News & Events

Thanks to a generous Bronco Wild Funds grant, the Massachusetts Department of Conservation & Recreation (DCR) hosted a free Family Camping Weekend at Myles Standish State Forest for 19 families who had never camped before. With DCR staff guiding them, these “first time” families enthusiastically engaged in skill-building sessions about how to build and manage a safe campfire, campfire cooking techniques, a family fishing clinic, and family hiking 101. They also enjoyed participating in the various programs offered throughout the weekend such as ponding, an evening campfire where they learned to make s’mores (of course), and meeting and learning about some of the turtles who live in the state forest.

With the Bronco Wild Funds grant,DCR was able to purchase tents and camp stoves for families to borrow for the weekend and food for the campfire cooking skills session, including the s’mores – a true camper favorite! DCR also used the grant to hire a professional storyteller for an evening of stories and songs around the campfire and a wildlife handler who captivated the campers with live animals. DCR Staff provided a helping hand, encouragement and a warm smile throughout the weekend while helping to set up tents, demonstrate how to use camp stoves, and interacting with the families and children to ensure all were having a good time.

DCR extends a huge thank you to Wild Bronco Funds and America’s State Parks for supporting this fun and impactful opportunity for families new to camping. The Family Camping Weekend was a labor of love for the DCR staff who were inspired by the families eager to learn outdoor skills despite some inclement weather. When the weekend was over, the gratitude expressed by the families for this life-changing experience was priceless.