Lehman Sanctuary

Lehman Sanctuary | Nonprofit offering environmental education in Lehman Township

Lehman Sanctuary is a nonprofit organization located on 18 acres of private land in Lehman Township, Luzerne County, providing students and community groups with rare access to one of Northeastern Pennsylvania’s most unique ecosystems. Privately owned and stewarded by the Miller family, the sanctuary is a living classroom where old-growth forested wetlands, wildflower meadows, and native prairie grasses support a thriving habitat for rare amphibians, birds & pollinators. Access is available by appointment only, ensuring the land remains protected while continuing to serve as a hub for meaningful hands-on learning.

Exceptional Habitat, Rich in Biodiversity

Designated as an Exceptional Value wetlands area, the sanctuary includes more than 200-year-old Oaks and Eastern Pines, pristine vernal pools, spring seeps and shaded streams. These sensitive habitats provide shelter to regionally rare species such as the Four Toed Salamander, along with diverse plant and insect life. Carefully preserved, this mosaic of forest, meadow, and water supports important ecological functions and offers an unmatched field study experience in the Back Mountain region.

Award-Winning Education Rooted in Nature

Through school field trips and guided programs for community groups, Lehman Sanctuary offers environmental education that is immersive, interactive & STEM-focused. Lessons cover topics such as wildlife biology, watersheds, stormwater, habitat studies, ornithology, entomology and more. As a two-time recipient of the Environmental Partnership Award from the Pennsylvania Environmental Council, the sanctuary continues to shape young minds and inspire stewardship through conservation-based learning.

Lehman Sanctuary protects a rare ecosystem while educating future environmental stewards through hands-on science and conservation in Lehman Township.