The Country Bear Jamboree and Playhouse was initially located in a section of Disneyland called Bear Country. A short walk through a covered bridge sent guests to an indoor queue area themed with dressing room doors of the performers. Featuring two complete, identical theaters with a cast of colorful bear and mounted animal head characters, the Playhouse became a “must see” stop for fans of all ages.

Originally known as Indian Village, this section of Frontierland offered various Native American shows and attractions. With the sudden success of the Country Bear Jamboree at the newly opened Disney World, a Disneyland overhaul created Bear Country in 1972. Themed to the Pacific Northwest, attractions included Davey Crockett’s Explorer Canoes, Golden Bear Lodge, and Teddi Barra’s Swinging Arcade. Yet, the showpiece quickly became the Country Bear Jamboree.

Inspired by the quote, “Where folks are closer to the critters and critters are closer to the folks,” from the film Song of the South, Bear Country became Critter Country in 1989. The area maintained some of the popular bear themes, however, other critters such as possums, rabbits, and life-sized crocodiles helped populate the land. Also added were hidden huts, benches shaped like animals, and a log flume ride.

Wanting to go in a different direction, executives closed the Country Bear Jamboree in 2001 to make room for The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. Nonetheless, fond memories of Big Al, Wendell, and Trixie remain among loyal fans of Bear Country’s number one attraction.

Researched and written by Norman “Moni” Boling, Graduate History Student, University of West Florida, 2013.