CDCR-Bautista Conservation Camp #36

You can support your loved ones at Bautista Camp #36 on InmateAid, if you have any immediate questions contact the facility directly at 951-927-3600.

Bautista Camp #36 is a minimum-security facility under CDCR supervision, this camp plays a crucial role in supporting government agencies during emergency responses to wildfires, floods, and other natural or man-made disasters. Additionally, camp crews contribute to park maintenance, assist with flood mitigation through sandbagging, and participate in reforestation projects. Participation in the Conservation (Fire) Camp Program is entirely voluntary for incarcerated individuals. Those who choose to volunteer must meet specific eligibility criteria aimed at ensuring public safety. These include avenues for criminal record expungement, creating new pathways for employment, and aiding in their successful reintegration into society.

Bautista Camp #36 embodies a vital role in assisting the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) with the suppression of wildland fires, emergency flood control, and Search and Rescue operations. Situated in the historical Bautista Canyon, a route traversed by Conquistador Juan Bautista de Anza during his discovery of the Riverside and San Bernardino Valleys, the camp holds significant historical and geographical significance. At an elevation of approximately 3,000 feet, Bautista Camp encounters a diverse range of climatic conditions typical to its high-desert terrain, with hot, dry summers and cold winters occasionally punctuated by snowfall from December through April.

With a maximum capacity of 120 incarcerated individuals, Bautista Conservation Camp #36 has bravely represented the camp program by responding to emergency incidents throughout California. However, tragedy struck on June 27, 1990, when the California Fire overran Bautista Conservation Camp Crew #3, claiming the lives of two crew members, Victor Ferrara and Aaron Perry, and injuring others. In their honor, a memorial titled "THE FIREFIGHTER" was erected in 1997, commemorating not only the fallen firefighters of Bautista Camp but also other fallen firefighters across the state.

In addition to firefighting duties, hand crews at Bautista Camp undertake crucial conservation and community service projects as directed by CAL FIRE. These initiatives encompass diverse tasks, including eradicating nonnative plant species at Diamond Valley Lake and Lake Matthews, combating bark beetle infestations in and around the community of Idyllwild, and participating in the construction of community centers, fire stations, parks, and recreational facilities for the Valley Wide Recreation District. Bautista's woodworking expertise is in high demand throughout the Riverside Ranger Unit, with camp participants skilled in crafting plaques, signs, and distinctive logos.

Bautista Conservation Camp's extensive list of ongoing and completed projects extends to collaborations with various entities, including the Metropolitan Water District, California Department of Fish & Wildlife Multi-Species Wildlife Preserves, Riverside County Parks, Cal-Trans, San Jacinto State Parks, Lake Hemet, local fire stations, the City of Murrieta, the Soboba Indian Reservation, and the Ben Clark Public Safety Training Center.

Moreover, the camp is dedicated to providing rehabilitative and educational services to its participants, aligning with CDCR standards. These services encompass substance abuse programs like Alcoholics or Narcotics Anonymous (AA/NA), religious programs, hobby crafts, and access to GED and college courses. Furthermore, Bautista Camp collaborates with Coastline College to offer educational programs, with opportunities for certification in small engine repair or forklift and chainsaw operation.

Through their diligent efforts during emergencies and their participation in meaningful projects, Bautista Conservation Camp #36 nurtures a strong work ethic and instills a sense of self-worth among its participants, ultimately preparing them for successful reintegration into their communities upon release.

Connect with your Inmate

The camp offers a phone program for outbound calls only, with inmates unable to receive incoming calls. Accepting collect calls can be expensive, sometimes exceeding $10 per call. Alternatively, setting up an account through a third-party phone company may entail high fees per minute of usage. Click here for discounts on inmate calls, especially if the communication with your inmate is frequent. It's important to remember that all phone calls are recorded, and discussing sensitive legal matters over these lines is discouraged.

Books and magazines ordered for inmates must come directly from the publisher. This policy ensures that the items are new, untampered, and comply with the facility's regulations. The Jail enforces this rule to prevent the introduction of contraband or prohibited materials. By restricting orders to publishers, the facility can better maintain security and control over the content entering the institution. Any books or magazines not received directly from the publisher will be rejected and not delivered to the inmate. You may, however, send letters and selfies to inmates with this easy-to-use app, packages starting at only $8.00.

Inmate workers are chosen based on conduct and cooperation with staff. Participation in the community service program can sometimes reduce sentences. Commissary is available weekly, and on holidays, there may be increased spending limits. Upon receiving commissary items, inmates must present their ID, check their order, and sign for it in the presence of the commissary employee. Indigent inmates are provided with all essential basic hygiene items including USPS stamps and writing materials.