Cost: $400 per student.
TBA
TBA
TBA
Available with a minimum of 7 students registered.
Watch for upcoming sessions as we continue to expand, including guided kayaking trips through the Ouachita waterways and exploring the wonders of nature.
Nestled in the heart of the Ouachita Mountains in Oden Arkansas, the 30-acre Ouachita Campground provides the perfect living classroom. Rolling ridges, hardwood forest, pine stands, glades, creeks, and native understory growth create a highly diverse botanical environment from the campground itself to the vast surroundings of the Ouachita National Forest.
Our program provides a unique opportunity for families to experience the joy of learning together. Parents and children will work side by side as they responsibly harvest native beautyberries, learn traditional food preservation techniques, and develop a greater appreciation for the beauty and stewardship of Arkansas’s natural resources.
Over the course of three days, students will participate in engaging, hands-on outdoor classes as they explore the Ouachita Mountains in search of native American beautyberries. Along the way, they will learn to identify edible and useful plants, practice ethical foraging techniques, discover the region’s diverse ecosystems, and experience the rewarding process of turning their harvest into homemade beautyberry jelly through traditional water-bath canning.
Thanks to the generous support of Ouachita Campground tent camping is available for all participants free of charge. Tents are NOT provided.
As an alternative to tent camping Ouachita Campground offers RV sites, glamping deck and a guest house at an additional cost. EFA funds do not cover housing. Contact Joanna at 870-681-1884 for more info.
Thanks to Educational Freedom Account (EFA), the cost of the outdoor immersion camp for EFA students is covered by the program. You will need to submit your invoice through the Vendor Direct Pay in Class Wallet.
**Goes directly toward supporting the educational experience, including guided explorations, engaging lessons, and all instructional materials.**
This is a family-centered experience, and we encourage parents to fully participate alongside their children.
Check-in and campsite setup will take place between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM, with our team available on-site to welcome you, answer questions, and help you get settled in. For families who would like a little extra guidance, Session 1 will be a crash course in basic campsite skills.
Then, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, we’ll kick things off with a fun and relaxed Orientation & Cookout, generously provided by Ouachita Campground….a perfect opportunity for families to connect, unwind, and begin building lasting memories together.
Spaces are limited, so be sure to register soon. This is a unique opportunity for your family to learn, explore, and connect with nature in one of Arkansas' most beautiful and important natural areas. Don't miss out on this transformative educational experience! Register below!
After we receive your registration form you will receive an email with the Hearts & Minds Co-op Invoice. For those using EFA funds, this is the invoice you will submit on Class Wallet for direct pay. For assistance call Tammy at 417-527-2552.
To ensure a comfortable and prepared outdoor experience, we've put together a suggested packing list for your tent camping adventure. Remember, each family is responsible for their own meals and cooking supplies. Be ready for any weather, especially rain!
If you forget anything these local stores have food and essentials.
Refund Policy
• Full Refunds: Camp registrations canceled 30 or more days prior to the camp start date are eligible for a full refund.
• Cancellations Within 30 Days: Due to the expenses and commitments incurred in preparing for camp, no refunds will be issued for cancellations made less than 30 days before the camp start date.
• Transfer to Another Camp Date: Families who cancel within 30 days of camp may apply their paid registration fees toward another Hearts & Minds camp, provided space is available. The transferred registration must be used within 6 months of the original camp date.
• Camp Cancellation by Hearts & Minds: If Hearts & Minds Camps must cancel a camp due to severe weather, insufficient enrollment, safety concerns, or unforeseen circumstances, families will receive the option of either a full refund or a transfer of funds to a future camp.
We appreciate your understanding and support. These policies help us continue providing high-quality educational experiences while ensuring we can effectively plan and operate our camps.
Hearts & Minds Homeschool Camps
Beautyberry Foraging & Canning Camp – Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Beautyberry Foraging & Canning Camp?
The Beautyberry Foraging & Canning Camp is a unique family experience where parents and students learn, explore, and create together. Over three immersive days, families will forage for native American beautyberries, learn safe and sustainable harvesting techniques, make homemade beautyberry jelly through hands-on canning, and discover the rich ecology and natural beauty of the Ouachita Mountains. It is the perfect blend of outdoor education, practical homesteading skills, and meaningful family time.
Who is this camp for?
Beautyberry Foraging & Canning Camp is designed for families who want to spend quality time while learning about nature together.
Do parents stay with their children?
Yes. This is a family-centered camp, not a drop-off camp. Parents or guardians participate in the activities and stay on-site with their children at all times.
Is there a cost for parents?
No. Parents and siblings under 5 or out of high school may attend for free with the rest of the family.
What kinds of activities will we do?
Participants will enjoy guided foraging adventures, learning to identify native American beautyberries and other useful plants, practicing responsible harvesting methods, making homemade beautyberry jelly, learning safe water-bath canning techniques, exploring local ecosystems, and participating in interactive nature studies and family-friendly outdoor activities.
Where do we sleep?
Families will tent camp overnight at the camp location. Each family provides and sets up their own tent and camping gear.
Are there other lodging options?
Ouachita Campground offers RV sites, glamping deck and a 7 bedroom guesthouse on site for an additional charge. EFA funds cannot be used for these additional lodging options.
Are there Bathroom and Shower Facilities?
Yes! Ouachita Campground has given us access to their bath and shower facility.
What should we bring?
Families should bring their own:
* Tent and camping gear
* Sleeping bags and pillows
* Weather-appropriate clothing
* Water bottles
* Flashlights or headlamps
* Personal items and toiletries
A detailed packing list is available on our website.
Are meals provided?
Meals are the responsibility of each individual family. However a Friday evening cookout will be provided for all participants.
What ages can attend?
Beautyberry Foraging & Canning Camp is generally best for children ages 5 and up, but younger siblings may attend if parents feel they can participate safely in outdoor activities.
Do we need camping experience?
No experience is required. Families of all skill levels are welcome. (Session 1 will be a crash course in setting up camp for those wishing to participate.)
What happens if it rains?
Ouachita Outdoor Immersion Camp takes place outdoors, and many activities can continue in light rain. Families should come prepared for changing weather conditions. In severe weather, activities may be adjusted for safety and families will be directed to a weather safe building on site.
How do we register?
Families can register by completing the Beautyberry Foraging & Canning Camp registration form and liability waiver. Space may be limited to maintain a quality experience for all participants.
Why a family camp?
Hearts & Minds Camps are designed to help families unplug from screens, spend meaningful time together, and rediscover the joy of learning and exploring outdoors as a family.
Hearts & Minds Homeschool Co-op, a Direct Pay Vendor, invites families to experience the beauty of the Ouachita Mountains through a hands-on Beautyberry Foraging & Canning Camp. Over three immersive days, students and their families will learn to identify and responsibly harvest native American beautyberries, explore the ecology of the Ouachita River Valley, and transform their harvest into delicious homemade jelly while learning the fundamentals of safe water-bath canning, creating meaningful family memories while developing practical homesteading skills.