Escape the City: Why Trading Post Outfitters is one of Indy’s Top Outdoor Getaways

When city life heats up, there’s nothing better than escaping to a place where the river runs wild, the air smells like summer, and the only schedule you need to follow is the flow of the Pigeon River.

That’s where Trading Post Outfitters comes in.

The perfect distance for a weekend road trip from Indianapolis, Chicago and Detroit — our riverside campground and canoe and kayak livery in Mongo, Indiana, has become a go-to retreat for Midwesterners looking to slow down, soak up nature, and reconnect with friends and family. Whether you’re paddling the winding curves of the Pigeon River, camping under the stars, or sipping local wine or brews at one of our special events, you’ll quickly realize why so many believe this is the best way to spend a summer weekend.

We offer five different river trips to suit every type of paddler—from quick, scenic routes to full-day adventures winding through some of Indiana’s most beautiful landscapes. Our 60-site campground features both electric RV/camper sites and primitive tent sites, nestled right along the river for a true back-to-nature experience. You’ll also be right in the heart of the Pigeon River Fish & Wildlife Area, where you can explore wildlife and take in peaceful views for miles that feel worlds away from the city.

While we’re proud to be a favorite weekend escape for those in Indianapolis and Fort Wayne, we also welcome outdoor lovers from Chicago, Detroit, and nearby cities like South Bend, Elkhart, Goshen, and Kalamazoo. No matter where you’re coming from, Mongo offers the kind of slow-paced, riverside experience that makes you want to stay a little longer (and come back every year).

We were honored to be included in a recent Redfin article highlighting the top summer things to do near Indianapolis. While there are many scenic places to explore across the state, we’re proud to be recognized among them—and even prouder to be the kind of place guests return to annually!

If you’re ready to trade traffic for paddle strokes, emails for evening campfires, and city noise for the sound of local wildlife, come visit us this season! We’re open from late April through early October, and reservations are highly recommended — especially for weekends and special events.

See you on the river!