Orenda Springs Experimental Learning Center

Orenda Springs Experimental Learning Center is a nonprofit outdoor education center in Marcellus, southwest of Syracuse, built around what it calls a “Classroom in the Woods.” Students immerse themselves in expeditionary learning across 130 acres of woods, trails, streams, springs and a pond.

Teaching follows Integrated Thematic Instruction, now known as Highly Effective Teaching, with the aim of making students more self-motivated to learn English, math, social studies and science. The nonprofit was incorporated to help people improve themselves and their relationships with others.

What to Know

• The property has 130 acres of woods, miles of trails, streams, springs and a pond.
• Facilities include a large indoor classroom and an indoor horse riding arena with a real rock-climbing wall.
• A natural amphitheater, a tipi and several group camping sites are on the grounds.
• A nationally accredited inspector praised the ropes course as the most unique course the inspector had seen.
• It is included in the Town of Marcellus business listings and is featured by Visit Syracuse.