Hayrides on the Prairie

If you are looking for a new way to enjoy fall in Darke County, the Friends of the Park and the Darke County Red Cross cordially invite you to “Hayrides on the Prairie.’ Take pleasure in a wonderful “old-fashioned” journey on the back of a tractor-drawn wagon, surrounded by the beautiful fall colors of Shawnee Prairie. After your ride enjoy the bonfire, listen and share stories or tour the Park’s authentic log cabin. Treat your family to an adventure back to a simpler, more relaxed time, reconnect and enjoy nature’s ever changing show!

“Hayrides on the Prairie” is open the last four Saturday, weather permitting. Rides begin at 400 p.m. and last wagon goes out at 7:00 p.m. Tickets may be purchased in advance or at the gate: $4.00 adults or 12 and under $2.00. Tickets are available at Shawnee Prairie Nature Center and the Darke County Red Cross Chapter. General admission wagons fill as people arrive. Pre-scheduled group reservations are also available; each wagon costs $75.00 with a maximum of twenty-five per wagon. Shelter reservations are also available for a fee of $50.00, picnic tables and fire ring provided in shelter house.

For one night only, on October 23rd, from 4:00 to 7:00 a special bean supper with beverage and dessert will be served from the Log Cabin for an additional donation, reservations are requested, but not required. And on October 30th, children under 12 who arrive in costume will be admitted for only $1.00. There will special activities that evening for children and a costume contest!

For those into social media tune in to “Hayrides on the Prairie” by following at twitter.com, account DarkeCyRedCross for ticket give-aways, coupons and other announcements or you can also follow at the Chapter’s Facebook account. This special fundraiser is a joint venture benefiting both your local Red Cross and the Friends of the Darke County Parks. For more information or to schedule group reservations, call the Red Cross at 937.548.1002.