How to Send Messages to Inmates

You can use your phone or computer to send emails, letters, and photos to an inmate. Messages are sent electronically to inmate tablets or kiosks at the facility. If you would like to send a message, start by searching for an inmate at South Fork Forest Camp.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at South Fork Forest Camp is to send photos and postcards. It only takes a few minutes to send photos from your phone and it makes a huge difference. You can also mail postcards with words of support and inspiration, or design your own postcard for special moments like birthdays and holidays.

Important! Be sure not to send any explicit photos or they may not be approved by the facility. You can also use a photo printing app like Penmate to make sure your photos are printed at the correct size (4x6 or 3x5) and are mailed according to the rules and regulations of South Fork Forest Camp.

Frequently asked questions about South Fork Forest Camp

1. How long does it take to deliver a message?

   If you're sending an email message your letter is usually delivered within 24-48 hours. For messages sent via mail you should expect delivery within 3-7 days. All messages will need be approved by South Fork Forest Camp.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to South Fork Forest Camp?

   You can send a message free using your phone or mail a message via USPS for the price of a $0.60 stamp and envelope. You can also purchase credits or e-stamps from services starting at $1.99.

3. What services can I use to contact an inmate at South Fork Forest Camp?

   Penmate

   You can use Penmate to send letters and photos to an inmate from your phone. It's an easy way to stay in touch during your loved one's incarceration. Use the inmate locator to find an inmate's location and contact information, then you can send messages within a few minutes.

   Securus messaging

   Securus may be another option for communicating with an inmate at South Fork Forest Camp. You can create a friends and family account and purchase credits to send messages. All messages will be reviewed and must be approved by the facility.

   JPay

   Some county jails and state prisons may support sending messages with JPay. You must register an account with the system, find your loved one, and purchase stamps to send messages. For some locations you can also attach photos.

   Smart Jail Mail

   You may also check if Smart Jail Mail is available at South Fork Forest Camp. Smart Jail Mail is operated by Smart Communications and has contracted with some state and county jails. After purchasing credits, your messages and photos are sent to the facility, printed out, and then handed out to your loved one.

4. What is the mailing address of South Fork Forest Camp?

   Mailing address:

   South Fork Forest Camp
   48300 Wilson River Hwy
   Tillamook, OR 97141
   Phone: (503) 842-2811

   Business hours:

   • Monday: Closed
   • Tuesday: Closed
   • Wednesday: Closed
   • Thursday: Closed
   • Friday: 6:30 – 8:00 PM
   • Saturday: 8:30 – 11:00 AM
   • 1:00 – 3:30 PM
   • Sunday: 8:30 – 11:00 AM
   • 1:00 – 3:30 PM

5. What are the visiting hours at South Fork Forest Camp?

   Visiting hours at South Fork Forest Camp vary by housing unit and security level. Generally, visits are scheduled on weekends and holidays, with some facilities offering weekday visits. Contact the facility directly at (503) 842-2811 or check their website for the current visiting schedule. Visits typically last 30-60 minutes and must be scheduled in advance.

6. What items are prohibited when sending mail to South Fork Forest Camp?

   Prohibited items typically include: cash, personal checks, stamps, stickers, glitter, glue, tape, staples, paperclips, polaroid photos, musical or blank greeting cards, hardcover books, magazines with staples, and any items containing metal or electronics. Only send letters on plain white paper with blue or black ink. Photos must be printed on regular photo paper (no Polaroids). Always check with South Fork Forest Camp for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at South Fork Forest Camp?

   You can send money to an inmate at South Fork Forest Camp through several methods: 1) Online using JPay, Access Corrections, or the facility's approved vendor, 2) Money orders mailed directly to the facility with the inmate's name and ID number, 3) Kiosks located in the facility lobby, or 4) Over the phone using a credit or debit card. Fees vary by method, typically ranging from $2.95 to $11.95 per transaction.

8. Can I schedule a video visit with an inmate at South Fork Forest Camp?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At South Fork Forest Camp, video visits may be available through services like Penmate, Securus Video Connect, GTL, or ICSolutions. Video visits typically cost $10-20 for 20-30 minutes and must be scheduled in advance. You'll need a computer or smartphone with a camera and reliable internet connection. Contact the facility for their specific video visitation policies and approved vendors.

9. What identification do I need to visit an inmate at South Fork Forest Camp?

   All visitors must present valid government-issued photo identification such as a driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who can provide the minor's birth certificate. Some facilities require visitors to be on the inmate's approved visitation list, which may require a background check. Contact South Fork Forest Camp for specific ID requirements and visitor approval procedures.

10. How can I find out an inmate's release date?

    To find an inmate's release date at South Fork Forest Camp, you can: 1) Use the online inmate search tool if available, 2) Call the facility's records department, 3) Contact the inmate's case manager or counselor, or 4) Have the inmate provide this information during a call or visit. For privacy reasons, some facilities only release this information to immediate family members.

Programs & Services

The Union Pre-Apprenticeship Construction Training (U-PACT) program at South Fork Forest Camp represents a significant pathway to post-release career success, offering adults in custody intensive 12-week training in partnership with local trade unions including Ironworkers Local 29, Bricklayers Local 1, and Cement Masons Local 555. This comprehensive program combines fast-paced classroom instruction with hands-on experience, enabling participants to earn their OSHA 10 certification while developing both trade-specific skills and essential life skills needed for successful reintegration. The program’s early graduates have demonstrated meaningful career outcomes following their release, highlighting the effectiveness of this pre-apprenticeship approach.

Beyond vocational training, South Fork Forest Camp operates the Joys of Living Assistance Dogs (JLAD) program, where adults in custody train service dogs while developing valuable skills in responsibility, patience, and animal care. This comprehensive program not dedicated provides essential services to the community but also offers participants opportunities to engage with the public and share their experiences at graduation ceremonies. The facility may also offer additional educational programming, substance abuse counseling, and mental health services typical of Oregon correctional facilities, though specific details about these programs are not readily available.

The camp’s approach emphasizes practical skill development and community connections, with programs designed to reduce recidivism while contributing positively to Oregon’s economy. Adults in custody may have access to various support services including job readiness training, cognitive behavioral programs, and reentry planning assistance, all aimed at preparing individuals for successful transitions back into their communities upon release.

Daily Life & Visitation

Adults in custody at South Fork Forest Camp begin their days immersed in structured programming that extends far beyond traditional incarceration. The facility operates specialized training initiatives like the Union Pre-Apprenticeship Construction Training (U-PACT) program, where participants engage in intensive 12-week courses covering ironwork, bricklaying, and cement masonry. These hands-on educational sessions typically run during standard daytime hours, with participants earning OSHA 10 certifications while developing both trade-specific skills and essential life skills preparation. The camp also facilitates comprehensive community engagement opportunities, such as the Joys of Living Assistance Dogs (JLAD) program, where residents train service animals and may participate in graduation ceremonies off-site.

The structured environment at South Fork Forest Camp emphasizes rehabilitation through meaningful work and skill development. Daily schedules generally include a combination of educational programming, vocational training, and facility maintenance responsibilities. Residents participating in specialized programs like U-PACT engage in both classroom instruction and practical application exercises designed to prepare them for post-release employment. The facility’s approach often incorporates community partnerships that provide real-world experience and connection to potential employers, creating pathways to successful reintegration.

Family connections remain an important aspect of daily life, with visitation and communication policies typically following Oregon Department of Corrections guidelines. Residents may maintain contact with loved ones through scheduled visits, phone calls, and correspondence, though specific schedules and restrictions may vary based on individual circumstances and program participation. The camp’s focus on career preparation and community engagement often includes opportunities for family members to witness achievements, such as program graduations or special events, helping to strengthen support networks that are crucial for successful reentry.