The Highline Heritage Museum has unveiled a new exhibit in its main gallery dedicated to Camp Waskowitz, Highline Public Schools’ historic Civilian Conservation Corps camp turned outdoor education center in the Cascade foothills.
Since the inception of the district’s Outdoor Education program in 1947, thousands of students have experienced this school in the woods. Waskowitz serves the students of Highline Public Schools, as well as students from surrounding schools and districts, through nature and student-centered programs. When not in use by student groups, the facilities are available to outside groups for rent.
Museum officials are inviting visitors to “share your memories of Camp Waskowitz” and encourage the submission of photographs at the front desk for possible inclusion in the exhibit.
The display offers a chance for the community to reflect on the camp’s legacy and educational impact.
Originally constructed in 1935 as Camp North Bend by the Civilian Conservation Corps, it operated as a base camp for forest conservation work. Renamed in honor of World War II pilot Fritz Waskowitz, it has served the district’s outdoor school program since the late 1940s (read more about its history here).
Today Waskowitz remains one of the few intact CCC camps in the nation and continues to host thousands of students annually for immersive environmental learning.
Yes I went to Camp Waskowitz from Cedarhurst Elementary around 1966. The only thing I remember is the Bunk houses smelled musty, carrying the trout in a cup to release in the river, Mr Lemon (of course) and being homesick! Good ol’ days
“Fried ham, fried ham, cheese and baloney, after the mustard and…..
Fried ham! Fried ham!” That’s all I remember from that song. I was at Camp Wakowitz in the 5th grade about 1981. Great memories!
Was it the 5th grade, I couldn’t remember??? I don’t remember the song LOL were you enrolled in Cedarhurst?
I went in 73 from Crestview Elementary (RIP) and have my cast acrylic WA State mold with mini cedar cone and fern leaf around here somewhere. Good times for sure.
Salmon Creek Elementary! 6th grade with Mrs. Gilbert. I’m pretty sure that was her name.
I thought the cabins were scary, I felt like something was always watching me. From the bathrooms back to the rooms, I always try avoiding it and holding it in. Hahhah it’s so scary!!
I still feel the same way about it, I remember going back as a leader in high school. Avoided it as much as possible. That’s just me though, I don’t like scary stuff.
I don’t remember what time we woke up in the morning… but I won’t ever forget the sound of the loud alarm waking up the campsite.
One thing I did enjoy and will always forever love that I don’t see anymore now. Late night bon fire and singing old songs. Fun fun. My son, doesn’t know any old school fun nursery rhymes we use to sing in school. I don’t know, I just really miss it.