Ages 5–9

Young foragers will learn to notice the gifts growing all around us — berries, seeds, herbs, and flowers that thrive in Oregon’s late-summer. We’ll slow down, use our senses, and learn the difference between “look, learn, and leave” plants and those that are safe to gather with care. Campers are sure to discover blackberries on tangled vines, ripening plums, edible blossoms like nasturtium, and fragrant herbs in the garden. We’ll make simple teas, taste garden snacks, create nature journals, and talk about gratitude, permission, and caring for the places we harvest from.

Ages 10–12

Older campers will dive deeper into the art and ethics of responsible foraging in Oregon’s summer season. We’ll learn foundational identification skills, discuss native vs. invasive plants, and explore the science of where plants like to grow and why. Students may work with late-July companions such as wild and garden blackberries, elderflowers or early berries, oxalis, plantain, wild mint, acorns, hazelnuts, edible flowers, and culinary herbs. Together we’ll prepare simple foods like herbal teas, infused honey, or berry-based treats, and explore how different cultures and communities have built relationships with seasonal plants. Campers will leave with a deeper understanding of reciprocity: take little, notice much, give thanks, and care for the land that nourishes us.