Mount Bullion Conservation Camp #39

Originally, Mt. Bullion Conservation Camp was a youth camp. In October 2004, the camp was converted to an adult conservation camp. Many modifications were made to existing structures to accommodate the one 100-inmate capacity. Mt. Bullion’s fire protection responsibilities falls within the CAL FIRE MMU Ranger district, which includes Mariposa, Merced and Madera Counties. Mt. Bullion is the only camp in the MMU Ranger District. In 2017, the unit responded to many major fires, including the Detwiler Fire, which consumed more than 81 acres. Mt. Bullion was utilized as a staging area during these incidents.

The CAL FIRE 69-Hour Fire Fighting Training is conducted at Mt. Bullion for the new seasonal CAL FIRE Firefighters. CDCR and CAL FIRE staff maintain an excellent working relationship at the camp. The two departments meet twice a week for an open discussion on safety and other issues concerning the ongoing operation of the camp.

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

• Federal Forest Projects: Forest Restoration, Fire Breaks, Weed Abatement
• County Projects: Fire Breaks, Water Shed Management, Utility District Brush Clearing, Weed Abatement, Parks and Recreation restoration, School Clean Up, Roadside Clearing, Tree Clearing and Trimming.
• City Projects: Fire Breaks, Water Shed Management, Utility District Brush Clearing, Weed Abatement, Parks and Recreation restoration, School Clean Up
• National Park Projects Forest Restoration, Fire Breaks, Weed Abatement.
• State Projects: Fire Breaks, Water Shed Management, Utility District Brush Clearing, Weed Abatement, Parks and Recreation restoration, School Clean Up, Roadside Clearing, Tree Clearing.

Camp participants facilitate a plaque making program under the supervision of CAL FIRE staff.

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 camp participants for successful integration back into their communities upon release.

Incarcerated camp participants complete hobby projects such as wood projects, jewelry, artwork, and raising money in support of various holiday community improvement projects and fundraisers for the Mariposa Safe Families.

The Hobby Program runs at capacity with 18 inmates involved. The GED Program meets three times a week. Coast line Community College courses with a variety of classes offered, as well. Columbia College also conducts a small engine repair class on grounds for camp inmates.

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.