The History of Sierra Nevada Journeys
Outdoor Education Camp
The camp, formerly called Grizzly Creek Ranch, was originally built by Sierra Health Foundation, a private philanthropy investing in and serving as a catalyst for ideas, partnerships, and programs that improve health and quality of life in northern California through convening, educating, and strategic grantmaking.
Founded in 2006, Sierra Nevada Journeys provides educational and leadership opportunities for children, including Classrooms Unleashed, Overnight Outdoor Learning, and afterschool programs. In 2010, the Sierra Health Foundation partnered with Sierra Nevada Journeys to operate the Camp near Portola, CA. Through the initiative, Sierra Nevada Journeys provides year-round outdoor science education opportunities to students, families, and community members that foster healthy communities through outdoor experiences that build leadership, stewardship, and critical thinking.
In 2020, Sierra Nevada Journeys completed the purchase of the Outdoor Education Camp. We could not have accomplished this giant, three-year undertaking without the support of our donors. As owners of this incredible educational asset, Sierra Nevada Journeys continues delivering support to those who need it most — teachers, students, and families — while maintaining our commitment to serving historically marginalized communities. We hope to ensure access to valuable science and nature experiences for their future success.