Connecting families to nature, learning, and each other through immersive outdoor education in the
Ouachita River Valley.

Who We Are
1
Family-Centered Learning
Family-centered educational community made up of veteran and current homeschooling families working together to provide enrichment opportunities, and 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; RV sites, glamping deck & 7-bedroom guesthouse available at additional cost.
Facilities
Full bath and shower facilities on site for all campers.
Our Outdoor Immersion Camps
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 and Beautyberry harvesting, canning and traditional skills, language immersion camps, and other educational, family-centered learning adventures. Our goal is to create enriching experiences that combine academics, practical life skills, creativity, and outdoor exploration in a safe and engaging environment where students can learn directly through real-world experiences.
Ouachita Outdoor Immersion Camp
Program Highlights
A 3-day family immersion into Ouachita River Valley topography, flora, fauna, wildlife & indigenous Arkansas history.
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.
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. We'll teach you everything you need.
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.

Hearts & Minds is a family experience — parents are partners in learning, not just chaperones.
2025 Camp Calendar at a Glance
1
Outdoor Immersion Camp runs 3 days ($300/student)

2
Kayaking Camp runs 4 days ($400/student)

3
Custom sessions available with minimum 5 students registered.

As a thank-you and incentive for group 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!


OUTDOOR IMMERSION CAMP
May 29-31
KAYAK CAMP
June 19-22
KAYAK CAMP
July 9-12
KAYAK CAMP
TBA
Beautyberry Foraging & Canning
TBA
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