National Motor Camp
Re-creating America's Golden Age of Tourism
September 13-17, 2023
A different kind of Living History experience
At the National Motor Camp, the goal is to simply lose ourselves in the early 20th century and enjoy the early days of touring, camping, fishing, and taking in the sights. By the 1890's Americans were beginning to explore the nation's new National Parks and by the early 1910's, the ubiquitous Flivver had made it possible for Americans of average means to travel like they never had before. We hope to gain a little of that exciting time for a few days as we explore Southern Indiana's countryside, camp in a gorgeous, private, park-like setting, experience some of the movies and music of a century ago, and make some new memories with friends around a campfire. We sure hope to see you there!
NOTE: This event is NOT open to the general public. This is for participants only. Thanks for understanding!
Upcoming Events
Wed, Sep 13EnglishSep 13, 2023, 9:00 AM – Sep 17, 2023, 1:00 PMEnglish, 3213 IN-237, English, IN 47118, USA
What to expect:
Historical Style Camping - We have over 60 acres of rolling farmland and shady woods for perfect campsites. Locations are first-come, first-served, however, we will have areas set aside for folks who don't want to be near campfires, due to the potential for damage to antique vehicles or trailers, as well as an area for modern tents. We highly recommend period camping. A simple canvas tarp pitched off the side of an auto, or made into a plowpoint against a tree is sufficient. Modern tents will be set up in the modern vehicle parking area, which is not the prime camping area. Period clothing is required the whole weekend. You don't have to have an antique car or trailer to participate, and you don't have to camp, but you will probably really enjoy it!
Mini Tours - The first three days will be devoted to touring. Starting Wednesday and going through Friday, we will have a small day-trip through scenic backwoods roads to local, historic Indiana towns. You are welcome to attend as many or as few tours as you wish. Tours will include food and sightseeing stops. If you want to attend a tour, but don't have a period automobile, you may follow behind the tour in a modern vehicle, or maybe hitch a ride with someone who has an empty seat!
Entertainment and Fun - On Saturday, all activities are planned in camp. Actual schedule to be determined, but we plan on having historical music performances, a silent moving picture, and a pot luck supper. More to come on this as we get things scheduled!
Camaraderie and a Darn Good Time - If you're a long-time reenactor, or even a fairly new one, you know the best times are when you get to sit around a campfire, swap stories, sing a few songs, and enjoy each others' company and the experience of being a century away. If you haven't had the opportunity to experience this, then you're in for a treat! Come join in the fun.
Addendum for First-Timers - If you have never put together any sort of period outfit before, and you don't know where to start, check out our YouTube videos under 20th Century Adventures. It is really easy to put together a simple outfit.