Bent Twig Outdoor Education Center
For safety reasons, the following information is required to confirm your
reservation:
The Bent Twig Outdoor Education Center on the campus of the University of
Southern Indiana is an ideal place for family gatherings, school and scout
outings, and other special events. We welcome groups to campus and encourage
their use of the facilities in the Outdoor Education Center. The natural
terrain in this area of campus is filled with many of the beauties and hazards
that are inherent in wilderness areas. We caution guests to be mindful of
these features (rocky cliffs, unpaved trails, and natural vegetation such as
posion ivy). Adult supervision is required for children under the age of 18.
Fires are NOT permitted without prior permission from the USI director of
Safety and Security. Permission to use the fireplace and campfire pits can be
requested when confirming the reservation. The area is densely wooded and a
spark from a campfire could create a situation that might be hazardous to your
group. Current weather and ground conditions will be evaluated, and you will
be notified the day of the event by the Office of Safety and Security about
the use of fire. Please call 812/465-7080 or email Scheduling Services for rental information.
Virgil C. Eicher Barn
The Virgil C. Eicher Barn is typical of the many pioneer structures found in
the Appalachian regions. Its two enclosed areas and covered center make it a
popular picnic area, regardless of the weather. Named to honor a natualist who
helped plan the Bent Twig Outdoor Education Center, it was moved from the
George Schmitt Farm on Bayou Creek Road, then reassembled on campus. Furnished
with electrical outlets and picnic tables, Eicher Barn is perfect for informal
family gatherings. There are volleyball poles (a net is not provided). A small
play area is located behind the shelter house. Outdoor restrooms are located
in a shelter house next to Eicher Barn, and can be unlocked by Security. The
rental fee for the Virgil C. Eicher Barn is $50 per day.
Paul Grimes Log Haus
The Paul Grimes Log Haus is typical of houses built by early Hoosier pioneers.
The relocated Posey County house, homestead of the Clarence Kuebler family,
was dismantled and reconstructed on campus in 1976 as a Bicenntennial project.
Used for meetings and events year-round, it is named to honor the late Paul
Grimes, USI's first physical plant superintendent. This two-story wooden
structure includes two rooms upstairs, two rooms downstairs, a kitchen with
appliances, and a small bathroom. The house has electricity, air
conditioning/heat, and plumbing. Folding tables and chairs are available.
There is a ramp leading up to the front porch; however, the house and its
bathroom are not handicapped-accessible. The rental fee for the Paul Grimes
Log Haus is $60 per day.
Westwood Lodge
Westwood Lodge is a popular place for cookouts, meetings, and retreats. Many
community groups use the lodge throughout the year. Named in honor of the
Westwood Garden Club which has overseen the development of the Bent Twig
Outdoor Education Center, it is situated on a steep, rocky incline. The rustic
building has no heat, air-conditioning, or restrooms. It has electricity, a
large double-sided fireplace, and tables and chairs are avaiable. A rustic,
outdoor amphitheatre is located directly behind the lodge. Nearby outdoor
restrooms can be unlocked by Security. The rental fee for Westwood Lodge is
$50 per day.
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8600 University Boulevard - Evansville, IN 47712-3596 - 812/464-8600
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