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Smokey Bear Historical Park
Smokey Bear Historical Park
Under current New Mexico Department of Health COVID-19 guidelines, all guests must wear a mask regardless of vaccination status while inside the Smokey Bear Historical Park Visitor’s Center. Currently, a maximum of 25 people are allowed inside the visitor center at one time. There are no restrictions on the outdoor gardens.
Smokey Bear Historical Park is located on highway 380 (118 W. Smokey Bear Blvd.), in the heart of Capitan. Hours of operation are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. We are closed on Mondays, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Entrance fees (cash only) are $2.00 for adults and $1.00 for children aged 7-12. Children 6 and under are free. We can only accept cash at this time, and guests are encouraged to have exact change. Need more information? Call us at 575-354-2748.
About Us
Smokey Bear Historical Park was established in 1976 to honor Capitan’s favorite son, Smokey Bear. Nearly three decades earlier, Smokey was an orphaned little bear cub with burned paws, found in the aftermath of the Capitan Gap wildfire. Smokey Bear rose to fame as an icon for forest fire prevention and he lived in Washington, D.C.’s National Zoo for 26 years. When he passed away, the famous black bear was laid to rest in his hometown. His burial site is a special place within the Smokey Bear Historical Park.
The park is a true celebration of Smokey’s legacy. At the visitor’s center, guests can find fascinating exhibits about forest health, wildfires, the science of fire ecology, and a historical look at wildfire prevention. The theater features a short film about how forest health and fire impact our lives today.
Outside, admirers have the opportunity to visit Smokey Bear’s final resting place. Guests will also find exhibits about vegetative life zones found in New Mexico and explore the beauty our state’s natural resources. The outdoor amphitheater is the perfect setting for school groups to enjoy the park’s educational programs. There is also a playground, picnic area and Capitan’s original train depot.
An extra treat for kids is the Junior Ranger and Little Ranger programs. Younger visitors can become official rangers (and earn some neat souvenirs) by completing an engaging activity about fire prevention and Smokey Bear. It is a chance for kids to learn new things and create fun memories.
Smokey Bear Historical Park has been operated by the New Mexico Forestry Division’s Capitan District since 1992.