CDCR-Owens Valley Conservation Camp #26

Owens Valley Camp #26, jointly operated by CDCR and CAL FIRE, has served the communities of Inyo and Mono Counties and the State of California since its establishment in February 1960. Initially named "Inyo-Mono Conservation Camp," it was established in the "Round Valley" area, approximately 10 miles northwest of Bishop.

Throughout its history, Owens Valley Conservation Camp has played a vital role in providing incarcerated hand crews to support local, state, and federal agencies during emergencies such as fires and floods. The camp's primary responsibility includes fire suppression activities covering over 584,000 acres of State Responsibility Area (SRA) land in Inyo and Mono Counties. Additionally, the crews respond to wildfires and other natural disasters in areas ranging from Pearsonville to the Nevada border.

Under the supervision of CAL FIRE staff, camp participants operate a canvas shop, contributing to various projects. Furthermore, hand crews engage in conservation and community service projects, with CAL FIRE determining the specific tasks. These projects include beautification and community service initiatives in the cities of Bishop, Lone Pine, Independence, and Mammoth Lakes, as well as in Inyo and Mono Counties, and with organizations such as the California Department of Fish and Game and the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP).

With its commitment to serving the community and aiding in emergency response efforts, Owens Valley Conservation Camp #26 continues to significantly impact in the region it serves.

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.