The Winter Campout at Mineral Wells State Park is legendary in Wichita Nation lore. Sub-freezing overnight temps, brilliant star fields, and a camaraderie that only comes from surviving (and thriving!) in the cold together. This is the campout where boys become adventurers.
Mineral Wells State Park sits on Lake Mineral Wells and features stunning cross-timbers terrain, rocky outcroppings, and over 20 miles of trails. The chili cook-off on Saturday night — around a roaring fire while temperatures plummet — is one of the greatest traditions in the Nation.
| Time | Activity | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Fri, 2:00 PM | Arrival — stake your claim on best campsite! | Group Primitive Area |
| Fri, 6:00 PM | Stew & soup night — everyone brings a pot! | Campfire Area |
| Fri, 8:00 PM | Night hike under the stars (temps dropping!) | Turkey Peak Trail |
| Sat, 7:00 AM | Sunrise breakfast — eggs & bacon on the fire | Camp Sites |
| Sat, 9:00 AM | Turkey Peak Summit Hike (3.5 mi round trip) | Trailhead |
| Sat, 12:30 PM | Lunch at camp — preheat those Dutch ovens! | Camp Sites |
| Sat, 2:00 PM | Tribe competitions: fire-starting, knot-tying, navigation | Group Area |
| Sat, 5:30 PM | 🏆 Famous Wichita Nation Chili Cook-Off! | Big Fire Ring |
| Sat, 9:00 PM | Late-night campfire — stories, songs, stargazing | Fire Ring |
| Sun, 7:30 AM | Final breakfast — pack up starts at 9 AM | Camp Sites |
| Sun, 11:00 AM | Leave no trace — depart by 11 AM |
| Item / Task | Status | Volunteer | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chili Cook-Off registrar (track all entrants) | Open | — | |
| Chili judging panel member | Open | — | |
| Night hike leader / flashlight coordinator | Open | — | |
| Firewood — bring 3–4 bundles for the big fire | Open | — | |
| Dutch oven & cast iron expert / teacher | Filled | Walker Family | |
| First aid kit carrier | Filled | Dr. Johnson Family |