A Place for Learning in the Mountains

The Sierra Nevada Field Campus (SNFC) is a research and education field station dedicated to building inclusive community around teaching and learning in the natural sciences, land management, art, music, and culture. We offer workshops, classes, and program space for convenings for individuals and groups alike who contribute to this work and we provide space for researchers to conduct studies at field sites. We primarily aim to serve the San Francisco State University community but we also serve as a research and education resource for the local communities of the northern Sierra Nevada, the general public of California, and beyond. 

Banner collage featuring students conducting field research in the Sierra Nevada, alongside images of native plants, wildlife, fungi, and mountain landscapes.

Workshops and Classes

We have a full schedule of summer workshops and classes. Check out our 2026 offerings and stay tuned for our 2027 line-up!

Check out our offerings


Grants and Scholarships can get you here!

Each summer, thanks to generous donations from SNFC community members, we offer a few scholarships for students to join us at the Field Campus. If you want to come for a program but are facing financial barriers, please apply for a scholarship or reach out to us!


Planning Your Visit

Making the journey to the Field Campus brings up plenty of questions, learn about planning your visit.


A 75 Year History

Started in 1949 by SFSU president J. Paul Leonard, the Sierra Nevada Field Campus holds a rich history of research and education in the mountains.

Learn more about SNFC history


Testimonials

"I am writing this letter so that I can let you know just how much this experience meant to me.  It is one of the best things I have ever done. Sending that first email to sign up is one of my greatest decisions, even if I was super worried about sending an email and how I would sound. The class on reptiles and amphibians was better than I could have ever imagined. Everyone was super friendly, and the whole atmosphere at the field campus is just incredible. Words are yet to be created that can describe just how much this experience meant to me.  I look forward to sharing this experience with other people at my school!" —Student

Read more from our participants!