The NRHS sponsors the popular RailCamp summer orientation program in partnership with Amtrak and the National Park Service, offering high school youth hands-on experience in the railroad industry.
The Society holds an annual national convention, featuring exhibits and excursions using historic railroad locomotives and rolling stock.
It publishes the National Railway Bulletin, a bimonthly membership newsletter containing articles, photos, and news about railroads, both past and present, as well as coverage of local chapter activities.
[4] One participant wrote afterwards in Trains magazine that, "The experience truly increased my respect for the men and women who ... care for these huge machines.
"[4] Typically, local NRHS chapters concentrate on railroad history in their specific geographic area.