Horn Island Camp Out

A 4 Day | 3 Night primitive camping trip to Walter Anderson’s beloved safe haven, Horn Island, hosted by the Walter Anderson Museum of Art. Spend a weekend walking in Anderson’s footsteps exploring the sand dunes, sleeping under the stars, and painting the flora and fauna of the island depicted in Anderson’s vibrant watercolors. Join us and bring your own camping, fishing, and art-making supplies. Participants receive a complimentary museum pass to use at their leisure.

Our guides are Heather and Jason Martin.  Heather is a working artist, owner of Ethotera Studio in Downtown Ocean Springs, longtime islander, past museum educator, and expert on Walter Anderson. Additional guides may include John Anderson (son of Walter Anderson), WAMA staff, and partners.

Water, travel, and some meals are included. Individuals who register can expect additional contact following registration and prior to the trip with a list of recommended supplies, expectations, and additional guidance. 

Questions in the meantime? Contact Education Director, Tony DiFatta at tony@walterandersonmuseum.org 

Cost: $450 per person

“I made a drawing of a bittern nest while the flies stung, later a watercolor under my boat while the rain poured.... Such is the life of an artist who prefers nature to art. He really should cultivate his love of art more but feels that it will take care of itself as long as it has things to feed upon.” – Walter Inglis Anderson

NOTE: Keep in mind that this will be primitive camping. This means no running water and electricity. Bugs, animals, small cacti litter the ground, limited shade, and whatever else mother nature decides to throw our way.  It will probably rain and could be extremely windy so be prepared for this type of adventure!

Walter Anderson found comfort and fulfillment from his trips, because he frequented the island multiple times a year and for weeks at a time. If you are not a seasoned camper or do not have any recent experience, please be mindful of the experience holistically before you commit.

Tentative itinerary:

Friday, October 13, 2023

• Meet at Biloxi Small Craft Harbor 6AM (https://goo.gl/maps/jvz8eHR179nFmpnx7)
• Leave the harbor 7AM
• Arrive at Horn Island at approximately 9AM
• All participants help unload boat and set up base camp
• Meeting with all participants
• Eat an early lunch (Catered sandwiches and chips)
• Set up personal camps

Saturday and Sunday

• Coffee is served at base camp for 7-9AM
• Island fun, exploration, and arting - We are on Island time so relax and enjoy!
• Dinner TBD

Monday, October 16

• Break down individual camps and base camp
• Boat arrives around 1PM

We will be setting up a base camp on the east end and north side of the island. Emergency supplies such as first aid and water will be stored here. Some may choose to camp on the south side of the island, in the dunes, a hike on sand from base camp (a little less than a mile, one way). Some will want to camp on the north side closer to base camp, where you can still find seclusion.

We are taking a large boat and will use a dinghy to get from the anchored boat to the shore.  It will be a team effort to unload all gear and supplies before setting up personal camps. You will be responsible for carrying your own gear. Pack well and pack light!  Each person is only allowed to bring personal gear, no excessive equipment or baggage is allowed.

NOTE: WAMA will provide a picnic lunch on Friday, dinner on Saturday and Sunday nights, water, coffee (bring what you like to add to your coffee), and a late lunch on Monday afternoon. 

This ultimately means you will only need to bring items for dinner on Friday;  breakfast on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday; lunch for Saturday and Sunday, and snacks. If you have dietary restrictions, please plan accordingly and notify us in advance so we can accommodate you.

All details are subject to change. Inclement weather may postpone or cancel the trip and a refund will be provided.  If you decide to cancel your trip, you will receive a 50% refund.

This event is sponsored by the Mississippi Chapter of the Sierra Club.