About Us
Camp Joy is a small non-profit organic farm operated for educational purposes.
The 4.5 acre clearing is located in a residential neighborhood surrounded
by redwood forest just outside of Boulder Creek in the Santa Cruz Mountains.
The farm was founded in 1971 as a place to learn and practice a diversified,
restorative agriculture, which combines beauty, productivity, and ecological health.
It was developed by many years of hard work, resourcefulness and key donations
from individuals. The seed of inspiration for Camp Joy came through the work
of Alan Chadwick. The farm is characterized by intensive culture, hand labor,
raised beds and a garden design that is artistic and bio-dynamic in nature.
We grow vegetables, flowers, herbs and fruit as well as keep bees and goats.
The farm supports itself through educational programs and through
a Community Supported Agricultural program in the local community.
Camp Joy offers apprenticeships to adults each season and arranges
garden tours and classes for children and school groups.
We also present a full calendar of workshops and events for both children
and adults. We find inspiration through a direct connection with the land,
while attaining practical skills which translate that inspiration into
action for positive change in our own lives and society as a whole.
Camp Joy graduates have gone on to establish other farms and gardens
throughout the country and internationally.