Food & Farm Camp: Smith River

June 23-26, 2026

Celebrating a Successful First Week of Food & Farm Camp

The Del Norte & Tribal Lands Community Food Council is thrilled to celebrate the successful launch of the first week of our Food & Farm Camp in Smith River, held in partnership with the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation. Throughout the week, K–5 youth participated in hands-on activities that celebrated Tolowa culture, traditional ecological knowledge, healthy foods, and caring for the land and waters that sustain our communities.

Campers explored the garden, learned about local plants and food systems, prepared healthy recipes, created art, and enjoyed outdoor learning experiences that fostered curiosity, teamwork, and a deeper connection to place. The week culminated in a special community celebration featuring traditional foods, where campers shared elk chili and seafood chowder, alongside fresh butter and homemade jam they proudly made with the support of the University of California Cooperative Extension Master Food Preservers. Sharing these foods together highlighted the importance of traditional foods, local ingredients, and the knowledge that connects generations through food.

This incredible week was made possible through the collaboration and generosity of the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation, our dedicated camp staff, Youth Camp Counselors, volunteers, Elders, cultural knowledge keepers, the Master Food Preservers, and our many community partners. Together, they created a welcoming space where youth could learn new skills, strengthen their connection to culture and community, and discover the joy of growing, preparing, and sharing food.

We are grateful to everyone who helped make this first week such a meaningful success and look forward to continuing Food & Farm Camp in Klamath and Crescent City later this summer, bringing more opportunities for youth to celebrate culture, food sovereignty, environmental stewardship, and the rich traditions of our region.