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Echoes of Laughter, Peace & Community

A glimpse into the joyful spirit of Camp Metta (Hương Từ Bi) in San Martin, California. From dawn meditation in the oak groves to campfire songs beneath starry skies.

Mindfulness
San Martin Oak Grove

Dawn Bell Chimes & Breath Meditation

Waking up to gentle bell resonance, breathing the crisp morning foothill air, and welcoming the day in quiet presence.

Dining & Food
Dining Pavilion

Mindful Meals in Quiet Gratitude

Savoring fresh, delicious vegetarian cuisine prepared with love, eating without digital devices to truly taste each bite.

Adventure
Meadow Trails

Wilderness Navigation & Team Relay

Campers collaborating through compass courses, knotcraft challenges, and laughter-filled cooperative outdoor relays.

Campfire
Campfire Amphitheater

Starlight Campfire & Cabin Skits

Acoustic songs, humorous skits written by the campers, roasted marshmallows, and deep belly laughter under the stars.

Workshops
Assembly Pavilion

Dharma Insights & Identity Circles

Teenagers having honest, vulnerable discussions about school stress, family expectations, mental health, and self-compassion.

Reflection
Reflection Clearing

Candlelight Gratitude Vigil

A deeply moving evening where campers pass a warm flame and express sincere appreciation for peers and counselor mentors.

Creative Arts
Outdoor Craft Pavilion

Creative Art & Calligraphy Studio

Mindfully painting river stones, brush calligraphy of compassionate verses, and crafting keepsakes to remember the retreat.

Sisterhood & Brotherhood
Dormitory Cabins

Cabin Bonding & Mentorship Chats

Late-afternoon cabin check-ins where collegiate counselors share life wisdom, advice on college transitions, and joyful stories.

Looking for full-resolution photo albums from past sessions and workshops?

Explore our Facebook page photo albums (@camp.metta.2025)

Reflections from Our Community

Experiences shared by youth and families touched by the spirit of Hương Từ Bi.

“Camp Metta completely reset my relationship with anxiety. Being disconnected from my phone and surrounded by people who genuinely care about each other made me feel seen for who I am.”

Emily T., Age 16
Camper (San Jose, CA)

“As a parent, I was amazed by how peaceful, grounded, and appreciative my son was when he came home. He still uses the breathing techniques he learned whenever he feels stressed before exams.”

David N.
Parent of 14-year-old camper (Fremont, CA)

“Returning as a counselor-in-training gave me purpose. Mentoring younger campers helped me realize that true leadership is simply listening with your whole heart.”

Kevin L., Age 20
Counselor & UC Berkeley Student

Create Your Own Stories This Year

Join a welcoming community of mindful youth and families in San Martin.