Donner Memorial State Park Campfire Programs

End your day in the Sierra with a free ranger-led campfire program at Donner Memorial State Park. Held throughout the summer, these evening presentations explore the park's natural wonders, wildlife, history, and cultural heritage through engaging talks, demonstrations, and storytelling.

Programs vary by date and are suitable for families and visitors of all ages. Bring a camp chair or blanket and enjoy an educational evening under the pines.

Campfire Programs start at 8:00pm and are held in the Ampitheater at Donner Memorial State Park located south of Ridge Campground.

June 27: “Through Tamsen’s Eyes— the Story of the Donner Party” Leslie Scatchard portrays Tamsen Donner; teacher, botanists, and member of the ill-fated Donner Party. Tamsen, wife of company captain George Donner, kept a journal of the westward migration. Though Tamsen’s journals were never found, enough has been written about her to inspire a solo show about this extraordinary woman. Join Leslie as she tells the story of this famous company in the voice of Tamsen.

July 11: Alice and the Wonderlandz, “Music with an Historic Twist”.  Alice Osborn on vocals/guitar and members of the Wonderlandz. Featuring Alice’s original compositions, this band can’t be categorized—it’s an energetic mix of folk, Americana, pop, and adult contemporary that leaves audiences waiting for the next note to drop.

July 25: “Historic Lincoln Highway and the Sacramento Corridor – 1913-1928”. Andrew Saunders, member of the Lincoln Highway Association CA Chapter, shares the stories of America's first Coast to Coast Transcontinental automobile route connecting 14 states and serving as the nation's "Main Street".Learn about the origin, founders and progression of The Lincoln Highway from Times Square New York City to Lincoln Park San Francisco.

August 1: “Bats- Truth or Tales”. “Bat aficionado'', Brian Buttazoni, reveals his insights to this often-misunderstood flying mammal.  Learn about where bats live, what they eat, and how we benefit from them. See photos of bats found around the world and hear the sounds that they create.

August 8: “All About the Black Bear”. Join naturalist Brian Buttazoni as he delves into the wonders of the area’s largest mammal, the American Black Bear. Through pictures and stories Brian will enlighten his audience about this powerful, mischievous, tree climbing, food driven, and often misunderstood neighbor of the woods. 

August 22: “A Touch of Gold – Children of the Pioneers''.  Join John, Trina, Rick and Jeremy in this acoustic historical storytelling through music and song. Great family fun! 

August 29: To Be Announced

September 5: “A Touch of Gold – Children of the Pioneers''.  Join John, Trina, Rick and Jeremy in this acoustic historical storytelling through music and song. Great family fun! 

LOCATION:

Campfire programs take place in the campground amphitheater("Campfire Center") located just south of Ridge Campground