Nick is an adolescent boy living near a lake in Michigan. Unlike the other passengers in the wagon, he feels a deep affinity for nature, happily abandoning his shoes to walk barefoot through the woods and swamps. He is polite and obliging to his neighbors, though he remains quiet when they make disparaging remarks, maintaining an internal distance from their prejudices.

Nick's father is a quiet physician who spends his free time in the natural environment, such as fishing by the lake. He casts a large, traditional presence in his household and cares for his son through practical actions like offering cold chicken and pie rather than emotional conversations. He operates with a restrained demeanor, avoiding direct eye contact when discussing uncomfortable subjects.

Joe is the patriarch of the Garner family, running his household with a casual, dominant authority. He leads the family's Fourth of July outing and freely shares his prejudiced views, establishing a social hierarchy that his sons mimic. He is jovial with those he considers part of his circle, frequently laughing at his own jokes and his children's banter.

Mrs. Garner acts as the maternal figure of her family, enforcing specific social rules while participating in the family's exclusionary banter. She is highly hospitable toward Nick, warmly inviting him to stay for supper. Within her family, she actively polices her sons' behavior, occasionally putting them in their place if they speak improperly or step out of line.

Carl is one of the Garner sons, highly focused on securing his position in the family's masculine hierarchy. He eagerly initiates teasing, particularly targeting Nick regarding his feelings for an Indigenous girl. However, his confidence is easily punctured when his mother points out his own lack of success in romance.

Frank is the other Garner brother, heavily involved in the ongoing competitive banter in the back of the wagon. He actively participates in the family's dismissive conversations about their neighbors. Despite his argumentative nature with his brother, he extends friendly invitations to Nick.

Prudence is an Indigenous girl who lives near the lake. Though she does not actively participate in the wagon ride or the evening's conversations, she is a frequent topic of discussion. She represents Nick's cross-cultural affections and serves as a target for the Garner family's prejudiced teasing.

Frank Washburn is a local boy mentioned in passing during a conversation between Nick and his father. His presence in the woods near the camp introduces a new, complicated dynamic into Nick's social awareness.