News Release: 8/27/2026

RHINELANDER, WI — The School District of Rhinelander invites the community to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Cedric A. Vig Outdoor Classroom (CAVOC) on Saturday, September 26, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at CAVOC, 4321 S. Shore Drive.

CAVOC's story began in 1976 when the School District of Rhinelander and the Samoset Council of the Boy Scouts of America exchanged 80 acres of land, giving the District a total of 160 acres at what is now CAVOC. Over the past 50 years, countless students, staff, volunteers, and community members have helped make CAVOC an outstanding environmental education and recreation center.

The anniversary celebration will offer fun for all ages, including facility and grounds tours, nature walks, scavenger hunts, acorn collecting, art projects, wood cookie activities, a chili contest, photos with Smokey Bear and the Hodag, a playscape, and a campfire with s'mores. CAVOC merchandise will also be available. Food and beverages will be provided free of charge.

The celebration will be held in conjunction with the 3rd Annual Run for Our Heroes 5K Run/Walk, presented by the Rhinelander High School FBLA/DECA Club. The race begins at 10:15 a.m., with a short Veteran's Ceremony beforehand. Registration is available through Race Roster at https://raceroster.com/events/2026/130277/run-for-our-heroes-5k.

After visiting CAVOC, attendees are also encouraged to check out the Food Pantry's Harvest Hoedown at the Pioneer Park Historical Complex from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The Harvest Hoedown is a separate community event and is not part of the CAVOC anniversary celebration, but it offers another fun way to enjoy the day.

The CAVOC anniversary celebration is free and open to everyone.

For more information, contact School Forest Manager Mike Cheslock at (715) 365-9745 or cheslmik@rhinelander.k12.wi.us.