Kayaking Camp



Connecting families to nature, learning, and each other through immersive outdoor education in the

Ouachita (Wah-chee-tah) River Valley.


Family Adventure Camps

EFA-approved for co-curricular education.

We offer science-based outdoor immersion camps designed to extend learning beyond the classroom through meaningful, hands-on experiences. Students explore the natural world through guided activities in areas such as botany, ecology, wildlife observation, and waterway systems while developing critical thinking, practical skills, and a deeper appreciation for nature and stewardship.

As our program continues to grow, we are expanding our immersion camp offerings to include experiences such as foraging, canning & traditional skills, and other educational, family-centered learning adventures.

2026 Camp Calendar at a Glance



KAYAK CAMP

FULL - June 19-22

KAYAK CAMP

July 16-19

KAYAK CAMP

August 13-16

Foraging & Food Preservation

August 27-30

KAYAK CAMP

September 10-13

Foraging & Food Preservation

September 24-27

Foraging & Food Preservation

October 8-11

Outdoor Immersion

October 22-25

Outdoor Immersion

November 5-8

Who We Are

1

Family-Centered Learning

Family-centered educational community made up of veteran and current homeschooling families working together to provide meaningful, hands-on learning experiences.

2

EFA Direct Pay Vendor

Our programs are Pre-Approved for Educational Freedom Account participants. Submit invoices through ClassWallet Vendor Direct Pay.

3

Ouachita Campground

All programs are hosted at the Ouachita Campground, a beautiful 30-acre living classroom in Oden, Arkansas — designed for families to learn, explore, and grow together.

Our Setting:

The Landscape

Nestled in the heart of the Ouachita Mountains — It offers families direct access to one of Arkansas’ most beautiful and biodiverse natural regions. Surrounded by mountains, forests, rivers, and abundant wildlife, the area provides endless opportunities for exploration, outdoor recreation, and hands-on nature education.

Camping Options

Free tent camping for all participants. If your family needs to rent a tent you can contact Joanna at(870) 681-1884. Tents, RV sites, glamping deck & 7-bedroom guesthouse available at additional cost. (EFA Funds can NOT pay for lodging.)

Facilities

Full bath and shower facilities on site.

Ouachita Outdoor Immersion Camp

Program Highlights

A 3-day family immersion into Ouachita River Valley topography, flora, & fauna.

Guided outdoor classes include forest trails, waterfall hike, local homestead visit, and plant & ecosystem exploration.

Click For Full Details

Cost & Funding

$300 per student (grades K–12) — parents & non-school-aged siblings attend free.

EFA funded — submit invoice through Vendor Direct Pay in ClassWallet.

Ouachita Waterways Kayaking Camp

Program Highlights

Exploring rivers, lake, and hidden channels of the Ouachita region with guided time on the water.

Cost & Funding

$400 per student (grades K–12) — parents & non-school-aged siblings attend free.

EFA funded — submit invoice through Vendor Direct Pay in ClassWallet.

Foraging & Food Preservation Camp

Program Highlights

Discover the art of finding, identifying, and harvesting edible pants while learning safe, traditional food preservation techniques.

Cost & Funding

$400 per student (grades K–12) — parents & non-school-aged siblings attend free.

EFA funded — submit invoice through Vendor Direct Pay in ClassWallet.

Custom Sessions

Custom sessions available with minimum 7 students registered.


As a "thank you" and incentive for custom session organizers, we are offering:

A free RV site stay for the group leader, or a discounted stay in the Prancing Pony Guesthouse

Reach out to Joanna at 870-681-1884 for more custom session details!

Common Questions

What ages are welcome?

Best for ages 5 and up; younger siblings welcome if parents feel they can participate safely.

Experience needed?

None — families of all skill levels are welcome.

What's the weather policy?

Light rain continues; severe weather activities are adjusted for safety.

What do parents pay?

Parents and non-school-aged siblings attend at no charge — completely free.

Register & Join Us

Registration

Complete the camp registration form and liability waiver on each camp's page. Spaces are limited — register early to secure your family's spot!

EFA Families

Submit your Hearts & Minds invoice through ClassWallet Vendor Direct Pay. We are an approved EFA Direct Pay Vendor.

📞 Contact Us

870-681-1884
Email: heartsandmindshsc@gmail.com