CDCR-Francisquito Conservation Camp #4

You can support your loved ones at Francisquito Camp #4 on InmateAid, if you have any immediate questions contact the facility directly at 661-296-4409.

Francisquito Camp #4 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.

Francisquito Camp #4, a collaborative effort between the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) and the Los Angeles County Fire Department (LACFD), serves as a vital asset in both wildfire suppression and county conservation efforts. Established in October 1981 under the administrative oversight of the Sierra Conservation Center (SCC), this camp was previously a Los Angeles County fire-training center before transitioning into a CDCR and LACFD incarcerated fire suppression facility.

Under the joint operation, incarcerated crews are deployed for wildland fire suppression and various county conservation assignments, such as maintaining critical infrastructure like the California Aqueduct, local parks, and fire stations. While the primary focus is in Los Angeles County, these crews are also available for deployment across the state as needed.

CDCR oversees the selection, supervision, care, and discipline of the camp participants, while LACFD manages camp maintenance, supervises the inmate fire crews, and ensures the custody of hand crews during their daily work assignments. In addition to firefighting duties, inmates engage in community service projects, including painting and refurbishing furniture for other state agencies, when not actively involved in fire suppression efforts.

The camp's ongoing and completed projects encompass a wide range of conservation initiatives, including fuel reduction, trail maintenance, watershed maintenance, and cleanup of local parks and campgrounds, among others. These projects are determined by LACFD and contribute significantly to the preservation and maintenance of natural and man-made environments within the region.

In addition to its operational responsibilities, Francisquito Conservation Camp #4 provides a variety of rehabilitative and educational services to its participants. These services include substance abuse programs (AA/NA), religious programs, and opportunities for pursuing GED and college courses. Moreover, inmates have access to leisure activities such as hobby crafts, sports, music appreciation, and pre-release programs, fostering personal growth and development during their off-work hours.

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.