A demonstration forest is an area used to meet the needs of research, education, and extension activities. Demonstration forests provide visual examples of forestry practices. These forests provide educational experiences for a variety of audiences including youth, students, landowners, and the general public.

Two types of learning include classroom and experiential learning. Experiential learning is gained in the real world through direct, meaningful experience and rational reflection on the contents and the consequences of the experience. Demonstration forests can be used as tools in experiential learning. Learning by experience is an integral part of many educational programs, and provides an opportunity to apply knowledge gained in the classroom. Many universities are sponsoring experiential learning in many academic programs. Experiential learning is gaining increased attention because educators are realizing that many concepts can be better learned outside the classroom where problems are real, solutions complex, and individualized challenges are] possible. Indeed, several recent studies have reported on the value of demonstration forests in the educational process

We report the results of an investigation of demonstration forest holdings of SAF accredited university forestry programs. Using survey-based methods we provide information on the physical attributes, administration, programming, use, audiences, and effectiveness of demonstration forests.