YMCA Camp Jones Gulch

★★★★★Ben

When I went there in 5th grade for outdoor ed it was amazing, the naturalist were very nice like Tide ( Derek, my half-of-4th-and-5th-grade science teacher) and Twig (my naturalist there). Food was absolutely amazing, other than the chicken teriyaki which was chicken covered in teriyaki sauce then shoved in the oven for 5 hours and the rice tasted weird, maybe had lemon in it. Other than that it was amazing. Our table ‘manager’ (i guess, i forgot what the high schoolers who were there were called) One day at breakfast he traded our Rice Krispies for Cheerios? Or Frosted Flakes? Idk, but the table manager of the other table liked Rice Krispies much more than what they had and traded their good cereal for our bad one and all the kids at her table were screaming ‘no no don’t trade it!!’ And everyone at my table cheered :) anyways the experience was ABSOLUTELY AMAZING ! I stayed in the right side of the Heron Cabin with 2 of my friends from school. I found my new love for hiking and the woods . Special thanks to Tide, Twig, and Jay (the ‘principal’). Thanks for the best week of my life!

★★★★★Riley Tremain

I loved all the counselors they were so kind and helpful, the cabins were nice, and I loved all the activities and I’m definitely coming back next year

★★★★★Jonathan Phan

Camp Jones Gulch offers a rare blend of natural beauty and structured programming across its 920 acres of redwood forest. Located near La Honda in the Santa Cruz Mountains, the site has hosted YMCA camps and outdoor education programs for decades. Trails wind through old-growth groves, creeks, and meadows, creating a peaceful setting for both reflection and activity. The Valley of Giants, a 31-acre stand of ancient redwoods, is a highlight for visitors seeking quiet immersion in nature. The camp’s infrastructure is built with inclusivity in mind—gender-neutral cabins, international counselors, and family-friendly layouts make it accessible to a wide range of guests. While rustic, the facilities are well-maintained, with clean bathrooms, showers, and picnic areas. Activities like archery, hiking, and science-based field trips are thoughtfully designed to engage youth without overwhelming them. Parking is organized but limited, so carpooling is encouraged for larger groups. Camp Jones Gulch succeeds in offering a grounded, educational experience that respects both the land and its visitors. It’s not flashy, but it doesn’t need to be—the towering trees and quiet trails speak for themselves.

★★★★Jonathan Phan

The YMCA Camp Jones Gulch field trip gave LGHS students a refreshing break from the classroom, with a focus on outdoor connection and group bonding. Nestled in the redwoods, the setting encouraged reflection and movement without overwhelming structure. Staff kept things respectful and organized, allowing students to engage naturally. While not every camp feature was explored, the experience felt intentional and well-paced. It wasn’t about intensity—it was about shared space, quiet moments, and stepping outside the usual academic rhythm. The trip served its purpose without overpromising, and that simplicity made it memorable.

★★★★★Chris Fung

Spent 4 1/2 out of a 6 month stint at age 19….Honor Camp!!…. The Beautiful outdoors air….in a place far away from civilization…nature galore….I got healthy…body and mind…very much look back and Appreciate the sheriffs,deputy’s and counselors!!