Frequently Asked Questions

Ernest Day is a free event put on by Montgomery Bell State Park and the Friends of Montgomery Bell State Park volunteer group.  Both organizations accept donations to support the park and programs like Ernest Day.  To donate, go to Montgomery Bell State Park or Friends of Montgomery Bell State Park.

The lineup of cast and crew from Ernest Goes To Camp and other Ernest projects varies from year to year.  We often do not know who will be able to come until just days before.  We will try to provide updates for those who have committed to attend prior to the day.

Currently scheduled to appear at Ernest Day 2024:

• Daniel Butler - "Eddie" in Ernest Goes to Camp", various characters in the other Ernest films, writer on many Ernest projects.

• Larry Black - "Mr. Tipton" in Ernest Goes to Camp and "Mayor Murdock" in Ernest Scared Stupid

• Patrick Day - "Bobby Wayne" in Ernest Goes to Camp

• Todd Loyd - "Chip Ozgood" in Ernest Goes to Camp

• Eddy Schumacher - "Counselor Stennis" in Ernest Goes to Camp

• Hugh Sinclair - "Counselor Sparks" in Ernest Goes to Camp

• Andrew Woodworth - "Pennington" in Ernest Goes to Camp

• Harvey Godwin, Jr. - "Brave's Father" in Ernest Goes to Camp

• Shane Keister - Composer for Ernest Goes to Camp and Dr. Otto and the Riddle of the Gloom Beam

• Mike Montgomery - "Joey's Dad" in Ernest Scared Stupid and "Warden's Assistant" in Ernest Goes to Jail

• Marin Miller - "Kids Army" in Ernest Scared Stupid

• Denice Hicks - "Elizabeth's Mother" in Ernest Scared Stupid and various characters in "Hey Vern, It's Ernest!"

• Mary Jane Harvill - "Mother" in Ernest Scared Stupid and "Lance's Mom" in Dr. Otto and the Riddle of the Gloom Beam

• Justin Lloyd - Author of "The Importance of Being Ernest:  The Life of Actor Jim Varney" and Jim Varney's nephew

• Josh & Emilie Cherry - Son and daughter of Ernest co-creator and director John R. Cherry III 

This lineup is subject to change based on guests' schedules and availability.

Several food trucks will be on hand at Ernest Day.  We may not be able to announce all the trucks that will be there or their menus prior to the day.

Shirts and other Ernest Day merchandise are exclusively available in person at Ernest Day or at the Montgomery Bell State Park office (while supplies last).  Unfortunately we are unable to take online, mail, or phone orders.

The date for next year’s Ernest Day will be announced at each Ernest Day.  It typically takes place the second Saturday in June.  Watch our home page for any updates or announcements.

We do not currently permit outside vendors to transact at Ernest Day other than those that have been approved such as food trucks or partner organizations.

There are a variety of hotels in Dickson, Tennessee and other communities near Montgomery Bell State Park.  You may also consider The Lodge at Montgomery Bell or one of their lovely cabins.  The park also has a campground for tent or RV camping.  Because Ernest Day occurs during peak camping season, we recommend making your reservations a year in advance.

The proceeds made from the sale of merchandise, partnering vendors, and donations goes to support Montgomery Bell State Park, the Friends of Montgomery Bell State Park, and the Parkinson’s Foundation.

Since Ernest Day takes place at a Tennessee State Park, please refer to their FAQ page for any questions about accessibility and allowances within the park.