About Camp Woodcraft

Camp Woodcraft, a program of Woodcraft Rangers, has a storied legacy of fostering inclusion and access in the outdoors since its founding in 1902 by author and naturalist Ernest Thompson Seton. As a pioneer in youth development and outdoor education, Seton’s vision laid the groundwork for many of today’s outdoor education programs. Woodcraft Rangers has stood apart by ensuring all youth, regardless of race, religion, or socioeconomic background, can experience the healing the power of nature—because every child deserves a safe space to belong, connect, and grow.

Since launching its scouting and camping programs in Los Angeles in 1922, Woodcraft has championed whole child development and providing enriching opportunities for youth at little to no cost, exemplifying a commitment to a Camp-4-All. This commitment remains central to Woodcraft’s mission, eliminating barriers to participation and empowering young people to explore pathways to purposeful lives with positive mentorship and a supportive community.

For over a century, Camp Woodcraft has operated in picturesque Southern California locations like Lake Arrowhead, Big Bear, and Lake Castaic. Its new permanent home in Big Bear Valley continues this tradition, offering a year-round retreat where participants build confidence, curiosity, and lifelong memories.

True to its founding principles, Camp Woodcraft blends tradition with innovation, offering transformative, accessible experiences that empower youth to discover their potential in a safe and inclusive environment. With every campfire story, hike, and shared adventure, Camp Woodcraft inspires the next generation to step out of their comfort, embrace challenges, uncover a love for nature and endless possibilities!

Two children sitting around a campfire, joyfully roasting marshmallows on sticks. One child wears a cozy hoodie and grins at the camera, while the other focuses on toasting marshmallows. Others are visible in the background.

Why Woodcraft

Representation: Year-round youth development staff reflect the diversity of the students we serve.

Culturally-Responsive: We celebrate diversity, foster inclusion, and ensure all campers feel valued by integrating diverse perspectives into our programming, training, and staff recruitment.

Inclusion: Inclusion specialists enhance access for neurodivergent youth and youth with disabilities, offering on-site, responsive assistance to ensure all participants thrive.

Curriculum: Our experiential, nature-based curriculum sparks curiosity, builds resilience, and aligns with social emotional-learning (SEL) and Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) to provide impactful, meaningful learning experiences.

Access & Inclusion

At Camp Woodcraft, we prioritize access and inclusion by breaking down barriers such as cost and providing At Camp Woodcraft, we prioritize access and inclusion by eliminating barriers like cost and providing specialized support for youth of all abilities and backgrounds. Our Camp-4-All model ensures that as many youth as possible can experience camp, while our inclusion initiatives offer tailored assistance that allows participants to not just engage, but truly thrive in our programs.

At Camp Woodcraft, our Camp-4-All model ensures that every young person can experience the magic of camp through inclusive and adaptable programming. We prioritize equity, access, and inclusion by training staff in best practices, providing tailored support for youth of all abilities, and creating culturally responsive environments. Thanks to partnerships and generous contributions, we break down barriers like cost, enabling over half of our campers to attend through heavily subsidized or free programs. Your support helps make outdoor education accessible, empowering youth to build lifelong memories, friendships, and confidence.

Help us open the door to outdoor adventures for every child. Donate today and transform a young life with the magic of camp.

 

Camp Woodcraft is a leader in inclusion practices within outdoor education. The Camp Woodcraft team works closely with families before registration to assess whether a child will thrive in the camp environment and identify the accommodations and strategies necessary to ensure success. In 2023, Woodcraft launched a groundbreaking inclusion initiative in partnership with the California Department of Developmental Services and local Regional Centers, expanding access for youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), including autism, and ADHD.

This initiative includes:

  • Comprehensive staff training
  • Collaborative goal-setting with parents and schools tailored to each child’s needs
  • Partnerships with Regional Centers for additional support services
  • On-site responsive support for students and families

By taking a person-centered approach, the team provides individualized supports that ensure students of all abilities can fully participate in Woodcraft programs, feel supported, and thrive in a welcoming, integrated environment.

Gender Inclusivity: Camp Woodcraft is an all-gender welcoming community and follows all recommendations set forth by Scouts for Equality, pioneers in full gender inclusion. While our bunk units are defined by boys and girls, campers are welcome to elect which cabin they most identify with and that they feel most comfortable. Shower stalls are individual for the privacy of all campers. Mixed gender activity units combine bunk units for all daytime activities. Our camp team is also gender diverse.

Leadership and Board

Camp Leadership

  • A person with long curly hair is smiling and wearing a gray button-up shirt. They stand outdoors in front of a concrete wall, with sunlit green trees in the background.

    Helen “Curly” Morales

    Director of Camp Woodcraft & Outdoor Education
    Learn More about Helen

    Helen Morales brings 16 years of experience in youth development and a deep commitment to equity and inclusion. Growing up in Lynwood, CA, Helen saw firsthand the barriers that prevent BIPOC and low-income youth from accessing green spaces and quality outdoor education programs. She has dedicated her career to breaking down these barriers, creating programs that ensure all youth can experience the transformative power of nature.

    Helen leads a diverse team in providing inclusive, healing-centered outdoor experiences, including programs designed to support neurodiverse youth. She also serves on the board of the Association for Environmental and Outdoor Education (AEOE) and is a national trainer and serves on the DEI committee for the American Camp Association (ACA), where she advocates for equitable access to outdoor learning spaces and fosters environments where all young people feel seen and valued.

    In 2024, Helen was recognized as Outdoor Educator of the Year for Southern California by AEOE, and under Helen’s leadership, Camp Woodcraft was honored by the ACA for the Eleanor P. Eells Award for Excellence in Research in Practice.

  • Smiling woman with long dark hair wearing a mustard blouse and black cardigan stands outdoors near a tree with lush green leaves in the background.

    Natalie “Selfie” Pinedo

    Manager of Outdoor Education
    Learn More about Natalie

    Natalie has been a dedicated member of the Woodcraft Rangers team for 14 years, beginning as an afterschool staff member before realizing her passion for creating memorable, impactful experiences for young people. She transitioned to the camp team, serving as a counselor for three years before stepping into leadership roles.

    With a focus on building a safe, supportive environment where campers can freely express themselves, Natalie is known for her creativity, fun activities, and ability to keep campers engaged and excited. Her leadership ensures that every camper has a magical and memorable experience that stays with them long after camp ends.

    A graduate of the University of Phoenix with a BA in Human Services, Natalie is deeply committed to fostering a positive and nurturing environment. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys spending time with her three nieces, cherishing moments of family bonding.

  • Person smiling outdoors with a colorful autumn landscape in the background. They are wearing a pink jacket and have short hair. Mountains and a cloudy sky are visible in the distance.

    Diana Gonzalez

    Outdoor and Environmental Educator
    Learn More about Diana

    Diana is passionate about the outdoors and environmental education. As a credentialed educator, she specializes in designing and implementing dynamic science curricula that make learning fun and accessible for all. By integrating Next Generation Science Standards with essential 21st-century skills, she inspires young minds to explore and understand the natural world.

    With a rich background that includes roles as a middle school Science teacher, an interpretive naturalist with the National Forest Service, an environmental educator with the National Wildlife Refuge System, and an academic naturalist with the Irvine Ranch Outdoor Education Center, Diana brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her work.

    With an adventurous spirit and youthful curiosity, Diana inspires lifelong appreciation for the natural world. Her engaging approach helps young people connect with nature and deepen their understanding of the environment and their role within it.

  • Smiling person with glasses wearing a blue "Woodcraft Rangers" polo shirt stands outdoors in front of green foliage. The image is framed in a circular border.

    Jesse “Lemonade” Esquivel

    Camp Coordinator
    Learn More about Jesse

    Jesse Esquivel is an outdoor educator with a deep passion for nature and youth development. He holds an Associate of Arts in Social Behavior and Self-Development, an Associate of Science in Early Childhood Learning, and certificates in child development for preschool. Jesse is also certified to teach archery, axe throwing, and low ropes to other instructors. Currently, he is enrolled in an outdoor learning certificate program with Take Me Outside, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting nature connection and outdoor learning.

    Jesse is an active member of the American Camp Association (ACA), the Association for Environmental & Outdoor Education (AEOE), and is Chair of ACA’s Emerging Professionals in Camping (EPIC). He brings his expertise and enthusiasm to Camp Woodcraft, where he has developed the Naturalist Guide, focusing on activities related to native plants, trees, animals, and insects. Jesse has also created nature-based activities that utilize natural materials, enhancing the camp experience for both campers and staff.

    Known for his magnetic personality, Jesse quickly becomes a favorite among campers. His passion for stargazing and his ability to make learning fun and engaging inspires youth to develop a deeper appreciation for the outdoors. His commitment to connecting children with nature leaves lasting memories, instilling confidence and curiosity in every young person he works with.

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  • Helen “Curly” Morales

    Director of Camp Woodcraft & Outdoor Education

    Helen Morales brings 16 years of experience in youth development and a deep commitment to equity and inclusion. Growing up in Lynwood, CA, Helen saw firsthand the barriers that prevent BIPOC and low-income youth from accessing green spaces and quality outdoor education programs. She has dedicated her career to breaking down these barriers, creating programs that ensure all youth can experience the transformative power of nature.

    Helen leads a diverse team in providing inclusive, healing-centered outdoor experiences, including programs designed to support neurodiverse youth. She also serves on the board of the Association for Environmental and Outdoor Education (AEOE) and is a national trainer and serves on the DEI committee for the American Camp Association (ACA), where she advocates for equitable access to outdoor learning spaces and fosters environments where all young people feel seen and valued.

    In 2024, Helen was recognized as Outdoor Educator of the Year for Southern California by AEOE, and under Helen’s leadership, Camp Woodcraft was honored by the ACA for the Eleanor P. Eells Award for Excellence in Research in Practice.

  • Natalie “Selfie” Pinedo

    Manager of Outdoor Education

    Natalie has been a dedicated member of the Woodcraft Rangers team for 14 years, beginning as an afterschool staff member before realizing her passion for creating memorable, impactful experiences for young people. She transitioned to the camp team, serving as a counselor for three years before stepping into leadership roles.

    With a focus on building a safe, supportive environment where campers can freely express themselves, Natalie is known for her creativity, fun activities, and ability to keep campers engaged and excited. Her leadership ensures that every camper has a magical and memorable experience that stays with them long after camp ends.

    A graduate of the University of Phoenix with a BA in Human Services, Natalie is deeply committed to fostering a positive and nurturing environment. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys spending time with her three nieces, cherishing moments of family bonding.

  • Diana Gonzalez

    Outdoor and Environmental Educator

    Diana is passionate about the outdoors and environmental education. As a credentialed educator, she specializes in designing and implementing dynamic science curricula that make learning fun and accessible for all. By integrating Next Generation Science Standards with essential 21st-century skills, she inspires young minds to explore and understand the natural world.

    With a rich background that includes roles as a middle school Science teacher, an interpretive naturalist with the National Forest Service, an environmental educator with the National Wildlife Refuge System, and an academic naturalist with the Irvine Ranch Outdoor Education Center, Diana brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her work.

    With an adventurous spirit and youthful curiosity, Diana inspires lifelong appreciation for the natural world. Her engaging approach helps young people connect with nature and deepen their understanding of the environment and their role within it.

  • Jesse “Lemonade” Esquivel

    Camp Coordinator

    Jesse Esquivel is an outdoor educator with a deep passion for nature and youth development. He holds an Associate of Arts in Social Behavior and Self-Development, an Associate of Science in Early Childhood Learning, and certificates in child development for preschool. Jesse is also certified to teach archery, axe throwing, and low ropes to other instructors. Currently, he is enrolled in an outdoor learning certificate program with Take Me Outside, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting nature connection and outdoor learning.

    Jesse is an active member of the American Camp Association (ACA), the Association for Environmental & Outdoor Education (AEOE), and is Chair of ACA’s Emerging Professionals in Camping (EPIC). He brings his expertise and enthusiasm to Camp Woodcraft, where he has developed the Naturalist Guide, focusing on activities related to native plants, trees, animals, and insects. Jesse has also created nature-based activities that utilize natural materials, enhancing the camp experience for both campers and staff.

    Known for his magnetic personality, Jesse quickly becomes a favorite among campers. His passion for stargazing and his ability to make learning fun and engaging inspires youth to develop a deeper appreciation for the outdoors. His commitment to connecting children with nature leaves lasting memories, instilling confidence and curiosity in every young person he works with.

Woodcraft Leadership

  • A person with long brown hair smiles while standing outdoors. They are wearing a teal blazer over a dark shirt and a necklace with a pendent. Green foliage is visible in the background.

    Julee Brooks

    Chief Executive Officer
    Learn More about Julee
  • A smiling man wearing a white shirt and a gray vest stands outdoors with trees and bright sunlight in the background.

    Darlington Ahaiwe

    Chief Financial Officer
    Learn More about Darlington
  • A person with long, wavy hair smiles at the camera. They are outdoors, wearing a striped top. The background is blurred with green foliage.

    Celina Salinas

    Chief Operating Officer
    Learn More about Celina
  • A person with short dark hair is smiling while wearing a dark blazer and shirt. They are standing outdoors with trees in the background.

    Danny Salas

    Chief Program Officer
    Learn More about Danny
  • A woman with long, light brown hair smiles at the camera. She is wearing a black blazer over a white top. The background is a blurred view of green trees.

    Sara McLay

    Chief of Strategy
    Learn More about Sara
  • A person wearing a blue and white checkered shirt smiles in front of a tree with green leaves. The background is blurred with sunlight filtering through the foliage.

    Andrés De La Peza

    Chief of Staff
    Learn More about Andrés
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  • Julee Brooks

    Chief Executive Officer
  • Darlington Ahaiwe

    Chief Financial Officer
  • Celina Salinas

    Chief Operating Officer
  • Danny Salas

    Chief Program Officer
  • Sara McLay

    Chief of Strategy
  • Andrés De La Peza

    Chief of Staff

Board of Managers

Celeste Ahl, Chair, Sr. Attorney, Alston & Bird LLP

Will Adams, Executive Managing Director, Newmark

Carlos Gutierrez, Distinguished Professor of Chemistry, Emeritus, CSULA

Francisco Lozano, Sr. Director of Sales, Staircase AI

Marin Turney, Vice President, Brookfield Properties

Thank You to Our Partners