Hi! I'm Karyssa Tilden. In August 2024, my family and I moved to King, North Carolina, and it quickly felt like home for us. We’ve fallen in love with the beauty of the area and the kindness of the community.

I'm married to an amazing man who shares a passion for helping others through both therapy and outdoor adventure. Together, we homeschool our three adventurous daughters and spend much of our time learning and exploring outside.

For nearly a decade I’ve been leading outdoor classes for children and families. In 2020 I founded a Nature School for children ages 0–10 that expanded across three different states and still continues today. I am a Lifeways certified Waldorf Early Childhood Teacher, have my associates in Marriage and Family studies and have a certificate for; Marriage, family and Human Relations & Advanced Marriage and Family Functioning.

As a homeschooling mama, my approach is deeply rooted in Waldorf education, which I have studied passionately for the past six years. Nature, rhythm, and imagination are at the heart of everything I teach and create.

Hi I’m Lauren! I spent my childhood hiking and camping in Yosemite national park with my grandparents. Those outings were some of my happiest memories, and I've always wanted to raise my children with the same love and respect for the outdoors my grandparents showed me. I've called North Carolina home for 11 years now and have two young children. I've found the Maple Woods community full of amazing opportunities and friends, who share my values and passion for child rearing.

Lindsay has a contradictory background in business and art, as well as a passion for all things creative, especially cooking and the works of JRR Tolkien. With a strong desire to live like the Hobbits of the Shire, Lindsay and Husband moved their family to North Carolina from New Jersey in search of more peace, community, and an all-around better life. Lindsay Joined Maple Woods with her three homeschooled children in October of 2025 and Became a group leader in March of 2026. She would like to see Maple Woods Community grow as a beacon of light in a chaotic world, creating a rhythm for the community that cultivates even stronger roots and brighter fruits.

Michael is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Certified Recreation Therapist (CTRS), and AMGA-SPI Climbing Instructor with over 13 years of experience in traditional therapy, wilderness therapy, and high-adventure programs. He has created three successful therapeutic adventure programs for at-risk youth and families and has worked extensively with children, adolescents, young adults, adults, couples, and families.

Michael believes in meeting students with empathy and confidence, focusing on healing the heart and mind, strengthening relationships, and improving environmental factors.

Outside of work, Michael is a proud husband and father of three girls. He enjoys spending time with his family exploring places like Pilot Mountain, Hanging Rock, the Tetons, and Moab. His outdoor passions include climbing, canyoneering, mountain biking, trail running, and adventure racing.

Certifications:

• AMGA-SPI

• LCSW

• CTRS

• LNT (Leave No Trace)

• Swift Water Rescue

• First Aid/CPR

• Stop the Bleed