Backbone Mountain Youth Center (BMYC)
- 124 Camp 4 Road
- Swanton, MD 21561
Contact Information
Superintendent: Corey Marshall
Assistant Superintendent: vacant
About Backbone Mountain
- Serves male youth
- Capacity: up to 24 males
- Staff trained in trauma-informed care
- Secure treatment center program typically lasting 6-9 months
- Behavioral and physical health screening at admission
- Dietary, medical, dental and counseling services on premises
- Educational program in the facility year round, five days a week for six hours a day
- Recreation space and recreational programming
Daily life and education
A typical day for youth includes scheduled time for education, treatment groups, exercise, and structured leisure time. Learn more about DJS's approach.
-
Juvenile Services Education ProgramsStudents are offered exceptional education opportunities, leading toward graduation or a diploma by examination (GED).
-
Residential services programsA variety of structured activities and outings are offered to expand experiences and positive engagements to youth.
-
Menus and nutrition policiesDJS promotes nutritional benefits of healthy eating and wellness through diet and monthly programs.
-
Health ServicesAll youth receive a behavioral health screening and health assessment, and have access to medical, dental and counseling services on premises.
Note updated visitation procedures for this facility: In addition to regularly scheduled facility visitation, non-routine visitation requires a 24-hour RSVP to the case manager and cannot interfere with school.
Activities at Backbone Mountain
The Center partners with community organizations, churches, and civic organizations to provide programing for youth at the facility. Youth have the opportunity to participate in:
- Writing competitions
- Faith-based activities
- Fine arts
- Fitness and sports
- Life skills development
- Greenhouse and gardening
- Fruit harvesting
- Woodworking
- Reflections
- Fishing and camping
- Pet therapy
Backbone Mountain program information
Find out more information about what's happening at Backbone Mountain Youth Center (BMYC), including data and programming specifics.
Facility history
In 1964, the General Assembly appropriated funds to establish a forestry camp near Backbone Mountain in Garrett County. The Backbone Mountain Forestry Camp for Boys opened in May 1966. The camp was renamed as the Backbone Mountain Youth Center in 1977.
Historical content courtesy of the Maryland State Archives.