Camp Waskowitz, home of Highline School District’s nationally recognized environmental education program, is one of the oldest outdoor school programs in the country. In 1935, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) constructed the facility to serve as its base camp for Forest Service projects in the Snoqualmie Valley area. Out of more than 4,000 “temporary” CCC camps built nationwide, it is one of the few remaining that retains its original design integrity and “rustic utilitarian” feel, leading to the camp’s listing in the National Register of Historic Places as well as designation as a King County Landmark.

When the CCC ceased operations in 1947, Highline School District Superintendent Carl Jensen realized the opportunity to implement his vision of creating an outdoor education center. The Highline District established the center that same year, ultimately purchasing the site in 1957. For over 75 years, the Waskowitz Outdoor Education Center has provided students in the region and beyond the opportunity to engage with nature. As for the future of the CCC-site, thinks look a lot rosier than they did just a few years ago. In 2024, the Highline School District, in partnership with the Trust for Public Lands and King County, unveiled plans to place Camp Waskowitz and nearly 350 acres of surrounding forest land under conservation easement. In exchange for the conservation easement, the Highline School District received over $7 million dollars, which will be used to maintain the historic CCC-era buildings while expanding opportunities for students to experience the outdoors. With the easement, the site will be preserved in perpetuity.