Class Descriptions

*Please Note: Organizing the workshop takes place months in advance. Every effort is made to offer all scheduled classes. Due to circumstances beyond our control, instructors and schedules may change.

Atl-Atl & SlingShots

  • Atl-Atl & Slingshots. Learn these ancient skills dating back to prehistoric times. Participants will build and shoot their own slingshots. Plus learn the techniques to accurately throw a spear at a target.

Attracting Backyard Birds

  • Are you interested in learning about feeding the birds in your neighborhood? Do you have questions about which feeders and seed types attract birds to your yard? This class will focus on the basics and beyond of backyard bird feeding. Class will be indoors.

Automotive Car Care & Adventure Essentials

  • Hit the road prepared! This session covers the essentials of keeping your vehicle road-ready, from understanding warning lights to checking fluids, changing a tire, and jump-starting a battery.  We’ll also talk about road-trip readiness, towing and hauling basics, and organizing your gear for solo camping or outdoor adventures

Basics of Shotgun Maintenance

  • Join instructors for a session focused on selecting the right choke and shot size, understanding shotgun patterning (no live fire), and proper shotgun maintenance. Participants will gain hands-on experience by learning how to safely dissemble, clean, and reassemble a shotgun. 

Beginning Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

  • Learn and practice basic positions of this grappling martial art. We’ll cover some movement drills that include escapes, sweeps, and submissions. It’s a hands-on activity and we’ll be partnering up so be sure to wear clothes that move with you and give you some coverage to your comfort level. *Any fitness level is acceptable as long as you are fine sitting on the ground.

Canning for Beginners

  • Learn how to get started with the tradition of canning and preserving. Also learn the various methods of canning and preserving (such as freezing, canning, drying, etc.), water bath, pressure canning, tools of the trade, and how to make pickles, salsa, jams and jellies plus more.

Dutch Oven Cooking

  • Bring your appetite! We will prepare tasty dishes to cook in Dutch Ovens. We will also learn about helpful accessories, cleaning, and care of cast iron.

Handgun Selection: Be Safe and Informed

  • This is not a shooting class. Participants in this class will have a chance to look at and handle a variety of handguns available on the market today. Class discussion will be on how to determine the type of handgun you want/need, how to find the handgun that fits you, concealed carry considerations, and basic handgun maintenance.

Handmade Jewelry: Create & Design your own

  • Join us for a fun and creative Beginner’s Jewelry Making Class—no experience needed! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn the basics of designing and assembling your own beautiful piece of jewelry. Choose between creating a custom necklace or a matching bracelet and earring set to suit your style. We’ll guide you step-by-step through the entire process, from selecting beads, creating a design, and using the right tools. All supplies are provided—just bring your creativity and a willingness to have fun!

Introduction to Local Foraging: A Beginner’s Walk

  • Discover the wild pantry hidden in plain sight! This hands-on workshop is designed for beginners curious about connecting with nature through foraging. We will slow down, explore the local landscape, and build confidence in identifying and harvesting local edible plants.

Introduction to Women’s Self Defense

  • Self-defense for women is a daunting concept, but there are some fairly simple things that all women can do to increase their safety. This class will be both instructive and interactive. You will not be asked to do anything strenuous and women with all body types and abilities will be able to take away some simple but practical tips and tricks.

Kayaking on Lake Memphis

  • Enjoy time on the lake with NE Game & Parks staff. We will be kayaking the Memphis State Rec Area. Since offsite, under 18 may participate with parent or guardian listed on registration form in the same session.

Leisurely Landscapes Hike

  • Join us for a relaxing, scenic hike through the park. This leisurely hike is designed for enjoyment, light exercise, and plenty of time to enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Perfect for beginners and nature enthusiasts.

Nature Blooms Décor

  • Join us to create a one of a kind hanging wire circle decor. We will start by adding macrame string to the wire and weave in different types of nature’s blooms into a unique piece of art.

Paddleboard on Pond at CCJ

  • NGPC Certified Instructor will teach you the basics of Stand-up Paddle Boarding on smooth quiet water. Focusing on safety, equipment, water enter/exit and paddling strokes. Dive into a refreshing, beginner-friendly water adventure on the calm waters of the camp’s pond.

Pickleball Basics: Learn, Play and Enjoy.

  • Pickleball is a fun, fast‑growing sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. Played on a smaller court with a paddle and lightweight ball, it is easy to learn and enjoyable for all ages and skill levels. This course introduces basic rules, scoring, and key skills through guided instruction and practice.

Pioneer Table: Build your own. Hands on Lashing

  • Exercise in building teamwork, creativity, and learning basic lashing skill. I will provide written / picture instructions, and I will provide guidance as needed. This is a fully hands on project. The Team will test out the table for strength, function, and bragging rights on pioneer skill building. Bring your phone to take final pictures. Afterwards we may make a fun easy campfire treat.

Plants & Herbs for Health

  • Learn what common medicinal plants were traditionally used for healing before the advent of modern pharmaceuticals. Learn what alternatives are being used today to treat common ailments. 

Prairie on Fire: Experience a Prescribed Burn

  • Discover how fire rejuvenates the landscape. Learn why prescribed burns are essential for prairie health, witness a how-to demonstration, and if conditions allow – participate in a live, on-site burn. (Note: Program duration is weather-dependent).

Summit High Ropes Course

  • Enjoy the high ropes course at Camp Carol Joy Holling. The course consists of climbing walls, a rappelling tower, and individual climbing/crossing activities. Must like heights!
  • What to wear: We ask groups to come dressed in clothes that they feel comfortable being active in. Seat Harnesses fit snugly, high on the thigh and around the waist. Participants should wear clothing that allows the harness to fit over clothing, not bare skin. Shoes should be sturdy and have closed toes/heels.

Talkin’ Turkey: Skills and Strategy

  • Learn the essentials of turkey hunting in this hands-on session covering everything from turkey identification and behavior to preparing your gear for the hunt. Instructors will demonstrate blind and decoy set ups, effective calling techniques, and equipment selection. Whether you’re brand new or looking to sharpen your skills, this session will help you build confidence before heading into the field. Not interested in hunting? No problem! These small calling techniques can be used to bring turkeys close for incredible wildlife photography opportunities

Water Aerobics: Outdoor Water Fitness

  • Make a splash and move your body in this fun, feel‑good water aerobics class! Set under the open sky, this upbeat workout mixes music, movement, and lots of smiles. The water keeps things cool while helping tone muscles and boost energy—no intense swimming required. Come ready to laugh, splash, and leave feeling refreshed and empowered.

Zipline Adventure

  • Take the ride of your life at Camp Carol Joy Holling as you soar off Angel’s cliff and zoom over the depths of the ravine. *250-pound weight limit for Zipline activities