OPINION: EXTENSION: Looking for fun this summer? Go To 4-H Camp!!!

May 2—It's not too early to start thinking about summer activities. Do you want your child to have a fun week with lots of hands-on activities and adventures? Then Laurel County's 4-H Camp is for you! 4-H camp could be the perfect summer activity for your child if they enjoy making friends and participating in exciting activities such as our carnival night and fireworks show.

Exciting activities and adventures await 4-H campers. During 4-H camp, youth will learn new skills and develop a greater appreciation for the environment and wildlife. Also, 4-H Camp can help your child develop independence, responsibility, self-confidence, and camaraderie among peers. Trained staff and volunteers will supervise the campers and strive to make sure each 4-H'er has a safe and happy camping experience.

Laurel County 4-H campers will attend J. M. Feltner 4-H Camp from July 2- July 5, 2024. Campers will take fun classes each day as well as participate in special programs each night. This year's special nighttime programs include a carnival evening, a fireworks show, and back by popular demand — messy games.

There will be numerous classes offered at camp this year. Youth will have their choice of any four of the classes offered. Some of the classes offered are as follows:

—Archery: Perhaps one of the world's oldest sports, archery is still popular today. Learn the skills to hit the bull's eye: A certified instructor teaches the class.

—Canoeing: Learn fine boating and canoeing skills on the camp's beautiful lake. A certified lifeguard teaches this course.

—Challenge Course: There is a high ropes challenge course and a low ropes course. Youth will get the chance to participate in the climbing wall and zip line.

—Crafts: Students will construct one or two classic camp craft items in this enjoyable session. They will get to take home what they make.

—Fishing: Learn new skills in fishing. Try your luck at catching fish from the lake.

—Riflery: The rifle range is the site for these individualized rifle sessions. A certified rifle safety instructor will be conducting the class.

—Cooking: Learn to make delicious treats to have for future camping trips.

These are just a few of the many classes offered at 4-H Camp. There will be several other classes available for youth to take during the week. The cost of 4-H Camp is $150 per person. This includes lodging, meals, snacks, and classes.

The deadline to register for 4-H Camp is June 14, 2024, or until all beds are full. Applications can be turned in at the Laurel County Extension Office located at 200 County Extension Road. Or you may join us for one of our camp registration days on May 21, May 23, or June 3 from 6-8 p.m. at the Laurel County Extension office. There is limited space available for 4-H Camp, and it's on a first-come, first-serve basis.

For more information on the Laurel County 4-H summer camp or how your child can join a local 4-H club, contact the Cooperative Extension Service at 864-4167 or email Elizabeth Easley at [email protected].