Inmate Guide: Vallecito Adult Conservation (Fire) Camp #1
Overview of the Facility
Vallecito Adult Conservation (Fire) Camp #1 is a minimum-security prison facility located in Calaveras County, California. It is operated jointly by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE). The camp primarily houses non-violent offenders who are trained to work as firefighters and perform other conservation tasks.
Contact Information
Address: 3398 Highway 4, Arnold, CA 95223
Phone: (209) 795-1931
Website: CDCR Conservation Camps
How to Locate an Inmate
To locate an inmate at Vallecito Conservation Camp, use the CDCR Inmate Locator tool available on the CDCR website. You will need the inmate's full name and CDCR number or date of birth.
Visitation Information and Hours
Visiting hours are typically on weekends and holidays from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. However, it's essential to confirm the current visiting schedule by contacting the facility directly, as hours may change due to fire season or other factors. Visitors must be approved in advance and follow all CDCR visitation rules.
How to Send Money
Inmates at Vallecito Conservation Camp can receive funds through various methods:
- Online: Use JPay or Access Corrections
- By phone: Call 1-800-950-2170 (JPay) or 1-866-345-1884 (Access Corrections)
- By mail: Send a money order to the inmate's trust account at the camp's address
Phone Calls and Video Options
Inmates can make collect calls or use pre-paid phone accounts through the CDCR's authorized provider. Video visitation is not typically available at conservation camps due to their remote locations and primary mission.
Inmate Services and Programs
Vallecito Conservation Camp offers various programs for inmates, including:
- Firefighting training and certification
- Conservation and environmental projects
- Basic education and GED preparation
- Vocational training in areas such as forestry and equipment operation
- Substance abuse treatment
- Pre-release programs
History of the Facility
Vallecito Conservation Camp was established in 1946 as part of California's conservation camp program. It was one of the first camps created to utilize inmate labor for fire suppression and conservation efforts. The camp has played a crucial role in wildfire management and environmental conservation in the region for over seven decades.
Security and Management Information
As a minimum-security facility, Vallecito Conservation Camp has less restrictive security measures compared to higher-security prisons. Inmates are carefully screened before being assigned to the camp. The facility is jointly managed by CDCR staff, who oversee custody and rehabilitation, and CAL FIRE personnel, who supervise work projects and firefighting efforts.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates at Vallecito Conservation Camp maintain their legal rights, including access to legal materials and attorney visits. Visitation rights are subject to CDCR regulations and may be restricted during active fire assignments or other emergencies.
Booking and Release Process
Inmates are not directly booked into Vallecito Conservation Camp. They are transferred from other CDCR facilities after meeting eligibility criteria and completing required training. The release process typically involves coordination with parole officers and may include participation in pre-release programs to facilitate reentry into society.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of inmates are housed at Vallecito Conservation Camp?
Vallecito Conservation Camp houses non-violent offenders who have been screened and deemed suitable for the conservation camp program. These inmates are typically low-risk and have demonstrated good behavior in other facilities.
Do inmates at Vallecito Conservation Camp fight real fires?
Yes, inmates at Vallecito Conservation Camp are trained to fight wildfires and participate in actual fire suppression efforts throughout California. They work alongside professional firefighters during fire season and respond to other emergencies as needed.
Can inmates earn time off their sentences at Vallecito Conservation Camp?
Yes, inmates at Vallecito Conservation Camp can earn time credits for good behavior and participation in work programs. These credits can potentially reduce their overall sentence length.
