DES MOINES, Iowa — From starting a fire to axe throwing, the Mountain Man Camp at the Iowa State Fair teaches fairgoers about life 200 years ago.

The camp is located just east of the Susan Knapp Amphitheater at the Iowa State Fairgrounds, and is open from 9 a.m. through 8 p.m. daily, with a demonstration taking place at 1 p.m.

Mark Nelson has been part of the camp for 17 years. He said the camp has been at the fair for close to 80 years, and one of the biggest attractions for fairgoers is axe throwing.

Nelson and other camp members show “flatlanders” how to throw tomahawks onto a wooden target with a playing card at the center.

There are also several tents with unique foods, like frybread, and handmade goods, like flutes, bracelets, and clothing made of fur.

However, there’s also an educational component to the Mountain Man Camp because people can also learn how to start a fire.

“How many have been on the highway when there’s a snowstorm? You know, it’s good to know in today’s ways, how do you survive being really cold,” said Nelson.

Axe throwing costs between $4 and $6.