Camp Waskowitz

Camp Waskowitz, nestled amid the stunning landscape near North Bend and within the Mountains to Sound Greenway National Heritage Area, stands as a beacon of outdoor education and adventure. Spanning 372 acres of enchanting woods, this hidden gem traces its roots back to the 1930s when it was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Today, it includes 10 historic camp structures and serves as a cherished hub for learning, exploration, and connection with nature.

Students from across Washington State visit Camp Waskowitz to participate in outdoor education programs. Fifth and sixth grade students of South King County’s Highline School District visit annually to learn about the natural world, connect with their classmates, and develop an enduring relationship with wild spaces. Outdoor spaces are important for young people because they find opportunities to experience nature in new ways and receive vital life skills to become informed, engaged, and environmentally conscious citizens.

With distinguished alumni like former U.S. Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell, the camp’s impact on shaping future leaders in environmental stewardship cannot be understated. That’s why Trust for Public Land (TPL) joined efforts with the Highline School District to safeguard the future of Camp Waskowitz. By preserving its expansive trail system and stunning landscape, TPL is protecting a valuable educational resource, supporting conservation along the Mountains to Sound Greenway, and creating public access.

Camp Waskowitz is a model for outdoor education and a cornerstone for both environmental stewardship and community well-being. These spaces are rare jewels and examples of how nature and education can intersect to inspire, empower, and uplift communities, ensuring a brighter, greener future for all.