What we’re about
Welcome to the Evansville Outdoors Co-op, a fresh new cooperative of outdoor enthusiasts dedicated to helping you find inspiration in the great outdoors.
Whether you're a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or just starting your journey, we at Evansville Outdoors believe that everyone should have the opportunity to explore in a supportive and open environment.
Our mission is simple: to create a space where every member feels valued, supported, heard, and, above all, inspired. With Evansville Outdoors, you're not just joining a club; you're becoming part of a cooperative whose goal is to make unforgettable outdoor experiences available to everybody.
What makes us different?
- Inclusive Adventures: Dive into new experiences in a friendly and encouraging atmosphere where there's something for everyone.
- Family Fun: We're passionate about nurturing the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts with family-friendly events that ignite the love for nature.
- Your Voice Matters: This is your club! Members and organizers collaborate to shape our path. We elect officers and vote on important decisions—no top-down approach here!
- Safety & Respect: Our priority is your safety and ensuring a respectful environment, guaranteeing everyone's positive experience.
Adventure awaits with Evansville Outdoors!
If you're interested in joining, please check out our Rules and Guidelines, and Liability Waiver.
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Diamond Valley Park [Cross-Posted from Evansville Trails Coalition]Diamond Valley Park, Evansville, IN
This event is hosted by Evansville Trails Coalition. If you wish to attend with your fellow Co-op crew, RSVP here and meet us at the event. We'll be joining the Trailblazers and possibly other outdoors groups.
2024 Spring Urban Hikes in Parks
- Where: Diamond Valley Park
- When: May 19, 2PM
- Cost: Free
Meet at the Diamond Valley Park. Park on-street on Fulton Parkway next to the park.
Difficulty: easy, walking pace
Distance: 1-2 miles with TrailblazersGround Rules:
- Guests are welcome.
- Leashed dogs are welcome.
See www.walkbikeevv.org/activities for additional event details.
- Hiking Day Trip to Turkey Run & Shades State Parks (rated #1 & #6 in Indiana)Turkey Run State Park Nature Center, Marshall, IN
Let's embark on a full-day hiking adventure in central Indiana at Turkey Run and Shades State Park!
Turkey Run and Shades are two of Indiana's gems and since they are only 20 minutes away from each other, let's make the 3 hour driving worth it and hit both!We'll tackle two intermediate-level loop trails, stretching over a combined distance of 10.2 miles. AllTrails estimates our two hikes will take about 4 hours and 30 minutes to complete.
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THIS IS AN ALL-DAY, ADVANCED HIKING TRIP WITH 10.2 MILES OF HIKING AND 6 HOURS OF TOTAL DRIVE TIME. IF YOU ARE CONSIDERING TO JOIN BUT ARE HESITANT DUE TO THE LENGTH OR THE CHOSEN TRAILS, PLEASE USE THE COMMENTS OR CHAT FUNCTION TO SHARE ALTERNATIVE SUGGESTIONS. DEPENDING ON YOUR FEEDBACK, I MAY MAKE ADJUSTMENTS TO THIS INITIAL PLAN!
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Join the Co-op for a day hike at Turkey Run and Shades State Parks, the #1 and #6 rated state parks in Indiana, according to AllTrails.
Plan to meet at Lowe's at 7:00a (CT). We'll carpool to Turkey Run to start our day of hiking. It is going to be an almost 3-hour drive but it should be worth it! Hiking begins by 10:30a (CT). Lunch will be eaten after the first hike.
We'll start at Turkey Run with the 5 Mile Challenge (5.5mi; ~2:30 hours; Moderate; 4.7/5 on AllTrails) and conclude with the 6 Ravine Challenge (4.7mi; ~2:00 hours; Moderate; 4.7/5 on AllTrails).***
BOTH STATE PARKS ARE IN THE EASTERN TIME ZONE, BUT WE WILL STICK TO CENTRAL TIME (CT)
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WHERE/WHEN TO MEET:
7:00a - Meet at Lowe's to carpool
10:15a - Arrive at Turkey Run State Park Nature Center
10:30a - Begin first hike (5 Mile Challenge)
1:30p - Conclude first hike and have lunch on parking lot
2:00p - Drive to Hickory Parking Lot at Shades State Park
2:30p - Begin second hike (6 Ravine Challenge)
5:00p - Conclude second hike and return to Evansville
8:30p - arrive in Evansville
OPTIONAL: Have dinner on the way or when back on the East Side in Evansville (e.g., Thai or Mexican)WHO SHOULD JOIN:
- People who enjoy longer and somewhat challenging hikes and don't mind driving 2x3 hours to see some of Indiana's most highly rated state parks.
WHAT TO BRING:
- Sturdy shoes for hiking
- Water (for drinking) and snacks
- Packed lunch (in your day bag)
- Sunscreen and Bug spray
- Walking stick or hiking poles (optional)
- Clean shoes for the car ride
OTHER THINGS TO NOTE:
- Trails are rated moderate and rugged. Trails may be slick, muddy, and steep in some spots. Trails may involve climbing ladders and stairs. Please consult links below for further details!
- Again, please be aware of the ruggedness of these trails. Some have clef-like precipices. Some are muddy stream beds. In rainy season, some will be wading in rushing water.
- Public restrooms should be available at both parks. We'll also make a pit stop on our way.
COST:
- $7 per Indiana-registered vehicle
- $9 per out of state vehicle
We'll split these fees per vehicle if we carpool.
GROUND RULES:
- No children.
- Dogs permitted only upon approval from organizer.
- Dogs are allowed in both state parks but must be on a leash at all times. E-collars are not a substitute for a leash.
- Leave no trace, and pack out all your trash.
MAPS / INFORMATION:
- Lowe's Oak Grove (Carpool)
- Turkey Run 5 Mile Challenge
- Turkey Run Trails 4, 8, 10, 9 and 5 (a.k.a. 5 Mile Challenge)
- Turkey Run Trailhead on Google Maps
- Turkey Run Trail Map (DNR)
- Turkey Run Official Website
- 6 Ravine Challenge on AllTrails
- Shades Trailhead on Google Maps
- Shades Trail Map (DNR)
- Shades Official Website
