Upcoming Outings

  • PS - Hike: Lost Palms Oasis

    • Fri, December 05, 2025
    • 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • Joshua Tree National Park Cottonwood Entrance
    Register

    The trail to Lost Palms Oasis in Joshua Tree National Park begins at the east end of Cottonwood Springs Oasis Road near the southern entrance of the park. The oasis is reported as the largest or second largest in JTNP and is reached by an in and out trail with an optional short loop down into the oasis. The trail has crests with views of the Salton Sea, Santa Rosa, and Mt San Jacinto, with dips into arroyos where sand and water may be encountered. Wildflowers often accent the landscape that is full of desert plants, wildlife, and (surprise!) rocks.

    At 3.5 miles into the hike, the official trail ends. Hikers will have the option to pick a perch and admire the oasis from above, or hike down into the oasis for a closer look. The oasis loop is the most challenging part of the hike, as the route is steep, with loose rocks, and palm frond debris. Plan lunch for the oasis stop.

    • Trail Length: 7.4 mile plus 0.5 miles for oasis loop
    • Total elevation gain: 1500'
    • Difficulty Rating: moderate plus
    • Trail Type: Out and back.
    • Hiking Time: 4.5 hours
    • Distance to trailhead approximately 51 miles.

    Departure Time: 8 a.m.

    Departure Location: Near PetSmart and Walmart Gas - Ramon/Crossley, Palm Springs: Map. Arrive a few minutes early for a prompt 8 a.m. departure.

    Fees/Charges: Joshua Tree Park entrance fee or bring your entrance card.

    Hiking Requirements: Although the trail is mostly rolling hills, except for several arroyos and the final steep descent into the oasis, the elevation is around 3,000 feet, so you will need to be in good physical condition for this hike. Click here for more information.

    What to Bring: Ten Essentials (click here). Water (2 to 3 liters recommended), lunch, and trail snacks. Sun protection and layered clothing. Emergency Contact Information (ICE). Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread.

    Contact leader:  Spencer B. Email

    Carpooling - is encouraged and may be available if offered by a driver. You are responsible for arranging you own transportation or ride share. Arrive early for briefing and carpooling. 

    Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels

    Health Problems/allergies:   Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete the hike. 

    © 1981 - 2022 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved.  Privacy policy

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  • LA - Hike: Weekly Saturday Morning Hike in Griffith Park

    • Sat, December 06, 2025
    • 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
    • End of Griffith Park Blvd at Shannon Rd and Cadman Dr, 3610 Griffith Park Blvd
    Register


    Perfect Weather Hike 

    Every Saturday Morning

    This is a group where everyone is welcome- queer folx and allies building community togetherness. We’ll have views of the Pacific Ocean, Griffith Observatory, and downtown Los Angeles. Go at your own pace! We’ll gather at each split in the trail to make sure all are accounted for.

    Location: End of Griffith Park Blvd at Shannon Rd and Cadman Dr, 3610 Griffith Park Blvd, · Los Angeles, CA

    Note: Every other month the hike is to the Hollywood sign so the meeting location changes. We will post any changes in advance but please check this link before attending: Perfect Weather Hike, Meetup

    Time: 9:00 to 11:00 AM

    Contact: Gary Cleff, (323) 314-7143 or via email

    Difficulty: Moderate

    Distance: 4-5 mile loop on mostly fire roads. 

    Elevation: 700ft

    Dogs: Dog friendly . Just remember there are coyotes in the park.

    Bring: Plenty of water, sun protection, hiking shoes with good grip, Emergency Contact Information.

    Keep in touch: Facebook

    Restrooms: This is a residential neighborhood. There are NO restrooms on this hike. The nearest is at the Griffith Park, Southern Railway by the Griffith Park Cafe on Crystal Springs Drive. If you arrive early, It’s a 15 minute roundtrip walk to the restroom.

    Cancellation: Hike will be cancelled in the event of rain and soggy trails or severe heat advisories.

    Health Issues/allergies: It is the responsibility of participants to carry on their person a record of significant allergies, medications and medical history in the event of a medical emergency. Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader if you wish.

    Keep in touch: Facebook


    Copyright 1981 - 2025 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., 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.

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  • SD - Social - Pelly's Mini Golf *Canceled *

    • Sat, December 06, 2025
    • 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
    • Del Mar Golf Center, 15555 Jimmy Durante Blvd, Del Mar, CA 92014
    • 9
    • 1 registrant

    GREAT OUTDOORS PUTT-PUTT SOCIAL

    Saturday December, 6 2025 @ 11 AM

    Del Mar Golf Center




    Join us on a Saturday afternoon to enjoy some putt-putt golf in Del Mar. $19.50+ tax gets each member 2 rounds of mini-golf (additional rounds can be added as a personal choice at personal expense). After we’re finished at the golf center there are several nearby restaurants where we can grab a bite to eat as a group.


    Location: 15555 Jimmy Durante Blvd, Del Mar, CA 92014

    https://maps.app.goo.gl/jv5uNy7kNQj5QKfFA


    Cost: $19.50+tax/member


    Trip Leader: KJ Archer 619.214.6353


    If this is an event you are interested in but cost is a factor, please reach out to Trip Leader KJ Archer



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  • LA - 2025 Holiday Party

    • Sat, December 06, 2025
    • 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM
    • The Red Lion Tavern 2366 Glendale Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90039
    • 0
    Registration is closed

    Holiday Party at CIADC — Chicago ...

    Please join Great Outdoors Los Angeles 

    Noon, Saturday, December 6

    Raw Meat in the Dumbwaiter: Red Lion ...

    @ The Red Lion Tavern

    2366 Glendale Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90039

    For over 60 years, The Red Lion Tavern has been one of Los Angeles’ most beloved neighborhood taverns.  This L.A. landmark continues to serve up traditional German food and a wide selection of German beer in a cozy old world atmosphere.

    Our special holiday menu in the outdoor beer garden will include: 

    • Coffee, Tea, Water, or Soda
    • One drink coupon (Beer, cider or other)
    • Sausage Platters and Warm Pretzels to share
    • Individual starter of Small Dinner Salad or Small Caesar Salad
    • Individual entrées; with choice of:
      • Hungarian Goulash (beef)
      • Red Lion Schnitzel (pork)
      • Chicken Schnitzel 
      • Bratwurst / Bratwurst on a roll
      • Nurnburger / Nurnburger on a roll
      • Veggie bratwurst / Veggie bratwurst on a roll (vegan)
      • Other by special request only
    • Dessert tbd

    Registration: The event is free for GO members ($55 value).  However, a refundable $20 deposit from members will be required during registration. Refunds will be made in cash when members arrive. Members may bring a non-member guest for $30.  The $30 will include 1 year of GOLA membership ($25 value). Payment must be made at time of registration and paid online with a credit card within 15 minutes. You must register before December 1, 2025.

    Cancellations:  No refunds will be made for cancellations after Dec 1, 2025. 

    Questions: Contact Russell

    Attendees are encouraged to dress in festive clothes. 





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  • OCLB: Wicked For Good! Tustin AMC Theaters

    • Sat, December 06, 2025
    • 5:30 PM - 9:00 PM
    • AMC Tustin 14 @ The District, 2457 Park Ave, Tustin, California 92782
    Register


    Wicked For Good!

    Movie Time!


    If you haven't seen the sequel "Wicked For Good", join the rest of us late bodies to see the conclusion of this wonderful fairytale. 

    Join us in front of the theater at 5:30 and we will take a GROUP PHOTO in front of the giant Christmas tree!  The movie (& previews) begin at 6!  


    AMC District

    Tustin

    Saturday Dec. 6 

    Movie starts  6:00 PM

    Group Photo @ 5:30 PM  

     If interested in attending, you are responsible for your own purchases (tickets and snacks).



    The movie starts @ 6:00

    Trip Leader plans to be there @ 5:30 in front of the theater by the Christmas tree to take a group photo.   

    As usual we meet out front and then swish-swish our way to the concession stand to grab some goodies.


    Directions

    Take advantage of technology and use your favorite map application if you are unfamiliar with the area.

    AMC Tustin 14 @ The District

    2457 Park Ave., Tustin, California 92782

    Parking

    Free Parking as this is an open air shopping district.

    What to Bring:

    Happy Attitude and

    $ for Movie Ticket, Popcorn, Drink & Candy!

    Lance Whitmier will be the trip leader.

    The majority of attendees have purchased tickets in Row E. 

    If you have any questions just ask Lance.



    Lance can be reached at:  

    [email protected] 

    Contact him for questions or if you need additional information.


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  • OCLB - Christmas Light Flight Over Riverside!

    • Sat, December 06, 2025
    • 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
    • Riverside Municipal Airport
    • 0
    • 4 registrants
    Registration is closed

    OCLB Chapter of the Great Outdoors presents

    Saturday December 6, 2025

    6:00pm flight

    Price is $175 pp or $150 pp for two or more


    Click here to purchase tickets

    (Make sure to purchase the Dec. 6 flight at 6:00 PM)

    After purchasing your ticket, please register on our site so that we know you're coming!


    Riverside Municipal Airport

    6936 Flight Rd

    Riverside, CA 92504


    Optional

    After the flight we can drive 6 miles to the beautiful Mission Inn, see the world renowned holiday light display and have dinner at a nearby restaurant.


    Please do not hesitate if you are interested in this event as there are limited seats available.  This will sell out!


    Makes a wonderful gift for that special someone!


    Experience the Magic of the Season from 1,000 Feet Aboard Our Historic DC-3!

    Celebrate the holidays with a one-of-a-kind flight in the legendary D-Day Doll, our beautifully restored WWII-era Douglas DC-3. Step aboard and relive the golden age of aviation as we take to the skies over Riverside for a 40-minute flight filled with history, nostalgia, and breathtaking holiday views.

    From your window seat, you’ll enjoy a spectacular aerial perspective of the Mission Inn Festival of Lights and the city’s sparkling neighborhoods below, a sight you’ll never forget.

    Before takeoff, relax in the festive airport terminal with complimentary hot chocolate, coffee, and cookies as you mingle with our crew and learn about the incredible service history of this iconic aircraft that flew in the D-Day invasion of Normandy.

    Perfect for families, friends, and couples alike, this flight blends the wonder of the holiday season with the thrill of flying in living history. Proceeds support the Inland Empire Wing of the Commemorative Air Force and help us keep the D-Day Doll flying for future generations.

    Seats are limited — reserve your flight early and make this holiday season unforgettable!

    Our regular price is $250 per guest, but we’re offering a limited-time seasonal discount. 


    Click here for Night Flight video



    Here’s what your journey with us will look like:

    Pre-Flight Excitement (5-10 Minutes):

    Kick off your adventure with a brief but essential safety briefing. Get familiar with the historic aircraft and feel the anticipation build as you prepare for takeoff!

    Engines Roaring & Taxiing to the Runway (5 Minutes):

    Hear the powerful engines come to life as we taxi to the runway. Feel the thrill as we prepare to lift off in this incredible piece of aviation history.

    The Main Event: 20-25 Minutes of Pure Flight Bliss!

    Soar over beautiful landscapes and take in the breathtaking views from 1,000 feet up. Feel the magic of flying in a vintage warbird, just like the aviators of the past. This is your time to relax, enjoy, and make unforgettable memories.

    Return to the Flight Ramp (5 Minutes):

    As we land, savor the last moments of your journey as we taxi back to the ramp, reflecting on the unique experience you just shared with a piece of living history.

    It was built at the Douglas factory in Santa Monica, California. It is one of 159 C-53Ds and was delivered to AAF on July 7, 1943. It was assigned to the 434th Troop Carrier Group and was stationed at various locations (Alliance Field, NE, Baer Field, IN, Fullbeck, UK, and Welford Park, UK) before arriving at Royal Air Force (RAF) Aldermaston, UK in march 1944.

    The 434th TCG consisted of HQ and the 71st to 74th Squadrons. Aircraft 830 was assigned to the 72nd Squadron (CU).

    The group's D-Day mission was to tow gliders carrying reinforcements to 101st Division troops who had been dropped earlier in the night near Utah Beach.

    At 0119, June 6, 1944, 52 of the Group's airplanes, each towing a Waco glider, took off from RAF Aldermaston Airfield for Normandy. Aircraft 830 flew three missions on D-Day and the next day.

    While in the ETO it participated in the D-Day invasion, Operation Market Garden in Holland, the re-supply of Bastogne, and the crossing of the Rhine.

    It also flew various support missions and wounded evacuations to England.


    Please review the following important details to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience aboard the D-Day Doll, our historic WWII-era DC-3.

    • Flight Duration: Approximately 40–45 minutes.

    • No Smoking: Smoking is strictly prohibited within 50 feet of the aircraft and at all times during the flight.
    • Passenger Age: Minimum age is 5 years old. All passengers must be able to sit in their own seat and fasten a seat belt without the use of a car seat.

    • Check-In Time: Passengers must arrive and check in at least 30 minutes before departure. Late arrivals may result in cancellation of your reservation.

    • Required Documents: All passengers must complete and sign required flight and liability forms prior to boarding. These will be provided at check-in.

    • Passenger Capacity: Per FAA certification, the D-Day Doll may carry a maximum of 16 passengers and a 3-person crew.

    • Pre-Flight Briefing: All passengers must attend a safety briefing prior to boarding. Our Wing crew will assist with seating, seat belts, and answer any questions.

    • Seat Belts: Must remain fastened during takeoff and landing. Once in flight, you may move about the cabin to take photos or video at your leisure.

    • Hearing Protection: Recommended and provided if you do not have your own.

    Thank you for flying with the Inland Empire Wing of the Commemorative Air Force — your support helps us keep history flying!


    For questions contact the Event Leader:

    Richard Norman

    (626 ) 319-4740

    [email protected]



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  • SD - Hike - Pyles Peak & Cowles Mountain

    • Sun, December 07, 2025
    • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
    • Cowles Mountain Service Road
    • 3 registrants
    Register

    Great Outdoors San Diego - Cowles Mtn & Pyles Peak

    When: Sunday 12/7/25 at 3:05 PM  

    Requirement: All participants register online.

    Event Description: 

    Join Great Outdoors San Diego for a Hike at Pyles Peak and Cowles Mountain! 

    Join us on Sunday, 12/7 at 3:05 PM (We will start when everyone is ready 15 min) for a hike! A bathroom is provided at the start of the trail.  There is no water. Cowles and Pyles Pk can be strenuous for new hikers. Embark with us on a 7.12 mile hike along the mountain inspired by nature's creatures at Cowles Mtn & Pyles Pk. 

    Note: The Pyles Peak section is planned for this hike, so please plan accordingly.

    This is a great but challenging hike with magnificent views along the way. Find your inner self and enjoy seeing mini dust tornadoes and other exotic phenomenon before heading back with dusty shoes and inspiration in tow!

    This is a moderately challenging 7.12 mile out-and-back along Cowles Mtn and Pyles Pk in the San Carlos area with continuous views and 2,389 feet in elevation change. It is open to members or non-members.

    Details: We’ll take a hike along Cowles Mtn and Pyles Pk at a viewpoint with views.  

    Host:  Jeremiah O’Neal 619-788-9407

    Trail: Cowles Service Road >> Cowles Mtn >> Pyles Pk >> Cowles Mtn >> Barker Way

    Length: 7.1 miles

    Difficulty: Difficult

    Elevation Gain: 2,389 feet

    RSVP: Please register using this link

    Meeting Location(by Google Map): https://maps.app.goo.gl/KL7Eq9AQzbTreUCbA 

    Note: (Please park on the left side of the road away from the houses)

    Meeting Date & Time: Sunday, 12/7 at 3:05 PM - We will plan to start when everyone is ready (15mins after start time at latest).

    Parking: Street parking near the chain link fence

    Cost: None

    Time Commitment: Plan for approx 3 hours. However, we will turn back before Pyles Pk if the time to complete the loop exceeds 3 hours which it shouldn’t.

    Useful information: Cowles Mtn is a very popular trail with many hikers. Take caution around children and parents with babies. Allow joggers to pass. Tell people in front when you wish to pass and feel free to say Hi/Good afternoon. Hikers are very friendly here. There are rattlesnakes and the bees in the summer can be aggressive. Bring with you some form of eye protection, water, and some kind of jacket during the colder months and sunscreen during the hot months. Additionally, the banks on either side of the trail are very slippery. Most of all, keep a good pace and you will have a lot of fun.

    Dogs: Though dogs are permitted, signs on trail advise that you do not bring animals on this trail. In addition, rattlesnakes can be found on this trail. Read the warning signs carefully and please use your best judgment. 

    Map of hike: This is the path we will take. Return through Barker Way Trail due to Cowles Service Road being extremely slippery on the return.

    Note: The final portion of Pyles Pk can be extremely slippery on the return. Please be careful.

    Trail Details: https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1x8ixPJWePM2qEtzIdv7KeKMuZ8ACbEg&usp=sharinghttps://maps.app.goo.gl/VjUipyfWJK2FJDar9 


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  • PS - Holiday Party

    • Sun, December 07, 2025
    • 4:30 PM - 8:30 PM
    • Miracle Springs Resort 10625 Palm Drive, Desert Hot Springs, CA, 92240
    • 34
    Register

    Practical holiday party ideas for an ...

    Please join us for the annual Great Outdoors Palm Springs Holiday Party. This special event will be held at the Miracle Springs Resort at 10625 Palm Drive, Desert Hot Springs, CA, 92240.  (click here for directions). 

                                        SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2025 

    You must be a GOPS member to register for this event; each member may bring a non-member guest; fee is $30 per person.  You must register before December 5, 2025.

    Dinner is fully catered with waiter service at the tables.  Hors d'oeuvres before dinner will be buffet style, self-service.

    Additionally, a full-service bar will be available for all beverages (cocktails, beer, and wine). Purchase drinks at the bar with tickets purchased at the cash table; bartenders do not handle cash. Complimentary iced tea, lemonade, and water will be provided. 

    Menu:

    • Entree Item of your choice of one:
    •    New York Steak (cooked medium)
    •    Salmon
    •    Lasagna (vegetarian option)
    • Note your choice of entree upon registration.


    • Side: Twice baked potato with bacon, cheddar, and sour cream
    • Green salad
    • Dinner rolls
    • Vegetable side dishes
    • Dessert/coffee and soft drinks

    Bar opens at 4:30, and hors d'oeuvres will be available at 5:00 PM.  We are planning to serve dinner at 5:30 PM.

    There will be the ever-popular White Elephant gift exchange, moderated by a special guest.  If you choose to participate in this optional event, please keep the gift value to about $20.  Check in your gift at the door, receive a ticket and enjoy your evening. 

    The cost to members for this event is $30 per person.  Members may also bring one (1) non-member guest for $30.  Great Outdoors members and non-member guests may register separately on-line.  Payment must be made at time of registration and paid online with a credit/debit card within 15 minutes. 

    Refunds:  There are NO REFUNDS for this event. 

    Note: Google Maps navigation might take you into the parking lot of the Desert Hot Springs Spa, which is located south of the Miracle Springs Resort.  Ignore the directions to turn left, and proceed 200 feet north to the next parking lot.

    For questions, please contact the Social Events Coordinator, George Padilla [email protected]


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  • OCLB - Naples Canals (Long Beach) Holiday Light Tour by Duffy Boat!

    • Sun, December 07, 2025
    • 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
    • 6274 Pacific Coast Hwy Dock, Long Beach, CA 90803
    • 0
    • 20 registrants
    Join waitlist

    OCLB Chapter of the Great Outdoors presents

    Naples Canals (Long Beach) Holiday Light Tour by Duffy Boat!

    2nd Boat Just Added!


    Sunday December 7, 2025

    5:00pm to 7:00pm

    Price is $40 pp

    Please arrive 15-20 minutes early

    Anchors Away Boat Rentals

    6274 Pacific Coast Hwy Dock, Long Beach, CA 90803


    Ahoy Merry Maritime Mateys! 

    Get that sexy Santa suit or ugly holiday sweater, your favorite reindeer, a hot toddy or hot Todd and join us on the high seas – the Naples Canals. Great Outdoors OCLB invites you to the 79th Naples holiday decoration competition on our rented Duffy through the canals of Naples and the decorated yachts in Alamitos Bay. One of the best ways to see this is from the water! Get up close to the famous holiday trees on the bay, and see some of the hotspots for decorated homes while enjoying crisp winter air, smooth reflective waters, and good cheer.

    Our Duffy boat marina is just steps from the parking lot where we will board for a two-hour tour, yes, Ginger, a two-hour tour! Feel free to bring your own snacks and refreshments, including alcohol; soft drinks and snacks will be provided by your captains. This is the ultimate SoCal light tour where almost all the waterfront houses are decorated over the top and covered annually by ABC7 News!

    There will be a short safety and lifejacket presentation prior to departing. Please wear only closed-toe soft-sole shoes. The Duffy is partially open so dress warm. Also, there is not a restroom on the boat so please use the restroom before we depart the dock.


    There is plenty of free parking. It's easiest to park in the lower level parking, located on the left side of Nordstrom Rack at the Marina Pacifica Shopping Center. But, you may also park in main shopping center parking lot in front of Nordstrom Rack and walk down the stairs (on the left side of Nordstrom Rack), as we are located on the dock behind Nordstrom Rack.


    Optional

    After the boat tour we can grab a bite to eat at a nearby restaurant.


    Rob McKee as the "Skipper"

     424-317-112

      [email protected]  

      Richard Norman as "Gilligan"

    626-319-4740

    [email protected]
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  • PS - Hike: Whitewater Canyon View Loop - SAVE THE DATE

    • Tue, December 09, 2025
    • 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
    • Whitewater Preserve
    The Canyon View Loop Trail has been slightly rerouted in order to fully reopen (after being partially closed due to extensive damage from Tropical Storm Hilary on 8/20/23). We will climb the switchbacks to the summit and enjoy great views while we hike. We will stop to eat a snack before completing the rest of the loop and returning to the parking lot lot.
    • Trail Length: 3.5 mi
    • Hiking time: 2-3 hours
    • Total Elevation Gain/Loss: 625’
    • Trailhead Elevation: 2100’
    • Difficulty Rating: Moderate

    Meeting Location:  

    • 8:00 a.m.:  Walmart/PetSmart parking lot at Ramon and Crossley in Palm Springs Map here
    • or 8:30 a.m.:  Whitewater Preserve Map here

    Hiking Requirements:

    Bring Ten Essentials (click here), water (1 to 2 liters recommended), trail snacks. Sun protection and layered clothing are recommended. Carry Emergency Contact Information (ICE). Hiking poles may be helpful.

    Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required. 

    Hiking Requirements - you will need to be in good physical condition for this hike.  Click here for more information.

    Hike Leader:  Pat M. 

    Carpooling:  Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver. You are responsible for arranging you own transportation or ride share. Arrive a few minutes early for briefing and carpooling. 

    Weather Policy: Inclement weather may cancel.  Weather forecast click here

    Health Problems/allergies:   Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete the hike. 
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  • PS - Bike - Museum Way to Indian Canyons

    • Thu, December 11, 2025
    • 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
    • Palm Springs, CA
    Join waitlist

    Using parts of PS City Bicycle Loops we will ride from the PS Art Museum to The Indian Canyons entry booth.  A short loop around Andreas Hills will provide an optional ‘Hill Challenge.’  Riding along Camino Real through Canyon Corridor and The Deepwell Loop will wind us through Warm Sands and Baristo neighborhoods for our return to Museum Way.


    Distance:  Is approximately 15 miles, round trip. 

    There are a few major traffic intersection crossings at traffic lights.

    Meet Location:  PS Downtown Park accross from the PS Art Museum. (Map click here)

    What to Bring:  Water (2-3 liters recommended), snacks, sun protection, and layered clothing.  Carry emergency contact information.  All riders are strongly encouraged to wear helmets.  Remember to inflate your tires to the recommended PSI.  You may want to bring a tire pump, spare tube, and bike tools.

    Don't forget when checking your tires to re-adjust your seat height in order to get your best leg extension while riding.

    You should consider yourself a confident street cyclist in order to enjoy this PS Loop bike ride.

    Event Leader Bill B. click here

    Health Problems/allergies:   Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete this event.

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  • PS - Book Signing - REI - 140 Great Hikes...

    • Sat, December 13, 2025
    • 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
    • 71800 CA-111 B119, Rancho Mirage, CA (At the River)
    Register

    Book signing at the store on Saturday, December 13th from 10am-12pm.  Philip Ferranti, the author or "140 Great Hikes in and near Palm Springs" will be here. 

    Also a 30% off coupon for one full price item (day of only)



    HAPPY HOLIDAYS 

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  • SD - Hike - Potato Chip Rock

    • Sun, December 14, 2025
    • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Mount Woodson off Hwy 67
    • 2 registrants
    Register

    Woodson Mountain: Potato Chip Rock Hike

    Sunday Dec 14th, 2025 at 9am


    The immensely popular hike to Woodson Mountain's summit, commonly referred to as the Potato Chip Rock hike, takes you through an amazing scene of various boulders. The variety of shapes is amazing, from smooth and rounded, angular or shattered, to, of course, the form of a potato chip.

    Most hikers elect to stop at the razor-sharp boulder flake popularly dubbed Potato Chip Rock on the left, just as you reach the service road. This geologic feature attracts hikers by the hundreds on weekends, many of whom stand in a long line for the opportunity to have their picture taken atop the flake.  Continue another 0.2 mile to each Woodson's highest point.

    Hike Start Time and Location: 9:00 am at parking area off highway 67 on west side by Mount Woodson Trail.

    https://maps.app.goo.gl/tnTnRgG2bUaw5iBm8 

    Hike Elevation Change: ~1,200 ft

    Hike Difficulty Rating: Moderately streneous

    Estimated Hike Time: 3 hrs

    Hike Type (out-and-back, loop, shuttle): Out and back

    Hiking Trail Details (AllTrails or Similar link): https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/woodson-mountain-and-potato-chip-rock-via-hwy-67

    Hike Specific Challenges (scrambling, narrow passages, allergens): None

    Hike Specific Equipment: N/A

    Parking Information: The parking area is just off Highway 67, near the CAL FIRE Ramona Fire Station.

    Costs involved: Free

    Pets Permitted: Yes

    What to Bring in Addition to the 10 Essentials*: N/A

    Who to Contact with Questions: Bill Stanhope 619.306.2378

    *Note on the 10 essentials - The 10 essentials are a collection or system of items that significantly increase your safety on any hike or outdoors trip. This is not an exhaustive list of anything you could ever need. You can visit the link included Here but one version of this list is as follows:

    1. Water/snacks

    2. Sun protection/appropriate clothing (check accuweather for forecast)


    Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

    Great Outdoors San Diego and our members enjoy the privilege of using the outdoors for recreation. We strive to include more of our community, especially those historically not included. Please encourage your friends, neighbors, and community members to come out and join us! If something is holding them back, please contact GOSD to explore accommodations including equipment available for lend or sponsorships for events.

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  • PS - Hike: Cathedral Canyon Loop Trail

    • Sun, December 14, 2025
    • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Cathedral City
    Join waitlist

    Cathedral Canyon Loop


    • Meet Time: 9:00 AM
    • Meet at: Revivals Cathedral City parking lot Map click here
    • Trail Length: 4.5 miles
    • Total Elevation Gain/Loss: 1100’
    • Difficulty Rating: Moderate Plus+ (* see below); uphill first mile
    • Type: Trail, old road
    • Trail Route: Loop

    See Cathedral City from a new angle: from above. This hike begins at the top of the CC cove and climbs steeply with great views of the city and across the valley to Joshua Tree. At the top the trail winds through a desert valley with great views of San Jacinto. The trail loops back on the dirt Dunn Road to the start. 

    Contact: Hike Leader Howard K. email click here 

    You are responsible for arranging you own transportation or ride share.

    Hiking Requirements - you will need to be in good physical condition for this hike.  Click here for more information.

    * Moderate: generally suitable for novice hikers who want a bit of a challenge. The terrain will involve a moderate+ incline and may have some steeper sections.

    Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels

    What to bring: Ten Essentials (click here), water (1 to 2 liters recommended), lunch/snacks, sun protection, layered clothing. Carry Emergency Contact Information (ICE). Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required.

    Health Problems/allergies:   Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete the hike. 

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  • SD - Pickleball on Coronado

    • Sun, December 14, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Coronado Marriott Wellness Center
    • 3 registrants
    Register

    San Diego Outdoor Pickleball!


    Join Us for Pickleball on Coronado!

    Ready for some light-hearted pickleball fun? Great Outdoors San Diego (GOSD) and Rainbow Picklers team up every other Sunday for a friendly morning of play. All skill levels welcome—newbies included! Just bring a paddle, water, and sunscreen. 

    Date & Time: Every other Sunday 10:00–11:50am
     Location: Pickleball courts at the Coronado Marriott Wellness Center (just inside the main entrance, to the right)

    Cost: $8 per person to play
     Parking: Free street parking – or $5 on-site for 2.5 hours with validation at the Wellness Center

    How to RSVP

    1. Register here through the GOSD event page.

    2. Download the “Swish Sports” app. (Brent will send you the group link – see below.)

    3. Email Brent Sammons at [email protected] to get a link to join the Swish App group, “Rainbow Picklers”.

    4. RSVP for each game via the Swish app. (Registration closes at 9am Friday before each Sunday game so we can secure the right number of courts. Late cancellations or no-shows are still responsible for the $8 court fee.)

    We hope to see you on the courts!

    Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

    Great Outdoors San Diego and our members enjoy the privilege of using the outdoors for recreation. We strive to include more of our community, especially those historically not included. Please encourage your friends, neighbors, and community members to come out and join us! If something is holding them back, please contact GOSD to explore accommodations including equipment available for lend or sponsorships for events.

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  • LA- Palos Verdes: Coastal Walk: Point Vicente to Terranea

    • Sun, December 14, 2025
    • 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • 31501 Palos Verdes Dr W, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 - Point Vicente Interpretive Center
    • 15
    • 15 registrants
    Register


    LA - Palos Verdes Coastal Walk:

    Point Vicente to Terranea

    When:  Sun, December 14, 2025

    Starting Location: 31501 Palos Verdes Dr W, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 - Point Vicente Interpretive Center.  Free parking adjacent to Interpretive Center. Meet at the front entrance of the Center building.


    Join us for an easy 3.5 mile coastal trail walk along the Palos Verdes peninsula, from Point Vicente to the Terranea resort! We'll enjoy our bring-your-own picnic lunch, take in the Pacific Ocean, Catalina Island, rugged bluffs and explore a blend of nature and creature comforts.


    Itinerary:

    1. Hike North along the Vicente Bluffs Reserve - protected and restored with coastal sage scrub habitat by the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy.
    2. Back south to the Point Vicente Interpretive Center - We'll check out the exhibits on natural and cultural history of the Peninsula, including whale migrations.
    4. Southeast to Pelican Cove Park, then Terranea Bluff Top Park, then into the Terranea resort property...
    5. We'll walk to a small beach cove which accesses a sea cave.
    6. Pack your own picnic lunch; we will sit at public benches along the trail. We will break for snack/lunch near Nelson's bluff-top restaurant. We will spend about 30 - 45 minutes having our own leisurely snack/lunch and soak in the view. Feel free to bring your own refreshment of choice.
    7. Afterwards, we'll explore further into the Terranea resort grounds. The public trail system links around and through the site. The coffee shop Sea Beans outside the main entrance is perfect for a pick-me-up or dessert, before we ...
    8. Make our way back to our starting point.

    -------------

    At any time, feel free to venture on or head back earlier if you wish.


    Please consider carpooling or taking public transit if possible. As Great Outdoors members we strive to do our part to reduce traffic and parking congestion and help protect the environment we celebrate on our outings.

    Biodiversity: The Palos Verdes peninsula is a great area to appreciate native flora and fauna, including plants indigenous to Palos Verdes and the Channel Islands, California Blue and Pacific Gray whales during migration seasons, the endangered El Segundo Blue Butterfly, sea lions, dolphins, pelicans and more. Whale watching season for Gray whales spans from December to May. Humpback and Blue whales migrate during the summer months from June to late September.

    Bring: Snack/Lunch, water/beverage, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), water, proper shoes, money if desired. Jacket in case of wind/cold weather.

    -------------



    Hike leaders: John Blasco and Joe Holliday

    Contact: John: 562-726-4165

    Registration is free but required.


    © 1981 - 2025 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC.,

    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

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  • SD - Social - Holidays at Poco Montaña Vineyards (Daniel Castro)

    • Sun, December 14, 2025
    • 1:30 PM - 7:00 PM
    • Poco Montaña Vineyards, 23136 Vista Ramona Rd, Ramona, CA 92065
    • 21 registrants
    Register

    Holiday Party at Poco Montaña Vineyards & Winery


    Please join the San Diego Great Outdoors holiday celebration, Sunday, December 14th, 2025 at Poco Montaña Vineyards & Winery. Bring the holiday cheer with fresh air, friends, and festivities. Possible short hike to tour the property, board games, a white elephant gift exchange, and an ugly sweater contest!

    We will share a holiday meal prepared by Daniel. Tamales, turkey or ham, and a few main sides. Please bring a holiday themed appetizer or dessert to share and a white elephant gift valued at $20 or less.

    Start Time and Location: 1:30pm-7pm at Poco Montaña Vineyards and Winery, 23136 Vista Ramona Road, Ramona, CA 92065

    Event Specific Challenges (stairs, animals, allergens): Dog on property, stairs, slightly hilly walk from the parking lot to the event space. If you have physical challenges please park in the designated ADA space near the tasting room

    Parking and Directions: The vineyard is located on the east side of Ramona. From Main Street and Tenth Street in downtown Ramona, Travel East 0.7 miles, turn right onto Third Street which turns into West Old Julian Hwy, which then turns into Vista Ramona Road for 2.8 miles. 900 Feet pass Sageland Drive turn left into the Vista Ramona Estate. Continue down the road 0.3 miles to 23136 Vista Ramona Road, Poco Montaña Vineyards & Winery.

    The main parking lot is the first lot and dirt driveway on your left. For ADA parking or those with mobility issues, please continue up to the paved driveway on the left just past all the Italian cypress trees. Follow the drive way up to the tasting room. There are two designated ADA parking spots near the entrance to the tasting patio.

    There is also, limited parking near the tasting room for those with mobility issues without an ADA placard.

    Please Park in the first parking area if able. If you need to drop off passengers or supplies at the tasting room or need more accessible parking, continue along the cypress trees to the main driveway.

    From Temecula: Take the 15 Fwy South to Hwy 78 East into Ramona, turn left onto Main Street.

    From Los Angles Take the 5 South to the 78 East into Ramona, Turn left onto Main Street.

    From San Diego take the 67 East into Ramona.

    From the South Bay Take the 8 East to the 67 into Ramona.

    Costs involved: If able, bring a white elephant gift valued at $20 or less

    What to Bring: a holiday themed appetizer or dessert. If your last name starts with A-P bring an appetizer, if your last name is Q-Z bring a dessert! Don't forget your ugly sweaters and your favorite game

    Pets Permitted: Yes

    Who to Contact with Questions: Daniel Castro @ 760-996-7853 or [email protected]


    Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

    Great Outdoors San Diego and our members enjoy the privilege of using the outdoors for recreation. We strive to include more of our community, especially those historically not included. Please encourage your friends, neighbors, and community members to come out and join us! If something is holding them back, please contact GOSD to explore accommodations including equipment available for lend or sponsorships for events.

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  • PS - Hike: Ladders and Painted Canyons

    • Tue, December 16, 2025
    • 8:00 AM - 2:30 PM
    • Chuckwalla National Monument
    Join waitlist

    This hike winds through geologic formations that represent a vast expanse of geologic history from about 1.7 billion years ago to the present. Geologists from all over the world come here to study the exposed results of tectonics forces. Hikers enjoy this enchanted high-walled canyon with ladders to access different levels and marvel at the variety of colors in the Painted Canyon rocks. Participants are encouraged to read about the geology before the hike. “Painted Canyon Geology” typed into a search bar returns a very good selection of sites.  For a  simple introduction click here.

    We drive to Painted Canyon Road located east of Mecca, a distance of 42 miles from our meeting place and will require an hour of drive time. The last 5 miles are on a sandy road with washes and washboard. Possible lunch stop in Mecca after the hike--driver option.

    Rain in the days just prior to the hike or day of the hike may result in cancellation due to the access road condition or flash flood possibilities. 

    • Length: 5.1 miles 
    • Elev. Gain/(Loss): 960 feet
    • Rated: Moderate.  Some narrow shelves and scrambling; good balance is essential.  Ladders are in place at 7 or more spill-offs to ascend or descend.   
    • High-clearance vehicles are recommended; road may be OK for sedans.

    Meeting Time: Departing at 8:00 AM

    Departure Location: Parking lot between PetsMart and Walmart Gas - Ramon/Crossley in Palm Springs.  Map

    What to Bring: Ten Essentials (click here). Water (2 to 3 liters recommended), trail snacks, sun protection and layered clothing, Emergency Contact Information (ICE). Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread is required. Gloves may be helpful.  Hiking poles may be helpful on sand and some slopes, but may be a hinderance while scrambling on ladders.  

    Hike Leader:   Spencer B.  Email

    Hiking Requirements: You will need to be in good physical condition for this hike.  Click here for more information.

    Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver. You are responsible for arranging you own transportation or ride share. Arrive a few minutes early for briefing and carpooling.  Possible stop for lunch in Mecca after the hike.  Please arrange carpooling accordingly.

    Weather Policy: Inclement weather may cancel.

    Health Problems/allergies:   Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete the hike. 

    © 1981 - 2025 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved.  Privacy policy

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  • PS - Monthly Membership Meeting

    • Tue, December 16, 2025
    • 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
    • Online using Zoom
    • 6 registrants
    Register



    PLEASE NOTE: This PS Monthly Membership Meeting is held Online Using Zoom ONLY

    THE MEETING WILL BE HELD ONE WEEK EARLY  DUE TO THE HOLIDAY THE FOLLOWING WEEK

    GOPS Monthly Core Group Meetings are usually held on the fourth Tuesday of each month starting at 6:30 pm, subject to change due to holidays and conflicting events. Meetings can be attended online via Zoom each month.

    Meetings are held simultaneously in-person in January,  March,  May,  July,  September and November 2023 and via Zoom. In-person meetings are held at the Center, 3rd floor Meeting Room 3, 1301 North Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs, CA.

    Meetings are held only via Zoom in February, April, June, August, October and December.

    Check the event registration details for the date and the particulars of the meeting.

    GOPS members can attend by registering for the meeting. For best results in attending via Zoom, plan to use a computer or tablet equipped with a camera and microphone. Information on how to enter the Zoom meeting will be provided to registrants in their Confirmation and Reminder emails.

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  • PS - Volunteer: Find Food Bank- Dec 17

    • Wed, December 17, 2025
    • 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • 83775 Citrus Ave, Indio
    Join waitlist

    The Find Food Bank is one of many regional food banks across the US that acts as a hub, sourcing food from a variety of places across the US and from people, processing it safely in our warehouse, and distributing it equitably to the hundreds of food pantries, nonprofit organizations, soup kitchens, homeless shelters, and Mobile Markets that serve individual communities across the desert region.

    Come join us at the Findl Food Bank in Indio and help prepare food boxes for distribution to families in need through out the valley.  We will work a 3 hour shift (8-11 am) and then after go to  lunch at TKB Bakery & Deli Website click here

    7:15 AM Meet at Palm Springs PetsMart, Ramon/Crossley   Map click here

    or 8:00 AM at the Food Bank 83775 Citrus Ave, Indio, CA 92201 MAP

    Wear comfortable closed toe, sturdy footwear.

    Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver. You are responsible for arranging your own transportation or ride share. Carpool transportation is at the sole risk of the participants.  Arrive a few minutes early for briefing and carpooling.

    Contact hike leader:  H.L. Todd: EMAIL

    Cancel: If you cannot make this event, please cancel as others may be on the waitlist. You may cancel directly from your profile settings or notify the event leader.





    © 1981 - 2025 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved.  Privacy policy


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  • PS - The Living Desert Wildlights

    • Thu, December 18, 2025
    • 6:00 PM
    • Living Desert 47900 Portola Ave, Palm Desert
    • 41 registrants
    Register

    Don we now our gay apparel, Fa la la la la la ... 

    WildLights at the Living Desert is back and brighter than ever! With more than three million dazzling lights throughout the park, this year's event will delight both longtime fans and first-time visitors!

    Our discount tickets are sold out but you can still attend when you..

    PURCHASE YOU TICKET(S) DIRECTLEY FROM THE LIVING DESERT ZOO, ADULT ONLY NIGHT, AT THIS LINK: CLICK HERE, AND MEET US AT THE ENTRANCE AT 6PM. The price is $22. All are welcome... Bring a guest!

    Your Invited to a special event - Adults Only Night.

    • Feel the holiday spirit come to life as you marvel at awe-inspiring lighted exhibits
    • Take an enchanting stroll through the African Safari section of the Zoo, where in addition to the lights, you may see some of Africa’s most iconic animals, such as the rhino, giraffe, zebra, and African painted dogs.
    • Visit your favorite festive displays such as the Tunnel of Lights, Dazzling Gift, and holiday-themed G-Scale model train!
    • Warm up at the s’mores station or visit one of the many food outlets to grab dinner! 
    • A full bar with beer, wine, and specialty cocktails will be available to purchase for guests 21+.  The Living Desert is now a cashless park, only credit cards are accepted. 

    6:00 PM Meet at the main entrance.

    Wear you best holiday outfit and your name tag.  When you arrive, check-in with the trip leader so that the tickets can be distributed efficiently.  Once we all arrive we will enter the park at our assigned time of 6:30pm.  Late comers will have to text Robert (760) 641-9112 so he can return to the entrance and give you the tickets.


    The Living Desert is a 30-minute drive from Palm Springs, 45 from DHS, so please plan accordingly.  

    Tickets are nonrefundable, but they are transferrable!

    Questions: Contact: Robert Varga Email click here


    Health Problems/allergies:   Discuss any medical concerns with the trip leader that may affect your ability to complete the hike. 


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  • SD - Hike - Arroyo Seco Circuit

    • Sat, December 20, 2025
    • 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • Cuyamaca Rancho State Park @ East Mesa Trailhead
    • 3 registrants
    Register

    Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

    Arroyo Seco Circuit Hike

    Saturday Dec. 20, 2025 @ 9am

    Arroyo Seco Trail, California - 192 Reviews, Map | AllTrails

    We begin at the East Mesa Trailhead on HWY 79 and then head north to the Sweetwater parking area. At Sweetwater we cross Hwy 79 to the Monument trail. We climb the Monument Trail to the Arroyo Seco trail which has long and beautiful views when we descend. From there, there is a short connector to the Pine Ridge Trail that leads to Green Valley Campground. We cross back across HWY 79 and head south to our cars.

    Hike Start Time and Location: 9am Sharp at East Mesa Trailhead, rain cancels.

    Hike Length: ~9mi

    Hike Elevation Change: ~1,400 ft

    Hike Difficulty Rating: Moderate

    Estimated Hike Time: 5-6hrs

    Parking Information: Take SR (HWY) 79 North from Interstate 8. The East Mesa Parking area/Trailhead is about a half mile past the Park entry sign (past the Oakzanita parking area and before the Green Valley Campground). No parking pass is required to park here. There are restrooms at Sweetwater and at the Green Valley Campground.

    Costs involved: N/A

    Pets Permitted: No.

    What to Bring in Addition to the 10 Essentials*: Pack water, lunch, and snacks. 

    Who to Contact with Questions: Scott Opis at [email protected]

    *Note on the 10 essentials - The 10 essentials are a collection or system of items that significantly increase your safety on any hike or outdoors trip. This is not an exhaustive list of anything you could ever need. You can visit the link included Here but one version of this list is as follows:

    1. Navigation

    2. Headlamp

    3. Sun Protection

    4. First Aid

    5. Knife

    6. Fire

    7. Shelter

    8. Extra food

    9. Extra water

    10. Extra clothes


    Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

    Great Outdoors San Diego and our members enjoy the privilege of using the outdoors for recreation. We strive to include more of our community, especially those historically not included. Please encourage your friends, neighbors, and community members to come out and join us! If something is holding them back, please contact GOSD to explore accommodations including equipment available for lend or sponsorships for events.

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  • PS - Winter Solstice Game Night Hosted by Robert and John -

    • Sat, December 20, 2025
    • 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Palm Desert, CA (Address to be provided once you have REGISTERED)
    • 22
    • 40 registrants
    Register


    Robert Varga and John Simonsen have invited us all to the Game Night on Saturday,  December 20th, 2025 at their beautiful home in PALM DESERT.


    NOTE: This event will have a maximum capacity of 60 people

    This event will be indoor/outdoor so dress warm!! 

    SCHEDULE:

    4:00 PM to 6:00 PM - ARRIVAL, CHECK IN, & APPETIZERS

    6:00 PM to 7:00 PM – POTLUCK DINNER 

    7:00 PM to 9:00 PM – GAME TIME AND WARM YOUR TOES BY THE FIRE

    WHAT TO BRING:

    1) Potluck Item for at least 8 people 

    2) Your own beverage(s)

    3) Table Games you want to play (Great Outdoors provides many games)

    NOTE:  Bring potluck dishes/snacks/etc. "ready to serve" in a serving bowl or dish, including any needed serving utensils.  

    PLEASE DO NOT ask our hosts to provide access to their ovens or bowls, spoons, etc.

    Our chapter is always looking for Game Night Hosts!

    Please text or call Robert Varga at 760-641-9112 or email [email protected] if you are interested in hosting Game Night.

    To view photos from our past game nights - click here.

    To view our Game Night guidelines - click here.

    Health Problems/allergies: It is the responsibility of participants to carry on their person a record of significant allergies, medications and medical history in the event of a medical emergency.  Discuss any medical concerns with the event leader if you wish.

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  • SBVC - Holiday Party 2025

    • Sat, December 20, 2025
    • 5:00 PM
    • Claude's House
    Register

    You’re invited—mark your calendars and get your RSVP in for the annual Great Outdoors & Prime Timers Holiday Party.

    Join us for an evening filled with great company, lively conversation, a little holiday mischief, and a feast worthy of the season. We’ll ease into the night with social time and drinks, enjoy a delicious holiday dinner, and wrap things up with our always-entertaining White Elephant gift exchange.

    Saturday, December 20, 2025
    5:00 PM – Social Hour • Dinner • White Elephant Gift Exchange
    Location: Claude’s House
    Please go ahead and register so we may save you a spot

    For the main course, we’ll be serving both a ham and a turkey. To make the potluck truly shine, we’re asking members to contribute appetizers, desserts, and beverages that are prepared or chosen with care—something thoughtful, meaningful, and made to be enjoyed and shared.

    For the White Elephant exchange, bring something you already own and are ready to pass along. Go for something clever, bold, unexpected, or simply delightful. It’s not about cost—it’s about the fun, the surprises, and the laughter it brings to the room.

    We hope to see you there for a warm, joyful holiday evening with friends and community.


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  • OCLB-LA – The Fruitcake Follies Dinner Show: A Festive Holiday Celebration

    • Sat, December 20, 2025
    • 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
    • 6725 West Sunset Blvd. Hollywood, CA 90028
    • 0
    • 12 registrants


    We have procured 12 seats:


    SEATING IS VERY LIMITED!


    Saturday, December 20, 2025

    Doors / Dinner Starts at 6:30 p.m. Show @ 8:30 p.m.


    “THE FRUIT CAKE FOLLIES” is Los Angeles's longest running Christmas/Variety show…NOW CELEBRATING IT’S 27TH YEAR!!!!

     Just like those holiday variety Christmas specials we remember from when we were kids! "The Fruit Cake Follies" is all that and much MORE! It’s just a good ol’ fashioned show that’s drunk too much egg nog.

    Some say the show is a cross between a Perry Como Christmas special and Pee Wee's Playhouse. Others say the old Muppet Show, with the host trying to hold the show together as all these crazy characters are all around him.

    When the Follies’ Fruitcakes get together there’s plenty of Music, Merriment and Mirth! One thing sure, you'll leave with the Christmas spirit!

    Written and Directed for the past 27 years by James Gray. And every year is a New theme and a New Show!

    Starring JAMES GRAY, CHER FERRERA, ERIC SEPPALA, SANDRA BENTON, and DENA DROTAR.

    With Musical Direction by Michael Orland

    Proudly presented by Chris Isaacson 

     *Single Entree or Drink minimums apply for all tickets

     Join us SAT, DEC 20 at 8:30PM. Dinner begins at 6:30PM.



    Tickets are $61. This amount covers the cost of procuring the tickets plus a $2 transaction fee charged to us for selling them to our members. 

    Learn more about the Catalina Jazz Club here at CatalinaJazzClub.com

    Catalina Jazz Club 
    6725 West Sunset Blvd.
    Hollywood, CA 90028

    ADDRESS & DIRECTIONS



    Any questions?  Call us before, during or after the event!

     

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


    		  

    Event Co-Leader: Russel Hammerl 
    Email:     [email protected]     



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  • PS - Hike: Henderson, Shannon, Berns, Araby Loop - SAVE THE DATE

    • Sun, December 21, 2025
    • 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Palm Springs, CA


    Henderson, Shannon, Bern, Araby Loop

    This hike offers panoramic views of Palm Springs and the San Jacinto Mountains after a steep climb up the Shannon Trail. We plan to hike at a moderate pace, starting and ending at Araby Road.

    • Trail Length: 5.0 mile loop
    • Hiking 
    • Time: 3 1/2 hours
    • Total Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,300 feet
    • Maximum Elevation: 1,522 feet
    • Difficulty Rating: Moderate plus with a long, steep climb with numerous switchbacks
    • Expected time of return: noon
    • Terrain: well-established trail and narrow in spots. Parts of the trail are used by equestrians and mountain bikers.

    Hiking Requirements (How can I tell if a hike is for me?):  You will need to be in good physical condition for this hike. Click here for more information. This hike is rated Moderate+. The terrain will involve a moderate incline and have some steeper sections. 

    Meeting Place:  Araby Drive off of 111 to the dirt parking lot on the left at the end of the wash.  (Map click here)

    Meeting Time:  We will gather about 8:15 and begin the hike at 8:30.

    Hike Leader:  Howard K. email click here; 

    Bring: Ten Essentials, water (2 to 3 liters recommended), lunch/ snacks, sun protection, layered clothing, hiking poles may be helpful. Carry emergency contact information. Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required. 

    Cancel: If you cannot make a hike for which you have registered please cancel as others may be on the waitlist. You may cancel directly from your profile settings or notify the hike leader.

    Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels.

    Unless otherwise noted, registration for this event is limited to Great Outdoors members. To sign up as a member, click here 

    Health Problems/allergies:   Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete this hike. 

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  • OCLB - Holiday Party & Toy Drive at Gladstone's in Long Beach

    • Sun, December 21, 2025
    • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • 330 S Pine Ave, Long Beach, CA 90802
    • 0
    Join waitlist


    You are cordially invited to the

    Great Outdoors

    OCLB Chapter

    2025 Holiday Party!

    Come and enjoy an evening of cheer as we make merry!

    Sunday December 21 @ 6:00 PM    

    Cocktails & Drinks:  6 PM - 7 PM

    Seated for the Culinary Experience:  7 PM 

     330 S Pine Ave, Long Beach, CA 90802

    So let's get dressed up in our gay apparel and gather to celebrate goodness and cheer during this holigay season! 



    Pricing for this event:  

    Great Outdoors Members: Only $40! 

    Non-Members and Guests: $65

    (We respectfully suggest that non-members and guests consider joining GO to qualify for the discounted price)

    The suggested value of this meal is over $80!

    The actual value is priceless!

    To register a guest:  Log in to register yourself as a member and then you will be able to add a guest at that time.


    We will have a private room!

    Our plated dinners are served as a three-course meal served with freshly baked sourdough bread, & includes a choice of soda, iced tea, or lemonade.

    CHOOSE FROM (2) STARTERS: 

    PIKE SALAD 

    Field Greens, apples, pears, raspberries, red onions, & feta cheese served with a raspberry vinaigrette 

    HOMEMADE SOUP 

    New England clam chowder or Manhattan red fish chowder

    CHOOSE FROM (4) ENTRÉES: 

    CHICKEN PICCATA 

    Sautéed chicken breast tossed in a lemon caper butter sauce served with wild rice pilaf & steamed vegetables

    SALMON 

    Sautéed salmon with dill beurre blanc served with Gilroy garlic mashed potatoes & steamed vegetables

    NEW YORK STEAK 

    Our 12oz. New York prime cut is cooked to medium, topped with fried onions, served with Gilroy garlic mashed potatoes & steamed vegetables

    PASTA PRIMAVERA (VEGAN)

    Penne pasta tossed with seasonal grilled garden vegetables, olive oil, & garlic

    DESSERT: 

    Homemade chocolate cake with raspberry sauce and whipped cream 


    Please note:  Alcoholic or bar beverages are available for an extra charge which will be ordered and paid for by the member.

    We request you register as soon as possible so that we can get an accurate count of the attendees.  

    Unfortunately if you have to cancel, we will be unable to refund your fee.

    On-site/Validated parking

    • Valet parking: Available directly at the restaurant.
    • Validated self-parking: You can get 90 minutes of free parking at The Pike parking structure with validation from Gladstone's. 

    Nearby parking garages and lots


    As a bonus, GO OCLB is participating in

    'Operation Santa Claus'

    Holiday Toy Drive to Benefit the County of Orange

    If you are able, please bring an unwrapped new toy or gift card to the party!


    Operation Santa Claus (OSC) is a year-round donation program dedicated to providing new gifts and toys to children in foster care in Orange County, California. Additionally,

    OSC offers gifts to children from low-income families who are receiving assistance from the County of Orange. 

    Approved by the Orange County Board of Supervisors, OSC is the official toy drive for the county. Last year, the program successfully distributed over 27,000 new toys and gifts, spreading joy and hope to some of the county's most vulnerable children who might otherwise have gone without.

    Operation Santa Claus is a collaborative effort between the County of Orange Social Services Agency, Orange County (OC) Health Care Agency, OC Probation, OC Child Support Services and OC Community Resources.



    Photos from previous OCLB holiday parties!






    Questions? Contact the Holiday Committee:

    Joe Semel

    818-599-6933

    [email protected]


    Richard Norman

    626-319-4740

    [email protected]


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  • PS - Hike: Whitewater Canyon View Loop

    • Mon, December 22, 2025
    • 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
    • Whitewater Preserve
    Register
    We will climb the switchbacks to the summit and enjoy great views while we hike. We will stop to eat a snack before completing the rest of the loop and returning to the parking lot.
    • Trail Length: 3.5 mi
    • Hiking time: 2-3 hours
    • Total Elevation Gain/Loss: 625’
    • Trailhead Elevation: 2100’
    • Difficulty Rating: Moderate

    Meeting Location:  

    • 8:00 a.m.:  Walmart/PetSmart parking lot at Ramon and Crossley in Palm Springs Map here
    • or 8:30 a.m.:  Whitewater Preserve Map here

    Hiking Requirements:

    Bring Ten Essentials (click here), water (1 to 2 liters recommended), trail snacks. Sun protection and layered clothing are recommended. Carry Emergency Contact Information (ICE). Hiking poles may be helpful.

    Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required. 

    Hiking Requirements - you will need to be in good physical condition for this hike.  Click here for more information.

    Hike Leader:  Kirk O.

    Carpooling:  Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver. You are responsible for arranging you own transportation or ride share. Arrive a few minutes early for briefing and carpooling. 

    Weather Policy: Inclement weather may cancel.  Weather forecast click here

    Health Problems/allergies:  Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete the hike. 
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  • PS - Hike: Badlands Indio Hills (SAVE THE DATE)

    • Tue, December 23, 2025
    • 9:00 AM - 1:30 PM
    • Indio, CA

    Hike the hills and canyons created by the San Andreas fault with outstanding geological features and great views from the ridge. 

    • Trail Length:   5.3 mi
    • Elevation Gain/Loss: 900'
    • Trailhead Elevation: 20'
    • Trail Type: Loop
    • Terrain: Rocky, sandy areas, slot canyons.
    • Difficulty Rating: Moderate* The trail narrows through a canyon and then it climbs to a high ridge with a steep drop-off.

    9:00 AM Meeting Place: PetSmart Ramon/Crossley, Palm Springs: Map Click Here. Meet at the north/east corner parking lot.

    *Hiking Requirements - You will need to be in good physical condition for this hike. Click here for more information.

    Bring Ten Essentials (click here) - water (2 to 3 liters recommended), and trail snacks. Sun protection and layered clothing are recommended. Carry Emergency Contact Information (ICE).

    Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required.

    Optional Lunch: CIE Sichuan Cuisine, 45682 Towne St., downtown Indio. Arrange your carpooling accordingly. NOTE: Bring $20+ cash, or use Venmo or Zelle to facilitate paying one group check for shared dishes. 

    Contact leader: Howard G. - email click here

    Carpooling - is encouraged and may be available if offered by a driver. You are responsible for arranging your own transportation or ride share. Arrive a few minutes early for briefing and carpooling. Departure is at 9 AM. Distance to trailhead (Golf Center Parkway/Ave 42) is 18 miles, approximately 30 minutes.

    Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels

    Additional Photos - Click Here

    You must be a Great Outdoors (GO) member in order to attend this event.

    Health Problems/allergies:   Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete the hike. 

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  • PS - Bike: Theme TBD - SAVE THE DATE

    • Thu, December 25, 2025
    • 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • TBD

    (Write a brief message here about why you like this hike and others may too. Example for Oswit Canyon: Explore one of our best natural areas that is home to a variety of desert vegetation and wildlife. Enjoy mountain/canyon views while overlooking Palm Springs. The turnaround point features a waterfall at a palm oasis.)

    Description:

    • Trail Length:
    • Elevation Gain/Loss: 
    • Difficulty Rating: 
    • Trail Type: 
    • Terrain: 
    •         AM Meet at Palm Springs PetsMart, Ramon/Crossley   Map click here

    Bring: Ten Essentials, water (2 to 3 liters recommended), lunch/ snacks, sun protection, layered clothing, hiking poles may be helpful. Carry emergency contact information. Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required. 

    Hiking Requirements (How can I tell if a hike is for me?). You will need to be in good physical condition for this hike. Click here for more information.

    Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver. You are responsible for arranging your own transportation or ride share. Carpool transportation is at the sole risk of the participants.  Arrive a few minutes early for briefing and carpooling. Departure is       AM from 

    Contact hike leader:  Bill B. 

    Cancel: If you cannot make a hike for which you have registered please cancel as others may be on the waitlist. You may cancel directly from your profile settings or notify the hike leader.

    Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels.

    Unless otherwise noted, registration for this event is limited to Great Outdoors members. To sign up as a member, click here 


    Photos: (optional)

    Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels

    Pets allowed? (Leader discretion if allowed by land agency)

    Health Problems/allergies:   Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete this hike. 


    © 1981 - 2025 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved.  Privacy policy


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  • SD - Pickleball on Coronado

    • Sun, December 28, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Coronado Marriott Wellness Center
    • Be the first
    Register

    San Diego Outdoor Pickleball!


    Join Us for Pickleball on Coronado!

    Ready for some light-hearted pickleball fun? Great Outdoors San Diego (GOSD) and Rainbow Picklers team up every other Sunday for a friendly morning of play. All skill levels welcome—newbies included! Just bring a paddle, water, and sunscreen. 

    Date & Time: Every other Sunday 10:00–11:50am
     Location: Pickleball courts at the Coronado Marriott Wellness Center (just inside the main entrance, to the right)

    Cost: $8 per person to play
     Parking: Free street parking – or $5 on-site for 2.5 hours with validation at the Wellness Center

    How to RSVP

    1. Register here through the GOSD event page.

    2. Download the “Swish Sports” app. (Brent will send you the group link – see below.)

    3. Email Brent Sammons at [email protected] to get a link to join the Swish App group, “Rainbow Picklers”.

    4. RSVP for each game via the Swish app. (Registration closes at 9am Friday before each Sunday game so we can secure the right number of courts. Late cancellations or no-shows are still responsible for the $8 court fee.)

    We hope to see you on the courts!

    Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

    Great Outdoors San Diego and our members enjoy the privilege of using the outdoors for recreation. We strive to include more of our community, especially those historically not included. Please encourage your friends, neighbors, and community members to come out and join us! If something is holding them back, please contact GOSD to explore accommodations including equipment available for lend or sponsorships for events.

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  • PS - Hike: Toutain Canyon and Waterfall - SAVE THE DATE

    • Mon, December 29, 2025
    • 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Whitewater Preserve

    Toutain canyon and waterfall is a short but moderately challenging hike to a beautiful waterfall in Toutain Canyon (adjacent to Whitewater Canyon Preserve). We follow the stream bed, traversing river rubble at the mouth of the canyon, passing through shaded cottonwood and sycamore glens, and walking across mats of wild grapevines to reach the waterfall. Includes multiple stream crossings (one-stride wide) and some travel in damp stream bed (water level very shallow). 

    • Distance: 2.5
    • Elevation Gain/Loss:  400
    • Difficulty Rating: Moderate challenging due to terrain conditions. Stream crossings and thick low hanging vines.
    • 8:30 AM Meet in the Palm Springs Walmart/Petsmart parking lot at Ramon and Crossley (Map click here)
    • or 9:00 AM at the Tukut trailhead parking lot Map click here. (USE THE POINT LOCATION ON THE MAP LINK ON THE 2/12 TOUTANE HIKE).This lot is located prior to the Preserve main parking lot.

    Bring: Ten Essentials, water, sun protection, layered clothing, hiking poles may be helpful. Carry Emergency Contact Information (ICE). Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required. Ask leader about dogs.

    Hiking Requirements - You will need to be in good physical condition for this hike. Click here for more information.

    Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver. You are responsible for arranging you own transportation or ride share. Arrive a few minutes early for briefing and carpooling. 

    Weather forecast link.

    Contact hike leader: Kirk O. Email

    Cancel: If you cannot make a hike for which you have registered please cancel as others may be on the waitlist. You may cancel directly from your profile settings or notify the hike leader.

    Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels.

    The canyon was named after Joe Toutain, who owned a ranch in the area until 1930 (when he sold it), and lived in Iron Canyon, a canyon on the north side of the Whitewater Canyon Road, between Bonnie Bell and the Whitewater Preserve Visitor Centre (the mouth of that canyon is visible from the road).

    Joe Toutain is remembered as a Constable who was a member of the posse that tracked Willie Boy. You can find good information about the Willie Boy story at the following link:

    https://www.ucr.edu/magazine/summer-2023/willie-boy

    Health Problems/allergies:   Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete this hike. 


    © 1981 - 2024 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved.  Privacy policy


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  • PS - HIKE LOWER CARRIZO CANYON - SAVE THE DATE

    • Wed, December 31, 2025
    • 9:00 AM
    • Carrizo Canyon


    Carrizo Canyon is one of the group of canyons which are open for only the last three months of each year. This  hike begins at the Art Smith parking lot and gradually climbs south through soft sand in a wide wash with evidence of a history of mining, exploration and recreational use over many decades. The wash narrows as we enter the canyon where we are amazed at the stunning folding and layering of metamorphic rock in the canyon walls. As the canyon narrows, the trail gets a bit rockier and poles can be handy for maintaining one’s balance. We will carefully scramble over a few granite boulders. After a visit to a dry waterfall, we will take a side trail up Indian Canyon and up a 5 foot rock ladder to an overlook from which you can see back to Palm Desert and up Carrizo Canyon to a stand of California palms at an oasis hidden above the dry fall. We retrace our steps to return to the parking lot.

    • Map here: https://caltopo.com/m/U4Q7J
    • Altitude gain: 364 feet  (1044′ to 1408′) 
    • Cumulative altitude gain: 503 feet
    • Distance: 2.3 miles
    • Pace: 1-1.5 MPH, ~2 hours
    • Terrain: Slightly varied, deep sand, short climb, some slick rock
    • Obstacles: Rocks, boulders, plant debris
    • Difficulty rating:  Easy to Moderate
    • Meet 8:50 am Denny's Cathedral City  Map Click Here

    Bring Ten Essentials (click here), water (1 to 1.5 liters recommended), trail snacks. Sun protection and layered clothing. Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are essential

    Contact Hike Leaders: Howard K.

    Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver. You are responsible for arranging you own transportation or ride share. Arrive a few minutes early for briefing and carpooling. Departure is at 9 AM. 

    Weather Policy: Inclement weather may cancel.

    Additional Photos Click Here



     Health Problems/allergies:  Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader if you wish.


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  • PS - T-Shirt Sales

    • Wed, December 31, 2025
    • 10:00 AM
    • Sat, January 31, 2026
    • 8:00 PM
    • online
    • 15
    Register

    WANT A GOPS CLUB T-SHIRT?  

    NOW'S YOUR CHANCE TO PLACE YOUR ORDER! 

    There are a few remaining Palm Springs T-Shirts available for purchase! We are selling seven Aqua Short Sleeve (Large) and seven Denim Blue Long Sleeve Tri-Blend T-shirts (Large).  Registration closes when we sell out or on December  31 at the latest.  Order yours today!

          

    Short and Long Sleeve T-Shirts

    • Short Sleeve Tri-blend Tees (which are moisture-wicking and stretch), are made of 50/25/25 polyester/Airlume combed and ring-spun cotton/rayon and includes a GOPS logo silk-screened on the front left side only. There is no printing on the back.  The remaining Short Sleeve T-shirts are available only in Aqua and size Large.  Multiple orders may require an additional registration. The Short Sleeve shirts can be ordered for $18 each.
    • Long Sleeve Tri-blend Tees (which are moisture-wicking and stretch), are made of 50/25/25 polyester/Airlume combed and ring-spun cotton/rayon and includes a GOPS logo silk-screened on the front left side only. There is no printing on the back.  The remaining Long Sleeve T-Shirts are available in only in Denim (blue) color and size Large.  Multiple orders may require an additional registration.  The Long Sleeve shirts can be ordered for $22 each.

    PAYMENT:

    We are taking payments online only. After you submit an order, you'll be taken to an online payment screen. You can pay with your credit card. When you place your order, you'll need to have your credit card ready and pay for your order within 15 minutes before  it times out and you will need to start over. No refunds are available.  

    PICKUP OR DELIVERY:

    T-shirts will be available for pickup or delivery.  We expect the GOPS merchandise will be available for pickup or delivery in November and December.  We'll set up a location, date and time to pick up your orders and inform you by email. For any items not picked up, we will schedule another time and place for a 2nd round of pickups via email.  If you are unable to pick up your merchandise and want it mailed to you (we use USPS Priority Mail) then shipping fees will apply and are due at the time the order is placed. Out-of-State orders or orders for more than 4 items may be charged additional shipping fees.

    If you have any questions, please email David McFadden at David.


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  • SD - Social - Fiesta Island Dog Social

    • Sat, January 03, 2026
    • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
    • Fiesta Island Dog Park
    • 3 registrants
    Register

    Fiesta Island Dog Park & Inland Hike


    Fiesta Island, a spacious peninsula within Mission Bay, is known for its expansive ocean views, open landscape, and relaxed coastal vibe. It features one of the largest off-leash dog parks in San Diego and regularly hosts charity walks, bicycle races, time trials, and special events like the annual over-the-line tournament. In the evenings, visitors often stay to watch the dazzling SeaWorld fireworks, which reflect off the bay and can be seen from across the island. Despite its popularity, Fiesta Island supports a surprising number of rare, threatened, and endangered bird and plant species, making it both a recreational and ecological landmark. It's also a key site during the San Diego Bayfair Cup, a premier hydroplane boat race on the H1 Unlimited circuit.

    We'll start our hike near the restrooms on the west side of Fiesta Island, entering through the gate and passing the benches as we make our way toward the western shoreline. This area is a popular launch point for jet skis and water skiing. From there, we'll continue south along the edge of the island, where you'll get a great view of the SeaWorld tower in the distance. It’s a perfect spot for photos, which we can share later on the Great Outdoors Facebook group.

    After enjoying the view, we'll head inland and follow the path looping back toward the entrance. A smaller trail on the opposite side of the road leads through a quiet park area with benches—an ideal place to rest and take in the scenery before making our way back.


    Start Time and Location: 3pm Fiesta Island Dog Park (see map below)

    Event Specific Challenges (stairs, animals, allergens): sand, bodies of water, wildlife, dogs

    Parking Information: free parking near park entrance

    Costs involved: none

    Pets Permitted: obviously! 

    What to Bring: Your dog or love of dogs

    Who to Contact with Questions: Trip leader Jeremiah O'Neal [email protected] 619-788-9407



    Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

    Great Outdoors San Diego and our members enjoy the privilege of using the outdoors for recreation. We strive to include more of our community, especially those historically not included. Please encourage your friends, neighbors, and community members to come out and join us! If something is holding them back, please contact GOSD to explore accommodations including equipment available for lend or sponsorships for events.

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  • PS - Hike: Palm Canyon and Victor Trails - SAVE THE DATE

    • Tue, January 06, 2026
    • 8:00 AM
    • Indian Canyons

    please note: a second group as been added for this hike, same day at 9am. if you are on the waitlist for this hike but would like to schedule a slot for the 9am group, please register separately for that hike. Priority will be given to those currently on the waitlist.

    This hike takes us through one of our region’s most scenic areas, full of colorful, canyons and unusual palm groves. It winds through the oasis that was the historic home of the Agua Caliente band of Cahuilla Indians and onto a rocky ridge with great views. 

    Description:

    • Trail Length: 3 miles
    • Elevation Gain/Loss: 340 feet 
    • Difficulty Rating: moderate
    • Terrain: well-traveled sandy and rocky trail
    • Bring: Ten Essentials, water (2 liters recommended), snacks, sun protection, layered clothing, hiking poles may be helpful. Carry emergency contact information. Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required. 

    Hiking Requirements (How can I tell if a hike is for me?). You will need to be in good physical condition for this hike. Click here for more information.

    Each participant must pay the Agua Caliente Indian Reservation entry fee ($12 per person, $7 for seniors 62+) at the Indian Canyons tollgate, just past the south end of South Palm Canyon Drive. Tickets may be purchased in advance online. Because cars may be lined up at the tollgate in season, carpooling is encouraged. You are responsible for arranging your own transportation or ride share. Drivers should proceed all the way into Indian Canyons to meet at the Trading Post.

    Contact hike leader: Pat M.


    Cancel: If you cannot make a hike for which you have registered please cancel as others may be on the waitlist. You may cancel directly from your profile settings or notify the hike leader.

    Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels.

    Registration for this event is limited to Great Outdoors members. To sign up as a member, click here 

    Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels

    Pets are not allowed.

    Health Problems/allergies:   Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete this hike. 


    © 1981 - 2025 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved.  Privacy policy


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  • PS - Camp - Agua Caliente County Park

    • Thu, January 08, 2026
    • 2:00 PM
    • Sun, January 11, 2026
    • 12:00 PM
    • Agua Caliente County Park Campground
    Register

    Camp and Soak

    Agua Caliente County Park

    JANUARY 8-11, 2026

    Discover the beauty of Agua Caliente County Park, one of San Diego County’s desert gems. This 910-acre park, set within Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, has a long history—once home to indigenous peoples and later a stagecoach stop and health resort in the 19th century.

    Today, visitors can enjoy camping and RV sites, scenic hiking trails, and three naturally heated geothermal pools. The park is a true desert oasis, complete with a historic ranch house and excellent opportunities for birdwatching and nature exploration.

    Other amenities include the coin-operated pay showers (50 cents in quarters per 4 minutes), flush toilets, potable water, and shuffleboard and horseshoes. There is a small souvenir store nearby with very limited groceries, ice, and firewood.

    We have reserved sites in the section with full hookups, including electricity, water, and sewer. Cost reflects those accommodations. 2 tents can be supported on one site, but be aware that there is no shade in this area. The campground is on Agua Caliente Springs Rd, off of the Great Southern Overland Stage Route (highway S2) map here 

    Schedule

    Thursday Jan 8th

    • 2pm Check in
    • 5pm Meet n Greet (communal site #89)

    Friday Jan 9th

    • 7am Coffee with bagels and pastries (site #89)
    • 9am hike from camp
    • pm hike or soak
    • 6pm dinner
    • 7pm campfire

    Saturday Jan 10th

    • 7am Coffee with bagels and pastries
    • 9am Drive to Dos Cabezas train station (4x4) and hike on track ~3mi.
    • pm hike or soak
    • 6pm dinner
    • 7pm campfire

    Sunday Jan 11th

    • 7am Coffee
    • 12pm check out time


    Some ideas for activities

    Off-road to hike, Dos Cabezas station and train track through old tunnels, story here and map here.

    Hike to Bailey's Cabin on AllTrails 2.7mi; hike to Rainbow Canyon on AllTrails 4.9 mi; both near Vallecito County Park. From the campground there is Moonlight Canyon trail details here

    Ocotillo is located where S2 hits the I-8 and has a gas station and a decent outdoor-seating restaurant.


    TRIP LEADERS: Cliff C email here and Joey D email here

    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    NOTE that the nearest towns are Julian, 35 miles to the North (several food choices and food), and Ocotillo 27 miles to the South (very little other than a gas station).

    Campground Rules and Regulations

    A complete listing of campground rules and regulations may be found here:

    http://www.sdparks.org/content/dam/sdparks/en/pdf/BrochuresMiscellaneous/2017_Agua_Caliente_Campground_Handout_FINAL.pdf

    Here are some of the more common rules:

    Dogs must be restrained on a leash not longer than six feet, and attended at all times. Dogs are not allowed on trails. There may be a $1/day fee per dog, payable at the park.

    Quiet Hours- 10 PM - 8 AM

    Campfires – Completely Extinguished by 11 PM

    Smoking- Is not allowed in Agua Caliente County Park.

    Alcohol - Alcoholic beverages are permitted provided the alcohol content does not exceed 20%.

    Cell Phone Service Is not available in the park, but can be found by driving a mile or 2 from the campground.

    Cancellations: Any cancellation for refund must be received by December 31, 2025, and will be charged a $10 fee. Write the trip leaders to cancel.

    Health Problems/Allergies

    It is the responsibility of participants to carry on their person a record of significant allergies, medications and medical history in the event of a medical emergency. Discuss any medical concerns with a trip leader if you wish.

    For full Agua Caliente County Park information - View the Agua Caliente County Park brochure or map at the following links:

    http://www.sdparks.org/content/dam/sdparks/en/pdf/BrochuresMiscellaneous/AguaCalienteBrochure.pdf

    http://www.sdparks.org/content/dam/sdparks/en/pdf/BrochuresMiscellaneous/2016%20Agua_Caliente_Campground_Handout_FINAL_9_13_16.pdf

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  • SD - Hikes (2) - Fonts Point/Calcite Mine Combined Hikes

    • Sat, January 10, 2026
    • 10:30 AM - 4:30 PM
    • Anza Borrego State Park, GPS Location: 33.30344,-116.23898
    • 2 registrants
    Register

    Great Outdoors - San Diego

    Fonts Point/Calcite Mine Combined Hikes

    Saturday, January 10, 2026, 10:30 am

    A landscape of a desert AI-generated content may be incorrect.

    Please find the descriptions for the two hikes below:

    First Hike: We will hike 1 mile round Trip on the trail that runs along the edge of the cliffs of Fonts Point and will marvel and the breath-taking badlands.  

    Second Hike: We then will drive in a caravan to the Calcite Mine Trail trailhead and will hike 4.5 miles to the historic calcite mine. On the way, we will take a brief side trip through a gorgeous narrow slot canyon. Going back, we will pass through a wide, deep impressive canyon. The trips through the canyons can be a little challenging, but if someone cannot climb over the rocks of the canyons, they can wait for us to come back to the main road. Font’s Point hike involves very little elevation gain, but the Calcite mine has an 800feet in elevation change. 

    Meeting Location: Font’s point turn off and parking 10.3 miles east of Borrego Springs Christmas Circle .3 miles east of S-22 Mile marker 29. GPS 33.30344,-116.23898

    Meeting Date & Time:  Saturday, January 10, 2025 10:30am. Normally, the spectacular drive from Hillcrest is 2 hours, so please leave by 8am, so you can take photos along the way. 

    A large rock formation in the desert AI-generated content may be incorrect.A rock canyon with a cat walking in it with Ein Avdat in the background AI-generated content may be incorrect.

    Details: Fonts Point is considered to have the most spectacular views in Anza Borrego. The Calcite mine has great views, an interesting history, (calcite is a mineral so clear and hard, it was used as gun-sites in WW II), and an Amazing slot canyon to squeeze through and a wide deep canyon to marvel and explore.

    Note: Font’s Point is at the end of a 4-mile dirt road off of highway S22, 10 miles east of Christmas Circle in Borrego Springs.  I have traveled on this road in my Prius and my Bolt, but if the dirt road scares you, leave your car at the parking area off of S22 where we are all meeting, and carpool with me or other brave drivers. If you don’t want to hike Calcite Mine, but you have a jeep, you can drive to the Mine with a 4x4 on the jeep trail.

    Host: Bill Stanhope at 619-306-2378

    Trail: Font's Point: Anza Borrego State Park's Best View - California Through My Lens                 1-mile round trip                                                                                                                                  Calcite Mine Trail, California - 553 Reviews, Map | AllTrails  4 miles round trip

    Length: ~5 miles combined both hikes

    Difficulty: both hikes are easy unless you go to the canyons, then moderate.

    Elevation Gain: ~20 feet at Fonts Point, 800 feet at the Calcite Mine

    RSVP: Please RSVP, or if running late, please call Bill at 619-306-2378

    Parking: ample parking is available at the font’s point intersection. Or if you are brave enough or have a jeep, please drive and take others. 

    Cost: there is no charge.  Please bring your lunch.

    Time Commitment: Plan for approx 5-6 hours 

    Dogs: Not allowed.

    Cell Phone Service: No reception issues anticipated.

    Health Problems/Allergies: It is the responsibility of participants to carry on their person a record of significant allergies, medications and medical history in the event of a medical emergency. Discuss any medical concerns with a trip leader if you wish.

    Contact/Question - If you have any questions not addressed by the information above or on our registration page, please feel free to contact the trip leaders: Bill Stanhope ([email protected])

    What to Bring in Addition to the 10 Essentials*:

    • Food
    • Ten Essentials
    • Phone/camera 
    • Warm/cool weather clothing depending on forcast
    • Any prescription or other needed medications
    • Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunblock, lip block)

    *Note on the 10 essentials - The 10 essentials are a collection or system of items that significantly increase your safety on any hike or outdoors trip. This is not an exhaustive list of anything you could ever need. You can visit the link included Here but one version of this list is as follows:

    1. Navigation

    2. Headlamp

    3. Sun Protection

    4. First Aid

    5. Knife

    6. Fire

    7. Shelter

    8. Extra food

    9. Extra water

    10. Extra clothes


    Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

    Great Outdoors San Diego and our members enjoy the privilege of using the outdoors for recreation. We strive to include more of our community, especially those historically not included. Please encourage your friends, neighbors, and community members to come out and join us! If something is holding them back, please contact GOSD to explore accommodations including equipment available for lend or sponsorships for events.

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  • SD - Urban Hike/Social - San Diego Zoo

    • Sun, January 11, 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
    • 2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
    • 6 registrants
    Register

    SAN DIEGO ZOO HIKE/SOCIAL

    Join us at the zoo!. This year we will be hiking through the famous San Diego Zoo on Sunday, January 11th @ 10:00am. We will hike through the park to the far end and take a different path back to the entrance. Tickets/membership should be purchased prior to the event. If this is an event you would like to participate in but cannot access it due to finances, please reach out to KJ Archer at [email protected]

    San Diego Zoo 1-Day Pass Ticket, No Reservations Required! 2022

    Details: We will hike through the park to the far end and take a different path back to the entrance

    Host: KJ Archer (619-214-6353)

    RSVP: Please RSVP so I know how many to expect. If we have a large group, please mask/social distance, as needed.

    Meeting Location: 2920 Zoo Dr., San Diego, CA

    92101 https://maps.app.goo.gl/brG2rRmm333248LC9

    Meeting Date & Time: Sunday January 11th @ 10:00am inside the front entrance at the map stand - We will plan to leave from the inside of the park entrance at 10:15am.

    Parking: Ample parking available.

    Cost: Self purchased membership/tickets required for entry

    Time Commitment: Plan for approx. 4-6 hours, group dependent  



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  • PS - Hike: Oswit Canyon - SAVE THE DATE

    • Mon, January 12, 2026
    • 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    • Palm Springs

    Explore one of our best natural areas and home to a variety of desert vegetation and wildlife. Mountain/canyon views, and overlooking Palm Springs in the distance.  The turnaround point features a waterfall at a Palm Oasis.

    • Start time: 8:00am
    • Distance: 4.8 miles out and back
    • Difficulty: Moderately Strenuous
    • Elevation:  900ft 
    • Terrain: Dirt, rocky, some minor bouldering requiring good balance and coordination; MUST be in good physical condition to attend.
    • Duration:  3.5 hours 
    • No dogs permitted due to Bighorn Sheep habitat.

    Location/directions: Parking will be at the south end of the South Lykken trailhead. Ample parking along the west side of South Palm Canyon Dr. near the bridge.  Map  to trailhead parking.

    Contact Hike Leader: Kirk O. email click here

    What to bring: Ten Essentials (click here), water (2 to 3 liters recommended), lunch/snacks, sun protection, layered clothing, electrolyte supplements. Carry Emergency Contact Information (ICE). Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required.

    Hiking Requirements - you will need to be in good physical condition for this hike.  Click here for more information.

    Inclement weather may cancel.

    Health Problems/allergies:   Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete the hike. 

    © 1981 - 2025 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved.  Privacy policy


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  • PS - Hike / Bike Planning Meeting Jan 14 -- SAVE THE DATE

    • Wed, January 14, 2026
    • 8:30 AM - 10:30 AM
    • IHOP Restaurant 471 S Indian Canyon Dr, Palm Springs
    • 18

    Hike, bike, and day activities planning meeting. We meet in the back room for breakfast. We will review the calendar for the next 2 or 3 months and schedule accordingly. 

    If you are unable to attend, you may submit your hike, bike or other event and we will work to get them scheduled.

    Activities to consider other than hiking are welcome.


    Check out the listing of hikes in the Santa Rosa National Monument on the Friends of Desert Mountains website:

    https://www.desertmountains.org/trails/

    Contact VP of Outings click here with your ideas and suggestions .



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  • PS - Hike: Skull Rock in JTNP - SAVE THE DATE

    • Mon, January 19, 2026
    • 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • Joshua Treet National Park

    (Write a brief message here about why you like this hike and others may too. Example for Oswit Canyon: Explore one of our best natural areas that is home to a variety of desert vegetation and wildlife. Enjoy mountain/canyon views while overlooking Palm Springs. The turnaround point features a waterfall at a palm oasis.)

    Description:

    • Trail Length:
    • Elevation Gain/Loss: 
    • Difficulty Rating: 
    • Trail Type: 
    • Terrain: 
    •         AM Meet at Palm Springs PetsMart, Ramon/Crossley   Map click here

    Bring: Ten Essentials, water (2 to 3 liters recommended), lunch/ snacks, sun protection, layered clothing, hiking poles may be helpful. Carry emergency contact information. Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required. 

    Hiking Requirements (How can I tell if a hike is for me?). You will need to be in good physical condition for this hike. Click here for more information.

    Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver. You are responsible for arranging your own transportation or ride share. Carpool transportation is at the sole risk of the participants.  Arrive a few minutes early for briefing and carpooling. Departure is       AM from 

    Contact hike leader:  Kirk O. Email click here

    Cancel: If you cannot make a hike for which you have registered please cancel as others may be on the waitlist. You may cancel directly from your profile settings or notify the hike leader.

    Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels.

    Unless otherwise noted, registration for this event is limited to Great Outdoors members. To sign up as a member, click here 


    Photos: (optional)

    Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels

    Pets allowed? (Leader discretion if allowed by land agency)

    Health Problems/allergies:   Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete this hike. 


    © 1981 - 2025 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved.  Privacy policy


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  • PS - Volunteer: Find Food Bank- Jan 21

    • Wed, January 21, 2026
    • 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • 83775 Citrus Ave, Indio
    Register

    The Find Food Bank is one of many regional food banks across the US that acts as a hub, sourcing food from a variety of places across the US and from people, processing it safely in our warehouse, and distributing it equitably to the hundreds of food pantries, nonprofit organizations, soup kitchens, homeless shelters, and Mobile Markets that serve individual communities across the desert region.

    Come join us at the Findl Food Bank in Indio and help prepare food boxes for distribution to families in need through out the valley.  We will work a 3 hour shift (8-11 am) and then after go to  lunch at TKB Bakery & Deli Website click here

    7:15 AM Meet at Palm Springs PetsMart, Ramon/Crossley   Map click here

    or 8:00 AM at the Food Bank 83775 Citrus Ave, Indio, CA 92201 MAP

    Wear comfortable closed toe, sturdy footwear.

    Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver. You are responsible for arranging your own transportation or ride share. Carpool transportation is at the sole risk of the participants.  Arrive a few minutes early for briefing and carpooling.

    Contact hike leader:  H.L. Todd: EMAIL

    Cancel: If you cannot make this event, please cancel as others may be on the waitlist. You may cancel directly from your profile settings or notify the event leader.





    © 1981 - 2025 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved.  Privacy policy


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  • CORP - Outdoors Experience - Agua Caliente Hike and Trip Leader Training Campout

    • Fri, January 23, 2026
    • 2:00 PM
    • Sun, January 25, 2026
    • 12:00 PM
    • Agua Caliente County Campground

    OUTDOORS EXPERIENCE at Agua Caliente County Park

    Hike Leader and/ or Trip Leader 

      You may attend either one or both.

      Friday Jan 23 to Jan 25, 2026

      Set up camp and settle in for a bonfire evening. Hot Springs have adult only hours to end the night as well. 

      Saturday Jan 24: - Training classes in the Agua Caliente Community Room 

      • 8:30 am - 12:30 pm  Hike Leader Training
      • 1 pm - 4 pm Trip Leader Training

      Sunday Jan 24 :  11:30 am - Checkout.

      Registration: You may request printed manual(s) be mailed to your during registration process, ($25 each). You will be refunded upon check in at the training.

      DAY HIKE LEADER - SECTION I

      Be a Hike Leader!  Not just someone who knows the way, but someone who applies safety, best practices, fun, and local knowledge to make a successful outing. In addition to the course outline we will discuss any issues with past hikes and plan for future hikes. We will review basic hike leader procedures and techniques and latest technology and information.  Completing this course will provide participants with Day Hike Leader Certification. Also a good refresher for hike leaders.

      Hike Leader Syllabus

      Prerequisites: Great Outdoors member (click here to join). The course is  for anyone interested in becoming a hiker leader, learning more about leading effective hikes, or becoming a more confident and capable hiker.

      This Hike Leader Certification course is for hikers who are interested in learning new skills as well as experienced hike leaders  who are looking to update or refresh their outdoor leadership skills. It is suitable for all ranges of hiker abilities, from novice up to very experienced hikers.

      Objectives: Introduce participants to the skills, knowledge and attitudes of a trained hike leader, including appropriate risk management for day hikes. Present skills for leading a safe, environmentally responsible and enjoyable hike.

      Content/Topics Covered:  Hike planning, description, screening participants, trail group management, emergency management, medical issues on the trail, map reading and navigation, outdoor techniques, environmental protection, and problem solving techniques and scenarios.

      Course Format: The training includes in person instruction with group discussion and problem solving  applications and trail-based scenarios.

      Pre-Course Assignment:  Review training manuals and video:

      Link to Training Resources: Click Here

      How to Lead a Hike: Video: Click Here

      Printed manuals will be available at the training location. 

      Option to have manual(s) mailed to you upon registration. Registration fee is fully refundable upon check in.


      * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

      TRIP LEADERSHIP - OVERNIGHT EVENTS - SECTION II

      One of the premier features of Great Outdoors is overnight trips. As a leader you will propose, research and design overnight trips. You will manage and administer the trip using leadership and group management skills. Completing this course will provide participants with Trip Leadership Certification.

      Course Outline:

      • Create a new trip or update a former trip.

      • Planning, scouting, securing reservations.

      • Finances and budget.

      • Create a trip description and promotion.

      • Secure all logistics including any permits, and support staff as necessary.

      • Communicate with participants to provide information and answer questions.

      • Conducting your trip, safety issues, group management issues - preventing and solving.

      * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

      Schedule: Start at 8:30 am and go to 4:30 pm with a 30 min. lunch break.  Coffee, tea, water provided. Bring a mug for hot drinks.

      What to bring:  Lunch, water bottle, mug for hot drinks. If you are taking the Hike Leader course bring day pack with your 10 essentials. If you are tent camping, bring food, camp gear, warm clothing, etc.

      Contact:

      Course Preparation: We will send you a link to the Outdoor Experience Training Manuals. You are encouraged to review the material ahead of time. 

      Link to Training Resources: Click Here

      Suggested Reading:
      1. Wilderness Navigation: Finding Your Way Using Map, Compass, Altimeter, & GPS. Bob Burns, Mike Burns
      2. The National Outdoor Leadership School's Wilderness Guide.  Mark Harvey
      3. How to Lead a Hike by the Sierra Club  15 min. video click here




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    • PS - January Game Night: Gather Your Balls and Grease Your Alley for BOWLING!! - SAVE THE DATE

      • Sun, January 25, 2026
      • 12:45 PM - 3:00 PM
      • Palm Springs Lanes
      • 29

          IT'S TIME TO STRIKE UP SOME FUN!

      Sunday, January 25th, 2026

      Registration for this event is limited to GO members. Nonmembers and guests may join Great Outdoors - click here.

      Please join us for the Great Outdoors Palm Springs BOWLING AFTERNOON on Sunday, January 25th, 2026 from 12:45 to 3:00 pm. PLEASE ARRIVE BY 12:45 PM. BOWLING WILL COMMENCE AT 1:00 PM SHARP!  Palm Springs Lanes is located at 68051 Ramon Road in Cathedral City.  (click here for directions). 

      Each team will be comprised of 6 people. Palm Springs Lanes will provide each team free shoe rental, as well as a large pizza and 2 pitchers of soft drinks for each team (included in the cost per member).  Additional food/drinks are available at the Snack Bar on a cash basis. 

      NOTE: Please wear your GREAT OUTDOORS T-shirts!  

      The cost to members for this event is $25.00 per person. Payment must be made at time of registration.  Due to prepayment requirements we have with the bowling alley, there will be no refunds if you cancel this event. Please let Robert Varga know if you cannot attend so we may plan accordingly.

      This event is limited to 30 attendees. 

      For questions, please contact Robert Varga via text 760-641-9112.

      Health Problems/allergies:  Discuss any medical concerns with the event leader if you wish.

      Thank you for participating in the Great Outdoors club!
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    • PS - Hike: Toutain Canyon and Waterfall - SAVE THE DATE

      • Mon, January 26, 2026
      • 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM
      • Whitewater Preserve

      Toutain canyon and waterfall is a short but moderately challenging hike to a beautiful waterfall in Toutain Canyon (adjacent to Whitewater Canyon Preserve). We follow the stream bed, traversing river rubble at the mouth of the canyon, passing through shaded cottonwood and sycamore glens, and walking across mats of wild grapevines to reach the waterfall. Includes multiple stream crossings (one-stride wide) and some travel in damp stream bed (water level very shallow). 

      • Distance: 2.5
      • Elevation Gain/Loss:  400
      • Difficulty Rating: Moderate challenging due to terrain conditions. Stream crossings and thick low hanging vines.
      • 8:30 AM Meet in the Palm Springs Walmart/Petsmart parking lot at Ramon and Crossley (Map click here)
      • or 9:00 AM at the Tukut trailhead parking lot Map click here. (USE THE POINT LOCATION ON THE MAP LINK ON THE 2/12 TOUTANE HIKE).This lot is located prior to the Preserve main parking lot.

      Bring: Ten Essentials, water, sun protection, layered clothing, hiking poles may be helpful. Carry Emergency Contact Information (ICE). Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required. Ask leader about dogs.

      Hiking Requirements - You will need to be in good physical condition for this hike. Click here for more information.

      Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver. You are responsible for arranging you own transportation or ride share. Arrive a few minutes early for briefing and carpooling. 

      Weather forecast link.

      Contact hike leader: Kirk O. Email

      Cancel: If you cannot make a hike for which you have registered please cancel as others may be on the waitlist. You may cancel directly from your profile settings or notify the hike leader.

      Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels.

      The canyon was named after Joe Toutain, who owned a ranch in the area until 1930 (when he sold it), and lived in Iron Canyon, a canyon on the north side of the Whitewater Canyon Road, between Bonnie Bell and the Whitewater Preserve Visitor Centre (the mouth of that canyon is visible from the road).

      Joe Toutain is remembered as a Constable who was a member of the posse that tracked Willie Boy. You can find good information about the Willie Boy story at the following link:

      https://www.ucr.edu/magazine/summer-2023/willie-boy

      Health Problems/allergies:   Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete this hike. 


      © 1981 - 2024 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved.  Privacy policy


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    • PS - Hike: Jane's Hoffbrau - SAVE THE DATE

      • Mon, February 09, 2026
      • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
      • Palm Springs

      HIKE - JANE'S HOFFBRAU

      • Length: Approx 3 miles
      • Route: Out and back
      • Hike time: Approx 2 hours
      • Elevation Gain: Approx 700'
      • Difficulty: Moderate

      Meet at 9:00 AM at the Rimrock Plaza (Vons) 4733 E Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs. Park in the East parking lot near the Eisenhower facility and meet at the parking lot corner in front of the Thrifty Wash. Depart at 9:00 AM. Arrive a few minutes early for introductions and briefing. Map Click Here

      Description: The hike starts at the dirt road at the far eastside of Rimrock Plaza. At the water reservoir tanks we pick up a trail to the top of a plateau that affords great views of Palm Springs and Cathedral City. We then hike the plateau until we descend a canyon to Jane's Hoffbrau Palm Oasis. No, there is no coffee served here, but it is a small beautiful canyon with a dry waterfall and it is loaded with palm trees. We will relax in the shade of the palms and then return on the same trail. 

      Bring Ten Essentials (click here), water (1 to 2 liters recommended), trail snacks, sun protection, layered clothing. Carry Emergency Contact Information (ICE). Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required. Hiking poles may be helpful

      Contact Hike Leader: Kirk O. 

      Health Problems/allergies:   Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete the hike. 




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    • PS - Hike: Willis Palms Oasis - SAVE THE DATE

      • Tue, February 10, 2026
      • 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM
      • Willis Palms Trail, Thousand Palms, CA

      Willis Palms Oasis

      Hike along the San Andreas Fault to a lush palm oasis featuring views of the Coachella Valley, San Jacinto and San Gorgonio mountains, and a walk through an extensive Washingtonia Filifera Palm grove.  The Willis Palms Trail is part of the Coachella Valley Preserve located 10 miles east of Palm Springs in the bluffs and mesas of the Indio Hills. The trailhead is located on Thousand Palms Canyon Road a short distance from the intersection of Ramon and Thousand Palms Canyon Rd, on the left (west side).


      • Meet at PetSmart (Ramon & Crossley) Time: 9:00 AM Map click here or the Willis Palms Trailhead parking area (Map click here)
      • Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver.  You are responsible for arranging your own transportation or ride share. Limited parking at trailhead or alongside roadway. 
      • Trail features: Out and back loop, 3 miles length, 2 hrs. duration, elevation gain/loss 300 ft., mostly full sun exposure.  
      • Terrain: rocky, sandy areas, portion of trail narrow with steep drop-off on one side.
      • Difficulty Rating: Moderate
      • Sorry no pets allowed in the Preserve.
      • Please advise leader of any medical concerns or physical limitations.
      • Bring Ten Essentials (click here), water (1 to 2 liters recommended), trail snacks.
      • Sun protection and layered clothing are recommended. 
      • Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required.
      • Carry Emergency Contact Information (ICE).

      Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels.

      Contact Hike Leader:  Pat M.





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    • PS - Hike: Split Rock Plus - Joshua Tree Park

      • Mon, February 16, 2026
      • 7:15 AM - 3:00 PM
      • Joshua Tree National Park

      Split Rock Loop Trail in Joshua Tree National Park will be our first stop. This is an easy, undulating 2.7 mile trail with convenient, sedan accessible parking. Interesting rock formations abound, including one quite wonderful anthropomorphic feature, and a few seemingly out-of-place trees. 

      The next stop is Hall of Horrors. Opportunities to scamper over, under, and between rocks have been reported to bring an instant return to youthful joy. If we are lucky, we will find the well-hidden Hall of Horrors and descend into it to find the spooky feature. Those uninterested in scrambling on the rocks can enjoy an easy stroll around the rocky outcroppings.  Additional hiking in this area is about 1+miles.

      • Elevation gain: 295 to 500 feet
      • Total Distance: 3 to 4.5 miles
      • Pace: Under 30 minutes per mile for first stop, and slower later
      • Terrain: Varied, compacted sand, deep sand, optional rock scrambling
      • Obstacles: Rocks, boulders, plants
      • Difficulty rating:  Moderate

      Departure Location: Meet at 7:15 am at Carl's Jr. at Hwy 111 and Racquet Club Rd (Map click here)

      Fees/Charges: Joshua Tree Park entrance fee. It is highly recommended that you enter Joshua Tree National Park from the North Entrance, located in 29 Palms.  It is the closest entry to the trailhead. In addition, there are fewer visitors entering at this location.

      Hiking Requirements:  Although the trail is fairly level, the elevation is at 4600 feet so you will need to be in good physical condition for this hike. Click here for more information.

      Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver.  You are responsible for arranging your own transportation or ride share. 

      Cancel: If you cannot make a hike for which you have registered please cancel as others may be on the waitlist. You may cancel directly from your profile settings or notify the hike leader.

      Contact hike leader:  Kirk O.

      Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels.

      Health Problems/allergies:   Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete the hike. 

      © 1981 - 2025 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQIA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved. Privacy policy

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    • PS - Volunteer: Find Food Bank- Feb 18

      • Wed, February 18, 2026
      • 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
      • 83775 Citrus Ave, Indio
      Register

      The Find Food Bank is one of many regional food banks across the US that acts as a hub, sourcing food from a variety of places across the US and from people, processing it safely in our warehouse, and distributing it equitably to the hundreds of food pantries, nonprofit organizations, soup kitchens, homeless shelters, and Mobile Markets that serve individual communities across the desert region.

      Come join us at the Findl Food Bank in Indio and help prepare food boxes for distribution to families in need through out the valley.  We will work a 3 hour shift (8-11 am) and then after go to  lunch at TKB Bakery & Deli Website click here

      7:15 AM Meet at Palm Springs PetsMart, Ramon/Crossley   Map click here

      or 8:00 AM at the Food Bank 83775 Citrus Ave, Indio, CA 92201 MAP

      Wear comfortable closed toe, sturdy footwear.

      Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver. You are responsible for arranging your own transportation or ride share. Carpool transportation is at the sole risk of the participants.  Arrive a few minutes early for briefing and carpooling.

      Contact hike leader:  H.L. Todd: EMAIL

      Cancel: If you cannot make this event, please cancel as others may be on the waitlist. You may cancel directly from your profile settings or notify the event leader.





      © 1981 - 2025 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved.  Privacy policy


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    • SD - Social - San Diego Botanic Garden Tour

      • Sat, February 21, 2026
      • 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
      • San Diego Botanic Garden, 300 Quail Gardens Drive at Ecke Ranch Rd, Encinitas, CA 92024
      • 24
      • 1 registrant
      Register

      San Diego Botanic Garden Tour

      Photo

      Welcome to the San Diego Botanic Garden's 37-acre urban oasis featuring 4 miles of meandering trails and ocean views, 5,000+ plant species and varieties, and 29 uniquely themed gardens that represent 15 different regions and many habitats of the world. This natural wonderland is designed for children and adults, alike; explore your interests, learn about the plant world that surrounds us, and let nature fill you with a little wonder.

      Start Time and Location: 10:00am Saturday 2/21/26 outside the Conservancy 

      Event Specific Challenges (stairs, animals, allergens): Potential allergies, waterfall stairway (optional)

      Event Specific Equipment: N/A

      Parking Information: Free on site

      Costs involved: 

      • SDBG Members and AHS Reciprocal Garden Members) Bring Membership info & ID) Free
      • Adult $18
      • Military, Senior (60+), Student $15
      • Youth (3-17) $10
      • Child (under 3) Free
      • Note: If a financial constraint is preventing you from attending, please reach out to us as we can secure additional tickets as needed!

      Pets Permitted: N/A

      What to Bring: Water, good walking shoes

      Trip Leader: Jeff Clingan, San Diego Botanic Garden Chair, Volunteer Committee and Docent Training Coordinator


      Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

      Great Outdoors San Diego and our members enjoy the privilege of using the outdoors for recreation. We strive to include more of our community, especially those historically not included. Please encourage your friends, neighbors, and community members to come out and join us! If something is holding them back, please contact GOSD to explore accommodations including equipment available for lend or sponsorships for events.

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    • PS - Hike: Toutain Canyon and Waterfall - SAVE THE DATE

      • Mon, February 23, 2026
      • 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM
      • Whitewater Preserve

      Toutain canyon and waterfall is a short but moderately challenging hike to a beautiful waterfall in Toutain Canyon (adjacent to Whitewater Canyon Preserve). We follow the stream bed, traversing river rubble at the mouth of the canyon, passing through shaded cottonwood and sycamore glens, and walking across mats of wild grapevines to reach the waterfall. Includes multiple stream crossings (one-stride wide) and some travel in damp stream bed (water level very shallow). 

      • Distance: 2.5
      • Elevation Gain/Loss:  400
      • Difficulty Rating: Moderate challenging due to terrain conditions. Stream crossings and thick low hanging vines.
      • 8:30 AM Meet in the Palm Springs Walmart/Petsmart parking lot at Ramon and Crossley (Map click here)
      • or 9:00 AM at the Tukut trailhead parking lot Map click here. (USE THE POINT LOCATION ON THE MAP LINK ON THE 2/12 TOUTANE HIKE).This lot is located prior to the Preserve main parking lot.

      Bring: Ten Essentials, water, sun protection, layered clothing, hiking poles may be helpful. Carry Emergency Contact Information (ICE). Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required. Ask leader about dogs.

      Hiking Requirements - You will need to be in good physical condition for this hike. Click here for more information.

      Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver. You are responsible for arranging you own transportation or ride share. Arrive a few minutes early for briefing and carpooling. 

      Weather forecast link.

      Contact hike leader: Kirk O. Email

      Cancel: If you cannot make a hike for which you have registered please cancel as others may be on the waitlist. You may cancel directly from your profile settings or notify the hike leader.

      Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels.

      The canyon was named after Joe Toutain, who owned a ranch in the area until 1930 (when he sold it), and lived in Iron Canyon, a canyon on the north side of the Whitewater Canyon Road, between Bonnie Bell and the Whitewater Preserve Visitor Centre (the mouth of that canyon is visible from the road).

      Joe Toutain is remembered as a Constable who was a member of the posse that tracked Willie Boy. You can find good information about the Willie Boy story at the following link:

      https://www.ucr.edu/magazine/summer-2023/willie-boy

      Health Problems/allergies:   Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete this hike. 


      © 1981 - 2024 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved.  Privacy policy


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    • PS: Camp: Mojave Preserve

      • Fri, February 27, 2026
      • 1:00 PM
      • Mon, March 02, 2026
      • 12:00 PM
      • Mojave National Preserve
      • 5
      Register

      Mojave Preserve: Black Canyon Group Camp site


      Mojave Preserve is a remote and beautiful expanse of high desert. The Hole In The Wall area is at the end of a paved road and contains a visitor center, a standard campground, a fire station, and our group camp site on a dirt road. This is a semi-off-grid campout. On the western side is a through road to Baker, the Kelso dunes, and a train depot (closed at this time).

      We will try to get tickets to Mitchell Caverns for Sunday morning. If we are able to obtain them, you will pay for them at the event. An email will go out once they are obtained.

      Black Canyon group site -- Our camp site is remote and quiet.  The moon will be nearly full for this event. Fires are allowed in the fire ring, bring firewood (if there is no rain this winter, fires may be forbidden). There is water available and vault toilets, but no other amenities. There is a shade structure with picnic tables.

      Map here. Note that the exit is Essex Road off I-40

      Check in time is 1:00pm, please don't arrive early; if you are early, you can hang out at the visitor center area, which across the paved road from our camp site road. Check out time is noon.

      There is very little cell service, wi-fi should be available at the visitor center which is near the Hole In The Wall standard campground.

      Trip Leader: Joey Duhon mail and Cliff Clue mail

      Sunrise 6:15, Sunset 5:45

      To do: hike Rings Loop which is behind the visitor center is 1.5mi and has great geology and some fun easy climbing

      Some maybe interested in hiking up the Kelso Dunes. 

      There are some 4x4 options; beside the Mojave Road (which is extensive) there is a shorter trail from Mid-Hills to Hole In The Wall.


      Show details

    • OCLB - Jumbo Rocks Camping at Joshua Tree NP

      • Fri, February 27, 2026
      • 4:00 PM
      • Sun, March 01, 2026
      • 12:00 PM
      • Jumbo Rocks Campground, Joshua Tree NP
      Register

      OCLB- Jumbo Rocks Camping at Joshua Tree NP

      Fri. 2/27/26 to Sun. 3/01/26

      Jumbo Rocks Campground, near Twentynine Palms, California, is a fantastic spot for those looking to immerse themselves in the stunning landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park. Surrounded by impressive rock formations, this campground offers a unique backdrop for camping, climbing, and exploring the high desert.

      The campground features designated sites with picnic tables and fire pits, making it easy to enjoy meals and evenings around the fire. Visitors have noted the abundance of nearby hiking trails and the convenience of clean pit toilets scattered throughout the area.

      While the campground can get busy, many campers appreciate the privacy offered by certain sites, especially those tucked away among the rocks. The vibrant sunsets and starry nights are a big draw, with one reviewer mentioning, “Sunsets at Joshua Tree are magical!” Whether you are climbing the rocks or just soaking in the views, Jumbo Rocks Campground is a great base for our desert adventures. 

      Registration: Limited to Great Outdoors members

      Starts: Fri. Feb 27th, 2026 at 4pm

      Ends: Sun. Mar. 1st, 2026 at 12pm

      Space left: 6 vehicles

      Location: Jumbo Rocks Campground is located 18 miles from the West Entrance, or 12 miles from the North Entrance of Joshua Tree National Park via Park Blvd.  

      Directions: Take Int. 10 East from Long Beach and Orange County to Palm Springs. Take Hwy 62 to Yucca Valley.  In Yucca Valley, drive eastbound on Hwy 62 to Park Blvd. Turn right at Park Blvd.

      Park Blvd turns into Quail Springs Road. Continue until you reach the Joshua Tree National Park West entrance.  After entry, Quail Springs Road turns into Park Blvd.  Drive 18 miles from the West entrance to Jumbo Rocks campground. 

      Carpooling- All members are responsible for arranging their own transportation.  Carpooling is highly encouraged to allow more members to attend because each campsite has a vehicle limit. There is no overflow parking. 

      If you can offer to carpool to another member or are interested in joining a carpool with another member, check out the website:

      www.groupcarpool.com

      I cannot arrange carpools for members, but I invite you to click the link above to connect with other members to arrange a carpool. 

      Waitlist- If the trip is full, please add yourself to the waitlist.

      Important information

      NO WATER—There is no water at Jumbo Rocks Campground.  You must bring enough water to drink, cook, and wash during the camping trip.  I suggest you bring AT LEAST (2) gallons of water for drinking and (1) gallon of water for washing.

      NO CELL PHONE SERVICE- Depending on your cell phone provider, you may have limited or no cell phone service within JTNP.

      NO FUEL- There are no gas stations within JTNP.  Fill up your fuel tank before entering the park.

       

      Schedule

      Fri. Feb. 27th

      4 pm Arrive, check in with trip leader, Set up camp. Climb a Jumbo Rock (carefully!)

      5 pm- Welcome Tea- Refreshments provided. Meet & Greet

      6 pm- Group campfire, star gaze, and good conversation.


      Sat Feb. 28th.

      8 am- Breakfast on you own.

      9 am to 3pm—Arrange carpools for day activity options: Driving tour to Hidden Valley, Keys Point, and Cholla Cactus Garden.  Afternoon walk to Skull Rock.  Optional hike to Ryan Mountain.  Pack a lunch and water.

      5:30pm- Group Dinner Potluck

      6pm- Group Campfire, star gaze, and more good conversation.

       

      Sun Mar. 1st.

      8 am- Breakfast on your own.

      9 am to 11 am— Group photo.  Break camp, pack up, and see you at the next Great Outdoors event!

      Noon- Check out 

      Amenities: Campsites feature a picnic table and a fire ring.  The campground has vault toilets and trash bins.  There is NO WATER at the campground.  Bring enough water for drinking and washing for 2 nights.   Bring AT LEAST (2) gallons of water for drinking and (2) gallons of water for washing.

      Parking: 4 vehicles (1 vehicle per campsite), 2 vehicles (1 campsite accommodates 2 vehicles).  NO overflow parking. 

      RVs: No RVs on this campout.    

      What to bring: Tent, Camp chair, Sleeping bag with a sleeping pad or air mattress, Air pump with extra batteries for air mattress, Pillow, Extra blanket, Day pack for hiking, camp stove, matches or lighter, propane fuel, flashlight with batteries, a lantern with batteries, headlight with red light feature and batteries, external power bank and phone charger; cooking utensils, cold weather clothing (jacket, sweater, long sleeve shirts, long pants, beanie), underwear, shirts, sleeping clothes, socks, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, toilet paper, toiletries kit, Wet Wipes, and hand sanitizer.  Please bring your own reusable plates, cups, mugs, and eating utensils. You may want to get a pop-up shade with an anchor.   

      BRING 1 bundle of firewood per person.

      Climate: February Avg. high 65 F, Avg. low 44 F.  Be prepared for COLD nights and mornings.  Bring cold-weather clothing and dress in layers.  Bring an extra blanket.  Rain is unpredictable.  Bring a raincoat if rain is forecast.  Wear sun protection: Hats, sunscreen, sunglasses, and long pants and long-sleeved shirts. 

      Fees:The camping fee is $75 per driver and $65 per passenger. The camping fee is discounted for passengers carpooling with a driver in the same vehicle. Carpooling is highly encouraged to help more people attend this event and save on fuel and trip costs. Bring cash to contribute to a carpool driver during the Saturday activities.

      There is a $30 per-vehicle park entrance fee, payable to the ranger at the entrance.  This is in addition to the camping fee.  Displaying a valid national park pass waives the park entrance fee.

      Cancellation & Refund Policy: Attendees may self-cancel with a refund, less a $10 fee, by midnight Friday, February 13th, 2026. No refunds will be given for self-cancellations after 2/13/26 or for no-shows.  Refunds are processed via PayPal, Zelle or check. 

      Attendees must self-cancel via email to the trip leader.  Please provide your email address linked to your PayPal or Zelle account. 

      Please do not self-cancel on the Wild Apricot website, as refunds cannot be processed through this method.   

      Food: Bring enough food, water, and snacks for two days. I will provide refreshments at the Friday welcome tea.  Snacks to share with others are always welcome.  The theme for the Saturday night dinner potluck is “South of the Border.”   

      Dogs: Yes, dogs are allowed in Joshua Tree National Park but with significant restrictions: they must be leashed (six feet or less), can only walk within 100 feet of roads and campgrounds, and are strictly prohibited on all hiking trails, in the backcountry, and inside buildings. Owners must pick up and properly dispose of pet waste. 

      Communication: I will contact attendees at least two weeks before the camp starts to share essential details about the camping trip, including campsite assignments.  I am available via email for communication.  However, I may not reply to emails right away due to my work schedule.  I respond to emails about the camping trip on my days off.  


      Questions? Email Michael at [email protected]

      Disclosure- I do not respond to emails immediately due to my non-traditional work schedule. I will respond to emails about the camping trip on my days off. 


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    • PS - Hike: Shannon, Berns and Araby Loop - SAVE THE DATE

      • Fri, March 06, 2026
      • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
      • Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains

      (Write a brief message here about why you like this hike and others may too. Example for Oswit Canyon: Explore one of our best natural areas that is home to a variety of desert vegetation and wildlife. Enjoy mountain/canyon views while overlooking Palm Springs. The turnaround point features a waterfall at a palm oasis.)

      Description:

      • Trail Length:
      • Elevation Gain/Loss: 
      • Difficulty Rating: 
      • Trail Type: 
      • Terrain: 
      •         AM Meet at Palm Springs PetsMart, Ramon/Crossley   Map click here

      Bring: Ten Essentials, water (2 to 3 liters recommended), lunch/ snacks, sun protection, layered clothing, hiking poles may be helpful. Carry emergency contact information. Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required. 

      Hiking Requirements (How can I tell if a hike is for me?). You will need to be in good physical condition for this hike. Click here for more information.

      Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver. You are responsible for arranging your own transportation or ride share. Carpool transportation is at the sole risk of the participants.  Arrive a few minutes early for briefing and carpooling. Departure is       AM from 

      Contact hike leader:  Email click here

      Cancel: If you cannot make a hike for which you have registered please cancel as others may be on the waitlist. You may cancel directly from your profile settings or notify the hike leader.

      Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels.

      Unless otherwise noted, registration for this event is limited to Great Outdoors members. To sign up as a member, click here 


      Photos: (optional)

      Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels

      Pets allowed? (Leader discretion if allowed by land agency)

      Health Problems/allergies:   Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete this hike. 


      © 1981 - 2025 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved.  Privacy policy


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    • PS - Hike Indian Canyons: Andreas Canyon Ranger Hike - save the date

      • Tue, March 10, 2026
      • 8:30 AM - 11:30 AM
      • Indian Canyons 38500 S Palm Canyon Dr. Palm Springs CA

      Palm Canyon/Victor and Andreas Canyon Trails

      Indian Canyons includes some of the ancestral lands of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla (pronounced Kaw-we-ah) Indians.  This leisurely hike will be through scenic areas of colorful, rocky canyons and unmatched palm groves.

      2. Trading Post.  Lunch break will be at the Trading Post with snacks and refreshments, art and artifacts, books, jewelry, pottery, baskets, weavings, and a short walk on the West Fork waterfall trail.

      3. Andreas Canyon.  Next we will drive down to the Andreas Canyon loop hike with remnants of Cahuilla settlements, the world’s second largest grove of Washingtonia palms, a babbling brook and views of a hidden private club.

      • Meet Location:  Palm Canyon Trailhead/Trading Post parking lot. MAP 
      • Meet Time: 8:30 am 
      • Trail Length: 2.7 miles Palm Canyon/Victor trails loop; 1.0 mile Andreas Canyon loop. 
      • Total Elevation Gain: 393 ft in the 2.7-mile Palm Canyon/Victor Trail loop. 173 ft in the 1.0-mile Andreas Canyon loop.
      • Difficulty Rating: Moderate  (gradual ascent/descent, mostly easy but with some moderate sections). (approx. 3.5 hr. duration)
      • Type: Well-trodden and marked trails.
      • Bring Ten Essentials (click here), water (2 liters recommended), lunch and snacks. Hat, sunscreen and layered clothing are recommended.
      • Carry Emergency Contact Information (ICE).
      • Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required.

      Hike Leader:  Pat M.

      Each participant must pay the Agua Caliente Indian Reservation entry fee ($12 per person, $7 for seniors 62+, Free military/first responder) at the Indian Canyons tollgate, just past the south end of South Palm Canyon Drive. The gate opens at 8 am.

      Participants may pay in advance online, print out the confirmation and hand it to the gate agent. Or, pay at the gate.  See “Purchase Tickets” https://www.indian-canyons.com/hours

      Drivers should proceed to the Palm Canyon Trailhead/Trading Post parking lot at the far end of the canyon road.  Carpooling is encouraged because cars may be lined up at the tollgate and parking can be limited. You are responsible for arranging your own transportation or ride share. 

      Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels 

      Web: https://www.indian-canyons.com/indian_canyons

      Health Problems/allergies:   Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete the hike. 

      Show details

    • PS- Camping - Mecca Beach - Save The Date

      • Thu, March 12, 2026
      • 2:00 PM
      • Sun, March 15, 2026
      • 12:00 PM
      • Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, Borrego Springs, CA

      Thu, March 12, 2026, 1:00 PM – Sun, March 15, 2026, 12:00 PM @ Mecca Beach, Salton Sea, CA 

      The Salton Sea is one of the most enigmatic places in the Southwest. It is a unique place with many hidden treasures and secrets that are not well known. It has been forgotten as a busy tourist attraction of bygone years. Today, we have an amazing place to visit and explore. The sunsets and sunrises are stunning and peaceful. You should take the opportunity to experience it before its receding water levels cause it to change and vanish.

      One of the world's largest inland seas and lowest spots on earth at -227 below sea level, Salton Sea was re-created in 1905 when high spring flooding on the Colorado River crashed the canal gates leading into the developing Imperial Valley. For the next 18 months the entire volume of the Colorado River rushed downward into the Salton Trough. By the time engineers were finally able to stop the breaching water in 1907, the Salton Sea had been born at 45 miles long and 20 miles wide – equaling about 130 miles of shoreline. Salton Sea State Recreation Area covers 14 miles of the northeastern shore. Campers, birdwatchers, photographers and hikers can enjoy the site's many recreation opportunities. View the Salton Sea Recreation Area Brochure here.

      We will be camping at the Mecca Beach campground, which is part of the Salton Sea Recreation Area. The meet and greet, potluck and other activities will take place there. March is an ideal time to visit with mild temperatures.

       

      Activities include hiking a slot canyon in the Mecca Hills, a 4x4 excursion, an easy hike to the Visitor Center to view exhibits and a video on the Salton Sea, and a road trip to Niland area sites, including Salvation Mountain and East Jesus in Slab City, Obsidian Butte, the mud pot volcanoes, and the Salton Sea Reclamation Project. Check the whiteboard for updated activities info.


      NOTE:  This event is limited to GO members.  When you register, you'll need to have your credit card ready and pay your registration fee within 15 mins. If you are not a member yet, you can first join as a member online (click here) and then return here to register.

      Contact: Trip Leader is Robert Varga email.

      TENTATIVE Schedule of Events

      Thursday, March 12

      ·       1:00 pm - Check-in with trip leader (Please don’t arrive before noon)

      ·       3:30 pm - Sunset hike from camp along the beach

      ·       5:00 pm - Meet and Greet - wear your name tag, bring an hor’devour to share, if you want

      ·       6:00 pm - Dinner on your own 

      ·       7:00 pm - Group campfire

      Friday, March 13

      ·        7:00 am - Coffee and continental breakfast items sire 140

      ·        9:00 am - Niland area tour with Dennis - 5 hours bring snacks/sandwich

      ·        1:00 pm - Hike - Bat Cave Buttes - Wildflowers! 3 mi, 300"

      ·        6:00 pm – Potluck Dinner: bring a main dish, appetizer, salad, or side dish to share  

      Saturday, March 14

      ·        7:00 am - Coffee and continental breakfast items site 140

      ·       10:00 am - Hike* Mecca Hills Pyramid -Nat Bridge Loop 5.9 mi. 585'

      ·        1:00 pm - 4x4 trip

      ·        6:00 pm - Dinner on your own

      ·        7:30 pm - Group campfire activities 

      Sunday, March 15

      ·       7:00 am – Coffee and whatever breakfast items are left over site 140

      ·       11:00 am - Check-out 

      * Check campground whiteboard for activities updates 

      Refunds: Cancellation for a refund, minus a $10 service charge, must be received by February 28, 2026.

      Campsite Amenities:  The Mecca Beach campground has restrooms that have electricity, flush toilets, running water and free solar hot showers (Mecca Beach) or showers that take quarters (New Camp, 5 miles to the north), picnic tables, fire rings, shared drinking water and paved parking stalls. There is a small store on Highway 111 and another in Mecca.

      Amenities for Tent Campers: This is a good campground for tent campers. The campsites are level, sandy, with trees provide some shade.  Sites are shared with another tent or an RV at the Mecca Beach campground. Parking is also shared between the two campers. If you want to share the space with another tent or a specific camper, send the Trip Leader an email and we will try and arrange it. 

      If you share a powered site you may be able to share power with the RV.  Powered sites have 20, 30 & 50 amp service. Bring a long outdoor extension cord, an outdoor splitter and a 30 amp RV male to 15/20 amp female adapter plug to give you flexibility in sharing power with an RV. If you have questions about the electrical service sharing, send the Trip Leader an email to discuss it.

      March can have windy or rainy conditions or cold overnight temperatures that approach freezing. Check the weather forecasts before the campout, and be prepared for the weather conditions.  If you have questions about your gear, contact the Trip Leader via email to discuss it. 

      Amenities For RVs:  

      ·       RV Electric Sites – The RV powered sites have 20, 30 & 50 amp service, and water service. The RV sites will be shared with a tent or another RV. Bring a water hose splitter and a 50 to 30 amp adapter. The RV electric sites have a sewer connection. At the end of the campout, RV's should be able to dump at the dump station located at New Camp which is included in your registration fee. If you registered for a non-electric RV site, fresh water is available at the dump site to fill your RV tank before arriving at your site at the Mecca Beach campground.

      ·       RV Non-Electric Sites are dry camping sites – no hookups. QUIET HOURS are from 10 pm to 6 am and generators may only be operated between 10 am and 8 pm. See New Camp below for dump site information.

      ·       Maximum motor home length at Mecca Beach is 35 feet,

      ·       There are eight electric sites at Mecca Beach. If you require electric power and water there are electric sites at New Camp and Visitor Center sites located one mile north of Mecca Beach; check to see if they are available for registration.

      Directions:   The campground is located 30 miles south of Indio on Highway 111. Located on the north shore of the Salton Sea, it is about a three hour drive from the Los Angeles or San Diego areas. From Los Angeles, take Interstate 10 east to Indio, take 86S exit then turn left at Avenue 66, then right onto Highway 111. Go south about 12 miles to the Salton Sea SRA Headquarters entrance. From San Diego take Highway 78 east, then left (north) on Highway 86 . Turn right at Avenue 66 and then right onto Highway 111. Go south about 12 miles to the Salton Sea SRA Headquarters entrance. For a Google Map of our location - click here. 

      Climate: Average for March: 83° / 49°    U.S.Climate Data

      RV/Trailer Profile Information: We need information on your RV or pulled trailer in order to assign you a site you will fit into. Please enter or update your RV or Trailer information when you register.

      Photos: To see some photos from prior trip - click here. 

      Pets: Dogs are allowed. Must be kept on 6' leash.  Please pick up after your pet and dispose of waste properly. Please be aware there are snakes, scorpions and coyotes at this location. 

      Health Problems/allergies:   Discuss any medical concerns with the event leader that may affect your ability to participate in this event. 





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    • SD - Campout - Agua Caliente Regional Park

      • Fri, March 13, 2026
      • 2:00 PM
      • Sun, March 15, 2026
      • 12:00 PM
      • Agua Caliente County Park Campground, 39555 Great Southern Overland Stage Route of 1849, Julian, CA 92036
      • 20
      • 2 registrants
      Registration is closed

      Great Outdoors - San Diego

      Agua Caliente County Park

      March 13-15, 2026 - 2 Nights!

      Overview

      You're invited to join Great Outdoors San Diego (GOSD) for what's become our annual visit to Agua Caliente County Park to check out the wildflowers, which typically bloom there in early to mid-spring. Between the wildflowers, the amazing Agua Caliente campground (with showers and hot spring-fed pools), our not-to-be-missed nighttime search for scorpions by black light, the always-amazing Saturday night potluck, and a great group of campers, you won't want to miss this trip! If you are new to Great Outdoors, new to camping or maybe haven’t camped in a while, this is an excellent “starter” camping trip, given the excellent campground facilities and relative close proximity to urban San Diego.

      Our Campground

      Agua Caliente County Park is a 910 acre park with geothermally heated springs. The park is located just west of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park in eastern San Diego County.

      Amenities at Agua Caliente include the soothing geothermal pools, coin-operated pay showers (50 cents in quarters per 4 minutes), flush toilets, potable water, shuffleboard and horseshoes, and a sun deck outside the pools for lounging. There is a small souvenir store nearby with very limited groceries, ice and firewood. The pools include an outdoor swimming pool, an outdoor wading pool for children, and an indoor 102 °F therapeutic spa.

      Trip pricing is based upon the type of site you choose and whether you’ll be sharing a tent or RV. RV sites have water, electricity, picnic table and a fire ring. A dump station is located within the park. Some sites may not be completely level - we suggest bringing leveling blocks. Depending upon the RV site, tow vehicles may have to park in a nearby site.

      The campground is near many excellent hiking trails and other locations to view desert wildflowers.

      Cancellation and Refunds

      You may cancel your reservation and receive a full refund up to 2 weeks before the trip start date. For this trip, the final cancellation date is February 28, 2025. Refunds will not be available after that date or on any registrations made within those 2 weeks of a trip start date, unless we can fill your spot with another camper.

      Directions

      Please carpool if you can and fill your gas tank well before arriving at camp since the nearest gas stations are in Borrego Springs (30 miles), Julian (33 miles), or Ocotillo (27 miles).

      Address: 39555 Great Southern Overland Stage Route of 1849, Julian, CA 92036

      From Ramona through Julian: East on State Highway 78 to Scissors Crossing then south 22 miles on Highway S2 to the park entrance.

      From Interstate 8: East on Interstate 8 and exit at Ocotillo, then 26 miles north on Highway S2 to the park entrance.

      Extra Vehicles and Fees

      Depending on what time you arrive, you may be asked to pay the extra vehicle fee if the allotted campsite parking spaces have already been filled. Please pay the fee and ask for a receipt and GOSD will reimburse you for the parking fee. Park regulations impose a limit of two (2) cars per campsite. Any additional vehicles must park in the designated overflow parking areas.

      Schedule

      Friday 3/13/25

      2 PM - Check in after 2 PM

      5 PM - “Happy hour” - Bring a snack to share and your favorite beverage. Some snacks and water will be provided. In order to cut down on waste, please also bring your own reusable plate, utensils and cup/mug - these will not be provided.

      7 PM - Group campfire or pools

      Saturday 03/15/25

      Breakfast - on your own

      9 AM - Depart for hike(s). (Bring a packed lunch.) The hike specifics will be determined as the trip gets closer and we have a better sense for where the best viewing will be. Other hike(s) or outings may also be offered depending on interest levels and degree of difficulty of hikes, i.e., easy, moderate, strenuous. Some possibilities include Mud Caves, Domelands and Wind Caves, Ghost Mountain, Cold Canyon or other regional gems.

      3 PM - Time in the pools at camp

      6 PM - Potluck Dinner - Bring a main dish, side, salad or dessert. In an effort to be more environmentally friendly, please bring your own reusable plate and utensils as one use disposable items will not be provided.

      7 PM - Campfire

      8 PM - Scorpion search by black light

      Sunday 03/16/25

      Breakfast - on your own

      9 AM - Time for another dip in the pools or a short hike - and packing and cleaning up the camp sites.

      12 PM - Check Out.

      Campground Rules and Regulations

      A complete listing of campground rules and regulations may be found here:

      http://www.sdparks.org/content/dam/sdparks/en/pdf/BrochuresMiscellaneous/2017_Agua_Caliente_Campground_Handout_FINAL.pdf

      Here are some of the more common rules:

      Pets - Are permitted if they are quiet, properly restrained and under the control of the owner. Dogs must be licensed, restrained on a leash not longer than six feet, and attended at all times. Dogs are not allowed in cabins or on trails. There is a $1 per night fee for each pet, which is not included in your GOSD registration payment. It is payable upon check-in at the campground.

      Quiet Hours- 10 PM - 8 AM

      Campfires – Completely Extinguished by 11 PM

      Smoking- Is not allowed in Agua Caliente County Park.

      Alcohol - Alcoholic beverages are permitted provided the alcohol content does not exceed 20%.

      What to Bring
      Food
      Quarters for showers
      Camping/cooking gear
      Phone/camera charger
      Warm/cool weather clothing
      Potluck item for Saturday night
      Pool gear (towel, swimsuit and water shoes)
      Any prescription or other needed medications
      Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunblock, lip block)
      Soap and sponge for cleaning your reusable plate, utensils and cup/mug
      Your own reusable plate, utensils and mug/cup (No plates, utensils or cups will be provided)
      Camping chair

      One bundle of firewood (please no particle board, old furniture, plywood or construction materials, as these can release toxic gases when burned). The County Parks motto is buy it where you burn it and local firewood is generally available at the small general store near the campground’s entrance.

      Contact - If you have any questions not addressed by the information above or on our registration page, please feel free to contact the trip leaders:

      Matthew Schreiner ([email protected]m)

      *Note on the 10 essentials - The 10 essentials are a collection or system of items that significantly increase your safety on any hike or outdoors trip. This is not an exhaustive list of anything you could ever need. You can visit the link included Here but one version of this list is as follows:
      1. Navigation
      2. Headlamp
      3. Sun Protection
      4. First Aid
      5. Knife
      6. Fire
      7. Shelter
      8. Extra food
      9. Extra water

      10. Extra clothes


      Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

      Great Outdoors San Diego and our members enjoy the privilege of using the outdoors for recreation. We strive to include more of our community, especially those historically not included. Please encourage your friends, neighbors, and community members to come out and join us! If something is holding them back, please contact GOSD to explore accommodations including equipment available for lend or sponsorships for events.


      Cell Phone Service

      Is not available in the park, but can be found by driving a short distance from the campground.

      Health Problems/Allergies

      It is the responsibility of participants to carry on their person a record of significant allergies, medications and medical history in the event of a medical emergency. Discuss any medical concerns with a trip leader if you wish.

      For full Agua Caliente County Park information - View the Agua Caliente County Park brochure or map at the following links:

      http://www.sdparks.org/content/dam/sdparks/en/pdf/BrochuresMiscellaneous/AguaCalienteBrochure.pdf

      http://www.sdparks.org/content/dam/sdparks/en/pdf/BrochuresMiscellaneous/2016%20Agua_Caliente_Campground_Handout_FINAL_9_13_16.pdf

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    • PS - Hike: Cahuilla Peak Loop - SAVE THE DATE

      • Wed, March 18, 2026
      • 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
      • Palm Springs, CA

      (Write a brief message here about why you like this hike and others may too. Example for Oswit Canyon: Explore one of our best natural areas that is home to a variety of desert vegetation and wildlife. Enjoy mountain/canyon views while overlooking Palm Springs. The turnaround point features a waterfall at a palm oasis.)

      Description:

      • Trail Length:
      • Elevation Gain/Loss: 
      • Difficulty Rating: 
      • Trail Type: 
      • Terrain: 
      •         AM Meet at Palm Springs PetsMart, Ramon/Crossley   Map click here

      Bring: Ten Essentials, water (2 to 3 liters recommended), lunch/ snacks, sun protection, layered clothing, hiking poles may be helpful. Carry emergency contact information. Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required. 

      Hiking Requirements (How can I tell if a hike is for me?). You will need to be in good physical condition for this hike. Click here for more information.

      Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver. You are responsible for arranging your own transportation or ride share. Carpool transportation is at the sole risk of the participants.  Arrive a few minutes early for briefing and carpooling. Departure is       AM from 

      Contact hike leader:  Tom W.

      Cancel: If you cannot make a hike for which you have registered please cancel as others may be on the waitlist. You may cancel directly from your profile settings or notify the hike leader.

      Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels.

      Unless otherwise noted, registration for this event is limited to Great Outdoors members. To sign up as a member, click here 


      Photos: (optional)

      Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels

      Pets allowed? (Leader discretion if allowed by land agency)

      Health Problems/allergies:   Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete this hike. 


      © 1981 - 2025 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved.  Privacy policy


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    • PS - Volunteer: Find Food Bank- Mar 18

      • Wed, March 18, 2026
      • 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
      • 83775 Citrus Ave, Indio
      Register

      The Find Food Bank is one of many regional food banks across the US that acts as a hub, sourcing food from a variety of places across the US and from people, processing it safely in our warehouse, and distributing it equitably to the hundreds of food pantries, nonprofit organizations, soup kitchens, homeless shelters, and Mobile Markets that serve individual communities across the desert region.

      Come join us at the Findl Food Bank in Indio and help prepare food boxes for distribution to families in need through out the valley.  We will work a 3 hour shift (8-11 am) and then after go to  lunch at TKB Bakery & Deli Website click here

      7:15 AM Meet at Palm Springs PetsMart, Ramon/Crossley   Map click here

      or 8:00 AM at the Food Bank 83775 Citrus Ave, Indio, CA 92201 MAP

      Wear comfortable closed toe, sturdy footwear.

      Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver. You are responsible for arranging your own transportation or ride share. Carpool transportation is at the sole risk of the participants.  Arrive a few minutes early for briefing and carpooling.

      Contact hike leader:  H.L. Todd: EMAIL

      Cancel: If you cannot make this event, please cancel as others may be on the waitlist. You may cancel directly from your profile settings or notify the event leader.





      © 1981 - 2025 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved.  Privacy policy


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    • PS - Social - "Glow With Pride" Event - The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens - SAVE THE DATE

      • Tue, April 07, 2026
      • 6:30 PM - 10:00 PM
      • Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, Palm Desert, CA

      The Living Desert and Zoo Gardens asked us to share this inaugural event with you.  

      The magical and immersive world of Glow in the Park will be dazzling in a whole new light during The Living Desert's inaugural pride event.  This fabulous night will feature the following:

      •    Mesmerizing, larger-than-life lanterns and stunning displays

      •    Dozens of interactive art installations and exciting surprises

      •   "Sequin Safari" theme. Bring your bling and dress to impress!

      •    LIVE entertainment with John Taylor and DJ Mod Girl

      •    See Bella da Ball, the Palm Springs hostess extraordinaire!

      •    A one-night-only silent disco

      •    Local community partners and LGBTQ-owned businesses

      •    The chance to explore the Zoo at night and visit some iconic animals 

      To obtain more information about the event and to purchase tickets, please click on the following link:

      LivingDesert.org/GlowWithPride 


      Our Chapter will have an exhibit table at the event where we will be able to provide information about our activities which will hopefully result in some new memberships for us.  A big thank you to Richard Dachman and Robert Varga for volunteering.

      For questions about the event, contact [email protected].

      Event Leader:  Pat M.



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    • SD - Baja Mexico 3-Day Expedition

      • Fri, April 10, 2026
      • 8:30 AM
      • Sun, April 12, 2026
      • 6:00 PM
      • Ensenada Region of Baja California
      • 1
      • 5 registrants
      Register


      3 DAY, 2 NIGHT BAJA EXPEDITION: 

      HIKING + NATURE + WINERIES + BAJA CUISINE

      April 10th-12th, 2026


      The Ensenada region of Baja California, only an hour and a half south of the border from San Diego, offers spectacular hiking through the coastal and woodland landscapes in full spring bloom as well as an explosion of wineries, and fine Baja-Fusion cuisine in the Guadalupe Valley and Ensenada Coast. This trip brings the highlights of all of these for a small group of 8 guests who will also enjoy fabulous ocean-view lodging in one of the area's premier coastal communities.

      GO member Mike Wilken, your guide, is an anthropologist and naturalist who lives in Baja California and has worked in the region for over 32 years. Dr. Gerry Chavez, driver and co-guide, is a local geographer with an extensive knowledge of the environments of the region. Both are happy to share their knowledge of native plants and wildlife, geology, native cultures and history for interested guests.

      The $560 per solo person and $1120 per pair cost includes a 3 day guided expedition with transportation starting from the Tecate border and throughout the trip, three meals including delicious daily breakfasts at our ocean-view vacation home lodging, and one wine tasting. Guests cover four no-host meals, and any extra wine and beer tastings or purchases. 


      This trip is designed for 8 guests. Lodging is double occupancy in our comfortable ocean-view vacation home with extra sofas, living areas, kitchens, and garden spaces. Our transportation is in a 12-passenger van with room in the back for luggage. 

      Cancellation Policy - Refund deadline is 30 days beforehand, no refund after 30 days unless a substitute is identified.

      MIGRATORY DOCUMENTS and crossing the border: Walking into Mexico: By parking on the US side of the border, you will avoid the long lines coming back, since you will walk back through the quick pedestrian entry at the end of trip. We will meet you on the US side and walk you through customs to our van. You will need to have a US passport and get a Mexican tourist visa (FMM) for this trip. You get it online, and there should be no cost because you are only going to be in Mexico for 3 days. Instructions will be sent to participants. 

      US Citizens must have a US passport for land-based border crossing back into the US. Non-US citizens should bring all necessary documents for re-entry into the US.

      For more information, feel free to contact Mike Wilken: [email protected]

      HIKES EVERY DAY:

      Professor's Park and Las Piedras Environmental Education Center is an easy 2 mile loop trail near Tecate with trails through well-preserved chaparral vegetation, giant boulders and views to Mount Cuchumaa (Tecate Peak). Your guides Mike and Gerry will enhance your experience through their knowledge of the flora, fauna, geology, and indigenous history of the area.  


      Las Piedras Environmental Education Center


      Trails through beautiful chaparral habitat at the base of Mount Cuchuma. Learn about traditional uses of native plants along the way.


      Arbolitos trail follows the rugged mountain range with dramatic views of both the Pacific and of the Bay of  Ensenada, passing through fields of native Shaw’s agave plants and rare, beautiful coastal  succulent scrub habitat. Our picnic spot provides breathtaking views of the Pacific coast. Approximately 4 hour hike including lunch.


      Optional morning hike into coastal hills in the Ensenada region. Leaving from our  host's home, we will take an easy 2 mile out-and-back hike into the hills overlooking Ensenada  Bay. Enjoy panoramic views and the chance to learn more about the ethnobotany and natural  history of the region. (Or just relax at our lodging and hang out in the fabulous ocean view  gardens!)

      TASTY BAJA FUSION DINING:

      WINERIES: The Guadalupe Valley is Mexico's premiere wine-producing area

      Lodging will be at the Baja House and the Mexico House, which share the same garden and views. See a description of the Baja House Here:

      airbnb.com/h/baja-ocean-view-villa-rustica



      EXPEDITION ITINERARY

      Three days/two nights, April 10-12

      Meals and tastings included in the expedition are indicated as "provided" otherwise  they are no host (each guest pays own). Actual wineries and restaurants may  change as we find out what each group prefers. We reserve the right to make  minor changes as necessary to the published itinerary.

      Day 1: Friday, April 10

      9:00:  Arrive to the US side of Tecate, leave cars in fenced parking lots ($5-10 a day) and meet 5 mins away at the Duty Free Store just before the border crossing. Guide will meet you there and walk you over border to get paperwork stamped and take you to the van.

      9:30 Visit "El Mejor Pan" bakery in Tecate

      10:00 Visit Tecate Community Museum

      11:00 Ethnobotanical hike at Parque del Professor in Tecate. Visit Las Piedras Environmental Education center (hobbit-like caves) run by Funcacion La Puerta 

      1:00 Lunch at el Cafecito restaurant 


      2:30 Leave for Guadalupe Valley 


      3:30 Wine tasting in Guadalupe Valley (Las Nubes)(provided)


      4:45 Leave for the coast 


      5:30 Arrive at Baja House Vacation Home lodging, freshen up 


      7:00 Dinner along coast (Punta Morro)


      9:00 Return to our lodging


      Day 2: Saturday, April 11


      8:00 Breakfast at the Baja House (provided) 

      9:00 Leave for hike

      10:30 Arrive at trailhead (Arolitos, Punta Banda)

      12:30 Picnic lunch (provided) (Deli Loop) 


      1:30 Return trip to trailhead 


      3:00 Depart  


      4:30 Arrive at the Baka House, margaritas, salsa, chips at the Baja House

       

      6:00 Dinner at the Baja House (provided)


      7:00 Bonfire


      Day 3: Sunday, April 12


      8:00 Breakfast at the Baja House (provided) 


      9:30 Optional hike from the Baja House (or just stay and relax) 


      11:30 Pack up and leave the Baja House 


      12:00 Guadalupe valley, tour around


      1:00 Lunch in the valley (Bruma Winegarden)

      4:00 Leave for Tecate 

      5:45 Arrive at Tecate pedestrian border crossing, easy walk through customs and return to your vehicles. 


      The magic gardens of the Baja House, relax and enjoy! 





      Mike Wilken, your guide, is the author of the award-winning book Kumeyaay Ethnobotany



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    • PS- Camping - Lost Dutchman - Save The Date

      • Thu, April 16, 2026
      • 2:00 PM
      • Mon, April 20, 2026
      • 12:00 PM
      • Lost Dutchman Park 6109 N Apache Trail, Apache Junction, AZ 85119

      SAVE THE DATE.   CAMPSITES HAVE BEEN RESERVED!


      This event is being planned by Palm Springs Chapter. For more information about this trip:

      • Please check back here for updates; or
      • Please contact our PS Chapter VPO - via email: [email protected]

      Experience the Mystique of the Superstition Mountains!

      Join Great Outdoors Palm Springs for an unforgettable desert camping experience at Lost Dutchman State Park, a jewel nestled at the base of the majestic Superstition Mountains. This area is steeped in local history and lore, including the legend of the Lost Dutchman's Gold Mine. We have secured a fantastic block of sites for RVs and tent campers!

      Attractions & Things to Do

      Easy to Moderate Hikes (Great for most visitors) 

      Challenging Hikes (For experienced hikers)

      • Siphon Draw Trail: A 4-mile (round trip) moderate hike winding into a canyon, with significant elevation gain.
      • Flatiron via Siphon Draw: A strenuous 5.8-mile roundtrip extension from the Siphon Draw Trail, involving scrambling and slick rock, requiring a full day for experienced hikers.

      Nearby Excursions (Day Trips)

      • Apache Trail Drive (AZ-88): A historic, scenic drive offering stunning views of Canyon Lake and the rugged terrain (note: sections may be unpaved).
      • Goldfield Ghost Town: A reconstructed 1890s gold mining town near the park entrance, featuring mine tours, a saloon, and shops. For additional information Click Here
      • Canyon Lake: Located near the Apache Trail, this is a great spot for boat tours, kayaking, or simply enjoying the water views.
      • Boyce Thompson Arboretum: Located approximately 30 miles from camp. This is Arizona's largest and oldest botanical garden, showcasing desert plants from around the world. For additional information Click Here

      Off Roading

      • Bulldog Canyon OHV Route ~ 14.9 miles
      • Willow Springs OHV Trail ~ 8.9 miles
      • Entrance vehicle permits are required for the above trails.  For additional information Click Here

      Directions: Lost Dutchman State Park is approximately 300 miles from Palm Spring via Interstate 10 East. Google Map: Insert web address

      Cancellation/Refunds: Cancellation notice (for a refund, minus $10), must be received by Thursday, April 02, 2026.  You must notify the trip leader to cancel. 

      What to Bring: Camp chair, camping/cooking gear, food, warm/cool/wet weather clothing, potluck item, and the Ten Essentials. Per the schedule below, bring food to share on Wednesday (meet and greet appetizer) and Thursday (potluck dinner) nights. Every effort will be made to have hot coffee ready by 7:00 am. Bagels, muffins and fruits will be available in the morning for breakfast.

      Weather: Lost Dutchman State Park weather click here May average is 85f hi, 50f lo. It is a dry month. Sunrise 5:54 am, Sunset 6:58 pm. Moon will be waning crescent, April 16th, new moon is 17th.

      If you have any questions, feel free to email:

      RV and Tent Sites


      Our sites offer electric hookups (50/30/20-amp service) and water.  Each site includes a picnic table and a fire pit equipped with an adjustable grill gate. There are no size limits for RVs. Well-behaved, leashed pets are welcome; please remember to clean up after them. The park also provides a dump station for campers.

      Due to the landscape, tenters will share a site with an rv.  There is little shade, plan accordingly.

      Cabin

      One cabin has been reserved,

      The cabin rentals are furnished with a queen-sized bed, two sets of bunk beds, counter and chairs, ceiling fan with overhead light, and electricity. Cabins also have heating and air conditioning!

      Each cabin also has a picnic table outside and a fire ring with grill gate. Campers provide their own bedding (linens or sleeping bag) and pillows. Shower/restroom facilities are a short walk from the cabin area.

      Refer to the registration form for fee structure.


      Tentative Schedule

      refer to the whiteboard for updates


      Thursday ~ April 16

      • 2:00 pm or later ~ Arrival
      • 6:30 pm ~ Meet and Greet ~ Site
      • 7:30 pm ~ campfire

      Friday ~ April 17 ~ New Moon Tonight 

      • 7:00 am ~ Coffee, Muffins, Bagels and Fruits
      • 8:30 am ~ Day’s Activities
      • Local Hiking 
      • 4x4 off-roading
      • 6:30 pm ~ Potluck
      • 7:30 pm ~ campfire            

      Saturday ~ April 18

      • 7:00 am ~ Coffee, Muffins, Bagels and Fruits
      • 8:30 am ~ Day’s Activities
      • Boyce Thompson Arboretum
      • Local Hiking
      • 6:30 Dining in Town (Optional) ~ Time and place TBD
      • 7:30 pm ~ Campfire

        Sunday ~ April 19

      • 7:00 am ~ Coffee, Muffins, Bagels, and Fruits
      • 8:30 am ~ Day’ Actives
      • Local Hike ~ on your own
      • Dining in Town (Optional) ~ Time and place TBD
      • 7:30 pm ~ Campfire

        Monday ~ April 20

      • 7:00 am ~ Coffee, Muffins, Bagels and Fruits






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    • OCLB - Atlantis All-Gay Mexican Cruise! 2026!

      • Sat, April 18, 2026
      • 4:00 PM
      • Sun, April 26, 2026
      • 11:00 AM
      • Atlantis Cruise Ship
      Register


      Great Outdoors OCLB

      Special Cruise Ship Tour Event!

      Calling All Enthusiastic Travel Lovers!


      Logo for Atlantis Events



      An Incredible All-Gay Experience

      An Atlantis all-gay cruise is so much more than just a vacation.  It's a chance to see new places, meet new friends, and discover new ways to play.  For over 30 years, Atlantis created a space for guests to be their authentic selves with other friendly, passionate, like-minded guys.  There's power in the gay experience.  We see it every time one of our ships leaves the harbor.


      Great Outdoors OCLB

      is organizing an

       Logo for Atlantis Events


      Mexican cruise which will go to Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan and Puerto Vallarta from Los Angeles!

      You loved our last cruise (Iceland, Norway, Belgium, The Netherlands and London) and demanded more!

      And we are going to deliver!

      The dates are from April 18-26th, 2026!


      Cruise Itinerary
      APRIL 18

      Los Angeles, California

      Depart 5:00 pm

      APRIL 19

      Ensenada, Mexico

      Arrive 9:00 am - Depart 5:00 pm

      APRIL 20

      Wonderful Day at Sea

      APRIL 21

      Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

      Arrive 9:00 am - Depart 5:00 pm

      APRIL 22

      Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

      Arrive 12:00 pm - Depart 1:00 am

      APRIL 23

      Mazatlan, Mexico

      Arrive 12:00 pm - Depart 6:00 pm

      APRIL 24

      Great Day at Sea

      APRIL 25

      Relaxing Day at Sea

      APRIL 26

      Los Angeles, California

      Arrive 5:00 am

      The event is posted on Atlantis website.

      Here is the link to the Atlantis website:

      https://atlantisevents.com/vacation/la26-la-to-mexico/

      This is simply a notice and if you are interested please list your name on this GO registration so we can create group texts for those interested.  It more fun when you have a group of friends to share the excitement with on these cruises.

       Unfortunately due to the strong demand by Alumni, we will be unable to get rooms next to each other.  However we can have group dinners, social meetings and plan on excursions together.


      This cruise will SELLOUT!; if you are interested I highly recommend you register ASAP with Atlantis!

      Atlantis does offer a variety of payment plans ranging from monthly payments to lump sum - thus making it affordable for most budgets.

      No money will be collected via GO, as all payments will be collected by Atlantis upon your registration with Atlantis.  

      If you are looking for a cabin mate; register as such on this posting.  An updated list will go out at the end of each month for those searching for a cabin mate.  The first list went out on August 19, and the updated version will go out at the end of each month.  It is the responsiblity of each member to find their own cabin mate if that is your preference.

      If you are attending with someone who is not a GO member and you wish to include him on our messaging please add him as a guest.  


      Mexico’s Best Beaches. And More.

      We are excited!  Are you?

      Explore the Pacific’s most alluring beaches and cities, including a late-night stay in gay-friendly Puerto Vallarta with plenty of time to enjoy the city’s incomparable nightlife and beach culture. Take a tour to the sensational vineyards of Baja California or just relax on a perfect beach during our first-ever visit to Ensenada.

      Dive, fish, or snorkel in beautiful Cabo San Lucas, or explore a nearby uninhabited beach. Discover the best of authentic Mexico in the charming city of Mazatlan, a remarkable beachfront metropolis.

      With three fantastically fun days at sea, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the myriad activities onboard with more ways to play than ever. Indulge in Virgin’s sensuous spa, take in a fitness class, relax by the pool with new friends, or just watch the ocean from your hammock. Join some of our zany activities, and don’t miss our legendary T-dances!


      Everything Included. For Nothing.

      Nobody likes paying for things they use all the time, like Wifi, basic beverages, and a terrific place for dinner. So, we don’t charge extra for them. Ever. Even fitness classes are included! Logon, drink up, spin a little, and enjoy!

      Every fabulously original restaurant is included with more choices than any other ship at sea. All you need to do is decide whether to indulge in fresh Italian at Extra Virgin, Korean BBQ at Gumbae, an inventive tasting menu at the Test Kitchen, brunch or steak at the Wake, all-day treats at Razzle Dazzle, and so much more. And there’s no buffet in sight. Or a massive banquet-like main hall. But who needs one with all these amazing spots?

      Oh, and by basic beverages we mean sodas, water, coffees, juices, and most non-alcoholic offerings. The hard stuff is, of course, extra.

      Lance being an Atlantis Alumni has registered for the cruise.

      Contact Lance if you have any questions at:

      [email protected]


      We are ready to do it again!  

      Join us!

      Here are photos from our last Cruise (Iceland, Norway, Belgium, Amsterdam and London) and our Guided tour ( 8-day Musical Journey through the South) .  Here are some photos from those excursions and needless to say it was spectacular. 


      Photos from the Iceland Cruise:

      In Norway meeting new friends.


      Viewing our ship below!

      Chowing down and Cheers to you!



      Below:  Photos from the 8-Day Musical Journey through the South

      Photo of us in Memphis - Beale Street!


      At the Tina Turner Museum

      Ready to board our bus to experience another amazing day!


      In New Orleans!



      Show details

    • SD - Social - Paragliding Adventure

      • Sun, April 26, 2026
      • 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
      • Torrey Pines Glider Port - 2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Dr, La Jolla, CA 92037
      • 14
      • 1 registrant
      Register

      SD - Torrey Pines Gliderport Paragliding

      Paragliding and Hang Gliding | Torrey Pines Gliderport

      With nearly 100 years of flying history, the Torrey Pines Gliderport is the most historic aviation site in North America, and Southern California’s premiere location for paragliding, hang gliding, remote control models and sailplanes. The Gliderport provides a world class flying site, flight lessons, certifications, tandem flights, equipment sales, and repair services.  We seek to promote all forms of flight and to make Southern California a destination for flight enthusiasts from around the world. For more information, read on about the Gliderport’s History.

      It will take an hour process to prepare for the flight and a 20min in-flight experience. This trip is weather dependent with the morning of confirmation call being made at 9am morning of. 

      Glider Port Website: https://www.flytorrey.com/ 

      Start Time and Location: Tentative 11am, morning of call will be made day to to confirm this event.

      Event Specific Challenges (stairs, animals, allergens): Weight considerations, heights, direct service through vendor (including liability waiver).

      Event Specific Equipment: Provided by vendor.

      Parking Information: On site.

      Costs involved: ~$200/person

      Who to Contact with Questions: Tyler Roosden at [email protected]


      Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

      Great Outdoors San Diego and our members enjoy the privilege of using the outdoors for recreation. We strive to include more of our community, especially those historically not included. Please encourage your friends, neighbors, and community members to come out and join us! If something is holding them back, please contact GOSD to explore accommodations including equipment available for lend or sponsorships for events.

      Show details

    • OCLB- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park & Hawaii Big Island Day Hikes

      • Tue, April 28, 2026
      • 9:00 AM
      • Thu, April 30, 2026
      • 3:00 PM
      • Hawaii Volcanoes NP & Hawaii Big Island
      Register

      OCLB- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park &

      Hawaii Big Island Day Hikes

      Tues 4/28/26 and Thu 4/30/26

      Hawaii is full of attractions that are unlike anything else in the world, but even among these unique wonders, Hawaii’s volcanoes stand out as truly remarkable. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island of Hawaii protects some of these natural marvels, including two of the world's largest and most active volcanoes.

      Come join me for day hikes at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and on the Big Island of Hawaii to experience stunning landscapes created by these volcanoes.

      Registration: Limited to Great Outdoors members

      Day Hike: Tue. Apr. 28th, 2026 at 9 am- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

      Day Hike: Thu. Apr. 30th, 2026 at 9 am- Big Island Hawaii, local trail. Location TBA.

      Transportation & Lodging: Air, ground transportation, lodging, meals, fuel, and travel costs on the Big Island of Hawaii is the responsibility of each member. It is strongly recommended that members purchase travel insurance to insure their trip costs in the event of cancellation or interruption. 

      Fees: Day hikes are FREE.  There is a vehicle entrance fee of $30 to enter Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.  A valid national park pass waives the entrance fee. There may be parking and entrance fees charged at the trailhead of a local hiking trail on the Big Island.

      What to Bring: Day Pack with Ten Essentials. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and rain protection. Pack a lunch, snacks, and water.

      Important information

      Great Outdoors is not arranging air, ground transportation, or lodging for members on the Big Island of Hawaii. 

      Register- Please RSVP for a day hike so I know who is coming.

      I will email attendees with essential details such as trailhead location, parking, and hike mileage and elevation gain for each day hike up to two weeks before the event. 

      I am visiting the Big Island of Hawaii the week of 4/26 to 5/03/26 and inviting other Great Outdoors members to join me on day hikes on Tuesday 4/28 and Thursday 4/30/26.

      I am staying in Kailua-Kona, so if you are also visiting the Big Island of Hawaii during the last week of April 2026, reach out and let’s meet up.



      Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

      Climate- In late April, the climate on the Big Island of Hawaii is generally pleasant, with daytime temperatures averaging in the high 70’s to low 80’s F and evening temperatures dropping into the 60’s F.  This month marks the end of the rainy season, so you can expect fewer rain showers, although it’s still possible to experience some rain, especially at night.

      Questions?

      Email Michael at [email protected]

      Disclosure- I do not respond to emails immediately due to my non-traditional work schedule. I will respond to emails about this event on my days off. 





















      Show details

    • PS - Hike - Jane's Hoffbrau Oasis & Eagle Canyon - SAVE THE DATE

      • Tue, May 05, 2026
      • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
      • Palm Springs

      • Length: Approx 4 miles
      • Route: Out and Back
      • Hike time: Approx 2 hours
      • Elevation Gain: Approx 700'
      • Difficulty: Moderate

      Meet at 10:00 AM at the Rimrock Plaza (Vons) 4733 E Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs. Park east of the plaza parking lot on or near the dirt roadway. Arrive about 15 minutes early for introductions and briefing. Map Click Here

      Description: The hike starts at the dirt road at the far east side of Rimrock Plaza. At the water reservoir tanks we pick up a trail to the top of a plateau that affords great views of Palm Springs, Cathedral City and Murray Peak. We then hike the plateau until we descend into Eagle Canyon at Jane's Hoffbrau Palm Oasis. This is a small beautiful oasis with dry waterfalls and a stand of Washingtonia palm trees. We will relax in the shade of the palms and then proceed down the canyon beneath high canyon walls and aside large boulders in the wash.  At the end of the canyon we'll go back up the canyon to the trail to a view point and back to the trailhead at Vons.

      Optional Lunch after the hike: Location TBD (La Perlita or Manhatten Deil)

      Bring Ten Essentials (click here), water (1 to 2 liters recommended), trail snacks, sun protection, layered clothing. Carry Emergency Contact Information (ICE). Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required. Hiking poles may be helpful

      Contact Hike Leader:  Pat M. 

         

      Health Problems/allergies:   Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete the hike. 




      Show details

    • SD - Baja Mexico 3-Day Expedition

      • Fri, May 15, 2026
      • 8:30 AM
      • Sun, May 17, 2026
      • 6:00 PM
      • Ensenada Region of Baja California
      • 6
      • Be the first
      Register


      3 DAY, 2 NIGHT BAJA EXPEDITION: 

      HIKING + NATURE + WINERIES + BAJA CUISINE

      May 15th-17th, 2026


      The Ensenada region of Baja California, only an hour and a half south of the border from San Diego, offers spectacular hiking through the coastal and woodland landscapes in full spring bloom as well as an explosion of wineries, and fine Baja-Fusion cuisine in the Guadalupe Valley and Ensenada Coast. This trip brings the highlights of all of these for a small group of 8 guests who will also enjoy fabulous ocean-view lodging in one of the area's premier coastal communities.

      GO member Mike Wilken, your guide, is an anthropologist and naturalist who lives in Baja California and has worked in the region for over 32 years. Dr. Gerry Chavez, driver and co-guide, is a local geographer with an extensive knowledge of the environments of the region. Both are happy to share their knowledge of native plants and wildlife, geology, native cultures and history for interested guests.

      The $560 per solo person and $1120 per pair cost includes a 3 day guided expedition with transportation starting from the Tecate border and throughout the trip, three meals including delicious daily breakfasts at our ocean-view vacation home lodging, and one wine tasting. Guests cover four no-host meals, and any extra wine and beer tastings or purchases. 


      This trip is designed for 8 guests. Lodging is double occupancy in our comfortable ocean-view vacation home with extra sofas, living areas, kitchens, and garden spaces. Our transportation is in a 12-passenger van with room in the back for luggage. 

      Cancellation Policy - Refund deadline is 30 days beforehand, no refund after 30 days unless a substitute is identified.

      MIGRATORY DOCUMENTS and crossing the border: Walking into Mexico: By parking on the US side of the border, you will avoid the long lines coming back, since you will walk back through the quick pedestrian entry at the end of trip. We will meet you on the US side and walk you through customs to our van. You will need to have a US passport and get a Mexican tourist visa (FMM) for this trip. You get it online, and there should be no cost because you are only going to be in Mexico for 3 days. Instructions will be sent to participants. 

      US Citizens must have a US passport for land-based border crossing back into the US. Non-US citizens should bring all necessary documents for re-entry into the US.

      For more information, feel free to contact Mike Wilken: [email protected]

      HIKES EVERY DAY:

      Professor's Park and Las Piedras Environmental Education Center is an easy 2 mile loop trail near Tecate with trails through well-preserved chaparral vegetation, giant boulders and views to Mount Cuchumaa (Tecate Peak). Your guides Mike and Gerry will enhance your experience through their knowledge of the flora, fauna, geology, and indigenous history of the area.  


      Las Piedras Environmental Education Center


      Trails through beautiful chaparral habitat at the base of Mount Cuchuma. Learn about traditional uses of native plants along the way.


      Arbolitos trail follows the rugged mountain range with dramatic views of both the Pacific and of the Bay of  Ensenada, passing through fields of native Shaw’s agave plants and rare, beautiful coastal  succulent scrub habitat. Our picnic spot provides breathtaking views of the Pacific coast. Approximately 4 hour hike including lunch.


      Optional morning hike into coastal hills in the Ensenada region. Leaving from our  host's home, we will take an easy 2 mile out-and-back hike into the hills overlooking Ensenada  Bay. Enjoy panoramic views and the chance to learn more about the ethnobotany and natural  history of the region. (Or just relax at our lodging and hang out in the fabulous ocean view  gardens!)

      TASTY BAJA FUSION DINING:

      WINERIES: The Guadalupe Valley is Mexico's premiere wine-producing area

      Lodging will be at the Baja House and the Mexico House, which share the same garden and views. See a description of the Baja House Here:

      airbnb.com/h/baja-ocean-view-villa-rustica



      EXPEDITION ITINERARY

      Three days/two nights, April 10-12

      Meals and tastings included in the expedition are indicated as "provided" otherwise  they are no host (each guest pays own). Actual wineries and restaurants may  change as we find out what each group prefers. We reserve the right to make  minor changes as necessary to the published itinerary.

      Day 1: Friday, May 15

      9:00:  Arrive to the US side of Tecate, leave cars in fenced parking lots ($5-10 a day) and meet 5 mins away at the Duty Free Store just before the border crossing. Guide will meet you there and walk you over border to get paperwork stamped and take you to the van.

      9:30 Visit "El Mejor Pan" bakery in Tecate

      10:00 Visit Tecate Community Museum

      11:00 Ethnobotanical hike at Parque del Professor in Tecate. Visit Las Piedras Environmental Education center (hobbit-like caves) run by Funcacion La Puerta 

      1:00 Lunch at el Cafecito restaurant 


      2:30 Leave for Guadalupe Valley 


      3:30 Wine tasting in Guadalupe Valley (Las Nubes)(provided)


      4:45 Leave for the coast 


      5:30 Arrive at Baja House Vacation Home lodging, freshen up 


      7:00 Dinner along coast (Punta Morro)


      9:00 Return to our lodging


      Day 2: Saturday, May 16


      8:00 Breakfast at the Baja House (provided) 

      9:00 Leave for hike

      10:30 Arrive at trailhead (Arolitos, Punta Banda)

      12:30 Picnic lunch (provided) (Deli Loop) 


      1:30 Return trip to trailhead 


      3:00 Depart  


      4:30 Arrive at the Baka House, margaritas, salsa, chips at the Baja House

       

      6:00 Dinner at the Baja House (provided)


      7:00 Bonfire


      Day 3: Sunday, May 17

      8:00 Breakfast at the Baja House (provided) 


      9:30 Optional hike from the Baja House (or just stay and relax) 


      11:30 Pack up and leave the Baja House 


      12:00 Guadalupe valley, tour around


      1:00 Lunch in the valley (Bruma Winegarden)

      4:00 Leave for Tecate 

      5:45 Arrive at Tecate pedestrian border crossing, easy walk through customs and return to your vehicles. 


      The magic gardens of the Baja House, relax and enjoy! 





      Mike Wilken, your guide, is the author of the award-winning book Kumeyaay Ethnobotany



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    • OCLB - Yosemite National Park 2026 Spring - Curry Village

      • Fri, May 15, 2026
      • 4:00 PM
      • Mon, May 18, 2026
      • 11:00 AM
      • Yosemite Valley, Camp Curry
      • 2
      Register


      OCLB Annual Yosemite Trip!


      Heaven On Earth!

      Pictured above:  Glacier Point just before starting the Panorama Trail.

      Pictured above:  On top of Yosemite Falls - what an accomplishment.

      Pictured above:  All smiles on one of the most difficult trails in Yosemite.

      Orange County/Long Beach

      goes to 

      Yosemite National Park

      Curry Village Canvas Tents

      May 15-18, 2026

      Need we say more?

       Yes we will! 

      Spring in Yosemite can't be beat!

      We will be heading to Yosemite at the BEST time to visit this illustrious National Park!  The weather will be amazing with the waterfalls at their most dynamic! Our lodging for the 3-night outing will be in Camp Curry, in unheated canvas tents.

      These events get sold out to capacity each year!

      Do NOT hesitate to book as soon as possible as we expect this event to be SOLD OUT again!


      Yosemite is one of the most popular National Parks in the country and we in southern California are very fortunate to have it so close. If you have never seen it then this Great Outdoors trip is a good opportunity for you to be introduced to this special place.

      If you have been there one or more times, then you’ll understand why many have made a Yosemite visit an annual event.  The grandeur and majesty of the park are so enriching that Yosemite can be experienced and enjoyed again and again.  The natural beauty of the park has inspired many for the last 150 years, but perhaps none more effusive than John Muir, who said of Yosemite, “It is by far the grandest of all the special temples of Nature I was ever permitted to enter.” Please join us in this temple of the great outdoors.

      Pictured above:  Richard, Mike and Claudia half way up to the top of upper Yosemite Falls, this photo is at the top of lower Yosemite Falls.

      The location of this trip will be Yosemite Valley.  Our accommodations are canvas tents in Camp Curry, a rustic but charming village near the east end of the valley.

      Arrival should be about 4:00 pm on Friday afternoon.

      For both Saturday and Sunday, there will be optional hikes each day to choose from - one will be strenuous, the other will be easy.  Or simply visit the galleries, stores, bike ride, museums and/or stroll in the valley floor!


      Pictured above:  We are hitting the Panorama Trail that will put us back to Yosemite Valley - 8 Miles.  Yippee!

      On Monday morning we must check out of the cabins by 11:00 am. 

      More details will be announced as we finalize registration.

      Canvas Tents:

      We have secured four canvas tents for our group.  

      Each tent has 3 single beds and a double.  We can max out at 5 people per tent.  We are hoping to get a couple or friends (with benefits or without benefits) to share the double bed.  This way we can max out each tent with 5 people so that we can get as many as possible to experience Yosemite for this excursion.

      If you want to be in the same tent with another member please note that on the registration.

      If you prefer sharing a double cot with someone please note that on the registration and who the person is so we match you with the correct person.

      If you have a LOUD snoring issue, you should consider not attending so that others will not be affected by the noise.  This is close sleeping quarters.




       Driving & Directions:

      While GO is not authorized to be directly involved in coordinating carpools, we highly recommend our members to consider carpooling!

      What else?

      Cooking facilities/campfire rings are not available in Curry Village. However, there are several dining options near our cabins.  




      Such as Pizza & Beer, Cafeteria (with Vegan options!) and of course burgers & fries too. A general store is also open for purchasing food items and other material goods. You may bring snack food and drinks, but all food and scented items must be stored in the bear-proof storage locker in front of the cabin. This includes all food, food related items, toiletries, sundries and ice chests. Bears have a strong sense of smell and are attracted to anything they think will lead them to human food. Remember not to store these items in your vehicle or  canvas tent . It is recommended to use sealed plastic containers for storing your food inside the bear boxes. This makes it easier to keep your food organized, and away from campground critters.

      And of course, there is the option of having some fine dining at the Awahnee!


      Showers, sinks and flush toilets are all available to participants.

      Be sure to remember a flashlight or headlamp to find your way around Camp Curry at night. In addition, a sleeping bag (recommended), an extra blanket or a honey bunny may help keep you warm at night.  Other things to bring:

      •Warm outer gear appropriate for snow and/or rain or Shorts and T-shirts for warm days

      •Layered under gear (long underwear, etc.)

      •Hat, gloves, scarf, etc.

      •Sunglasses, sun block (for your face), lip balm 

      •Sturdy hiking shoes 


      Weather: Average temperatures in May in the Yosemite Valley range from the low 50s (night time) to the low-mid 70s during the day. Conditions may vary between sun, clouds, rain, or snow. Be prepared for anything. Expect the unexpected!  

      The trip leader will inform you of the weather conditions a couple days before our arrival but you may also want to keep abreast of them by using the Yosemite National Park website. (Click here.)





      Price: 

      $225 for Great Outdoors members for the 4 days/3 nights event.  Come early on Friday to enjoy the park and/or stay late on Monday to enjoy the park!  We will check into our canvas tents at 4 PM on Friday.

      This is a members only event, thus an annual membership ($25) must be purchased prior to signing up for this event.

      If you have a LOUD snoring issue, you should consider not attending so that others will not be affected by the noise.  This is close sleeping quarters.

      Cancellations will be authorized up to 21 days prior to start day of event IF a replacement can be found; a $20 cancellation fee will be charged.

      Trip Leader: Lance Whitmier



      Lance states:  Yosemite mesmerized me the very first time I visited the Park in the 90's.  I always brag about the majestic beauty of Yosemite along with it's grandeur and power.  I claim that Yosemite is indeed "my Heaven on Earth" and I can't wait to share the experience with you!"  For those visiting Yosemite for the first time - be prepared to experience a bit of heaven and the surreal!

      Lance can be contacted at:

      [email protected]

      Photos: Previous OCLB Yosemite Treks

      We have a great, fun time! Join us!











        

       

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    • CORP- All Chapter Jamboree - Save the Date!

      • Thu, May 28, 2026
      • 12:00 PM
      • Sun, May 31, 2026
      • 12:00 PM
      • Hurkey Creek Campground


      ALLCHAPTER JAMBOREE

      SAVE THE DATE

      WE HAVE SECURED AND CONFIRMED RESERVATION FOR THE BEST GROUP SITE. This event is being planned by Great Outdoors Corporate. For more information about this trip, check back here for updates. 





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    • PS- Camping - Guajome Regional Park - Save The Date

      • Sun, June 14, 2026
      • 2:00 PM
      • Wed, June 17, 2026
      • 12:00 PM
      • Oceanside CA

      This event is being planned by Palm Springs Chapter.d For more information about this trip:

      • Please check back here for updates; or
      • Please contact our PS Chapter VPO - via email: [email protected]




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    • SD - Camping - Mount Laguna Campout

      • Thu, July 09, 2026
      • 2:00 PM
      • Sun, July 12, 2026
      • 11:00 AM
      • 32° 53' 15.0000" N 116° 26' 26.9999" W
      • 20

      GOSD Membership Campout!

      Laguna Mountains: Horse Heaven Campground


      Description

      Contrary to its name, Horse Heaven Group Campground has no equestrian sites. Instead, this tent-only facility can accommodate group gatherings. It provides a great mountain getaway for city dwellers to relax and enjoy cool summer temperatures, hiking and other outdoor recreation, just one hour east of San Diego.

      Facilities

      This site offers three areas for group gatherings: Lupine Loop can accommodate 40 people and 10 vehicles; The facility is equipped with vault toilets and drinking water. A general store is located 2.3 miles away at Mt. Laguna and Pine Valley. Opening and closing times can vary for these two locations.

      Natural Features

      The campground sits at an elevation of 6,000 ft. in the Laguna Mountains. It is forested with pines and oaks that provide plenty of shade, in addition to a meadow. The area is home to many species of birds, as well as the endangered Laguna Skipper butterfly. Little Laguna lake is located just a short distance from the campground and is an excellent hiking destination for photographers and visitors looking to explore the area. 

      Recreation

      The Laguna Mountain Recreation Area is known for great horseback riding, mountain biking and hiking trails. Visitors can get their boots dusty on the Laguna Meadow Trail system or access a segment of the 2,650-mile Pacific Crest Trail, which runs from California to the State of Washington. Wildflowers are usually abundant in April and May on the Big Laguna Trail, which takes visitors past Big Laguna Lake. In wet years there is water in Big Laguna Lake by December or January and ducks and other birds can be found. The trail presents a number of options to the user. A return to the trailhead parking can be made by cutting through the Laguna Campground or by taking the Pacific Crest Trail north. Families can learn about the area's flora and fauna by attending educational programs at the facility's amphitheater. Or for history buffs, the El Prado Cabin located at nearby El Prado Campground, is the first ranger cabin built in the Cleveland National Forest in 1911. The San Diego State University Observatory also sponsors "Star Parties" for campers most Saturday evenings during the summer (schedule can be obtained at the nearby visitor center or by calling 619-473-8547).



      Horse Heaven can be reached by taking Sunrise Highway (S1) from the I-8 freeway. Go up through the mountain. After you pass the lodge (Note this is a 40MPH section), you will reach this sign shown in the first photo above. I’ve provided a short video above that describes what to look out for. The section past the sign will be narrow. Keep to your left when driving on the narrow section.

      GPS coords: https://maps.app.goo.gl/V8mY99mQxaiRusR2A

      Parking - Parking at Horse Heaven.

      For non-overnight campers: Please do not park in the first 10 spots if you are only planning to day hike. Keep these spots reserved for campers only.

      Sunrise Mt Laguna: 6:05AM Sunset Mt Laguna: 7:37.

      Horse Heaven group campsite has been reserved for us from Thursday, August 21 at 2:00PM to Sunday, August 24 at 11:00AM. Everyone must vacate the campground before 11:00AM and take everything that was brought in.

      A sign-in form will be on the table in the campground. Please write your name on the paper and write when you leave/enter the campground. This just assures me that nobody is lost.

      Please check the hikes here and sign up for any that interest you. The Laguna lake hike does not require a signup

      I’ve provided photos at https://photos.app.goo.gl/EoxPJcXvQSjyK8UP7 of sections of the campsite and a couple of videos. When I was up there (Jul 1), temps were mild, there was toilet paper, two toilets, and running clean water.

      Potluck (including ideas)

      Bring any breakfast or dinner idea for the potluck. Simple ideas could include chopped bananas with toothpicks, a box of energy bars, or sandwiches, etc. Also, bringing bowls and spoons would be really helpful.

      For the potluck, make something that you enjoy and make it fun — Surprise us. Feel free to use Facebook to coordinate with others or share photos. Try to limit foods high in processed sugars unless you're planning to make one yourself.

      We’ll have an ice chest available for the group, and a pop-up tent. If you can lend a hand Sunday and help me pack these up and load them into the Subaru Outback, that would be much appreciated!

      Main hike - Mount Laguna Lakes

      Our main hike will be the Mount Laguna Lakes, located within walking distance of the campground, and passes through the El Prado campsite. This will be an out and back 2.5mi hike. Along the way, you’ll see lakes, some ducks, and other local wildlife. Feel free to take photos and share them and your experience on the greatoutdoors facebook page. There is cell service in this area. This link contains Photos of a previous hike

      Camp leader - Jeremiah O’Neal

      Please feel free to reach out to me. I will have my cell on me throughout the weekend and you’re more than welcome to text me (619)788-9407. Also, feel free to email me at [email protected] or reach out to me on Facebook Messenger if you have any questions or concerns.

      Supplies (What to bring)

      This will be a checklist. Please feel free to print this up and check through it. Not everything will be

      listed, however, some important items will.

      ● Tent

      ● Sleeping bag

      ● Warm long-sleeve/pants clothes

      ● Cool clothing

      ● Camp chair

      ● A mug - If coffee is provided. I’ll let you know

      ● Plates (Unless someone can provide plates)

      ● Hiking shoes

      ● Suntan lotion

      ● A water bottle

      ● A USB battery pack and your phone for photos, etc.

      ● Matches (if you plan to cook anything)

      Weekend Schedule

      Thursday, July 9

      2:00 PM Arrival - Tent setup. Keep paths to restrooms, water, and the bonfire open and place tents left of the road. Anywhere on that side of the road will work.

      6:00 PM Evening Meet & Greet

      7:00 PM Evening Group Dinner and Bonfire

      Friday, July 10

      8:00AM- Coffee/Breakfast (on own) - I’ll see if a coffee pot is available

      8:30AM Hike: Big Laguna lake

      Anytime Lunch (on own)

      Around 6:45PM - Evening Potluck

      Along with potluck or after Storytelling/Bonfire/Other fun activities

      Saturday, July 11

      Morning Coffee/Breakfast - I’ll see if I can get a coffee pot going

      8AM - 24 bagels & cream cheese.

      Hike: 9AM - 5 mile loop hike (Registration link: https://greatoutdoors.org/event-6291609)

      Afternoon Lunch (bring your own food) At the campsite with hikers who are not camping.

      5:30PM Hike: Big Laguna lake

      Evening Group Dinner (bring own)

      Along with dinner, Storytelling/Bonfire

      Sunday, July 12

      Morning: Please, if you can help take down everything and put it in my car. It’s the Subaru Outback.

      11:00 AM Must Leave Camp

      Health Problems/Allergies: Discuss any medical concerns with the trip leader that may affect your ability to complete the event.

      GOING GREEN! Please bring your own plates, cups, mugs, eating utensils, napkins, paper towels, camp soap, etc. There are water spigots located in the camp or in the nearby restroom for washing dishes.

      Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

      Great Outdoors San Diego and our members enjoy the privilege of using the outdoors for recreation. We strive to include more of our community, especially those historically not included. Please encourage your friends, neighbors, and community members to come out and join us! If something is holding them back, please contact GOSD to explore accommodations including equipment available for lend or sponsorships for events.

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    • PS - Camping - Idyllwild Regional Park - SAVE THE DATE

      • Sun, July 12, 2026
      • 2:00 PM
      • Wed, July 15, 2026
      • 12:00 AM
      • Idyllwild CA
      • 45

      SAVE THE DATE (these are notes from a previous trip, look for updates in the weeks to come)

      Experience the cool mountain star-lit sky among conifer forest camping at Idyllwild Regional Park. This is a great summer mid-week excursion where you will find an uncrowded campground surrounded by mountain pines and vegetation. Three nights of camping, hiking and exploring the village shops and restaurants.

      Sunday, July 10

      • 2:00 pm - Check-in
      • 4:00 Sunset hike to meadow  
      • 6:00 pm - Meet and greet BYOB. Dinner on your own
      • 7:00 pm - Group activities 

      Monday, July 11

      • 7:00 am - Coffee, snacks & fruit
      • 9:00 am - Hike to Nature Center *
      • 2:00 pm - Hike *
      • 6:00 pm - Potluck dinner-bring a dish to share
      • 7:00 pm - Group activities and bingo

      Tuesday, July 12

      • 7:00 am - Coffee, snacks & fruit
      • 9:00 am - 4 wheel drive road trip
      • 1:30 pm - Hike* or see Idyllwild 
      • 6:30 pm - Optional group dinner in town*
      • 7:30 pm - Group activities

      Wednesday, July 13

      •  12:00 pm - Check out

      *Check campground white board for updates and hike/outing details.

      You must be a Great Outdoors (GO) member in order to attend this event.  This event requires all attendees to be fully vaccinated and abide by the GOPS 4/26/2022 COVID policy - CLICK HERE  

      Amenities: Restrooms have flush toilets, hot showers that take quarters,  Campsites have picnic tables, fire rings (although wood fires may not be allowed due to fire restrictions), and drinking water. The town of Idyllwild is 1/2 mile away with shops and restaurants.

      Amenities For Tents:  The sites are pretty flat and without much shade. Tent campers will share the site with an RV. Restroom and showers are located uphill of the campsites.

      Amenities For RVs:  There are no services for RVs at the campsites.  There is a dump site located nearby at Lake Hemet.  Generators may be operated between 7 am and 10 pm.

      What to Bring: Ten Essentials, camp chair, daypack for hiking, camping/cooking gear, food, warm/cool/wet weather clothing, quarters for showers. Bring a dish to share at the potluck dinner. The are water spigots located in the camp.  Campfires are currently not allowed in the campground during our stay. 

      Consider going green! - Please bring your own reusable plates, cups, mugs, eating utensils, etc. 

      Directions:  54000 County Playground Road, Idyllwild, CA 92549. Map - Click Here.

      Website:  IDYLLWILD REGIONAL PARK

      Climate:   Ave High 80  Ave Low 47       Weather forecast click here

      Parking: Campsites are shared between RVs and tents.  When you register let us know if you are bringing a tow vehicle or a second vehicle so we can consider that when assigning sites. The additional vehicle may need to park in overflow parking, at the park entrance.

      Pets: Well-behaved pets are welcomed. $2 per day pet fee payable upon arrival. Must be kept on leash.  Please pick up after your pet. 

      Photos:  Click Here

      Prices: are based upon each person going being a GO Chapter paid member. You can join - click here - and then register for this campout. Each person going must complete a separate registration. We do this so each registrant acknowledges our liability waiver condition.

      Payment:  You can pay with the following credit cards: Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express. You must complete the registration and payment within 15 minutes or your registration will be cancelled.

      Refunds: Cancellation must be received by June 28 for full refund.

      Contact: Trip Co-Leaders:  Dennis Curran and Dale Solomon

       

      Health Problems/allergies:It is the responsibility of participants to carry on their person a record of significant allergies, medications and medical history in the event of a medical emergency.  Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader if you wish.


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    • PS - Camping Either Barton Flats or Heart Bar - SAVE THE DATE

      • Thu, August 13, 2026
      • 1:00 PM
      • Sun, August 16, 2026
      • 2:00 PM
      • San Bernardino National Forest
      • 100




      THIS IS A SAMPLE DESCRIPTION. DUPLICATE THIS EVENT AND THEN EDIT ONLY THE COPY AND DON'T FORGET TO REPLACE THE ABOVE PHOTO AND TEXT BELOW. JUST DELETE ALL THIS TEXT IN RED. 

      Note:  Registration for this event will initially be limited to paid members of Great Outdoors. Paid members get "first crack" at our events. If you'd like to become a member to register for this campout - click here - and then return to this page.

      The Salton Sea is one of the most enigmatic places in the Southwest. It is a unique place with many hidden treasures and secrets that are not well known. It has been forgotten as a busy tourist attraction of bygone years. .....

      Prices: (Example 1) We have different pricing levels based upon you staying in a tent or RV in one of our sites, staying in a site you booked yourself (or in a nearby hotel/motel/friend's house).  Each person going must complete a separate registration.  We do this so each registrant acknowledges our liability waiver condition.

      Select your registration that conforms to the following definitions:

      • RV is a vehicle designed as temporary living quarters for recreational, camping, travel or season use. RVs may be motorized (motorhomes) or towable (travel trailers, folding camping trailers and truck campers).
      • Tent: a collapsible shelter of fabric stretched and sustained by poles and used for camping.

      Prices:  (example 2) There is no charge for this event.  Each person going must complete a separate registration.  We do this so each registrant acknowledges our liability waiver condition.

      Prices are based upon each person going being a GO Chapter paid member. You can join - click here - and then register for this campout. Other GO Chapter members should contact our GOPS Webmaster (click here to email) in order to be added as a member of our Chapter for free. Each person going must complete a separate registration. We do this so each registrant acknowledges our liability waiver condition.

      Prices: Prices are based upon you being a GO paid member. If not currently a GO member, you will have the option of joining at an additional $25 per person for a one (1) year club membership prior to registration. Each person going must complete a separate registration. You can click here to join.  

      RV's and tents may share sites - maximum of one RV and one tent on each site. When reserving an RV site, please select the smallest RV site which will accommodate your RV's length. RV sites come with water, electricity, picnic table and a fire ring. A dump station is located within the park. Some sites may not be completely level - we suggest bringing leveling blocks. Depending upon the RV site, tow vehicles may have to park in a nearby site. These are sites with mature vegetation surrounding the sites.

      We will have a propane fire-pit for the group as open fires may be restricted in the camp to a designated area only.

      Schedule Of Events

      Friday, Mar 17

      • Noon - Check-in at Mecca Beach Campground
      • 4:00 pm - Sunset hike nearby location*
      • 6:00 pm - Tea Time meet and greet BYOB. Dinner on your own
      • 7:00 pm - Group campfire activities & may include PowerPoint or movie about Salton Sea area

      Saturday, Mar 18

      • 9:30 am - Kayaking along the shore**
      • 2:00 pm - Hike slot canyon Mecca Hills Wilderness or other hike posted on camp board*
      • 6:00 pm - Potluck (bring a dish to share).  GO will provide desserts.
      • 7:00 pm - Group Campfire

      Sunday, Mar 19

      • 9:30 am - Hike*
      • 11:00 am - Clean up campground areas. Check Out. Safe travels home.

      *Check campground white board for updates and hike/outing details.

      **Optional $15 fee for kayaking rental (a donation to: The Sea and Desert Interpretive Association).  This fee will be collected when you register for this event.

      Possible Activities  Miles  Elevation  Misc Notes
      Shopping in nearby Julian  33   Think Everything Apples!
      Moonlight Canyon hike  1.8  350  
      Mountain Palm Oasis hike  3  600  
      Torote Canyon loop hike 6.5  1,500'  
      Cold Canyon hike  3.0  650'  

      Amenities:  Restrooms have electricity, flush toilets, running water and hot showers that take quarters, picnic tables, fire rings, water and paved parking stalls. There is a dump station and water near the campground. There is a small store on 111 with limited supplies. Limited electric hookup may be available.

      Amenities For RVs:  This is a dry camping event. There are no hookups at each camp site. Fresh water is available at the dump site to fill your RV tank before arriving at your site. There is a dump site located near the park entrance.  QUIET HOURS are from 10 pm to 6 am and generators may only be operated between 10 am and 8 pm.

      What to Bring:  Ten Essentials, camping/cooking gear, food, warm/cool weather clothing, shorts for kayaking, potluck item for Saturday night, two bundles of firewood - no particle board, old furniture, plywood or construction materials. These cause the release of toxic gases when burned. Firewood is for sale at the campground. 

      Don't forget your towel, swim suit and water shoes.

      We recommend you read our suggested 10 essential items to bring - click here. 

      GO GREEN!  Please bring your own plates, cups, mugs, eating utensils, napkins, paper towels, camp soap, etc.  There are water spigots located in the camp or in the nearby restroom for washing dishes.

      Directions: (sample 1)  I-10 east to Indio, take 86-S exit then turn left at Avenue 66, then right onto Highway 111.  Go south about 13 miles to the Mecca Beach campground. For a Google Map of our location - click here.  <<< fix link

      Getting There: (sample 2)

      • Address:  39555 Great Southern Overland Stage Route of 1849, Julian, CA 92036
      • GPS Coordinates: 32°57'02.1"N 116°18'16.4"W or 32.950581, -116.304558
      • Google - Map Link: click here   <<< fix link 
      • Be sure to carpool if you can and fill your gas tank before heading to camp because the nearest gas is in Borrego Springs (30 miles) or Julian (33 miles).

      Climate & Elevation - The current forecast avg. is 67 high 42 low.  Check the weather forecast - click here.  The park is located at 1300’.  <<< fix link

      Refunds: Cancellation for a full refund minus service fee of $5.00 must be received by March 14, 2017.

      Payments: We are no longer using PayPal to accept trip registrations.  You may now use any of these credit cards:  MC, VISA, Discover or Amex. 

      Contact: Scott C. email: [email protected]

      Photos: To see some photos from prior trips to XYZ location  - click here.  <<< fix link

      Quiet Hours - 10 PM - 7 AM

      Smoking - is not allowed in San Diego County Parks.

      Cell Service - not in the park but may available nearby.  Details for specific carriers?

      Pets: Pets are permitted if they are properly restrained and under the control of the owner. Dogs must be licensed, restrained on a leash not longer than six feet, and attended at all times. Dogs are not allowed in cabins or on trails. Please bring doggie bags and clean up any of their waste.  Please be aware there are snakes and scorpions at this location.  

      Special COVID Related Requirements: This event requires all attendees to be fully vaccinated.

      Health Problems/allergies:   Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete this event. 

      © 1981 - 2022 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved.  Privacy policy

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    • PS- Camping - GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK - Save The Date

      • Thu, September 10, 2026
      • 12:00 PM
      • Sun, September 13, 2026
      • 12:00 PM
      • Grand Canyon National Park, AZ

      SAVE THE DATE.   

      GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK

      SOUTH RIM 


      This event is being planned by Palm Springs Chapter. For more information about this trip:

      • Please check back here for updates; or
      • Please contact our PS Chapter VPO - via email: [email protected]




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    • SD - Sale - San Diego Pride TShirts! (2022-2025)

      • Tue, October 20, 2026
      • 12:00 PM
      • Online Sales
      Register

      Great Outdoors San Diego T-Shirt Sales

      Please select from the 4 options below for you San Diego Pride T-Shirt. These will have the year that the design was featured, and in the same color from their associated year (2021-2025). Price is $30 with shipping included with your order! The above Great Outdoors Pride logo is featured on the front of the shirts, with the year specific design on the back.

      2022 Design (Aqua Blue Color Shirt):


      2023 Design (Mauve Color Shirt):


      2024 Design (Olive Green Color Shirt):

      2025 Design (Peri Blue Color Shirt):

      2025 Conference Historic Designs:

      Shipping Information: We will be as expeditious as possible in our shipping! If you haven't gotten word of your shipping timeline 2 weeks after your order, please follow up with Tyler Roosden at [email protected]

      Costs: $30/Shirt with shipping included. For bulk orders, please inquire for pricing.

      Who to Contact with Questions: Tyler Roosden at [email protected]


      Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

      Great Outdoors San Diego and our members enjoy the privilege of using the outdoors for recreation. We strive to include more of our community, especially those historically not included. Please encourage your friends, neighbors, and community members to come out and join us! If something is holding them back, please contact GOSD to explore accommodations including equipment available for lend or sponsorships for events.

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    • PS - Dos Picos County Park Campout-SAVE THE DATE

      • Sun, November 22, 2026
      • 2:00 PM
      • Wed, November 25, 2026
      • 12:00 PM
      • Ramona, CA

      • Dos Picos County Park Trip Notes

        Dos Picos County Park is located in Ramona, California. Its name is Spanish for "two peaks," derived from the two prominent mountains nearby. The surrounding ranch land and steep rocky slopes help preserve its secluded atmosphere.

        This park is known for its magnificent Oak trees.  The landscape is a mixture of chaparral, open grassland, and oak woodland. Coyote, fox, possum, skunk, and raccoon are all seen in the park regularly.

        The city of Ramona is minutes away when driving.  You may purchase food and other supplies there.

        Maximum RV length is 40 feet.  All sites have E/W. Several sites will be dedicated as tent sites.  These sites can have three tents, max and two cars.  The water spigots at these sites are unique.  It is housed in a plastic box that sits below ground level.  

        Tent campers, all the sites are gravel.   Your tent will likely be pitched on gravel.  Please bring blow-up mattresses or cots to sleep on, so you are not sleeping on gravel.  Tents should also bring extension cords. 

        At each site there is room for an RV and tow vehicle, or two vehicles.  Extra vehicles can park in the overflow lot for a total of $9, which is paid by GOPS.  The overflow parking lot is NOT close.  It’s located on the opposite side of the campground from our sites, so car camping would NOT be a good choice, please bring a tent.

        Leashed dogs are welcome at $1/night/dog.  Campers will pay for their own dogs upon check-in at the campground. 

        Sites 63 & 69 are ADA sites.  If you have an ADA placard, please let the trip leader know.   

        We will have access to the indoor pavilion and its outdoor picnic area.  It is located in the middle of all our sites.  There is a massive fire pit. The use of that pavilion and its outdoor space was an additional cost that was figured into the cost of this campout.  Typical weather in this area in November is high 73, low 42.

        Cancellation policy: cancel for full refund minus a $10 fees on or before Nov 10th, 2024.

        Dos Picos County Park Campground

        17953 Dos Picos Park Road

        Ramona, CA 92065

        (760) 789-2220 

        Trip Leader Contact: Robert Varga

      • [email protected]

      • (760) 641-9112 text messages only

      Dos Picos Campout Schedule of Events

      Disclaimer: the following schedule is tentative and could change without notice. Check-in and Check-out are set in stone, no changing those.

      Sunday, November 24

      • 2:00 pm - Check-in (please don't arrive early)
      • 6:00 pm – Meet and Greet, in the Pavilion, bring finger food to share if you want.  
      • 7:00 pm – Dinner on your own, but you’ll probably be satiated from grazing the finger food, so join the group fire early!
      • 8:00 pm - group fire, please bring firewood, $6/bundle at the park

      Monday, November 25

      • 7:00 am – coffee by our Bombastic Barista, Mike and a PUMPKIN PANCAKES AND EGGS breakfast in the Pavilion!
      • 10:00 am – local hike somewhere close by
      • 1:00 pm – activity on your own or impromptu group activity
      • 6:00 pm – PotLuck dinner in the Pavilion. 
      • 8:00 pm - group fire, please bring firewood, $6/bundle at the park

      Tuesday, November 26

      • 7:00 am – Coffee by our Bombastic Barista, Mike and continental breakfast items in the Pavilion
      • 10:00 am – local hike somewhere close by
      • 1:00 pm – Special for us: tour and wine tasting of a local vineyard owned by an x-GOSD member and his husband. pocomontana.com
      • 5:00 pm – dinner on your own
      • 6:30 pm - Raffle!!!  $5/ticket or 5 tickets for $20;  see the prize display in the Pavillon. 
      • 8:00 pm - group fire, please bring firewood, $6/bundle at the park

      Wednesday, November 27

      • 7:00 am – Coffee by our Bombastic Barista, Mike and continental breakfast items in the Pavilion
      • 9:00 am - pack up and clean up, say our tearful goodbyes
      • 12:00 pm - Check out

      Have a GREAT Thanksgiving!!







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    © 1981 - 2025 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., 
    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