Friends of China Camp

For many visitors, the little kiosk at Back Ranch Meadows serves as the gateway to China Camp State Park. Campers stop at the kiosk, at the western end of the park, as they head into the campground. Mountain bikers, hikers, and runners often swing by to buy a pass, get directions or trail tips, or take a brochure. 

Over the years, the kiosk has managed to provide shelter and work space for our kiosk volunteers. But the little structure has needed TLC for quite some time. Doors haven’t shut properly, flooring has been far from flat, assorted leaks have cropped up, and windows haven’t closed properly. Fortunately, one of our most dedicated contributors, Jeff Craemer, stepped forward to underwrite the project, giving the green light to making necessary repairs and improvements.

Big thanks to our benefactor

When the project wrapped earlier this year, FOCC staff and volunteers gathered to thank Jeff Craemer for his generous contribution—yet another in his long list of gifts to the park, including assorted building repairs and the donation of vehicles and maintenance equipment. Also attending the March gathering was Jason Hart, Maintenance Chief for California State Parks. Jason complimented FOCC for its investment and obvious care of China Camp. Matt Trethric, owner of Seaside Construction, was also on hand, and pointed out the various repairs and replacements that had been made to the kiosk.

FOCC is delighted to have a new, safe, and comfortable shelter for its volunteers and staff, and to have a spiffed up “welcome mat” for the park. Thanks, Jeff Craemer—you are truly our “China Camp angel.”—reported by FOCC Executive Director Martin Lowenstein