Upcoming & Past PS Chapter Camping Trips

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• PS - Camp - Agua Caliente County Park

  • Start
    Thu, January 08, 2026
  •  
    2:00 PM
  • End
    Sun, January 11, 2026
  •  
    12:00 PM
  • Location
    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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• PS: Camp: Mojave Preserve

  • Start
    Fri, February 27, 2026
  •  
    1:00 PM
  • End
    Mon, March 02, 2026
  •  
    12:00 PM
  • Location
    Mojave National Preserve
  • Spaces left
    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.

  
  

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• PS- Camping - Mecca Beach - Save The Date

  • Start
    Thu, March 12, 2026
  •  
    2:00 PM
  • End
    Sun, March 15, 2026
  •  
    12:00 PM
  • Location
    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. 

  
  

  • Please contact our PS Chapter VPO - via email: [email protected]

  
  

  
  

  
  

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• PS- Camping - Lost Dutchman - Save The Date

  • Start
    Thu, April 16, 2026
  •  
    2:00 PM
  • End
    Mon, April 20, 2026
  •  
    12:00 PM
  • Location
    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) 

  • Native Plant Trail: A short, paved 0.25-mile loop showcasing desert flora like cholla and ocotillo.
  • Jacob's Crosscut Trail: An easy 0.8-mile walk offering views along the mountain base.
  • Discovery Trail: An easy 1-mile loop suitable for families.
  • Treasure Loop Trail: A 2.4-mile moderate loop with 500 feet of elevation gain, providing views of the valley and Phoenix skyline.
  • Quail Loop: An easy 1.1-mile loop. 

  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:

  • Trip Co-Leaders: Cliff C. Click Here & Scott Click Here

  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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• CORP- All Chapter Jamboree - Save the Date!

  • Start
    Thu, May 28, 2026
  •  
    12:00 PM
  • End
    Sun, May 31, 2026
  •  
    12:00 PM
  • Location
    Hurkey Creek Campground
  • Spaces left

  
  

  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

  • Start
    Sun, June 14, 2026
  •  
    2:00 PM
  • End
    Wed, June 17, 2026
  •  
    12:00 PM
  • Location
    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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• PS - Camping - Idyllwild Regional Park - SAVE THE DATE

  • Start
    Sun, July 12, 2026
  •  
    2:00 PM
  • End
    Wed, July 15, 2026
  •  
    12:00 AM
  • Location
    Idyllwild CA
  • Spaces left
    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

  • Start
    Thu, August 13, 2026
  •  
    1:00 PM
  • End
    Sun, August 16, 2026
  •  
    2:00 PM
  • Location
    San Bernardino National Forest
  • Spaces left
    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

  • Start
    Thu, September 10, 2026
  •  
    12:00 PM
  • End
    Sun, September 13, 2026
  •  
    12:00 PM
  • Location
    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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• PS - Dos Picos County Park Campout-SAVE THE DATE

  • Start
    Sun, November 22, 2026
  •  
    2:00 PM
  • End
    Wed, November 25, 2026
  •  
    12:00 PM
  • Location
    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 10^th, 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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