Campfires: White River Float (Indianapolis)

Event Details

Join us for a float through Naptown on the White River! We’ll make our way through a portion of the Butler-Tarkington, Rocky Ripple and Riverside neighborhoods as we explore our community from a new angle and consider the ways that we can continue to connect with and preserve our local waterways.

The day will begin with a safety training before we head down the river in six-person rafts. We’ll float for approximately two to three hours, pausing periodically to hear about restoration efforts on the White River and to read and discuss environmental writings. We’ll conclude the program with a shared meal and discussion around a campfire.

Our float will be co-led by two of our partners at Friends of the White River: environmental justice director Kay Hawthorne and executive director Scott Salmon.

Indiana Humanities will provide all rafting materials, including life vests and oars. In addition to the equipment, your ticket price includes a campfire meal, Upland Brewing Company beers and snacks.

WHERE: The Parks Alliance of Indianapolis (we’ll park at the Parks Alliance building, shuttle to the river entry near Rocky Ripple Town Hall, then float downriver to end with a campfire and conversation at the Parks Alliance building)

WHEN: Saturday, June 22, 2024, 8 a.m.–2 p.m. EDT

SCHOLAR-FACILITATORS: Kay Hawthorne

FLOAT DIFFICULTY: Easy, although participants do need to complete a waiver, which you can view and complete here.

THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND:

• A limited number of free tickets are available based on need; please contact Sam Opsahl at sopsahl@indianahumanities.org.
• Space is limited and advance registration is required. If all tickets are claimed, we’ll add you to the waitlist and notify you if tickets become available.
• All participants should bring appropriate footwear that can get wet (no Crocs or flip-flops), comfortable outdoor clothing (it will get wet and dirty), a filled reusable water bottle (no glass, please) and sun protection (hat, sunblock, etc).

• Life vests and paddles are required and provided, but participants are welcome to bring their own. Dry bags will also be provided.
• We’ll send a final confirmation two days before the event with driving and parking instructions and any other updates.

• In 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. If the event is canceled, we’ll offer a refund or a ticket to another Campfires event of your choice.
• This event is designed for ages 12 and older.
• Upland Brewing Company beer will be available to attendees 21 and older following the float.
• Refunds are not available after 72 hours in advance (unless Indiana Humanities cancels the event).