COCC’s community education program offers 70+ youth camps in 2026

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) Central Oregon Community College will host youth camps from June 15 to Aug. 27, 2026. The hands-on, multi-day programs will take place at the college's campuses in Bend, Redmond, Madras and Prineville. These camps are designed for children ages 10 to 15 and start at $59.

The camps, part of COCC's community education program, aim to inspire and engage participants through a variety of activities. These include animation development, culinary creations and artistic mapmaking. Several hundred campers are already enrolled for the 2026 season.

Sarah Wolcott, program manager for community education at Central Oregon Community College, highlighted the range of opportunities available. "We have upward of 70 separate youth camps open for enrollment," Wolcott said. "And we have a number of cool new camps this year, including a partnership with the wildlife rehabilitation center Think Wild that will tour local ecosystems."

Beyond wildlife tours, other camp options include game design, photography, cyber sleuthing and theater. Culinary enthusiasts can choose from 32 camps, with themes such as "bread bonanza" and "camping cuisine." A mapmaking camp will guide participants in creating a framed illustrated map using watercolor and sketching tools.

All camps are hands-on and multiday, led by passionate instructors. The program costs start at $59, and limited scholarships are available to support participation.

To learn more about the youth camps and to register, interested individuals can visit cocc.edu/youth or call 541-383-7270.