Boot camps for young adult offenders operate in 23 States and another 7 States are in the process of establishing programs. The central policy issue in considering boot camp programs is whether they will be used to divert prison-bound or probation-bound offenders. In terms of target offenders, most States specify that boot camp participants must be non-violent felony offenders who have never been incarcerated. The most frequently cited program objectives include reducing prison overcrowding, providing offenders with deterrence and rehabilitation, and cutting prison operating costs. The authors conclude that boot camp prison programs are only marginally effective in achieving these goals. Real savings would be realized if boot camps reduced participant recidivism, but long-term evaluations have not yet been conducted. A State-by-State analysis of boot camp programs is included. 1 figure and 1 appendix