Local Student Attends Prestigious Camp Cinder Firefighting Program

“[We] provide young women a safe, dynamic, interactive, and challenging environment to gain strength, knowledge, and confidence in their ability to excel in the profession of firefighting and beyond. Upon completing the camp, young women will leave with a sense of empowerment and the confidence that they can succeed in any career they choose.”

That inspiring statement is the mission of Camp Cinder, an all-girls firefighting camp in Northern California near Shasta.

Each year, Camp Cinder receives more than 500 applications for its four-day, action-packed program, but only 35 young women are selected to participate. This year, Skylla Larson, a senior at Pacific High School and Junior Firefighter with Sixes River Fire, was among the fortunate few chosen for this highly competitive opportunity.

Led by female firefighters from Cal Fire, Camp Cinder introduces young women ages 15 to 17 to every aspect of the fire service. Participants suit up in real firefighting gear, dig wildland fire lines, learn to operate firefighting tools, and gain hands-on experience with water/boat rescue techniques, helicopter operations, vehicle extrication, emergency medical services, and team-building exercises—just to name a few of the many activities packed into the program.

The free, immersive camp was founded in 2014 by a group of female firefighters from San Luis Obispo. Since then, it has grown significantly and has been adopted by Cal Fire, with multiple Camp Cinder locations now offered throughout California.

When asked about her experience at Camp Cinder, Larson said, “Going to Camp Cinder was an amazing experience that gave me a lot more confidence in myself. Seeing so many women succeeding in a traditionally male-dominated career while encouraging and lifting up other women around them was incredibly inspiring. It made me realize that I really can do anything, and it also showed me what women can accomplish when we come together and overcome barriers.”

Congratulations to this determined and inspiring young woman on being selected for such a prestigious program. Her accomplishment highlights the growing opportunities available to young women interested in public service and leadership.

Young women interested in exploring a future in firefighting are encouraged to apply to this exciting, women-led camp. Larson highly recommends the camp and the experience: “It’s a great opportunity to challenge yourself, learn skills you may have never been exposed to, and see if the fire service is something you’d want to pursue. If you already know you’re interested, it’s a great way to build your knowledge and gain that hands-on experience. Even if you decide it isn’t the right path for you, you’ll leave with a better understanding of the different opportunities it offers, along with new experiences, lifelong friendships, and confidence that you will carry with you the rest of your life.” No prior experience is necessary. Applications can be found online by searching “Camp Cinder.”