Pints for Parks Funds Improvements at Turkey Run
When Moontown Brewing Company launched the Pints for Parks series in 2020, it set out to support Indiana State Parks through innovative brewing and philanthropy. After numerous brews and strong public support, Moontown’s donations were recently leveraged to make improvements at Turkey Run State Park.
Using $2,500 raised from the series, Turkey Run staff revamped the steps leading to the park’s iconic Sunset Point last summer. The project marked the first time Pints for Parks funds have been used to make a physical impact on Indiana’s public lands.
“It was surreal to see our modest contributions help create something so beautiful at Turkey Run,” said Bobby Mattingly, general manager of Moontown Brewing. “Turkey Run is one of my favorite parks in Indiana, so it feels great knowing Moontown helped preserve it.”
Moontown’s Cody Peczkowski & Bobby Mattingly at Sunset Point
Turkey Run, with its unique geological features and diverse landscape, is one of the most popular Indiana State Parks. Having been used by hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, the steps at Sunset Point were ready for repair due to normal wear and tear.
“We wanted to focus on a project that would serve the public,” said Chris Newcomb, Turkey Run property manager. “Repairing the steps at Sunset Point was a great opportunity to partner with Moontown and make an impact on the park.”
Originally constructed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, the sandstone steps have been a staple at Turkey Run for nearly a century. With the funding from Moontown, Newcomb and property staff were able to reset many of the steps while also adding more drainage to pull water away from the area.
“We’re ecstatic about how this project is going and thankful for all of the support,” said Cody Peczkowski, Moontown’s head brewer and the man behind each of the Pints for Parks brews. “We’re excited to keep on trekking down the trail in support our Indiana State Parks.”
Each of the seven Pints for Parks series beers
Within the historic Moontown building in Whitestown, the next Pints for Parks brew is nearly ready. Moving chronologically through the state parks as they were established, the upcoming installment will feature Shakamak State Park.
Known for its relaxing water-based recreation, Shakamak offers more than 400 acres of water for fishing and boating. Staying with that theme, the team at Moontown has brewed a light and refreshing helles lager for the upcoming spring season.
You can expect Shakamak to become available this spring. Visit Moontown to enjoy the refreshing brew or to pick up a few four packs to share with friends. As Moontown brews more unique beers, its impact on Indiana’s natural spaces will continue to grow.
Learn more about the Pints for Parks series and Moontown’s continued support here.
You can support Hoosier conservation and similar projects at Indiana DNR properties by donating to the INRF. Every donation allows us to continue protecting and preserving Indiana’s natural legacy.