DNR to host annual “Teddy Bear Camp” for stuffed animals

Does your child have a curious stuffed animal who loves adventures, new experiences, and making new friends?

If so, make plans to send it to Teddy Bear Camp, this year set for May 11 to 22. Hosted by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) Division of Historic Preservation & Archaeology (DHPA), this “camp” will take the stuffed friend on an adventure they’ll never forget. They’ll travel the Hoosier landscape to learn about Indiana history, architecture, and archaeology and have photos taken that will commemorate their journey.

This year, Teddy Bear Camp is driving the National Road. Also known as U.S. 40, it was the nation’s first federally funded highway and cuts through the heart of Indiana from Terre Haute to Richmond. As such it has plenty of interesting stops for the stuffed animals to experience.

During camp, DHPA staff will take the stuffed animals to a variety of sites along the road, taking plenty of photos at each stop. Some of these photos of the visits will be posted to DHPA’s Facebook page (Facebook.com/INdhpa) and a digital photo album will be emailed to parents/guardians at the end of the journey along with an Indiana Junior Preservationist certificate.

To participate, complete the registration form and drop it off with your child’s stuffed animal at one of three partner locations at the dates and times below:

• Indianapolis: Indiana State Museum, 650 W. Washington St., inside the main level doors: Monday, May 11, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Tuesday, May 12, 3 to 5:30 p.m.
• Terre Haute: Vigo County Public Library, 680 Poplar St.: Monday, May 11, 4 to 6:30 p.m.
• Richmond: Morrisson-Reeves Library, 80 N. 6th St.: Tuesday, May 12, 3 to 5:30 p.m.

The program will conclude with owners picking up their stuffed animals at the same drop-off locations at the date and times below:

• Indiana State Museum, inside the main level doors: Thursday, May 21, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Friday, May 22, 3 to 5:30 p.m.
• Vigo County Public Library: Thursday, May 21, 4 to 6:30 p.m.
• Morrisson-Reeves Library: Friday, May 22, 3 to 5:30 p.m.

Additional information and the registration form for campers is at on.IN.gov/teddy-bear-camp.