From the sandy dunes in the north to the rolling hills in the south, Indiana’s landscapes have inspired generations of Hoosiers. The literature they’ve written and the state parks system they founded for the 1916 Centennial are legacies we enjoy today. What will we leave for the future? Next Indiana Campfires is a unique way to connect nature, literature and Indiana’s Bicentennial.

Trek and talk with us! During the outing, a humanities scholar will serve as facilitator and lead attendees on pre-determined route by foot and stop periodically to read aloud the words of important Hoosier authors. We’ll be joined by a naturalist who will point out interesting features along our walk. Participants will then gather to discuss connections between nature, literature and place.

About the excursion: Join Indiana Humanities and Prophetstown State Park for a sunset hike across the restored prairies, concluding with a discussion inside the Native American council house on site. Campfire meal and Upland Beer included.

Difficulty level: Easy

Facilitator: Shari Wagner, Indiana Poet Laureate

Excursion details: Come dressed for the outdoors! We recommend the proper footwear, sunscreen and bug spray. Please bring your own filled, reusable water bottle to take with you on the outing.

Final reminders including parking instructions and important event details will be emailed to you the week prior to the event.

A limited number of free tickets are available based on need per outing. Please contact Leah Nahmias, Indiana Humanities director of programs and community engagement, at lnahmias@indianahumanities.org.

Events are designed for ages 12 and up. Beer available to those 21 and up.

*Please note: In the case of inclement weather, Indiana Humanities will cancel the event and alert you via email at least two hours prior to the event start time. You will be offered a ticket to another Next Indiana Campfire of your choice. The excursion must be of similar value.

Next Indiana Campfires is generously supported by the Efroymson Family Fund, Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust, Pulitzer Prizes Centennial Campfires and the Ball Brothers Foundation. Upland Brewing Co. will be providing in-kind support as the alcoholic beverage sponsor. Indiana Humanities is supported in part by Lilly Endowment, Inc. and the National Endowment of the Humanities.