Opening Weekend At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park At Keystone Lake Set To Make A Big Splash

It is that time of year again. Pool covers are coming off and parents need a way to entertain the kids that does not involve sitting in front of a screen.

Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park on Keystone Lake is opening this weekend.

It is peaceful out at Keystone Lake right now but in less than 24 hours Jellystone Park could be packed with families looking for some fun. 

Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Keystone Lake is a Ryan family operation.

Owner Beth Ryan, her husband Bob, and their two boys Ben and Steve ,have poured their heart and soul into this summer hot spot. 

"We've been working nonstop since February. It's a lot to do with getting new supplies and getting all the parts repaired and painting and patching," Ryan said. 

Jellystone Park has some projects guests will notice including several new private bathrooms and more handicap accommodations.

The Ryan family has also created additional camp sites and expanded the patio space, but the biggest undertaking is the expansion of the water park on the lake which is doubling in size. 

"Everybody's gonna just be crazy ready to get out and do something fun," Ryan said. 

Everybody, including Teresa Russell who is working as a lifeguard this summer. 

"I'm excited to bring my kids out here you know in the future to be able to play in the water," Russell said. 

It was sink or swim making it to spring of 2021. 

"We had some challenges that came in 2019 with the flood water, but we're moving along. We're looking to be bigger and better every year," Ryan said. 

Of course, last year Jellystone park had navigate a pandemic. 

"It's difficult to be the distancing police," Ryan said. 

Ryan said the CDC's latest guidelines are encouraging. 

"Over here, Yogi,” Ryan said. “He's ready for the summer. He's so excited to see all the kids this year. He's ready for hugs, handshakes and high fives." 

Ryan said on a busy day they anticipate a crowd over 1,000 people. She said they continue to prioritize cleaning procedures and says the park is on 200 acres; so, there is plenty of room for people to spread out.