Rooted in nature

empowered in mind

& true to yourself

Wildwood Academy is a small independent middle school serving columbia gorge students in grades 5-8

Two children reading books while sitting in trees near a sign that says 'Wildwood Academy.' The scene is outdoors with leafless trees and a rustic setting.

At Wildwood, we nurture emotional intelligence, encourage curiosity, and foster a strong connection to nature. Here, students discover their true selves while growing within a supportive and vibrant community

We offer a small mixed grades program of solid academics delivered through experiential, outdoor, and classroom learning.

Group of people sitting in a circle around a campfire outdoors in a grassy field with trees in the background, including a large white dog. Some people are sitting on the ground, while others are on a stool. They appear to be in a forested area.
Group of middle schoolers with mountain bikes posing in a scenic outdoor setting

Adventure Mondays

At Wildwood, every week kicks off with an adventure. Whether we're exploring ice caves, kayaking, cross-country skiing, volunteering, hiking, or learning survival skills, each Monday is an opportunity to step outside and embrace the unknown. We work together, take exciting risks, challenge ourselves, and learn in ways that are as fun as they are meaningful—building memories and skills that last a lifetime

Students wearing protective goggles conducting a science experiment at a classroom table with various lab materials.

in the classroom

Our classroom is a dynamic and engaging space where learning comes to life. With mixed-grade groups, we foster collaboration, personal growth, and inquiry-based exploration. Students are supported and challenged as they build confidence, curiosity, and strong skills in core subjects, all while embracing a personalized approach to learning.

Three children climbing a large multi-trunked tree in a garden setting on a sunny day.

After School program

The Wildwood After School Program provides a relaxed, creative space where students can unwind, connect with friends, and have fun. With a focus on creativity, community, and play, it's the perfect place for kids to grow in a more laid-back environment. This is just one of the many ways we nurture active, joyful, and responsible young adults—helping them thrive socially and emotionally as they explore their world.

A group of smiling people sitting inside a van, including adults and children. The photo is a selfie taken by one of the adults wearing sunglasses and a beanie. Everyone looks happy and cheerful, sitting in multiple rows of seats.

The School shuttle

Our school is in the Mt. Hood Town Hall, a charming historic schoolhouse just 14 miles south of Hood River in picturesque Mt. Hood Parkdale. To make daily life easier for families in the Gorge, we offer convenient before and after-school shuttles to and from Hood River and Cascade Locks, in order to serve students throughout the Gorge

Three children posing in a forest next to a black-bordered track plate field science experiment

homeschool hybrid options

In addition to offering our full time Wildwood program, we welcome local homeschool students who are interested in joining us for one or more days each week. Coming to Wildwood can be a fun way to try new things, make new friends, and expand your learning opportunities beyond core subjects. Homeschool students can opt to join us for Adventure Mondays and/or join us Tuesday-Friday afternoons for art, sportsmanship, science, guest workshops and more!

Person wearing a black cap and headphones, holding a red balloon, standing in front of a blackboard with chalk writing.

We’re growing!

Founded in 2019, Wildwood served the youth of the Gorge from Hood River until 2024, when, under new ownership but with the same Wildwood spirit, we moved to the beautiful Mt. Hood Town Hall in Parkdale. Up here we have easy access to the outdoors and more space to explore.

We take great pride in being a small school. Our size allows us to be flexible, deeply support each student's learning, and stay true to our mission of fostering a strong sense of self and connection to place as students grow into confident young adults.

It’s been a great year and we are ready to grow!