Which colleges occupy the largest amount of land area?

Hey guys, I'm someone who loves wide open spaces and the opportunity to explore. I was wondering, off-campus, are there any colleges which are well-known for having a broad territory or a large amount of land area? I'm particularly looking for colleges with natural features like forests, lakes, or hiking trails. Any help would be appreciated!

Yes! Several colleges boast vast acreage, many of which include natural features such as forests, lakes, and hiking trails in their landscapes. You might want to start by looking at Berry College in Georgia, which does not only have the largest contiguous campus in the United States but in the whole world, spanning over 27,000 acres. It has its own forest, hiking and biking trails, and even a deer population.

Furthermore, Middlebury College in Vermont, spanning 350 acres with a 2,100-acre Bread Loaf Mountain campus, owns the Bread Loaf Mountain Campus which includes extensive hiking trails. Middlebury's main campus is also surrounded by the Green Mountains and the Adirondacks. The setting provides you with plenty of outdoor exploration opportunities throughout the year.

If you're interested in the West Coast, consider Stanford University in California. Its central campus is home to a variety of structures and it encompasses 8,180 acres, including the 1,200-acre Jasper Ridge Biological Preserve. It’s renowned for its scenic biking, jogging, and hiking trails. The Dish, a popular paved trail, is a favorite amongst students.

Duke University in North Carolina also offers the 7,060-acre Duke Forest with its own teaching and research lab. They have walking trails that are perfect for nature lovers.

Remember, each of these campuses offers distinctive features, educational programs, and community ethos— taking into consideration all of these elements will help you find a school that fits both your academic and personal preferences. Good luck with your college search!