Back to Conservation (Fire) Camps Program

Konocti Conservation Camp #27

Konocti Conservation Camp #27 is jointly operated by CDCR and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CALFIRE). The primary mission of the camp is to provide incarcerated hand crews to support local, state, and federal agencies in response to emergencies such as wildfires or floods. Camp participants also complete community service and conservation projects year-round.

Konocti Conservation Camp Logo

Contact Information

Address

8275 Doten Road, Lower Lake, CA 95457

Phone

  • (707) 994-2437
  • Fax: 707-994-3750

CDCR Camp Staff

  • Lt. S. Harkness, Camp Commander
  • Sgt. E. Culver, Assistant Camp Commander
  • Sgt. R. Ollenberger, Assistant Camp Commander

About Konocti Conservation Camp #27

Konocti Conservation Camp (#27) opened in April 1963. CDCR and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) work in collaboration in the overall operation of the camp. Konocti also operates a Mobile Kitchen Unit (MKU) and Mobile Equipment Unit (MEU). These services are vital to fire suppression missions and both resources are regularly dispatched to major campaign fires. Konocti Conservation Camp also services all emergency fire vehicles in Lake County in one of the largest heavy equipment garages in the area.

Hand crews also perform conservation and community service projects. CAL FIRE determines conservation projects.

Konocti Conservation Camp provides local communities with thousands of crew hours through work projects and conservation efforts each year. These work projects include:

  • Boggs Mountain DSF
  • Sonoma County Roads
  • Northshore Fire Protection
  • Mt. Konocti Recreation Area
  • Napa County Fair
  • USFS Upper Lake
  • Local and County Fire Stations

Konocti hand crews also provide work on shaded fuel breaks, hazard tree removal, vegetation removal on roads, forest walking and ATV trails, and perform campground maintenance.

In addition to five incarcerated fire crews, Konocti has a CAL FIRE Mobile Kitchen Unit (MKU). The MKU is able to respond to major incidents and provide meals for all personnel involved.

Konocti also has a Mobile Equipment Unit (MEU). The MEU responds to major incidents to repair and maintain numerous vehicles and equipment involved at the incident.

Programs and Services

Just as in every CDCR prison, every conservation camp offers rehabilitative and educational services, including substance abuse programs, religious programs, and GED and college courses. Their efforts during emergencies build a strong work ethic, and a feeling of self-worth. Collectively, these activities prepare incarcerated people for a successful integration back into their communities upon release.

For stories featuring current and former Conservation (Fire) Camp Program participants, read Inside CDCR.

Visiting can be a critical part of an incarcerated person’s rehabilitation. For more information, visit the Scheduling Visits at Conservation (Fire) Camps page.