Where we strive to be innovators of adventure, education, and preservation.
Nelson Rocks Outdoor Center (NROC) is located in the beautiful North Fork Valley of Pendleton County, West Virginia. Far upstream of the North Fork of the South Branch of the Potomac River, you’ll discover huge fin-like rock formations. Champe, Seneca, Judy, and Nelson are among the largest of the “fins”. Travel up river to find one of the most unique: Nelson Rocks. Here is where you’ll find us.
NROC, formerly know as the Nelson Rocks Preserve, is a privately-owned nature preserve that encompasses 145 mountainous acres, including the double-fin Tuscarora Quartzite fins of Nelson Rocks. Home to incredible rock climbing, via ferrata climbing, a canopy tour, and miles of breathtaking, awe-inspiring hiking trails NROC is sure to offer the dose of adventure that’s right for you.
We also aim to be a refuge from the typical classroom setting for students of any age and discipline. The preserve is rich in natural history, ecology, geology, American history, and military history offering endless opportunities for unique programming, field trips, and merit badges for your school or organization. For those interested in artistic or therapeutic retreats the stunning natural beauty of the area is both iconic and unique and is sure to be inspirational.
Finally, we believe the key to the longevity of the preserve is to keep a steady eye on the preservation of the land and all its attributes. By doing so we can ensure the mountain will remain a natural, scenic, and recreational resource for generations to come.