By Don Rose
Every spring, Washington State’s Audubon Chapters, wildlife lovers, plant specialists, and their friends gather in the Wenas Valley, located on the east slope of the Cascade Mountains between Ellensburg and Yakima. With a variety of natural history and recreation opportunities, the Wenas Valley is a beautiful area that supports a fascinating assortment of spring flora and fauna and offers the spiritual fulfillment of simply being outdoors in the spring. Everyone, whether members of an Audubon affiliated chapter or not, is welcome to join us for this outing. Camp expenses are covered by voluntary contributions.
Evening campfire programs are held at the Hazel Wolf Campfire Circle in the meadow across the road from the headquarters area. The Hazel Wolf Campfire Circle was named for Hazel Wolf on the 30th anniversary (1993) of the Wenas Creek Campout in the year of Hazel’s 95th birthday. The naming of the circle in her honor recognized her many years of organizing the campout, her dedicated service in helping the event run smoothly, and her bright and witty presence at campfire programs.
HOW DID THIS ALL COME TO PASS? In 1963, Bea Buzzetti, Ruth Anderson and Hazel Wolf wandered serendipitously into the Wenas Creek area on a Memorial Day camping trip. They were so impressed with the variety of wildlife that they convinced owners Boise Cascade to make the campground available to Audubon campers on Memorial Day. This was the beginning of an annual, state-wide (now regional) Audubon tradition that is the largest such event in the country. With the goodwill and cooperation of the Audubon community, it will continue indefinitely.
The camp area is near Ellensburg, Washington. For directions and up to date information go here.