AUSTIN — Moving at 3 1/2 mph from town to town, the Friendship Wagon Train will come through Austin around 3 p.m. Thursday with about 100 participants in tow to collect donations for Camp Winnebago.

Located near Caledonia, Camp Winnebago runs several one-week summer camps for children and adults with developmental disabilities. This experience provides them the opportunity to share in outdoor activities.

“Some people have been here such a long time, it’s almost like they’re family,” Davis said.

In past years, the Friendship Wagon Train has raised more than $30,000 during the week’s journey, and Davis hopes to raise that much again this year. All donations are appreciated and 100 percent of the funds raised are donated directly to Camp Winnebago.

This journey marks Wagon Master John Davis’ 28th year leading the wagons throughout areas of Minnesota, and he’s excited to hit the road again.

“It’s been great,” Davis said. “I’ve got a lot of memories.”

While in Austin, the wagons will park in the Mower County Fairgrounds, where the public is invited to come out, meet the participants and see the animals and wagons. Davis said the participants love having people come out to meet them.

“They look forward to it,” he said.

The Austin Lions Club is providing lunch for the participants and they will stay in Austin overnight before heading to Lyle.

“No matter what the weather’s been like, we always have a good time,” Davis said.