning about student projects and research, and fellowship.

  • Kilbride Nature Sanctuary Bioblitz
    The Kilbride Nature Sanctuary Bioblitz is generally held in April/May and provides students, faculty, staff, and other members of the community with an opportunity to identify species living at the sanctuary. Documenting and monitoring wildlife supports our conservation and education goals.

  • Tennessee River Rescue at Kilbride Nature Sanctuary
    Tennessee River Rescue at Kilbride Nature Sanctuary is held in October and provides students, faculty, staff, and other members of the community with an opportunity to engage in service learning by removing trash from the Tennessee River and its tributaries.

Environmental Science prepares students to be well-rounded environmentalists who make a positive impact on the sustainability of the world's natural resources.

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