WAITLIST: Exploring Eastern Virginia - Summer 2026

Open to rising 9th -12th graders in DC, MD, VA, PA. Please note, although this course is open to students from across the watershed, this expedition will start and end in Virginia.

The eastern part of Virginia is home to some of the state’s most important tributaries entering the Bay. This summer, join fellow student leaders as we explore the relationship between these low-lying lands and our waters. Participants will get a firsthand look at Virginia’s valuable and vulnerable landscapes as they travel through Virginia’s Coastal Plain, along the Eastern Shore, and culminate their experience at CBF’s Port Isobel Island Environmental Education Center across from historic Tangier Island. Through this expedition, students will gain a greater understanding of how land and water are connected and ways they can advocate, raise awareness, and take action for clean water. Participants will camp, paddle, study the cultural importance of Tangier Island, and expand their knowledge of water quality and conservation.

• Length & Location: This five-day event is in-person and overnight, which includes tent camping at Kiptopeke State Park followed by dormitory-style housing at CBF’s Port Isobel Island Environmental Education Center. CBF provides tents. All other necessary gear will be listed on the packing list.
• Starting & Ending Points: Richmond, VA or Virginia Beach, VA.
• Orientation: A virtual orientation will take place June 3, 2026, from 4:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. A recording will be made available for those who are unable to attend. 
• Service-Learning Hours: Upon successful expedition completion, participants will earn at least 10 service-learning hours. Participants must provide their school’s required documentation during or after the expedition to receive hours.
• Cost: Generous support from CBF donors and grants allow us to offer our weeklong expeditions for $650. The actual cost of running these expeditions is more than $2000 per participant. Financial aid is available. Request partial or full financial aid using the financial assistance request form. All transportation, lodging, and meals are provided during the expeditions.
• Cancellation Policy: Cancellations made before June 1 will receive a full refund minus a $75 processing fee. No refunds will be granted after June 1; however, we are happy to transfer registration to another course, based on availability. All cancellation requests must be made in writing using this cancellation form.

Registration closes Friday, May 22, 2026.

Return to the Student Leadership Summer Expedition webpage.

Your registration includes periodic email updates from CBF. You may unsubscribe at any time by clicking "Unsubscribe" at the bottom of any email you received from us.