How to bid on the Fort Harrison Saddle Barn concession with Natural Resources

What the agency is buying and why it matters

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is seeking bids for a four-year concession contract to operate the Fort Harrison Saddle Barn. This contract is expected to begin on April 1, 2027. This is an opportunity for a private sector individual or company to provide services to park visitors under a license and concession agreement with the State of Indiana.

Concessionaires at IDNR properties operate various services, including camp stores, beach snacks, saddle barns, and boat rentals. This specific opportunity focuses on the operation of the saddle barn.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

The deadline for submitting bids is November 02, 2026, at 3:00 PM ET. All questions regarding this opportunity must be submitted at least seven days prior to this response due date and time. A completed bid package must be submitted by the deadline.

All quoted prices offered to the State must be valid for thirty calendar days after the response due date. Pricing must include all applicable charges, fees, and shipping.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for individuals or companies with experience in operating saddle barns or similar recreational concessions. Firms in the food and agriculture category, particularly those with experience in equestrian services or park visitor services, would find this relevant. The contract involves providing services that benefit park visitors at an IDNR property.

How to respond

To access the bid documents, you can click the "View original source" link. For most Indiana bids, this will directly download the bid's document package, which includes the notice, specifications, and forms. No account is needed for this download.

For bids without a direct package download, the link will open Indiana’s "Current Business Opportunities" list. You will need to find the specific row for this opportunity using its Event ID, which is 003000000088455. Completed bids must be emailed to Angela Settles at [email protected] or faxed to 317-972-3275, Attn: Angela Settles. This bid is not eligible for electronic submission through the Supplier Portal.

Tips for preparing a competitive response

Carefully review all documents in the bid package to understand the full scope of services required for operating the Fort Harrison Saddle Barn. Ensure your proposal clearly outlines your experience and capability to manage such an operation effectively, focusing on how you will enhance the visitor experience.

Pay close attention to all pricing requirements, ensuring that your quoted prices are valid for the specified period and include all charges. Since this bid is not submitted electronically, double-check that your emailed or faxed submission is complete and reaches the point of contact, Angela Settles, by the deadline. Consider sending your bid well in advance to avoid any last-minute technical issues.