What to Expect at a Burial Service
Attending a natural burial at Bluestem Conservation Cemetery is a very different experience from attending a burial service at a conventional cemetery. We've prepared the tips below to help all guests have a comfortable and meaningful experience.

Bluestem staff and our dedicated volunteers will be on-site to guide and assist you.

​PARKING & GETTING AROUND
Please arrive 15-30 minutes before service start time. When you arrive, staff or volunteers will direct you to a designated parking area. Bluestem Road into the cemetery is only open to vehicles for burial guests.

In the nature preserve, the burial service site is typically a significant walk (anywhere between 5-20 minutes) from the parking area, on gravel and natural pathways. For those who require mobility assistance, Bluestem staff or volunteers can provide a golf cart ride. Please ask your group's point of contact to let Bluestem staff know of mobility needs.
WHAT TO WEAR
Check the weather and dress accordingly in clothes that will keep you comfortable outdoors. Wear comfortable walking shoes or boots for uneven, natural terrain. We highly recommend wearing a hat, and in the summer months, applying some bug spray and sunscreen.

​WHAT TO BRING
Bluestem is a nature preserve with little accommodations. There are two porta-potties on-site. There is no air conditioning/heat or potable water. You may want to bring: a water bottle, extra bug spray, a hat, sunscreen, extra layers, and a rain coat, depending on weather. 

You are welcome to bring cut flowers or pick wildflowers onsite to lay inside or on top of a grave. Small, paper notes may be placed inside graves. Plantings, plastics, floral styling materials, trinkets, mementos, or other non-biodegradable items are not permitted.

PARTICIPATING IN BURIAL
A unique aspect of natural burial is the opportunity for families and friends to participate in the meaningful act of laying their loved one to rest. Bluestem staff and volunteers will guide you and your guests on carrying the deceased from the transport vehicle to the gravesite, lowering the deceased into the grave, closing the grave, and covering the grave with pinestraw. Please join in the process as much or as little as you like. ​

​Burial services go on in almost all weather conditions, except in heavy storms. In the case of inclement weather, please check with your family point of contact about possible delays.
It is our honor to support you in saying your
final farewell to your loved one at Bluestem.

We are grateful to care for this land alongside a dedicated community of families, supporters, and volunteers. Keep up with Bluestem activities by signing up for our newsletter, attending a community event or by contacting us. 

​Bluestem is here for you to visit on your own every day from dawn to dusk.