From ancient dwelling sites to 75+ years of Scouting excellence
🏞️ The Tuolumne Band of Mi-wuk
Thousands of Years of History
Long before Camp Hi-Sierra existed, the land was home to the Tuolumne Band of Mi-wuk (also spelled Miwok) people.
Traditional Life:
- Seasonal dwelling in the valley for thousands of years
- Grinding holes visible in rocks throughout camp
- Hunted deer, elk, and small game
- Gathered acorns, pine nuts, berries, and roots
- Fished in the North Fork Tuolumne River
- Practiced controlled burns for forest management
Village Life:
- Lived in villages with umachas (roundhouses)
- Built chakkas (acorn granaries)
- Used hangi (sweat lodges)
- Rich cultural and spiritual traditions
- Deep connection to the land
Impact of the Gold Rush (1848)