We are a Manatee/Sarasota county program aimed at fostering and strengthening the family relationship through camping! We are a local chapter of the Native Sons and Daughters which is administered by the National Longhouse. The original program plan of sons learning directly from their father was patterned from the tradition of some North American Indian cultural groups. We camp one weekend a month seven times a year (October, November, January, February, March, April, and May) on a variety of properties and campground in the Manatee and Sarasota area. Our groups include a good mix of tent campers, pop-ups, RVs; and has recently changed our focus to a family camping experience. Here are some events/activities you can expect throughout the year:
Themed campouts
Huge bonfires
Campfire ceremonies
Pumpkin carvings
Halloween trails
Thanksgiving extravaganza
Tribal games and contests (e.g. Olympics, Chili Cook-Offs, and Chicken Wings)
Model rocket launches
Fireworks
Canoeing/Kayaking Adventures
Pinewood Derby
We currently have three tribes within our organization: Chickasaw, Miccosukee, and Shawnee. Each tribe has a unique way methodology and more information can be found on each tribal page. All tribes attend the Saturday evening bonfire for the monthly federation ceremony.
