Nurturing Compassion, Courage & True Connection
Rooted in Hương Từ Bi (the Fragrance of Loving-Kindness), Camp Metta is an independent 501(c)(3) youth and community retreat center providing a tranquil sanctuary to discover our best selves amidst the beauty of nature.
From a Gentle Seed to a Lifelong Refuge
Camp Metta was born out of a profound realization: today’s young people and families face unprecedented levels of academic stress, digital fatigue, and emotional pressure. They crave authentic spaces where they do not have to perform, compete, or prove their worth.
We established Camp Metta as a peaceful foothill sanctuary where Buddhist mindfulness practices are stripped of ritualistic dogma and offered as practical, living tools for inner calm, emotional regulation, and self-compassion.
Every retreat balances quiet contemplation—such as dawn breathing meditation and silent walking—with exuberant teamwork, wilderness skills, campfire music, and heartfelt reflections.
“When you plant seeds of kindness in the heart of youth, they grow roots that anchor them through any storm.”
The Four Immeasurable Minds (Brahmavihāras)
Rather than memorizing theories, participants practice these four core attitudes through hands-on activities, team challenges, and daily mindful reflections.
Mettā (Loving-Kindness)
Unconditional warmth and genuine goodwill starting with oneself, radiating outward to peers, family, and all beings.
Karuṇā (Compassion)
Deep empathetic listening and supportive action when peers face emotional, academic, or personal struggles.
Muditā (Sympathetic Joy)
Celebrating our friends’ unique talents and victories with pure delight, completely free of jealousy or comparison.
Upekkhā (Equanimity)
An unshakable calm and quiet inner wisdom to navigate the highs and lows of modern life with grace.
What Makes Camp Metta Unique
Digital Wellness & Grounding
Stepping away from screens to reconnect with nature, birdsong, quiet stars, and real face-to-face heart-to-heart conversations.
Servant Leadership
True leadership is rooted in service, humility, deep listening, and lifting others up before yourself.
Wholesome Vegetarian Nutrition
Delicious, nutritious plant-based meals prepared fresh daily with gratitude and mindful appreciation for Mother Earth.
Safe, Inclusive Haven
Welcoming youth of all backgrounds, cultures, and traditions. Zero intolerance for bullying, discrimination, or cliques.
Our Organizing Committee & Leadership Team
Every staff member is background-checked, CPR/First Aid certified, and committed to youth and community care.
Venerable Monastic Advisors
Providing grounding guidance on breathing meditation, walking meditation, and Buddhist ethics for daily modern life.
Camp Directors & Operations
Overseeing camp safety protocols, venue logistics, volunteer coordination, and camper health with 20+ years of youth development experience.
Workshop Coordinators
Designing age-tailored interactive leadership seminars, experiential teamwork obstacles, mindfulness art, and evening campfires.
Camp Mentors & Facilitators
Trained adult facilitators and mentors in first aid, youth development, and empathetic listening who support camper cohorts throughout the weekend.
Join Our Growing Community
Whether you are a youth camper eager for an inspiring experience or a family seeking community connection, Camp Metta welcomes you.