Camp Paradise

The California Federation of Mineralogical Societies (CFMS) Camp Paradise

CFMS Camp Paradise is a week-long lapidary and jewelry arts retreat organized by the California Federation of Mineralogical Societies (CFMS). It is held at a rustic retreat center in the Plumas National Forest near Clipper Mills, California, typically in the late summer or early fall. Participants stay in dorm-style accommodations, with meals provided, and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere focused on learning and community among rockhounds and lapidary enthusiasts.

The camp typically offers a variety of hands-on classes, including lapidary (cutting and polishing stones), silver fabrication, lost wax casting, wire wrapping, soft stone carving, glass fusing, enameling, and faceting. *Please note that classes are subject to change.*

CFMS Camp Paradise

August 17th - 23rd, 2025
August 24th - 30th, 2025

Registration opens March 15th, 2025

Registrar, Ann Marie McCann registerforcampparadise@gmail.com

Camp Directors, Jill & Gary Atkins

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Camp Paradise Raffle & Ticket Sale

We’re excited to announce the start of raffle ticket sales for Camp Paradise! Both members and non-members are eligible to purchase tickets, so spread the word! Tickets will be available at the meeting—don’t miss your chance to win this amazing experience!

  • Prize: One week at Camp Paradise (a $550 value), which includes lodging and meals. Additional fees for classes and materials are not included.

    Tickets:     $10 each

    Limited Availability:     Only 55 tickets will be sold.

  • Winner Announcement: One winner will be drawn during our June Educational Meeting.


    Please note: We will still be holding our Camp Paradise Scholarship Drawing during our May Educational Meeting, so be sure to participate in that opportunity as well.

Camp Paradise Scholarship

The Roseville Rock Rollers Gem and Mineral Society is thrilled to offer an opportunity for our Society members to enter a contest for a full or partial Scholarship to the CFMS's annual Earth Science Studies at Camp Paradise. This exclusive scholarship grants one week of the winner's choice at this renowned educational retreat. Don't miss out on this chance to enhance your earth science knowledge at Camp Paradise!

  • Scholarships

    One week at Camp Paradise, which includes lodging and meals. Additional fees for classes and materials are not included.


    One scholarship for $550, one partial scholarship for $300, and two partial scholarships for $250.

  • Winners Announcement

    Our CFMS Director will conduct a drawing during the Educational Meeting on Tuesday, May 13th. The winner must be present to claim the scholarship.


    Please note: We will be holding our Camp Paradise Raffle Drawing during our June Educational Meeting, so be sure to participate in that opportunity as well.

  • Selection Process

    Nine names will be drawn randomly.
    The first name selected will win the $550 scholarship. The second name selected will win the $300 scholarship. The third & fourth names selected will win the $275 scholarship. The remaining five names will be placed on a waiting list in the order they were drawn.
    Past winners are ineligible to enter again for two years.