Faith Meets the Forest: My Camp Yoshi Experience

My time at Camp Yoshi reminded me that the presence of Yah can be felt most clearly when distractions fall away. The simplicity of being outdoors, without constant access to the usual luxuries, made every interaction richer and more meaningful. Portland, too, added its own rhythm to the experience, with its open landscapes and quiet corners for reflection.

I was able to step into stillness while also sharing joy with others who were seeking the same kind of pause. It wasn’t just about camping—it was about resetting my spirit and being reminded of what matters most. I left with new friendships that felt as though they had always been part of my journey. I left with laughter still echoing in my ears and scriptures pressed more deeply into my heart. I left with the understanding that Yah calls us to find unity, love, and agreement in all spaces He places us.

The trip was both an escape and a return, a way of coming back to myself while drawing closer to Him. Camp Yoshi was not just a weekend—it was a sacred encounter written into my story.

[The Journal Entry]

It all started at Camp Yoshi where I was blessed [am] blessed to be here. Being reminded to breathe. To be in His presence. To appreciate all His creations, especially the people. His people. To be able to connect with like-minded people. Experience a new level of comfort in the most “uncomfortable” place is truly a blessing. 

Now, I say ‘uncomfortable’ in quotes because camping is not everyone’s first choice, especially not people who look like us. But it causes people to break out of their comfort zone, actually. I’ve heard so much of that while here on Day 1. People want to unplug and be away in a place so serene. There’s no comparison to the beach, because this feels first like being without much of the luxuries of life.

Being here in this moment is such a blessing. I’m sitting here in the blazing sun listening to the laughter of people whom I’ve had so many thorough conversations with. Everyone can have a conversation. Really dialogue with each other. It’s rare to get much authenticity from people immediately, as well as people who are willing to give their time to engage in meaningful conversations. A lot of people are guarded or don’t know how to hold conversations. 

Thank you, Yah, for blessing me. 

Allowing me to take this journey. 

Allowing me to meet another one of your children whom you woke up. 

(Ezekiel 37 - The Dry Bones Prophesy - because I prayed to meet another person who was in the truth)

Allowing me to explore more of your creation on earth. 

And a bonus, no bugs were messing with me (and I truly believe that was because I called authority over them).

I opened my Apocrypha and thought I picked up where I left off, but I went back a bit within the book of Sirach as I was writing this journal entry. I began to read Sirach 25:1.

Wisdom was beautified and stood up beautiful both before Yah and men in 3 things:

1. The unity of brethren

2. The love of neighbors

3. A man and a wife who agree together

[I felt compelled to write it down, and it rolled right into my journal entry, thanks to the Holy Spirit.] 

Journal Entry continued. 

Camp Yoshi definitely brings the first two, well, actually all three, at least on this trip, all three are here. 

There was unity amongst brethren.

There was love of neighbors. 

We have a beautiful couple, married for about 7 years and together for 15. They met in college, became friends, and naturally progressed into what I can see as a loving, thriving relationship. 

Funny enough, when I found out their names, I said Isn’t that cute, Joi (Joy) and Justin. That’s the married couple's name that just flows together well. I love that because, to me, it matches so perfectly, and their personalities don’t disappoint and blend so well together. 

Camp Yoshi has achieved what many businesses can't. It brings people together for a culturally curated experience that fills each moment with laughter and genuine smiles. The banter among Black people is indescribably familiar and comfortable. It allows people to be both inside and outside their comfort zones simultaneously. 

I thank the Most High for instilling in the hearts of each of these people the desire to take a chance and embark on this experience. 

I thank the Most High for placing this vision in Rashad’s (Owner of Camp Yoshi) heart and for his obedience to follow through and keep going, so that he can have moments like this of witnessing the fruits of his labor. I thank the people who have joined him to be a part of creating an intentional, purposeful, and, above all, a fun experience.

Post Hike at Eagle Creek Trailhead

If you're interested in learning more about Camp Yoshi, visit their website: https://www.campyoshi.com/.