Survival Intro & Shelters

Hosted by Eco Elsa

Get into the survival mindset with team challenges and mental warm-ups—then learn how to build a sturdy shelter using only what nature provides. Can you construct one in under an hour?

 

Fire & Water

Hosted by Eco Elsa

Master two of the most crucial survival priorities: safely starting a fire and purifying water. Learn reliable methods to meet your basic needs no matter where you are.

 

Foraging 101

Hosted by Eco Elsa

Learn the basics of foraging safety and a baseline of wild edibles to harvest and enjoy! Then go on a walk around the Campfire Bay Resort property and take a taste yourself. Foraging is perfect for nature lovers, foodies, and anyone wanting to boost their self-reliance in the outdoors.

 

Mushroom Foraging

Hosted by Eco Elsa

Mushrooms can be a meal—or a mistake. Learn the basics of safe mushroom identification and preparation, including poisonous look alikes to avoid and safe edibles to harvest, so you can journey forth with confidence.

*Offered Saturday Only, 1:15PM

 

Orienteering and Navigation

Hosted by Eco Elsa

Learn to read a map and use a compass like a pro. Build confidence navigating trails and terrain—even when technology fails you.

 

Campfire Cooking

Hosted by Eco Elsa

Take your outdoor cooking to the next level! Come learn how to cook your own breakfast over a fire, explore different cooking methods, and understand the science behind campfire cuisine. Class is a mixture of breakfast foods with a variety of options for different dietary restrictions.

 

Bushcrafting Survival Tools

Hosted by Eco Elsa

Turn sticks and stones into survival essentials. Discover how to make tools that can help you secure food, start fires, or purify water in a wilderness emergency.

 

Hunting Tools

Hosted by Eco Elsa

Learn about early hunting tools and how they work, then put your stealth and aim to the test with fun, hands-on games designed to mimic hunting scenarios.

 

Herbology: Not Just a Course at Hogwarts!

Hosted by LuAnn Raadt

Herbology was a core subject at Hogwarts School, where Harry Potter and his classmates were instructed in the care of unusual plants and learned how to harness their magical qualities. Although Hogwarts magic is fictional, numerous real plants, some growing right here in Minnesota, do indeed possess astonishing powers.

 

Making Herbal Remedies: It's Not Rocket Science!

Hosted by LuAnn Raadt

Tinctures, oils, and salves... oh my! Herbalism may appear daunting, but it doesn't have to be. Anyone interested in creating their own herbal remedies can easily do so. After learning how to recognize the healing plants growing all around us, you'll find out how to make a tincture, an herb-infused oil, and a salve. 

Take away: 4 oz jar of tincture made of aerial parts of a plant that looks good at that time, perhaps plantain.

Also a 1 oz tin of herbal salve, likely plantain or yarrow as both are so useful.  

*Offered Sunday Only, 10:45AM

 

I Really Dig Root Medicine

Hosted by LuAnn Raadt

In autumn, as days shorten and temperatures drop, plants shift their energy and resources from their above-ground growth to their roots. This is a survival strategy to prepare for winter dormancy and ensure the plant's ability to regrow in the spring. This is the prime time for harvesting roots, when their medicinal qualities are most potent. In this outdoor exploration class, you will discover how to find and gather medicinal roots, and make your own dandelion root tincture.

Take away: 4 oz jar of dandelion root tincture

 

Surviving Winter Well

Hosted by LuAnn Raadt

Between the warm glow of autumn and the freshness of spring are the winter months—what some people call “the cold and flu season.” Nature provides ways to help your body strengthen its immune system and fight off illness. Learn about some health-supporting plants and discover creative ways of using them in supporting your health.

Take away: 8 oz jar of onion, garlic, and sage infused honey

 

Fire Cider: Make and Take

Hosted by LuAnn Raadt

Fire Cider is a zesty tonic packed with anti-inflammatory and digestion-enhancing vegetables, herbs, and spices. It helps prevent and alleviate colds by strengthening the immune system. Additionally, it can soothe sore throats, combat infections, open sinuses, stimulate blood circulation, and promote overall health. In this interactive workshop, you'll discover the potent ingredients and create your own quart jar of Fire Cider to take home, with all supplies provided.

Take away:  1 quart jar Fire Cider

 

Elderberry Syrup: Make and Take

Hosted by LuAnn Raadt

Elderberry has been a trusted natural remedy for centuries, known for its effectiveness in treating and preventing colds, coughs, and the flu. In this interactive workshop, you'll explore the benefits of this fruit and create your own 8-ounce bottle of Elderberry Syrup to take home, with all supplies provided.

Take away: 8 oz bottle of elderberry syrup

 

Survival First Aid

Hosted by Eco Elsa

Accidents happen. Learn how to treat injuries with limited resources and what essentials to carry in a survival first aid kit—because knowing what to do and practicing those skills can make all the difference.

 

Survival Challenge

Hosted by Eco Elsa

Put everything you’ve learned to the test! Teams must tackle a variety of survival stations—from fire and shelter to water, food, and navigation—while working together to "survive" the scenario. Guided and safe, but full of adventure and surprises, this is a survival "escape room" for anyone excited for an adventure!

 

Plant Walk and Talk

Hosted by LuAnn Raadt

Enjoy an outdoor walk while you learn about the local plants growing around Campfire Bay Resort. In this guided interactive experience, you will learn to identify medicinal plants, note their characteristics, understand their use.

 

Ethnoastronomy for Survival

Hosted by Eco Elsa

Gather under the stars to learn how the Dakota and Ojibwe viewed the constellations. Then, learn more about how they used them to navigate, and determine seasonal shifts!

 

Night Hike

Hosted by Eco Elsa

Step into the wild after dark! Experience the woods in a whole new way as you sharpen your senses, play night-themed games, and enjoy the magic of nature at night.

 

Campfire Donuts

FREE | Unlimited Slots Available | Campfire Bay

Gather down by the lake for a roaring fire and fresh fried donuts!

*Offered Friday Night Only, No Registration Required

 

Knot Tying and What to Pack

Hosted by Eco Elsa

From tying bear bags to building shelters, knots can be lifesavers. Learn four essential knots and test your skills through interactive games—plus pack smarter with our must-have daypack tips to be prepared for a survival situation.