In The Host’s Own Words

Hear how the idea took shape and what makes this project unique.

Your Hosts

Welcome to The Woods — a peaceful 40-acre forest retreat in southern Indiana.

We, Tony and Raymond, invite you to spend time here and enjoy the beauty that surrounds you. The Woods is a gently rolling, forested property with more than 35 native tree species. It borders the Jackson-Washington State Forest and is surrounded by forested hills in every direction.

If you come early or stay after the workshop, there’s plenty to explore. Hike the nearby Knobstone Trail — Indiana’s longest footpath — just a quarter mile from the property. Visit historic working gristmills at Beck’s Mill or Spring Mill State Park, or go ghost-hunting in Scottsburg’s storied historic district.

After a day of hands-on straw bale work relax in what we call the Ancestral Gardens, named in honor of the native tribes who used to live on this land and because many of the blooming plants and bushes have been tied to our families for generations.

Bring a fishing pole to unwind at the pond, casting for bass and bluegill under the trees. Enjoy a friendly game of horseshoes or cornhole. We’ll share healthy meals, some sweetened with honey from our own bees.

Red and Blacky, our resident roosters, will greet you each morning to start a new day of learning, connection, and community.

It’s our dream that The Woods becomes a place of learning — where people come to grow in skill and spirit, listening to what the land itself teaches.

The Build

Our 1,400-square-foot home will be nestled along the forest’s edge, overlooking a meadow of native flowers and a pond that provides our water. The larger trees removed for construction will become flooring and ceiling beams; smaller ones will heat the home through winter. Straw bales sourced from a nearby Indiana farmer will insulate the walls.

The open meadow allows sun to reach the solar panels that power our off-grid home while supporting pollinators, birds, and wildlife along the forest edge.

We learned so much at the straw bale workshop in Delta, Colorado. Timbo’s deep knowledge and willingness to share have given us confidence to move forward. We invite you to join us here — to build community, learn new skills, and see firsthand that you, too, can create your dream home.

Your Stay

Camping will be available on the property surrounded by trees and wildlife. Evenings can be spent fishing at the pond, relaxing by the fire, or enjoying games and conversation with new friends. Meals will feature fresh, healthy ingredients — and a little honey from our bees.

Local Attractions

There’s plenty to discover nearby:

Knobstone Hiking Trail – Indiana’s longest footpath runs just a quarter mile west of the property. It spans 160 miles through rugged, forested bluffs with multiple access points for day hikes and camping.

Delaney Creek Park – 10 miles away, with an 88-acre lake for fishing, swimming, and boating. Cabins and campsites available.

Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at Raintree Lake – 7 miles away. Offers RV and tent sites, cabins, swimming pool, and EV charging.

Beck’s Mill – 20 miles away. Historic 1808 gristmill open for tours.

Spring Mill State Park – 30 miles away. Pioneer village with water-powered mill, camping, hiking, and caves.

John Hay Center – 11 miles away in Salem. Birthplace and museum complex dedicated to local history.

Salem Speedway – 15 miles away, hosting local and national events.

Other attractions include Scottsburg Heritage Station and the Scott County Heritage Center and Museum.

Travel

Louisville International Airport (SDF) – 50 minutes, 47 miles. Shuttle service to The Woods is available for $50.

Indianapolis International Airport (IND) – About 1 hour 30 minutes, 100 miles.

Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) – Just over 2 hours, about 100 miles.

Nearby Accommodations

Campbell’s Motel – 300 N Gardner St, Scottsburg, IN 47170 — Free Wi-Fi, breakfast included.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Scottsburg – 200 S Beechwood Ave, Scottsburg, IN 47170 — Pool, fitness center, breakfast, kid- and pet-friendly.

Hampton Inn & Suites Scottsburg – 1535 W McClain Ave, Scottsburg, IN 47170 — Pool, gym, free breakfast, family-friendly, pet-friendly.

Knights Inn & Suites – 1209 W Mulberry St, Salem, IN 47167 — Pet-friendly, breakfast, Wi-Fi.

SureStay by Best Western – 1015 E Hackberry St, Salem, IN 47167 — EV charging, breakfast, parking, pet-friendly, non-smoking.

MOBILE SPACER

Making Your Decision

Sign Me Up For Summer Camp With Tools