The YCC program offers youth summer employment in a healthful outdoor atmosphere.

Projects include building trails, campground maintenance, building fences, thinning timber stands, etc. Participants will do hard physical work and may be exposed to insects, poison oak, adverse weather, difficult working conditions, and altitudes ranging from 2,000 feet to 10,000 feet above sea level.

Who is eligibile?

Young men and women, 15 through 18 years of age, who are permanent residents of the United States, its territories or possessions, are eligible for employment without regard to race, color, sex, age, handicap, religion, or national origin. Handicapped youth who can effectively participate in most YCC activities are eligible. Youth must have no history of serious criminal or other antisocial behavior that might endanger their safety or that of others; have or be able to obtain a work permit as required under the laws of their state; have a social security card; be willing to work hard and be able to participate in most work projects; and have not participated in YCC for more than three weeks in the past. Employment is without regard to Civil Service or classification laws, rules, or regulations.

What are the benefits and living conditions?

The Yosemite YCC is an eight week residential program. Normal operation dates are approximately June 17th thru August 10th.

The pay scale for YCC is based on the California minimum hourly rate of $8 per hour, with a deduction of $70 per week for room and board. The main YCC camp facility is located at the Badger Pass Ski Lodge in Yosemite National Park. The Yosemite YCC program is a seven-day residential camp. Living conditions will consist of dormitory living at base camp to tents in the backcountry.

Normal work week consists of five 8-hour work days. Weekends are devoted to recreational activities such as day hikes, backpack trips, and field trips to interesting places. Enrollees are required to take part in all weekend activities. They are not allowed to go home on weekends. Selected enrollees are expected to make a commitment for the full eight weeks of the YCC program.

How do I enroll?

If you feel you qualify and want to spend the summer in the out-of-doors helping to preserve Yosemite National Park, fill out the application [available in fall] and mail it to:

YCC Project Manager

PO Box 700-W

El Portal, CA 95318

Applications must be received no later than March 31.

If you have questions, email John Barton.