Mission

Friends of San Jose Family Camp, founded in 1974, exists to foster public support and deepen community engagement with San Jose Family Camp. Through financial contributions, hands-on volunteer work, and strategic advocacy, we champion the long-term vitality of the Camp. We achieve this by organizing meaningful programs, activities, and events designed to inspire connection, stewardship, and joy.

Beyond our direct efforts, we offer thoughtful consultation and historical insight to camp management, the City of San Jose’s Parks and Recreation Department, and City Council members and staff — ensuring the Camp’s legacy continues to thrive through informed decisions and collaborative development.

Vision

We envision a future where San Jose Families can experience the serenity, adventure, and communal spirit that Family Camp offers. This vision guides our strong commitment to providing Camperships — scholarships that open the door to nature and connection for under-resourced families.

Many of our members have shared the Camp experience with their own families, and we understand the profound impact of time spent outdoors, unplugged, and united. At Camp, family bonds deepen, friendships grow, nature is embraced, laughter echoes, and a sense of peace takes root.

Values

At Friends of San Jose Family Camp, we celebrate inclusivity, integrity, and responsible stewardship in everything we do. We welcome qualified volunteers and members to join us in our efforts to support San Jose Family Camp at Yosemite.

Our organization is committed to maintaining an environment free from harassment and operates transparently and responsibly. We honor donor intent, adhere to sound fiscal practices, and follow policies that prevent conflicts of interest. Our volunteer code of conduct ensures that every action we take reflects our shared values and commitment to the Camp, our community, and the families we serve.

Operations

Our long-standing members bring invaluable, in-depth knowledge of San Jose Family Camp’s infrastructure, history, equipment, and operations — from its foundational roots to future design elements. With a wide range of specialized skills, our members are hands-on problem-solvers and passionate stewards of the Camp.

Regular meetings, attended by staff from the City of San Jose Parks & Recreation Department, serve as collaborative spaces to align goals, identify needs, and plan key initiatives. These gatherings are instrumental not just for coordination but for strengthening the partnership between Friends and City staff.

Our operational contributions span all seasons — from supporting summer programming (June through August) to pre- and post-season planning, maintenance, and social outreach. Together, we ensure that Camp remains vibrant, functional, and welcoming.

Volunteer Days

Volunteer Days are spirited, weekend-long work events hosted in collaboration with the City of San Jose Parks & Recreation Department.

Projects vary from weekend to weekend, but the impact is consistent. Over the decades, our volunteers have built and maintained tents, constructed facilities, completed plumbing and electrical work, restored buildings, and painted newly remodeled structures. Recent Volunteer Days have included preparing Camp for opening, refinishing decks, and freshening up furnishings.

Friends donate labor, tools, and materials to make these events possible. Participants pay a small fee that covers meals (Friday dinner; Saturday breakfast, lunch, and dinner; and Sunday breakfast and lunch), as well as tent or cabin accommodations — all in support of a cause that brings joy and connection to so many.

Join Us

Whether you're a seasoned builder, a creative communicator, a fantastic cook, or simply curious — there’s a role for you in Friends of San Jose Family Camp. Our volunteers span all ages and talents, contributing to everything from construction and painting to childcare and grant writing. If you’re ready to dig in and make a meaningful impact, we’d love to welcome you.

Membership is open and affordable:

• Individual Membership: $25/year
• Family Membership: $50/year Because we’re the Friends — and yes, we’re Friendly like that.

➡️ Ready to join us? Visit our Membership Page to get started today!

Our board meets on the second Wednesday of every month, usually via Zoom but also in person. Visitors are always welcome. Reach out for details if you'd like to attend or get involved.

Don’t forget to check out our Volunteer Days, held annually to prep and close Camp each season. No prior experience needed — just a willingness to pitch in. For more info, visit our Volunteer Days Page or connect with us through our Contact Form. We’d love to hear from you!

Friends of San Jose Family Camp
PO Box 8237
San Jose, CA 95155

Friends of San Jose Family Camp is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Tax ID # 77-0122168