New Mexico is home to some fascinating historical parks such as Chaco Culture National Historical Park, Pecos National Historical Park, and the Fort Sumner Historic Site. However, there is one historical park in New Mexico that tells an interesting piece of history and many New Mexicans are not aware of its existence — this is the Smokey Bear Historical Park in Capitan.
Smokey Bear Historical Park was first established in 1976 to honor and remember the famous Smokey Bear.
Smokey Bear Historical Park/Facebook
Smokey Bear is an important piece of New Mexican history. In 1950, a young bear cub was rescued from a fire in the Capitan Mountains. This cub received national attention and became a wildfire prevention symbol.
U.S. Forest Service-Pacific Northwest Region/Flickr
As you visit this historical park, you will travel through the history of wildfire prevention, wildfires, and Smokey Bear. There is also a short film teaching guests about how forests and wildfires impact our environment.
Smokey Bear Historical Park/Facebook
While Smokey Bear lived most of his life at the zoo in Washington, D.C., after he passed away, he was brought back to his hometown of Capitan. Today, you can visit Smokey Bear’s grave and honor this well-known bear.
Paul H/Google
You can also explore various outdoor exhibits. These exhibits teach you about the vegetation that grows in the Land of Enchantment and how you can preserve the state’s natural resources.
Ismo Hujanen/Google
You will also want to stop and pay your respects at the beautiful Wildland Fallen Firefighter Memorial located at Smokey Bear Historical Park in New Mexico. This memorial honors approximately 30 firefighters who have lost their lives fighting fires.
Smokey Bear Historical Park/Facebook
Young children will not only learn about this well-known bear and wildfire prevention when visiting this historical park, but they can also get their wiggles out at the playground and picnic area.
Marilyn Clark/Google
This historical park is the perfect day trip for the entire family. Click here to learn more about the Smokey Bear Historical Park in New Mexico. Have you ever visited this historical park? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience!
Smokey Bear Historical Park/Facebook
U.S. Forest Service-Pacific Northwest Region/Flickr
Paul H/Google
Ismo Hujanen/Google
Marilyn Clark/Google
For another fascinating National Historical Park in New Mexico, visit Chaco Culture National Historical Park on the Trail of the Ancients Scenic Byway.
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Address: 118 W Smokey Bear Blvd, Capitan, NM 88316, USA
