Smokey Bear Historical Park Capitan New Mexico
Discover the heartwarming story of the real Smokey Bear and learn vital wildfire prevention tips at this historic New Mexico park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Smokey Bear Historical Park Capitan New Mexico
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the heartwarming story of the real Smokey Bear and learn vital wildfire prevention tips at this historic New Mexico park.
"A very cool historical park with lots of facts about how Smokey the Bear came to be."
Arrive Early for Best Experience
Beat the crowds and enjoy a more personal visit by arriving shortly after opening.
Don't Miss the Film
The 15-minute film offers a great overview of Smokey's life and legacy.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Smokey Bear's Memorial Site
Outdoor area
Visit the final resting place of the real Smokey Bear, a touching tribute to the iconic fire prevention mascot.
The History of Smokey Bear Museum
Indoor museum
Discover the fascinating story of how an orphaned cub became a national symbol for wildfire prevention.
Wildfire Prevention Education
Indoor and outdoor exhibits
Learn about the causes of wildfires, their impact, and the importance of prevention through engaging displays.
Tribute to Firefighters
Outdoor area
A solemn statue honors the brave firefighters who have lost their lives battling wildfires.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Smoother Visit
Admission and What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Arrive Early for Best Experience
Beat the crowds and enjoy a more personal visit by arriving shortly after opening.
Don't Miss the Film
The 15-minute film offers a great overview of Smokey's life and legacy.
Explore the Outdoor Exhibits
The grounds are beautifully maintained with marked plants and Smokey's memorial.
Check Operating Hours
The park is closed on Mondays, so plan your visit for Tuesday through Sunday.
Tips
from all over the internet
Arrive Early for Best Experience
Beat the crowds and enjoy a more personal visit by arriving shortly after opening.
Don't Miss the Film
The 15-minute film offers a great overview of Smokey's life and legacy.
Explore the Outdoor Exhibits
The grounds are beautifully maintained with marked plants and Smokey's memorial.
Check Operating Hours
The park is closed on Mondays, so plan your visit for Tuesday through Sunday.
Friendly Staff Encounter
You might get lucky and meet a staff member who can share extra insights!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Smokey Bear Historical Park for its engaging exhibits and the touching tribute to the real Smokey Bear. Many appreciate the educational value, particularly the film and the focus on wildfire prevention. The well-maintained grounds and friendly staff also contribute to a positive experience, making it a worthwhile stop for families and history enthusiasts alike.
"We stopped here even though we knew they were closed that day, hoping we could maybe see something from the outside. One of the workers happened to be there for a private event, and she was nice enough to let us go take a quick tour of the outside and smokey memorial. Then she even gave us a couple stickers, postcard and pamphlet. She made our day!"
pete jemmott
"Very cool historical park. Easy parking on a Sunday afternoon. Lots of facts about how Smokey the Bear came to be. The museum is $6 for adults and you’ll watch a movie on the history of Smokey the Bear and how Ray Bell took care of him and his history as he ages. Outside you’ll find his grave and a tribute statue to firemen who lost their lives trying to fight wildfires. Worth it to see. Lastly, There’s a very small gift shop beside the museum."
KJ Diller
"Stopped by on our way to Albuquerque.
Very nice presentation including a 15 min video.
The place was well organized and we appreciated the super clean restrooms."
H Lyons
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is located in Capitan, New Mexico. It's often visited as a stop on the way to or from Roswell. Ample parking is available on-site, making it easy to access.
Yes, it's a well-marked attraction in Capitan. Travelers often mention it as a 'roadside gem' on their journeys through New Mexico.
Absolutely! It's a perfect stop for a few hours of educational and historical exploration during a New Mexico road trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is $6 per person for adults.
The park is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm. It is closed on Mondays.
Advance booking is generally not required, but it's always a good idea to check their official website for any updates or special event information.
Information on discounts for seniors, children, or groups is not widely publicized, but it's worth inquiring at the entrance or checking their official site.
It's best to arrive at least an hour before closing to fully experience the museum and outdoor exhibits without feeling rushed.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the museum detailing Smokey's life, watch an educational film, visit his memorial grave, and see a tribute to firefighters. The outdoor area also features marked native plants. +1
There isn't a souvenir shop directly at the museum, but some visitors have noted a gift shop across the street.
The park is generally well-maintained, and the museum is accessible. The outdoor memorial area should also be manageable, but it's always good to check for specific accessibility details if needed.
Most visitors spend about 1-2 hours exploring the museum, watching the film, and walking the outdoor grounds.
Typically, pets are not allowed inside the museum exhibits. Check the park's specific policies regarding pets in outdoor areas.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture memorable shots at Smokey Bear's memorial statue, the firefighter tribute, and the museum exhibits. The natural surroundings also offer scenic photo ops.
Photography policies can vary. It's best to look for signage within the museum or ask staff if photos are permitted, especially without flash.
While you can take photos of the memorial and exhibits, there isn't a live Smokey Bear for photos. The park focuses on his history and legacy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great opportunity to teach children about fire safety in a fun and memorable way. The park is well-maintained, making it easy to navigate with strollers, and the exhibits are designed to be informative for all ages. Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy in the surrounding Capitan area after your visit.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
It's a relatively quick visit, typically taking 1-2 hours, making it perfect for a day trip or a brief exploration. The easy parking and straightforward exhibits mean you can get a lot out of a short amount of time. Don't miss the chance to see the memorial of the real Smokey Bear!
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Real Smokey Bear Story
+1Smokey was eventually sent to the National Zoo in Washington D.C., where he lived for many years and became a national celebrity. His image and the slogan 'Only YOU Can Prevent Forest Fires' became ingrained in American culture. The park in his birthplace honors his legacy and educates visitors about the importance of fire safety.
Visitors can learn about Smokey's journey from a wild cub to a beloved icon through exhibits and a short film. The park also features his final resting place, a touching tribute to the bear who inspired a generation to be mindful of forest fires.
Understanding Wildfire Prevention
The park emphasizes that while natural fires can play a role in ecosystem health, uncontrolled wildfires pose significant threats to forests, wildlife, and human communities. The educational materials highlight simple yet vital actions individuals can take, such as properly extinguishing campfires, disposing of cigarettes safely, and being cautious with any outdoor burning.
This focus on prevention is not just about avoiding destruction; it's about preserving natural resources for future generations. The park's exhibits aim to instill a sense of responsibility and empower visitors to be active participants in protecting our wildlands.
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