Hearts & Minds Homeschool Co-op, an EFA Direct Pay Vendor, offers customizable 3-day educational camp experiences where families and homeschool co-ops can choose from a variety of outdoor classes and adventures to create an experience that fits your group’s interests and adventure level.
Cost: $400 per student.
Pick the sessions that works for you!
Tour Campground
½ Day
- Guided tour - Intro to Ouachita River Valley Natives
- Greenhouse
- Scavenger hunt
Pond Life
1 Day
- Lilly pad pond observation
- Spring fed pond observation
- Pond painting session
- Swimming & kayak practice on the pond (if weather permits)
Crystal Rec Area
1 Day
- Visit Crystal Rec area - Observe diverse native plant life
- Visit Collier Springs - fresh water spring/kids swimming area
- Visit crystal rock & coffee shop - hands on crystal hunt
Brushy Rec Area
½ Day
- Visit Big Brushy Rec area's blue waters
- Pan for treasures
- Onsite scavenger hunt
Local Homestead
½ day
- Visit blacksmith's shop
- Cottage goods
- Chicken coop
Session Dates & Setting
Fall Session
October 22-25
Fall Session
November 5-8
Spring 2026 Session
TBA
Custom Sessions
Available with a minimum of 7 students registered.
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.
What's Included
Family Engagement
Our program creates a space where parents can explore alongside their children—sharing in the awe, wonder, and excitement of discovering the beauty and mysteries of nature together.
Camp Classes
Over the course of three days, families will enjoy a customized outdoor learning experience built around the interests and adventure level of their group. Activities may include exploring forest trails, hiking to waterfalls, kayaking, and participating in hands-on nature studies while learning about native plants, local ecosystems, wildlife, and the unique relationship between the Ouachita River and the surrounding landscape.
Camping Spots Provided at No Cost
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.
EFA Funded - Already pre-approved!
Thanks to Educational Freedom Account (EFA), the cost of the custom session camps for EFA students is covered by the program. And we are already pre-approved so all you need to do is submit your invoice through the Vendor Direct Pay in Class Wallet.
Per Student (grades K-12th)
**Goes directly toward supporting the educational experience, including guided explorations, engaging lessons, and all instructional materials.**
Parents & non-school aged siblings are included at no additional cost.
This is a family-centered experience, and we encourage parents to fully participate alongside their children.
Check in & First Day
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, our staff will be availalbe to help with campsite set up.
Then, from 6:00 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.
Register Today to Begin Your Family's Educational Adventure in the Ouachita National Forest!
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!
To learn more email us at: heartsandmindshsc@gmail.com
or call Joanna at 870-681-1884
Camp Registration
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.
Camp Liability Waiver and Release Form
Camp Packing List
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!
Shelter & Sleep
- Tent
- Sleeping bag
- Sleeping pad
- Pillow
- A ground tarp for extra protection.
Clothing & Rain Gear
- Dress in layers for varied temperatures
- Include waterproof jacket and pants
- Extra socks
- A hat
- Life jacket (if your child plans to swim in the pond)
Food & Cooking Essentials
- All your meals (Friday dinner provided)
- Snacks
- A cooler
- Plates, cups, silverware
- Camp stove or grill (Tent sites have fire pits)
- Water bottles.
Personal Care & Safety
- First-aid kit
- Toiletries
- Towels & wash cloths
- Flashlight/headlamp with extra batteries
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen.
Camp Comfort & Extras
- Camp chairs
- A daypack for hikes
- Any personal items for relaxation
Optional Educational Materials
- Notebook or nature journal
- Clipboard
- Pencils & colored pencils
- Field guide (if available)
- Camera or smartphone for documentation
If you forget anything these local stores have food and essentials.
Refund Policy
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
FAQ's
Hearts & Minds Camps – Frequently Asked Questions
What are Hearts & Minds Camps?
Our camps are a unique outdoor experience where families spend time learning, exploring, and connecting with nature together. During the day, families participate in guided nature classes and activities, and in the evening everyone enjoys a traditional tent camping experience.
Who is this camp for?
Our camps are 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?
Activities may include nature walks, outdoor skills, wildlife and plant discovery, nature crafts, campfire gatherings, games, and hands-on learning experiences designed to help children explore and appreciate the outdoors.
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 there will be a cookout the evening of Check In generously provided by the Ouachita Campground for all participants.
What ages can attend?
Our camps are 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?
Our camp activities 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 Custom Sessions Camp registration form and liability waiver.
Why a family camp?
Our 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 Custom Session Camps at