Upcoming & Past PS Chapter Camping Trips

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• LA- Camping: Central Coast & Morro Bay

  • Start
    Wed, April 16, 2025
  •  
    2:00 PM (PDT)
  • End
    Mon, April 21, 2025
  •  
    12:00 PM (PDT)
  • Location
    Morro Bay State Park

  Register

          Los Angeles and Palm Springs Chapters Present

   Central Coast and Morro Bay Camping

  Get ready to explore the beautiful central California coast! Morro Bay State Park's camping area provides a fantastic base for excursions both north and south. This itinerary is based on successful trips I've led in the area and highlights the best of what the region has to offer.

  Day 1 (Thursday): Exploring Morro Bay & Montana de Oro State Park

  • 9:00 AM: Morro Bay Harbor - Sea Otter Viewing:
    • We'll start by visiting the Morro Bay harbor at the bottom of Beach Street to observe the local sea otters. Morro Bay is renowned for its close-up views of these fascinating creatures.
    • • Fun Fact:* Sea otters have an incredible one million hairs per square inch for warmth, a unique adaptation as they evolved in the sea relatively recently (geologically speaking) and haven't developed blubber like other marine mammals.
  • Morro Rock:
    • Next, we'll head out to Morro Rock for a walk along the harbor. Here, we may spot more sea otters and sea lions, as well as watch ships entering and leaving the harbor.
    • • Geology Note:* Morro Rock, a 600-foot-tall eroded volcanic neck, is part of a striking series of 12 similar volcanic formations stretching towards San Luis Obispo. These can be seen from our campsite.
  • Montana de Oro State Park:
    • Afterward, we'll drive approximately 10 miles south of Morro Bay to Montana de Oro State Park.
    • • Scenic Viewpoint:* Along the way, we'll stop at a pull-out on the right (atop a hill with houses) for a panoramic view of Morro Bay, Morro Rock, and the sand spit.
    • • Sand Spit Trail:* A short drive (about 1000 feet) beyond the viewpoint, Sand Spit Road leads to a parking lot with an easy trail to the sand dunes.
    • • Bluff Trail:* Within the park, we'll drive past the Spooners Cove parking lot and campground, then park on the right to access the Bluff Trail (approximately 1 mile round trip), offering the park's highest vantage point.
    • • Tide Pool Trail:* About 1000 yards past the big bend on the Bluff Trail, a challenging trail descends to the rocks and beach. Interpretive signs at the top describe the tide pool life found below.
        • • Beach Exploration:* Once on the beach, I recommend exploring to the left, climbing the rocks to the point of land with crashing waves, and visiting the adjacent secluded beach.
    • • Picnic Options:* Montana de Oro offers several picnic spots, including Spooners Cove beach and the picnic tables under the Monterey pines near the museum (adjacent to the campground).
    • • Flexibility:* At this point, the group may choose to split up, with some staying at the beach and others returning to Morro Bay village and the waterfront.

  Day 2 (Friday): Coastal Drive to Big Sur Highlights

  • 9:00 AM: Caravan Departure: We'll meet at 9:00 AM to caravan north up the coast.
  • San Simeon Zebras:
    • As we drive past San Simeon, keep an eye out on the right for zebras grazing in the fields. These are descendants of Hearst Castle's original herd.
  • Elephant Seal Overlook:
    • Approximately 3 miles past San Simeon village, we'll stop at the famous elephant seal overlook. This area is home to hundreds of elephant seals, the largest seal species on Earth (males can reach 5,000 lbs, females 1,000 lbs).
    • At this time of year, we should witness a variety of seal behaviors. Informative signs and docents will be on hand to provide biological insights. We'll spend about 30-60 minutes here.
    • • Note:* If the group leaves camp after 9:00 AM, consider visiting the seal overlook on the return trip in the afternoon to avoid parking congestion at Salmon Falls.
  • Ragged Point:
    • We'll continue north to Ragged Point, which offers a restaurant, restrooms, and stunning views.
    • • Big Sur Views:* Take the short walk to the end of the trail among the Monterey pines for breathtaking vistas of the Big Sur coastline.
    • • Geology Note:* The dramatic Big Sur mountains, the fastest-rising in North America, are characterized by their steep slopes and the frequent landslides that affect Highway 1 (you'll drive over a repaired landslide near the waterfalls). The metamorphic rocks here (including jade and chert) formed about 100 million years ago at a subduction zone.
    • • Timing Reminder:* Please be mindful of time to ensure we reach Salmon Falls with ample parking.
  • Salmon Falls:
    • We'll drive 3.7 miles north to Salmon Falls. Parking is available on the side of the road (past the sign) in an area that accommodates about 20 cars, with a few additional unmarked spaces across the road.
    • • Bay Laurel Trail:* The 10-minute trail to the falls passes through a beautiful Bay Laurel forest. You're welcome to collect bay leaves for cooking (dry them at home).
    • • Caution:* Poison ivy grows on the left side of the trail.
    • • Waterfall Viewing:* The falls can be viewed from various points. Adventurous individuals can climb the rocks upstream, while others may prefer the safer downstream views.
    • • Picnic Spot:* Salmon Falls is a potential location for a picnic lunch.
    • • Talus Cave:* On the uphill return trail, look for a "talus cave" formed by boulders from a rockfall. The serpentine rock here is responsible for the slippery green road cuts along the highway.
  • Nathaniel Owens Memorial Grove (Redwoods):
    • Our next stop is the southernmost Redwood forest, Nathaniel Owens Memorial Grove (visible on Google Maps), located 3.3 miles further north.
    • • Parking:* The unmarked parking lot is on a large left bend in the highway (the sign was removed to protect the trees), with space for 5-10 cars.
    • • Redwood Grove:* A 200-yard walk inland leads to the grove. The trail dips down to the streambed on the left due to erosion.
    • • Redwood Information:* Be sure to see the magnificent redwood trees, including a large fallen one. Coastal redwoods, which thrive in the summer fog, are the tallest trees on Earth (up to 400 feet) and are related to giant Sequoias and the Dawn Redwood.
    • • Exploration Note:* Some scrambling is possible beyond the grove, but there's no established trail.
    • • Picnic Spot:* This is also a good option for a picnic lunch.
  • Moonstone Beach:
    • From the redwoods, we'll turn the caravan around and drive south towards Cambria.
    • We'll turn right onto Moonstone Beach Drive and park about halfway along this scenic road.
    • • Beach Exploration:* The roadside trail and beach walk here are among California's most beautiful. You can search for white moonstones and green jade pebbles on the beach.
    • • Departure Flexibility:* This is a good point for participants to return to camp at their own pace, as some may wish to spend more time on the beach.-Joe 

  3^rd and 4^th Full Days (Saturday and Sunday): Day trips to be determined

  John Blasco 562-981-4133

  
  

  Join us as we explore the beautiful Morro Bay area, perhaps California's most scenic coastline, on a 6-day/5-night camping getaway!

  Our theme will be "Explore Nature's Beauty and Experience our Magnificent California Central Coast."

  Our excursions on this trip will include the expert leadership and guidance of Joe Holliday who is a former Professor of Geology and Earth Science, and a current international naturalist and guide for National Geographic Expeditions, GeoTours, and other travel organizations.
  

  Walk along empty sea cliffs with waves crashing on the rocks. Observe elephant seals, sea lions, and sea otters up close, and maybe gray whales at a distance. See spring wildflowers bloom on the green landscape of San Luis Obispo County. Hike up to a waterfall and see redwood trees along the Big Sur Coast. Discover the unique biology and geology from our trip leaders, and enjoy cooking, socializing and camp camaraderie. 

  Campsite Details:

  We have reserved the Premium Group Campsite #GCHO at Morro Bay State Park Campground, which is within walking distance of trails in the Morro Bay wetland, the Natural History Museum, and viewpoints overlooking Morro Bay. The group site allows tents only.

  We also have reserved RV spaces near to our group site and within easy walking distance. Maximum length of RV is 35 feet. These are standard sites without hookups. An RV sanitation station and water-fill station are also available. Firewood is for sale from the campground host and proceeds go to help the Central Coast State Parks Association.

  Campground amenities include flush toilets, hot showers (token operated), fire rings, picnic tables, and potable water. Morro Bay village is about two miles away, with grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and other amenities.

  Day Activities:

  Activities will be located north and south of Morro Bay. Some planned hikes and walks are:

  • Morro Rock: walk from camp, to include stops at Morro Bay Museum of Natural History, Heron Rookery Natural Preserve, observing sea otters in the bay, and the MB Embarcadero
  • Montaña de Oro State Park: tide pools, walk Bluff Trail to sea cliffs to small coves
  • San Simeon Beach: Observe the only elephant seal colony on the US mainland
  • Overlook and small hikes at Ragged Point and Salmon Falls along the Big Sur Coast
  • Visit the southernmost redwood grove in California
  • Kayaking on Bay ?

  Campground Evening Activities:

  • Wednesday: Check-in after 2:00 pm. 5:00 pm: Welcome and Meet-n-Greet. 6:00 pm dinner (bring your own). 7:30 - 10 pm First night campfire.
  • Thursday: 6:00 pm: Dinner at camp followed by sunset walk at the bay. Bring-your-own dinner to dine and then walk to and watch the sunset over the bay, a short walk from our campsite to the bay. Sunset 7:38 pm.
  • Friday: 6:00 pm Traditional Great Outdoors Potluck. Hello Top Chefs and foodies! Everyone makes or brings a main or side dish to feed 5-6 people. Healthy, organic, plant-based dishes encouraged.
  • Saturday: 6:00 pm: To be determined (possibly campfire weenie roast)  
  • Sunday: 5:00 pm: Happy Hour. Bring an appetizer and optional beverage (alcohol/non-alcohol) to share.  6 PM Dinner at a local restaurant in town.
  • Monday: Check-out by 12 noon.

  Every night: Campfire (Bring your camp chair, highlights of the day, jokes, games, musical instruments maybe/camp songs, etc.)

  Think eco-friendly. Everyone brings their own reusable plates, utensils, cups, napkins, etc. For the potluck, remember to bring your own serving dishes, bowls or platters with serving utensils. Be sure to pick up your dishes when you leave. Let's aim to minimize trash/ single-use disposables.  Thank you for pitching in to keep our camp clean.

  Registration, parking limits, carpooling:

  Parking at the group site lot is limited.  After the group campsite spaces are full,  parking is available on the street outside of the campground, and at night extra cars can park in the town of Morro Bay about 3/4 of a mile away.  Therefore, we encourage carpooling.  Besides, it also saves gas, reduces traffic congestion and pollution, and may earn you the respect and admiration of your peers.

  The remaining vehicles can unload their gear at the campsite, check for shuttle options, and  park off site as noted. It may be helpful to ask each other to help shuttle folks back/forth. 

  If you are interested in carpooling you might check out the website https://www.groupcarpool.com/.  You can list your car, or that you are looking for a ride while using the chat feature to plan, organize and leave messages. Please note though due to liability and insurance reasons Great Outdoors cannot organize carpools and hike/trip leaders cannot take an active role in making arrangements for participants' transportation.

  

  If the trip is sold out, please add yourself to the wait list.

  Getting there:

  Directions from Route 1: Exit at South Bay Rd (Baywood Park) off ramp, turn left, go about 1 mile, turn right into park, go about 1 mile (do not go up the uphill road on the right), turn right into campground, check in at entry booth.

  Bring your 10 essentials, your camping & cooking gear, food, and a bundle or two of firewood. Dress in layers since the mornings can start cold, and sea breezes can be strong on the central California coast.

  Cancellation:

  Refund minus $10 service fee will be issued if cancelled by April 2. No refunds will be issued after this date. If you need to cancel, email both trip leaders directly, as soon as possible so we can notify the next person on the waitlist.

  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.

  Pet Policy: No dogs allowed on the beach.

  Contact:

  If you have any questions, please reach out to us at:

  John Blasco: email click here, 562-981-4133 or Joe Holliday: email click here, 562-417-4742 

  Cliff C.: email click here or Scott C. email click here

  Additional information will be emailed to registrants with more details as the trip nears.

  
  

  
  

  
  

  

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

  
  

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• PS- Camping - Dead Horse Ranch - Sedona

  • Start
    Wed, May 07, 2025
  •  
    2:00 PM (MST)
  • End
    Sun, May 11, 2025
  •  
    12:00 PM (MST)
  • Location
    Cottonwood AZ

  Register

  

  Tucked away in a stunning landscape of canyons, towering red rock buttes, and striking formations along the Verde River in Cottonwood, Arizona, you’ll find the peaceful Dead Horse Ranch State Park.

  At an elevation of 3,300 feet, the park offers mild temperatures making it the perfect spot for all kinds of outdoor fun. Whether you’re camping, mountain biking in the Coconino National Forest, hiking along the river, canoeing, fishing, or just relaxing with a picnic by the water, there’s something for everyone. Three lagoons within the park offer great fishing and a place to watch the area's aquatic wildlife and birds. The campsites are equipped with water and electricity hookups.  There is a free dump station for campers in the park.

  A special highlight is the Verde River Greenway State Natural Area, a beautiful six-mile stretch of the river, home to a rare Cottonwood and Willow riparian forest. This incredible ecosystem is one of fewer than 20 in the world! With each season, the area comes alive with a variety of wildlife. You’ll see everything from majestic raptors to colorful songbirds, along with mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and fish.

  The area also has a rich history, long before settlers arrived, it was home to Native American tribes like the Sinagua, Yavapai, and Apache. In the late 1800s, Anglo settlers began farming the land and supporting the soldiers at Camp Verde and miners in nearby Jerome.

  Things to Do:

  • Biking & Hiking Trails
  • There are several hiking trails in the park area. Refer to the link below for list of trails within the park system.
  • E-Bikes can be used on park roads. However, according to the park officials, they are considered motorized vehicles, thus cannot be ridden on trails. Click the link below for additional information trails
  • For bird lovers, this is paradise! The park offers diverse habitats, including cottonwood-willow forests, grasslands, and lagoons, perfect for spotting a variety of birds.
  • 4x4 Trails.

  Nearby Attractions:

  • The stunning red rocks of Sedona as well as the city
  • The fascinating ruins at Tuzigoot National Monument
  • The ancient cliff dwellings of Montezuma Castle National Monument

  Directions: Dead Horse Ranch State Park is approximately 360 miles from Palm Spring via Interstate 10 East. Google Map: Dead Horse Ranch State Park

  The campsites are in the Quail Loop Campground. Individual sites will be assigned prior to the event. Each campsite has electricity and water. The dump station fees are included in your reservation. There will be 2 tents per site or 1 RV per site, unless otherwise noted. Pets must be leashed.

  Cancellation/Refunds : Cancellation notice (for a refund, minus $10), must be received by April 30, 2025.  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: Dead Horse Ranch State Park May average is 85f hi, 50f lo. It is a dry month. Sunrise 5:30a, Sunset 7:15p. Moon will be waning, new moon is 12th.

  If you have any questions, feel free to email:

  • Trip Co-Leaders: Clif C. Click Here
  • Joey D. Click Here

  Tentative Schedule

  Wednesday ~ May 7

  • 2:00 pm or later ~ Arrival
  • 6:00 pm ~ Meet and Greet ~ Site #33 & 34
  • 7:30 pm ~ campfire

  Thursday ~ May 8

  • 7:00 am ~ Coffee, Muffins, Bagels and Fruits
  • 8:30 am ~ Day’s Activities
  • Jerome State Historic Park (10 miles)
  • Local hiking
  • 4x4 off-roading
  • Biking, on your own
  • 6:00 pm ~ Potluck
  • 7:30 pm ~ campfire            

  Friday ~ May 9

  • 7:00 am ~ Coffee, Muffins, Bagels and Fruits
  • 8:30 am ~ Day’s Activities
  • Montezuma Castle National Monument (20 miles) Entrance Fee
  • 4x4 off-roading
  • Biking, on your own
  • Dining in Town (Optional) ~ Time and place TBD
  • 7:30 pm ~ Campfire

    Saturday ~ May 10

  • 7:00 am ~ Coffee, Muffins, Bagels, and Fruits
  • 8:30 am ~ Day’ Actives
  • Sedona (20 miles)
  • Tourist Activities in the town of Sedona ~ on your own
  • Red Rock State Park ~
  • The 5-mile trail network consists of interconnecting loops which lead you along the lush greenery of Oak Creek and the famed red rocks of Sedona. These Sedona hiking trails are family-oriented and clearly marked for your safety and pleasure.
  • 4x4 off-roading in the Sedona Area
  • Local Hikes ~ on your own
  • Biking ~ on your own
  • 7:30 pm ~ Campfire

   Sunday ~ May 11

  • 7:00 am ~ Coffee, Muffins, Bagels, and Fruits  
  • 12:00 pm ~ Departure Time

  

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• PS- Camping - Save The Date -Sweetwater Park SD Pride

  • Start
    Thu, July 17, 2025
  •  
    2:00 PM (PDT)
  • End
    Mon, July 21, 2025
  •  
    12:00 PM (PDT)
  • Location
    Sweetwater Regional Park Bonita 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: VPO-PS@GreatOutdoors.org

  
  

  
  

  
  

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• PS - Camping - Barton Flats Save the Date

  • Start
    Mon, August 11, 2025
  •  
    2:00 PM (PDT)
  • End
    Thu, August 14, 2025
  •  
    12:00 PM (PDT)
  • Location
    Highway 38, Angelus Oaks, CA, San Bernardino National Forest

  Experience the cool mountain starlit sky among conifer forest at 6500' elevation. This is a great summer mid-week excursion where you will find a less crowded campground surrounded by mountain pines and vegetation. Jenks Lake and the Santa Ana River are nearby, and Big Bear Lake is only 25 miles away. Three nights of camping, hiking and exploring the area.

  Monday, August 11

  • 2:00 pm - Check-in  go directly to your site
  • 5:30 pm - Meet and greet BYOB, dinner on your own
    
  • 7:00 pm - Group campfire activities
    
  • Stargazing - Perseid Meteor Shower!

  Tuesday, Aug. 12

  • 9:00 am - Hike Jenks Lake *
    
  • 1:00 pm - Hike*
    
  • 5:45pm - Potluck dinner
  • 7:00 pm - Group campfire activities
    

  Wednesday, Aug. 13

  9:00 am - Hike* or 4x4 trip

  • 1:00 pm - Big Bear town* 
  • 6:30 pm - Check white board*
  • 7:30 pm - Group campfire

  Thursday, Aug. 14

  •  12:00 pm - Check out

  *Check campground white board for updates and hike/outing details.

  Amenities and Notes:

  • Tents will be on the large spacious double sites separate from RV's
  • Flush toilets, picnic tables, grill/fire rings, and drinking water. Showers may be be available.
  • Bears frequent the area; follow all food and garbage disposal regulations. Food storage lockers on site.
  • Don't Move Firewood: Protect California's forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. For more information visit firewood.ca.gov. - 'Buy It Where Your Burn It' Available on site at $8-10 a bundle, cash only.
  • Fire restrictions may be imposed at any time due to hot, dry weather conditions, at which time campfires and charcoal fires may not be allowed. Campfires must be kept small and in the fire ring.
  • Quiet hours are from 10 pm to 8 am.
  • Each "tent first person" registration includes parking for 1 vehicle. Second person sharing a tent must arrive with first person in same vehicle. No extra parking available.  Tent sites will not be shared with RV's.
  • Back into your site - safety requirement for emergency evacuation.
  • Park all tires on pavement - environmental issues - strictly enforced.
  • Specific campsite assignments will be sent a week before the event.

  Notes/conditions for RVs:  This is a dry camping. Fresh water spigots available throughout camp and at the dump station. The dump site is located nearby ($10 fee).  Generators may be operated between 7 am and 10 pm. Maximum site size is 35 feet. Maximum of 2 vehicles per site. RV with tow vehicle attached upon arrival counts as 1 vehicle. If tow vehicle is not attached upon arrival, occupant is responsible for extra parking fees $8 per day. Your tow vehicle must fit on your site with all tires on the pavement. 

  What to Bring: Ten Essentials, camp chair, daypack for hiking, camping/cooking gear, food, warm/cool weather clothing, some cash, and your name tag. Bring your senior Golden Age Park pass if you have one.

  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.  

  Location/Directions:   Latitude 34.171955, Longitude  -116.875098

  Distance is approx. 70 miles from Palm Springs via Interstate10.

  From I-10 take SR-38 North. From the Mill Creek Ranger Station. The campground is approximately 18.8 to the entrance. Turn left into the campground. From the Big Bear Discovery Center take SR-38 towards Redlands for 25.8 miles and turn right into the campground. Google Map

  Hazard Warning!! - Dangerous intersection at entrance to camp from Highway 38 - limited visibility. Use extra caution when exiting the camp back on to the highway.

  Nearby Trails:

  • Ponderosa Vista Nature Trail, 0.6-mile length
  • Whispering Pines Trail, 0.5 mile
  • Rio Monte Trail, 2.5 miles
  • Big Falls Trail, 0.3 mile
  • Jenks Lake Trail,1 mile
  • Wild Horse Creek, 5 miles

  Website: San Bernardino National Forest. Campground map click here

  Climate:   Ave Temps: 77° / 44°     Current Weather click here

  Refunds: Cancellation for a refund, minus any service fee, must be received by August 1, 2024.

  Payment:  You can pay with the following credit cards: Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express. 

  Pets: Are welcomed. Must be kept on leash. Please pick up after your pet. 

  Photos: click here

  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.  

  Contact Leaders:

  • Doug Wylie email click here  
  •  Scott Connelly email click here  

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

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• PS-Camp - Mammoth Lakes - Save The Date

  • Start
    Thu, September 04, 2025
  •  
    2:00 PM (PDT)
  • End
    Mon, September 08, 2025
  •  
    12:00 PM (PDT)
  • Location
    Mammoth Lakes

  

  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: VPO-PS@GreatOutdoors.org

  
  

  
  

  
  

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• PS- Camping - Death Valley 4x4 - Plus Save The Date

  • Start
    Thu, November 13, 2025
  •  
    2:00 PM (PST)
  • End
    Mon, November 17, 2025
  •  
    12:00 PM (PST)
  • Location
    Death Valley National Park

  

  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: VPO-PS@GreatOutdoors.org

  
  

  
  

  
  

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