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Deadwood Conservation Camp #23

The primary mission of the Deadwood Conservation Camp #23 is to provide trained incarcerated hand crews to assist the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) with suppression of wildland fires and emergency flood control. Camp participants also complete community service and conservation projects year-round.

Deadwood conservation camp logo

Contact Information

Address

17148 McAdams Creek Road, Fort Jones, CA 96032

Phone

(530) 468-2633

CDCR Camp Staff

  • Lt. E. Rausch, Camp Commander
  • Sgt. J. Leventon, Assistant Camp Commander

About Deadwood Conservation Camp #23

Deadwood Conservation Camp was opened June 1, 1962 and has been an important part of Siskiyou County since. Deadwood Conservation Camp fire crews provide a large part of the labor force for CAL FIRE during wildland fires in Siskiyou County.

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

Deadwood Conservation Camp’s completed and ongoing community service projects include:

  • Maintenance of the College of the Siskiyous Fire Training Center
  • Fire Prevention (Fuel Reduction) in several local communities
  • Fire Prevention (Fuel Reduction) at Castle Crags State Park
  • Habitat improvement at Shasta Valley Wildlife Area
  • Fire Prevention (Fuel Reduction) and cleanup at local schools
  • Cleanup at local cemetery districts
  • Maintenance and cleanup of Yreka Non-profit organizations and community centers

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 work activities and efforts during emergencies build a strong work ethic, and a feeling of self-worth. These activities prepare the inmates for a successful integration back into their communities upon release.

Camp participants have access to hobby craft, softball, basketball, horse shoes, reading or other activities. Spiritual services are provided by community volunteers.

For more 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.