Program Overview: Dr. Julia Parker has spent over 60 years working as a cultural demonstrator in Yosemite National Park, educating visitors from around the world about Native American history, stories, and traditions. Julia is a renowned basket-weaver — a skill that she has passed on to others in her family and shared with countless people over decades, including through Conservancy workshops.
On this three-day workshop in Yosemite Valley, you’ll have the opportunity to learn from Julia and her daughter, Lucy, as they guide you through traditional Miwok-Paiute basket-weaving techniques and share stories that have lived on through generations. All weaving materials are provided, so you’ll be able to create and take home your own handmade basket. However, please bring the items listed on the suggested packing list.
Know Before You Go:
- Program date: Friday, June 25, through Sunday, June 27; 9 am–4 pm each day
- Program location: Yosemite Valley
- What’s Included
- Guided basket weaving instruction from the Parker family
- Park entry pass (valid for program dates only)
- Shared tent camping (camping dates cannot be altered)
- No discount is available if you choose not to use the gate pass or campsite.
- Camping Information: Arrive Thursday, June 24, after 12 pm. Depart Monday, June 28, by 11 am. Four campsites are shared between all participants, each with space for 6 tents and equipped with a picnic table, bear locker, and fire pit. Within two weeks of registration, select “Camping” or “Not Camping” in your online portal to reserve your spot in a shared campsite. Access your portal through your confirmation email, and check your spam folder if needed.
- Camping Location: Upper Pines Campground
- Important Notes: Due to the shared nature of the campsites, we cannot accommodate RVs, campers, or car camping. If you would like a private campsite, have an RV/camper, or plan to sleep in your car, you’ll need to make your own reservation. Please note that camping is reserved for program participants only.
- Lodging Upgrade: Upgrade to Yosemite Valley Lodge or Curry Village tent cabins for an additional cost using our dedicated room block. A limited number of rooms are available on a first come, first served basis, so we recommend booking early. The room block expires 30 days before the program, at which point any remaining rooms are released for public booking. Lodging dates match the camping dates. Upgrade instructions will be included in your confirmation email after registration.
What’s Not Included
- Gear or meals during your program
- Camping gear or meals in the shared campsites
- Transportation
Experience Level: All levels welcome!
