Sierra Rec Magazine – National Park News – March 20, 2019 – Lassen Volcanic National Park and its partner Lassen Park Foundation invite youth groups to plan their night under the stars at the Volcano Adventure Camp this summer. Lassen Park Foundation will accept applications for grants to cover the cost of a trip to the youth camping facility in Lassen Volcanic through April 2. “In 2018 we welcomed 484 youth to camp, hike, learn, and connect to nature and each other,” said Superintendent Jim Richardson. “We are looking forward to hosting yet another group of young adventurers in the Volcano Adventure Camp’s third season.”
Any organization or school assisting underserved youth is eligible to apply for a grant up to $1,000. Groups with non-profit status may require a non-profit fiscal sponsor. Park admission and campground fees are waived for grant recipients and grant funds are available to pay for camping and hiking equipment, water bottles, food (groups must prepare their own food), and transportation.
The camp is outfitted with dormitory-style tent cabins, picnic pavilions, showers, vault toilets, and running water. A stay at Volcano Adventure Camp includes ranger and/or group-led talks, hikes, and activities. Participants learn how to camp, explore park trails, and learn about park topics like volcanology, glaciation, astrobiology, fire ecology, and climate. Volcano Adventure Camp will operate June 12 through September 22, weather permitting. More information and a link to the application can be found at go.nps.gov/VAC and atlassenparkfoundation.org. Groups that would like to stay at the Volcano Adventure Camp but do not require a grant may apply through a separate reservation application that will be available at lassenparkfoundation.org beginning May 1. In 2018, youth from age 5 to 18 came from all over California, Oregon, and Nevada.
Many participants had never camped or visited a national park prior to their stay at the Volcano Adventure Camp. Activities at the camp help build stewardship and respect for public lands as well as teamwork and individual responsibility. “It is wonderful to see the changes in the perspective of these kids,” said Lassen Park Foundation Chairman John Koeberer. “The experience brings with it a sense of awareness, wonder, and deep appreciation for Lassen.” One camper from the 2018 season shared the impact of the experience, “When I grow up, I’ll want to bring my kids up here. It will be a family tradition.” Another expressed that, “It helped me learn I can survive without electricity and cell phones.”
For more information about Lassen Volcanic National Park, please visit nps.gov/lavo; contact the park at
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