Smokey the Bear turns 80 this year and folks at the Bessey Ranger District, along with some of our friends invite you to come celebrate. The celebration will be a multi-day affair.
Thursday evening, August 1, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. Smokey will make an appearance for a photo opportunity and story time. Activities will be in partnership with the Nebraska Bow Hunters Association.
Friday afternoon, August 2, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. there will be a tour of the Bessey Nursery. Participants should wear closed toed-shoes and have the ability to walk on uneven ground. The tour will meet in the visitor center. Duration of the tour will be 45 minutes to an hour.
Saturday afternoon, August 3, 2024 there will be a birthday party with cake and games. The party is in partnership with Black Hills Parks and Forests. Activities will begin at 1:00 p.m. with a Smokey appearance, telling of the Smokey story and birthday cake, while it lasts. Other activities will include playing Safe Fire Bingo and a Leave No Trace Hike. All those who are lively at heart are invited to join us.
Black Hills Parks & Forests Association (BHPFA) is the official non-profit partner of Wind Cave National Park, Jewel Cave National Monument, Scotts Bluff National Monument, Agate Fossil Beds National Monument, Black Hills National Forest, Nebraska National Forests & Grasslands and the National Grasslands Visitor Center. BHPFA provide vital funding to our public agency partners in support of their education goals.
Camping will be limited this weekend. If you plan to camp, please consider the first- come, first serve sites at Natick campground. Natick Campground is accessed off 212. The campground is primitive but has a vault toilet, a non-potable water and plenty of shade.