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 group 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. When you're ready to join, send us a New Member Agreement to acknowledge these policies and sign a Liability Waiver..
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Garden of the Gods WildernessGarden of the Gods, Herod, IL
Join the Co-op for a day hike at Garden of the Gods Wilderness in the Shawnee National Forest. The area boasts numerous bluffs and vistas above oak-hickory forests.
We'll hike in a counter-clockwise loop in the Wilderness areas.
- Distance: up to 8 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Trails 001, 108J, 001A, 152B
We'll carpool from Lowe's (Oak Grove Rd) in Evansville. It's about 2hr each direction.
===== ALL TIMES ARE LISTED IN CENTRAL DAYLIGHT (CDT) =====
WHERE/WHEN TO MEET:
- 7:00a - Carpool meets (optional)
- 7:10a - Carpool departs from Evansville
- 9:00a - Arrive at Garden of the Gods
- 11:00a - Lunch on the trail
- 3:30p - Depart for Evansville
- 5:30p - Arrive in Evansville
WHAT TO BRING:
- sturdy shoes for hiking
- water (1L minimum, for drinking) and snacks
- Packed lunch (in your day bag)
- Sunscreen and Bug spray
- walking stick (recommended) or hiking poles
- extra socks (recommended)
- water shoes + small towel (optional, for crossing creeks)
IMPORTANT NOTES:
- AGILITY: There are also some narrow trails along ledges. Good footing will be required in some sections of this trail.
- TICKS: Your only defenses are long pants and/or permethrin.
- POISON IVY: Poison ivy is prevalent along the trails; I recommend wearing long pants or socks.
- STREAM CROSSINGS: Expect stream crossings to be ankle or calf-deep. You'll want to remove your hiking shoes when crossing.
OTHER THINGS TO NOTE:
- Trails are rated as Moderate to Difficult.
- There are vault toilets available.
COST:
- No cost to use this trail system.
GROUND RULES:
- No children
- Dogs permitted, on a 6-ft non-retractable leash within recreational areas (such as parking lots, picnic areas)
MAPS / INFORMATION:
- Carpool from Lowe's (Google Maps): https://maps.app.goo.gl/M2mRWkHVYbtpN8rJA
- Trailhead (Google Maps): https://maps.app.goo.gl/PmfZ9uLVbdBex8me9
- Trail System Overview: Garden-of-the-Gods-Buzzard-Roost-Loop-Brochure.pdf
![Open Forum for Members [Summer 2025] cover photo](https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/5/b/0/event_524326512.webp "Open Forum for Members [Summer 2025]")
