I remember this place from my childhood. My family hiked to this amphitheater from our campsites while carrying flashlights, just incase the program ran long. My dad was a scout leader, so we were always prepared.

Park rangers would give scheduled talks about nature here. Sometimes there was a slide show.

They brought rocks, bones, wood samples and cones to be passed around. I was a tactile child, so this was a treat.

I love watching the bonfire flames and seeing sparks fly up when anorher log was tossed on.

I relished these times in this amphitheater. I remember walking around through the half-circles of benches to pick the best seats.

We met other campers in this place. We talked with park rangers who were like superheroes to me. Once there was a woman ranger who came here and lead a hike. I was in awe of her.

Hurricane Helene hit this place hard. Most of the Julian Price Campground is still closed. I am happy to see that the beloved amphitheater survived the ravages of that hurricane. It was a magical outdoor classroom.

Just being here gives me joy. I can sit with my younger self on these benches and remember how great those times were with my parents and sister. This place and those rangers made me love nature. I passed that loved around to hundreds of my students.

Grateful again. That happens a lot here in these mountains.

FLOW