Community Spaces
Bluestem is not only a place for green burial, but also a place of reverence, for the purpose of remembering, fellowship, and renewal. Community spaces are located in the first 25 acres of property and are open to the public for respectful recreation and gathering. When not in private use as sanctuaries for burial services, these spaces can be reserved for small to large group gatherings, community events, worship services, yoga, meditation, and more.

If you are interested in offering a community program or hosting a private event at Bluestem, please contact us here to discuss your idea and check availability. All programs and space reservations are considered in tandem with cemetery operations and Bluestem's values of conservation, community, inclusivity, integrity, simplicity, and sustainability.

Access to all community spaces is by foot only. Bluestem is currently fundraising to complete a more accessible space for guests. We hope to break ground on this new space the Wing of the Barn, in 2026. Please speak with a Bluestem staff member for any special access requests. 

Experience the Pond and Beech Sanctuaries 

The Pond Sanctuary, located just west of the barn, is primarily reserved for our Quiet Hour on Fridays, and for private burial services as needed. Surrounded by oaks, poplars, cedars and redbuds, the pond sanctuary is the heart of Bluestem. Cedar benches in the space can accommodate approximately 50-60 attendees and can be arranged in rows or a round according to needs. Additional room is possible for guests who bring their own camp chairs. Materials and equipment brought into the space must be cleared at the end of the service.
Further north on the property, find the Beech Sanctuary, located in the woodlands area above the Meadow. This quiet space has held many memorial services and community gatherings. Listen to the breeze blow through the towering trees or the bird song rising up from the creeks. The space holds 4-5 benches on a regular basis and can accommodate up to 40-50 attendees. Benches can be arranged facing the Beech or as needed. Camp chairs are also welcome. Materials and equipment brought into the space must be cleared at the end of the service.

Experience the Barn 

The Bluestem Barn, located near the front of the property, serves as a shaded welcome area for Bluestem families, visitors, and volunteers. The barn's eaves create an intimate covered space that can be used as a meeting point prior to a burial service, or for community meetings, retreats, workshops, yoga, family reunions, and more. Its recently updated retention wall provides a built-in row of cedar bench seating, and additional chairs, benches, and tables may be set up under and around the barn's eaves as needed. ​​