Celebrate America 250 with Douglas Brinkley at Camp Perry
Thank you for an Amazing 2026 Event!
NYT best-selling author and historian Douglas Brinkley will be joining us via live streamed video for a special presentation on –
The Battle of Lake Erie: Its Impact on our Nation
Dive into the fascinating story of The Battle of Lake Erie as Brinkley brings history to life with his engaging insights about one of the most definitive naval battles to occur in U.S. waters during our nation’s history in the battle of 1812.
Additional special guests to look forward to are:
-Ohio Department of Natural Resources Director Mary Mertz will share insights about the Ohio State Parks, which were named the best state parks in the nation and won the National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management in 2025.
-Re-enactors from the era of the Battle of 1812 will share their knowledge of the time period and will appear in full costume and be available for photos.
Event Details
Date: Sunday, August 16, 2026
Location: Camp Perry Lodging and Conference Center ; 1000 Lawrence Rd Bldg. 600, Port Clinton, OH 43452
Time: 2:30 – 5:30 p.m.
About the Event
As part of the America 250 celebration, the Ohio State Parks Foundation invites guests to explore the history, impact and legacy of the Battle of Lake Erie. Fought on September 10, 1813, the battle secured American control of Lake Erie during the War of 1812 and became a defining moment in American history.
Douglas Brinkley who will live stream video will bring this historic story to life through an engaging presentation and audience Q&A.
Guests traveling from outside the region are encouraged to arrive early and enjoy nearby historic destinations and attractions, including: Glacial Grooves Geological Preserve (Kellys Island State Park), Lonz Winery and Museum (Middle Bass State Park), Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial
Agenda
1:30 p.m.
Historical Walking Tour of Camp Perry
Registration is required for this limited capacity exclusive tour hosted by OSPF. Available to VIP ticket holders through Monday July 27; open to all starting Tuesday, July 28.
2:30 – 3:30 p.m.
VIP & Sponsor Reception
All VIP ticket holders will receive a copy of Rightful Heritage, authored by Douglas Brinkley.
3:30 – 4:15 p.m.
Doors Open
4:15 – 5 p.m.
Presentation & Q&A with Douglas Brinkley
5 – 5:30 p.m.
Book Signing
Support Ohio State Parks
A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Ohio State Parks Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to making Ohio’s 76 state parks more welcoming and accessible through projects focused on education, art & history, accessibility, sustainability and health & wellness.
Become a Member
Become a supporting member of the Ohio State Parks Foundation and help preserve and enhance Ohio’s state parks for future generations.
Memberships start at $75.
