Located on the shores of Shaver Lake in California’s Sierra Nevada, Camp Chawanakee has been providing unforgettable summer camp experiences since 1947.
The camp was established in 1946 with assistance from the federal government, the Civilian Conservation Corps, and Southern California Edison. Camp Chawanakee welcomed its first Scouts in the summer of 1947 with a capacity of approximately 100 campers and very few permanent facilities.
Today, Camp Chawanakee has grown into one of Sequoia Council’s premier outdoor destinations, welcoming thousands of Scouts and Scouters each summer. The camp features 23 campsites, extensive program areas, waterfront activities, shooting sports facilities, climbing and COPE programs, and the Lyles Lodge Dining Hall, which opened in 2017.
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Summer Camp
Camp Chawanakee offers seven one-week summer camp sessions each year from June through July, bringing Scouts and leaders together for a traditional resident camp experience filled with adventure, advancement, leadership, and the outdoors.
Scouts can create a week that fits their interests and experience level, with programs including:
- First-Year Camper programs focused on essential Scouting skills
- More than 50 merit badge opportunities
- Swimming, canoeing, kayaking, sailing, and other waterfront activities
- Climbing and rappelling on the 52-foot climbing tower
- COPE challenges emphasizing teamwork and leadership
- Rifle, shotgun, and archery programs
- Camp-wide activities, special events, and evening programs
Since welcoming its first Scouts in 1947, Camp Chawanakee has grown from a small camp serving 100 Scouts into a summer tradition shared by generations. For 80 years, adventure, friendship, and the Scouting experience have made Chawanakee a summer home for thousands of Scouts.
Sessions/Weeks of Camp
- Session/Week 1 – June 13 – June 19
- Session/Week 1 – June 20 – June 26
- Session/Week 1 – June 27 – July 3
- Session/Week 1 – July 4 – July 10
- Session/Week 1 – July 11 – July 17
- Session/Week 1 – July 18 – July 24
- Session/Week 1 – July 25 – July 31
Ready for Camp Chawanakee?
Interested in bringing your unit to Camp Chawanakee? Contact the Fresno Service Center at (559) 320-2100 to check availability, ask questions, or click below and find out more information!
