OCLB - 'You Belong Outdoors' GEAR EXCHANGE

  • Sat, October 18, 2025
  • 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
  • 1 Sunnyhill, Irvine, CA 92603
  • 199

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OCLB Chapter of Great Outdoors Supports:


YOBELONG OUTDOORS:  GEAR SWAP


Saturday, October 18, 2025


Registering here IS NOT A REQUIREMENT for you to show up to the GEAR SWAP.  However, registering will help me gauge the interest our members have this this type of activity.

Whether you make it to this event or not, but have an interest in attending a future GEAR SWAP event, PLEASE TAKE THIS TIME to register now regardless if you can make it on OCT 18.  


To our members,

One great result from our recent participation at the OC Pride Festival is that we met interesting people and are expanding our network other LGBTQ+ groups and be allies in our effort to bring cohesion to our community.

One person I met was River Milburn [Pronouns: they/them], MS in Inclusion and Belonging in the Outdoors.  And they are CO-Founder of 'You Belong Outdoors.'  

You can learn more about the group on Instagram:  @youbelongoutdoorrecreation.  



I know many of us will be at Conference next weekend, but for those who are in town and have gear worth a second-life or if you want to try out some new gear, then their upcoming GEAR SWAP event on the 18th may be just the thing.  

Here is the notice that River has put out to their followers and I put it out here to us to share and partake.    


Calling all Queer Outdoor Enthusiasts and Curious Explorers! We truly believe every BODY belongs in the outdoors (and beyond) and we want to make nature more accessible and welcoming for all.

Join us for a free event where LGBTQIA2S+ outdoor enthusiast of all levels can connect, share, and learn together. Bring any gently used outdoor gear or apparel you’d like to swap—or just come browse and take what you need. !


Have gear/apparel but can't attend? Email us to arrange pickup!

Alongside the swap there will be ongoing opportunities to practice setting up/taking down various styles and sizes of tents and learning about campfire building & safety. Be sure to stop by and visit our friends with Naturalist For You for some nature based mindfulness activities in the park!

12:00pm - In collaboration with the Venture Out Project, we are facilitating an Introduction To the Outdoors Workshop which covers topics including;
  • Know Before You Go: Plan & Prepare your mind, body, and supplies
  • Hiking Essentials
  • Leave No Trace & Environmental Stewardship Principles
1:00 pm:  Optional .4 mile stroll around the Nature Center Trail to try out your new gear! Trail is ADA Accessible.

We are actively seeking in-kind outdoor recreation clothing and gear donations such as:
  • Outdoor clothing attire & footwear including SPF, rain + weather resistant apparel, shoes, hats etc.
  • Tents, canopies, tarps, chairs, tables
  • Sleeping pads, sleeping bags, air mattresses
  • Cooking stoves and reusable cooking ware
  • Headlamps, flashlights, solar lights etc.
  • Environmentally friendly soaps and cleaning supplies
  • Hygiene Kits
  • Trekking Poles
  • Reusable water bottles & hydration packs
  • Multi-purpose camping tools & gear
  • Other outdoor program equipment
  • Non-perishable hiking food, snacks, electrolytes, etc.
How to Donate: Attend this event! Can't Attend? Coordinate donation by emailing River at [email protected]

River Milburn 
MS in Inclusion and Belonging in the Outdoors
CO-Founder of You Belong Outdoors
Pronouns: they/them (what's this?)
Instagram: @youbelongoutdoorrecreation
LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/Youbelongoutdoors

“You Belong Everywhere You Decide to Be” - Nikki Hiltz



ADDRESS & DIRECTIONS


Any questions?  Reach out to River! 

Event Coordinator: Robert Sandoval
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 323-829-1963



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a 501(c)(7) not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQIA+ and Allies organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved. Privacy policy