Camp Sequoia

There were half a dozen youth camps on this private lake in the mountains near the Sequoia National Forest. Camp Sequoia was run by the Fresno YMCA and had 2-week sessions through the summer. We got swimming badges and crafts, and a bonfire with singing and stories at night. I remember it fondly.



My brother Don and I went there two years as campers. In the summer between my freshman and sophomore years in high school I went back as Junior Staff. These were assistant cabin leaders who also did some cleanup work. There was plenty of unscheduled time and the work was not too hard.

That year the third cook did not show up and they were stuck. In desperation they ask the junior staff if anyone could cook. I raised my hand so I got promoted. It was great, I had my own room in the staff quarters and it was paid, $5 a day. The job consisted of opening cans and moving crates and boxes, doing whatever the first or second cook told me to do. It was a great summer!