Great Outdoors upcoming events

SBVC/CORP - 48th All Chapter Conference and Campout (Fri, October 16, 2026)

Fri, 16 Oct 2026 22:00:00 GMT

~~Into the Woods with the Great Outdoors~~
Join Us for the 48th Annual All Chapter Conference
and Campout Hosted by GO-SBVC

WHEN: Friday, October 16
WHERE: Cachuma Lake, Santa Barbara
TIME: Arrive at 3:00 PM

The Great Outdoors 2026 All-Chapter Conference and Campout
Hosted by GO-SBVC at the beautiful Cachuma Lake

Into The Woods with the Great Outdoors—A Weekend Full of Adventure

Hello and welcome. Our story begins Friday afternoon as we welcome friends from every Great Outdoors chapter to beautiful Lake Cachuma. After settling into camp, join us for a GO-SBVC hosted Tea, a casual opportunity to enjoy light refreshments and to reconnect with old friends and meet new ones. Dinner is on your own. As the evening falls, we'll gather for a special guest presentation in the spirit of celebrating the good nature of the Great Outdoors.

Saturday morning we wake to a hearty breakfast provided by GO-SBVC before the day's adventures begin. Great Outdoors Officers and Core Group members will gather for their annual corporate meetings, where the business of our organization is conducted. Anyone interested in learning more about how Great Outdoors operates or seeing the process firsthand is welcome to attend.

For those not attending the meetings there are several ways to enjoy the day. Local GO-SBVC members will lead you on a scenic guided hike through the beautiful Lake Cachuma area or guide you through an excursion into the nearby Santa Ynez Valley wine country. If you'd rather explore on your own you can visit the beautiful new Chumash Museum and Cultural Center to learn about the rich heritage of the area's original inhabitants or try your luck at the nearby Chumash Casino Resort, both just a short drive away.

Saturday afternoon brings a little friendly competition as the chapters square off in our spirited Horseshoe Tournament. Whether you're aiming for a perfect ringer or simply cheering from the sidelines, it's all about fun, laughter, and chapter pride.

As evening falls, we'll gather once again for one of the weekend's highlights—a fantastic GO-SBVC provided Loaded Baked Potato & Salad Bar accompanied by the Bring & Cook Your Own Meat on the BBQ. We've got two large BBQ grills and we'll be there to help for those unsure around the grill-just be sure and bring your meat. Enjoy a delicious meal while sharing stories around the campground before celebrating together at our annual Awards Ceremony, recognizing the volunteers and chapters that help make Great Outdoors thrive.

Then, as every good fairy tale deserves a musical ending, we'll enjoy a special live musical presentation to include audience participation. Raise your voice around the campfire as we celebrate another memorable year together.

Before everyone heads home on Sunday morning, we'll share a GO-SBVC provided continental breakfast, exchange hugs and goodbyes, and bid farewell until our paths cross again on another trail.

No magic beans are required—just your sense of adventure. We can't wait to welcome you Into the Woods with the Great Outdoors!

We have 6 RV spaces available (no hookups) for our RV travelers, along with parking space for 24 vehicles. RV spaces do not include a towed vehicle and there are no hookups. Whether you're driving, riding along as a passenger, a guest, or simply want to join for part of the weekend adventures, we welcome you to register in advance so that you can be a part of our 2026 All Chapter Conference and Campout.

If you are an RV traveler and require hookups there may be available sites, but you will need to check with the park https://www.countyofsb.org/cachuma-lake.

We have reserved the Lanford Memorial Grove Group Campsite at the north end of the park.

Link to camp map https://content.civicplus.com/api/assets/499e2bb7-b3bb-4a3e-a635-cd4cd5aec544

Everyone attending must be a member and register for the conference. Not a Great Outdoors Member yet? No problem. Join Here: https://greatoutdoors.org/join

Don't forget your 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.

Tentative ITINERARY

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16
3:00 PM Arrive and check in 3 o'clock and after
5:30 PM Meet-n-Greet w/ Afternoon Tea
Introduction to Corp Board and a word from OE
6:30 PM Bring Your Own Dinner
7:30 PM Entertainment Event

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17
8:00 AM SBVC Hosted Breakfast
9:00 AM Business Meetings (see schedule below)
TBA Hike
TBA Bring Your Own Lunch
TBA Wine Tasting Trip
TBA Horseshoe Contest
TBA Happy Hour
5:30 PM SBVC Hosted Dinner
6:30 PM Awards Ceremony
8:00 PM Entertainment

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 18
8:00 AM SBVC Hosted Continental Breakfast
1:00 PM Clean-up, pack and depart

Approximate SATURDAY BUSINESS MEETING SCHEDULE
9:00-11:00 Outgoing Board Meeting, Standing Committee Chairs and Chapter Reports, Elections Meeting
11:00-11:30 Incoming Board Meeting, scheduling next year’s board meetings
11:30-12:30 All-Chapter Outings Calendar & Trip Planning

PS - Camp - Death Valley 4x4 Plus (Thu, November 12, 2026)

Thu, 12 Nov 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Reserve Now ~ Updated RV Reservation Notice

If you are planning to join us for our upcoming trip to Death Valley National Park, the scheduled dates are, Thursday, November 12 thru Monday, November 16, 2026.

Everyone attending is responsible for making their own RV reservations at the Stovepipe Wells RV Campground. Please be aware that the campground has only 14 available sites, so it is important to reserve your RV site as soon as possible.

How to Reserve Your RV Site

To reserve a rv site Click here
On the right side of the web page, select “RV Sites.”
Scroll down and click on “Book Now.”
Use the monthly calendar to navigate to November 2026.
Select dates from November 12 through November 16.
Continue scrolling until you see RV site options.
If RV sites are sold out ~ follow the direction.
"We are currently sold out, to be added to the waitlist please call us at 833.778-9290"
Once your site has been reserved, please send an email to Cliff

Before registering for this event on this website, please complete one of the following:

Reserve your accommodations and receive confirmation.

Hotel confirmation
RV site confirmation
No advance reservation is required if you plan to stay at the park service campground at Stovepipe Wells.

Pay the GOPS registration fee only after completing one of the steps above. We CANNOT make accommodation reservations for you.

Come explore the backcountry roads of Death Valley National Park!

Join us for another unforgettable adventure in Death Valley National Park! Although brief showers changed our plans last year, they didn’t dampen our spirits. We enjoyed a lively gathering inside the Badwater Saloon at Stovepipe Wells, where we played cards, shared stories, and got better acquainted.

This year, we’re planning to return to spectacular Aguereberry Point, search for the historic Skidoo mines, and explore several fascinating mining sites along West Side Road. As always, our itinerary may be adjusted based on weather and road conditions—part of the adventure of exploring Death Valley!

And no trip would be complete without stopping for ice cream at the Oasis at Death Valley in Furnace Creek. Come join us for breathtaking scenery, desert history, great company, and plenty of adventure!

Our off-roading trips include:

All-day adventure: Roger Pass via Pleasant Canyon via Ballarat

Shorter excursions: Echo Pass and Inyo Mine

(Please note: Titus Canyon remains closed due to road damage from Hurricane Hilary in 2023.)

Our short hikes include:

Mosaic Canyon, Natural Bridge, and Willow Canyon Trail

Prefer to go at your own pace? You’re welcome to join us and plan your own adventure days in Death Valley!

We’ve scheduled both short and long 4x4 outings, giving you the flexibility to also enjoy hiking local trails or visiting nearby highlights such as the Devil’s Golf Course and Dante’s View

If you are not a member, join here

Stovepipe Wells Village has a general store, restaurant, bar, and gas station. The village/RV site is about 28 miles from Furnace Creek.

RV SITE POLICIES include:

Quiet times from 9 PM to 8 AM
No tent camping in RV site area; two-vehicle max per space (including trailer)
Fires allowed in above-ground enclosures, gas only
Pets must be on a leash at all times and never left unattended; pick up after your pets

NOTE to tent campers!

Stovepipe Wells Campground is operated by the National Park Service. The sites are on a first come, first served basis. Information can be found at Stovepipe Wells Campground, best sites are in the back near the sand dunes.

Lodging ~ Stovepipe Wells Lodge info is here

What to Bring: Camp chair, camping/cooking gear, food, warm/cool/wet weather clothing, and the Ten Essentials. 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: In November, Death Valley Sunrise is around 6:11 am and Sunset is around 4:50 pm. NWS has weather for Furnace Creek here

Directions: all Stovepipe Wells facilities are located here

Cancellation for a refund, minus a $10 service fee, must be received by Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2025.

TRIP LEADERS: Cliff C. Click here to send email

Joey D. Click here to send email

Itinerary ~ (subject to weather and road conditions)

Thursday, Nov 12

2:00 pm Check in at Stovepipe Wells Campground.

6:00 pm Meet & Greet in the RV campground

Friday, Nov 13

7: 00 am ~ Coffee and continental breakfast

8:45 am ~ Meet for 4X4 trip ~ Echo Canyon/Inyo Mine/Hike/West Side Road

9:00 am ~ Depart for trip (Short day 4 hours)

6:00 pm ~ optional restaurant dining ~ Stovepipe Wells Lodge

Saturday, Nov 14

7: 00 am ~ Coffee and continental breakfast

8:45 am ~ Meet for 4X4 trip ~ Pleasant Canyon to Roger’s Pass/Aguereberry Point

9:00 am ~ Depart for trip (long day 7-8 hours)

6:00 pm ~ optional restaurant dining ~ Stovepipe Wells Lodge

Sunday, Nov 15

7: 00 am ~ Coffee and continental breakfast

8:45 am ~ Meet for 4X4 trip /Hike Willow Canyon Trail

6:00 pm ~Optional restaurant dining ~ Stovepipe Wells Lodge

Monday, Nov 16

11:00 am check out. Thanks for joining us. Have a safe drive home.

For each of the day trips, make certain you have gassed up the night before. Bring lunch and water for each day trip.

PS - Dos Picos County Park Campout (Sun, November 22, 2026)

Sun, 22 Nov 2026 22:00:00 GMT

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. We put two tent campers on one site. 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 $10, which is paid by GOPS. The overflow parking lot is NOT close.

Leashed dogs are welcome at $2/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 or license plate, please let the trip leader know.

Site 49 is below the group circle, but there is a nearby staircase or the road which makes it easy to walk up to the pavilion circle. This site is also RV only.

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 fee before Nov. 1st, 2026.

Dos Picos County Park Campground

17953 Dos Picos Park Road

Ramona, CA 92065

(760) 789-2220

Trip Leader Contact: Robert Varga
rvarga0@icloud.com
(760) 641-9112 text messages only

Dos Picos Campout Schedule of Events

Sunday, November 22

2:00 pm - Check-in (please don't arrive early)
6:00 pm – Meet and Greet, in the pavilion, BYOB and bring finger food to share, if you want.
7:00 pm – Dinner on your own, plenty of great restaurants in the nearby city of Ramona.
8:00 pm - group fire, please bring firewood, $8/bundle at the park

Monday, November 23

7:00 am – coffee and pastries in the pavilion
10:00 am – local hike somewhere, see whiteboard
1:00 pm – random activity, see whiteboard.
4:00 pm - Happy Hour BYOB
6:00 pm – Thanksgiving Potluck dinner in the Pavilion. All campers are welcome to use any of the cooking equipment any other camper may have, please ask. We are a very generous group.
8:00 pm - group fire, please bring firewood, $8/bundle at the park

Tuesday, November 24

7:00 am – coffee and pastries in the pavilion
10:00 am – local hike somewhere, see whiteboard
1:00 pm – random activity, see whiteboard.
4:00 pm - Happy Hour BYOB
5:00 pm – dinner on your own, plenty of great restaurants in the nearby city of Ramona.
7:00 pm - Raffle!!! $5/ticket or 5 tickets for $20; see the prize display in the Pavillon.
8:00 pm - group fire, please bring firewood, $8/bundle at the park

Wednesday, November 25

7:00 am – Coffee and pastries in the pavilion
9:00 am - pack up and clean up, say our tearful goodbyes
12:00 pm - Check out

Have a GREAT Thanksgiving!!

PS: Camp: Mojave Preserve SAVE THE DATE (Fri, March 05, 2027)

Fri, 05 Mar 2027 21:00:00 GMT

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, but might open in 2027).

Those wishing to visit Mitchell Caverns on Sunday morning will need to purchase tickets online. I will advise when they become available, which is likely early 2027.

Black Canyon group site -- Our camp site is remote and quiet. The moon will be nearly new 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 drinking water available and vault toilets, but no other amenities. There is a shade structure with picnic tables, and a raised grill for cooking.

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.

The potluck will be Saturday evening.

Refunds are available (less $10 fee) up to 7 days before the start of the event.

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, and the Rock Springs Loop trail to the north.

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.

PS - Camping - Lake Skinner Spring Getaway -- SAVE THE DATE (Thu, April 15, 2027)

Thu, 15 Apr 2027 21:00:00 GMT

Lake Skinner Spring Getaway

Experience the vibrant, star-filled desert-valley nights near the rolling hills of Winchester at Lake Skinner Recreation Area. This weekend spring escape offers a refreshing, scenic campground surrounded by open grassy landscapes, expansive natural vistas, and seasonal wildflower blooms overlooking the lake.

Enjoy three nights of camping, hiking, boating, and exploring:

Thursday, April 15

2:00 pm – Check-in
6:00 pm – Meet and greet, bring something to share and your favorite beverage.
7:00 pm – Group campfire activities

Friday, April 16

7:00 am – Coffee, continental breakfast
9:00 am – Hike along the Shoreline Path & Loop Trail *
2:00 pm – Kayaking or Boat Cruise on the Lake *
6:30 pm – Dinner Plan: “Grill Your Own" & Side Dish Potluck

To keep things easy and flexible, we are doing a split potluck for dinner. Please ensure you bring both of the following:

For Yourself (Main): Bring your own favorite grilling item (steak, burgers, sausages, chicken, or veggie skewers, etc.) to cook on the shared charcoal grates.
To Share: Bring a side dish that is large enough to share with 4 to 6 people.

7:45 pm – Movie presentation Fire Island (2022) or other TBD

7:45 pm campfire option for those not attending the movie. Fire ring located opposite of the movie presentation

Saturday, April 17

7:00 am – Coffee, continental breakfast
9:00 am – Easy Hike
1:30 pm – TBD see white board * or explore historic Old Town Temecula
6:30 pm – Saturday Night Group Dinner (Provided!)

Relax and leave the cooking to us for Saturday's dinner! A full group dinner will be fully provided and prepared by our expert grill master.

The Menu Includes:

Main: Juicy grilled chicken breast
Sides: Classic potato salad, savory vegetarian baked beans, and a fresh green salad
Dessert: A sweet treat to wrap up the night

Note: You do not need to prepare a shared dish or your own main item for Saturday night. Just bring your appetite and your own drinks!

7:30 pm – Group campfire activities

Sunday, April 18

11:00 am – Check out

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

Amenities For Tents: The developed campsites are fairly flat, and well-maintained and shaded. Tent campers have easy access to power outlets, central restrooms, showers, and water spigots throughout the loops
Campsite Restrooms: Chemical toilets (Porta Potties) are placed directly within the campsite loops for quick access. Main Restrooms nearby: Equipped with flush toilets and hot-water showers.

Amenities For RVs: Hookups include 30 amp electrical and water.

What to Bring: Ten Essentials, camp chair, name tag, daypack, cooking gear, food, layers for weather. Bring a shared dish for Friday's potluck and go green with reusable plates and utensils.

Fire Restrictions & Logistics: Use designated fire rings and check the board for advisory updates.

Weather: Average spring temperatures range from a high of 76°F to a low of 48°F, sunrise at Lake Skinner will be at 6:21 AM, and sunset will be at 7:16 PM.

Nearby Hikes: Options include the scenic 4.2-mile Lake Skinner Loop Trail, the 1.9-mile Lake Skinner Trail, and the short 0.4-mile path near group camping.

Pets: Pets are welcome

Registration is restricted to GO members. Cancellations before April 8 qualify for refunds minus a $10 fee.

Map: click here Photos: click here

Contact Trip Leaders: John N., Scott C., Cliff C.

PS - Hurkey Creek Campground -- SAVE THE DATE (Thu, May 20, 2027)

Thu, 20 May 2027 19:00:00 GMT

Hikes, cowboy breakfast, group dinners, Bingo, raffle, and more. Dale has some great prizes for the raffle and bingo! New this year: Pontoon Boat ride on Lake Hemet!

The Great Outdoors Palm Springs (GOPS) is giving back! This is a low cost, member appreciation campout. We'll be staying in a group site where both tents and RVs are welcome. The weekend will include one complimentary dinner and a hot breakfasts and continental breakfast.

Hurkey Creek Campground is located in the San Jacinto Mountains (4,500') near the town of Mountain Center and Idyllwild. Our large group camp site is nestled in a grove of pine trees and offers a wide range of nearby opportunities, including beautiful scenery, a group fire pit, hiking, 4x4 trail ride and group activities. Just 9 miles away, the mountain town of Idyllwild offers the chance to shop, dine or visit the picturesque town’s museum. If it’s water you like, Lake Hemet is nearby. Check campground white board for updates and hike/outing details.

Meals: We are providing a complimentary meal on Saturday night:¹ hot dogs with veggie option, buns, baked beans, potato salad, green salad, chips, desserts and bottled water. Enjoy a cowboy hot breakfasts on Friday and a continental breakfast on Saturday mornings prepared by Chef Robert. A potluck dinner for Friday night. Bring a dish to share.

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.

Schedule Of Events

Thursday, May 9

2 pm - Check-in at gate (your name will be on a list)
Before dinner - Relax and enjoy. Check white board for any activities
6 pm - Meet and Greet. Bring appetizer to share. Bring your favorite beverage
8 pm - Group campfire activities*

Friday, May 10

7 am - Coffee time
8 am - Complimentary hot breakfast
9:30 am - Hike * Hurkey Creek trail to waterfall approx. 3 miles
1:30 pm - Check white board*
6 pm POTLUCK Dinner bring a dish to share
7 pm - Group Campfire activities - bingo and popcorn

Saturday, May 11

7 am - Coffee time
8 am - Complimentary continental breakfast
9:30 am - Hike*
9:00 am - Meet at marina - Pontoon Boat Ride Lake Hemet 2 hrs. (9:30-11:30) Extra charge and preregistration required
11:00 am - Meet at marina Pontoon Boat Ride Lake Hemet 2 hrs. (11:30-12:30). Extra charge and preregistration required
2:00 pm - 4x4 drive Thomas Mt. or Idyllwild shops*
2:00 pm - Hike nearby* or bike ride*
6 pm - Complimentary dinner¹
7 pm - Group campfire activities - check whiteboard*
7:15 pm - Raffle- great prizes!

Sunday, May 12

7 am - Continental breakfast
8 am - relax and enjoy. Check white board for any activities*
1 pm - Clean up our campground area. Check out. Safe travels home.

Nearby Attractions:

Boat ride Lake Hemet Saturday $25 extra charge
Hike PCT N74 4.3 440' Info or PCT-South_74S 5.4 700' Info
Hike K Flat to waterfall from Apple Canyon Rd
Hike Gold Hill Jacks Shack 4.9 735' Info
Hike creek from camp to rock formations 1.6 mi.
Hike Cedar Spring 5.3_ 1400' Info
Hike Forbes-Morris Ranch 3.3 Info
Hike Lake Hemet Dam
Hike Hurkey Creek trail 3.3 370' Info
Hike Pines to Palms upper section 4 mi Info
Thomas Mt. 4x4 16 mi Info
Santa RosaTruckTrail - Toro Peak 25 mi RT Info
Idyllwild shops and restaurants
Biking Hurkey Creek excellent for bicycling. In addition to extensive paved roads within the park, there’s also a specially designated paved hiking/walking path. Adjacent to the park’s Highway 74 entrance is the paved Apple Canyon Road which is an excellent lightly-traveled eBike gradual climb leading to the Zen Center.

Price: $45 for 3 nights for GO members. If not a GO member, you may join for $25 for a one (1) year membership. You can click here to join. Cancellation: A refund of $25 available if you notify trip leader of cancelation by May 5.

Campsite Amenities: We will be in a group camp which has restrooms with flush toilets, running water and hot showers that take quarters, picnic tables, fire rings, water and level campground spots for your tent or RV. There is a small store near Lake Hemet with limited supplies. Quiet hours are from 10 pm to 6 am. Additional park rules click here. Park brochure: click here

Amenities For RVs: This is a dry camping event. There are no hookups. Fresh water spigots are available around the campsite. Camp area is level throughout our site. Generators are allowed 6 AM – 10 PM (but please be considerate of the tent persons sleeping near you).There is a dump site, for a fee, located at Lake Hemet campground.

What to Bring: Name tag, camp chair, camping/cooking gear, food, cash for raffle, warm/cool weather clothing, one bundle of firewood per person. Please do not bring particle board, old furniture, plywood or construction materials. Firewood is for sale at nearby Lake Hemet and maybe at the campground. We recommend you read our suggested Ten Essentials.

Directions: The Hurkey Creek Campground is located at 56375 CA Hwy 74, Mountain Center, CA 92561, 4 miles SE of Mountain Center off of CA-74. Map click here. There are 3 approaches available: Hwy 74 from Palm Desert, Hwy 243 from Banning, and Hwy 74 from Hemet.

Climate & Elevation - Average Temps: High 74, Low 51, 4500' Weather forecast click here

Your hosts:

Head Chef: -Robert Varga

Sous chefs on deck:

-Martin Colucci
-José G
-Peter Edmond- Worline
-John Simonsen
Sous chefs on the bench:
-Mike Keller
-Ken Bell

Contact Trip Leader: Scott Connelly email click here and Dale Solomon

Photos: To see some photos from prior trips to Hurkey Creek - click here

Pets: Pets are welcomed - leashed, controlled, picked up after. $2 per dog, per day - pay upon entry if requested.

Refunds: Cancellation for a full refund minus service fee of $10.00 must be received by May 01, 2024. No refunds for boat ride..

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

PS - Camp Guajome Park in Oceanside, CA Campout -- SAVE THE DATE (Sun, June 13, 2027)

Sun, 13 Jun 2027 21:00:00 GMT

Guajome Regional Park offers full hookup sites water, electric 20/30/50 amps, sewer hookups, paved driveways, fire rings, and tables. Coin-operated, hot showers, restrooms with flush toilets, and a waste water dump station. One tent and one RV (< or = 45ft.) or two tents will share each each site. Both inhabitants will have access to the water and electricity. There is plenty of overflow parking for extra vehicles.

The park is at an elevation of 130 ft. above sea level. Afternoon ocean breezes keep the park pleasant year-round.

Guajome Regional Park is great for bicycling enthusiasts. It has numerous paved roadways within the park suitable for bicycling. There is also an excellent 10 mile bike only path from just outside the park into the Oceanside beachfront. At the beachfront, The trail merges with the oceanfront road leading to many shops and restaurants.

There are 3.5 miles of well-maintained hiking trails that meander through diverse Southern California habitats such as woodlands, chaparral, wetlands, and mixed grasslands. There are eight named trails, including a short self guided nature trail, and a couple of unnamed trails.

The park is close to other historical points of interest such as the Rancho Guajome Adobe, designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1970 and the San Luis Rey Mission, one of the twenty-one California missions, which was founded in 1798.

There is a bicycle trailhead just outside of the park that extends through nearby Oceanside, all the way to the coast. The city of Oceanside itself offers beaches, a pier and harbor, shopping, and restaurants. Black's Beach is a 45 minute drive down the I-5.

Park brochure - click here.

Tentative Schedule of Events

Sunday, June 14

2pm - Check-in @ site #10 (please don't arrive early, they are strict about this)
6pm - Meet n’ Greet @ Site TBD: BYOB, bring Hor'devours to share, if you want
7pm - Dinner on your own, many many restaurants nearby
8pm - Group campfire @ Site TBD (bring firewood)

Monday, June 15

8am - * Pancake Breakfast by Marty, Dave O., and Rob @ Site #10, Coffee made by pour boy, Mike.
10am - *Bike ride on paved biking trail to the ocean, and back. Transportation will be provided for those who cannot or do not want to ride back.
1pm: *Sun and fun at the beach! There are several beaches to choose from, suggestions welcome. Parking will come with a fee, so carpool is encouraged. Local Beaches
6pm - Potluck @ Site #10 (bring a dish to share)
8pm - Group campfire @ site #10 (bring firewood)

Tuesday, June 16

7am - Coffee by pour boy, Mike and continental breakfast @ Site #10
9am - *Hike the local nature trails in the park and explore the marshes/lake.
11am - *Carpool to Del Rey Mission, 15-minute drive, there is an admission fee you will have to pay. Alternative activity: suggestions welcome, See whiteboard
2pm - *Wine aficionados, there are two vineyards in the area: Carruth Cellars, tasting room open T-Th 4-9pm, and Coomber Craft Wines, reservations required.
5pm - Dinner on your own, or leftovers together @ Site #10
7pm - Join us to watch Dale play with his balls for Bingo. Prizes for every winner, no charge to play.
8pm - Group campfire @ Site #10 (bring firewood)

Wednesday, June 17

7am - Coffee by pour boy, Mike and continental breakfast leftovers @ Site #10
9am - pack up and clean up, say our tearful goodbyes, lots of hugging encouraged!
12pm - Check out

*All activities are subject to change, check campout whiteboard for updates.

Contact Trip Leader: Robert Varga - via email to rvarga0@icloud.com or text (760) 641-9112.

Prices: Prices listed are per person. Each person going must complete a separate registration. We do this so each registrant acknowledges our liability waiver condition.

Registration: Enter the license number of your primary vehicle and a tow vehicle. This will speed the check in process at the gate.

Payments: This event is limited to GO members. When you register, you'll need to have your credit card (MC, VISA, Discover or Amex.) 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.

Refunds: Cancellation for a refund, minus $10 must be received before June 1st, 2026. On June 1st, 2026 and after, no refund will be issued. All cancellation requests must be sent to the Trip Leader (see email above).

What to Bring: Camp chair, camping/cooking gear, food, warm/cool/wet weather clothing, potluck item, one bundle of firewood per person and the Ten Essentials.

Directions: Guajome Regional Park Campground, 3000 Guajome Lake Road, Oceanside, CA 92057. Google map directions - click here.

From Coachella Valley: Take I-10W to I-215S to I-15S, exit onto Highway 76, turn right on SR-76 and head west. Turn left onto Guajome Lake Road. The campground entrance will be on the right.

Climate: Average temperatures - high 75, low 65. View weather forecast - click here.

Pets: Are permitted if they are properly restrained and under the control of the owner. Dogs must be licensed, restrained on a leash no longer than six feet, and attended at all times. Please pick up after your pet. $1/night for each pet; you would pay upon arrival.

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

PS - William Heise San Diego County Park -- SAVE THE DATE (Thu, September 23, 2027)

Thu, 23 Sep 2027 21:00:00 GMT

Situated at 4,200 feet above sea level in a forest of pines and oaks along the northern extremity of the Laguna Mountain Range, this 929-acre park is one of the few San Diego county parks to get snowfall each year. There are nearly 11 miles of scenic hiking and equestrian trails. Mule deer and wild turkey are frequently seen throughout the park, and rare residents include bobcats and mountain lions.

Park brochure

The campground has coin-operated showers. The city of Julian is just 15 minutes away by car. In Julian, you can explore the many stores on main street, but don't forget to get some delicious apple pie for which Julien is known.

We have reserved 15 sites with electric and water, but no sewer. A dump station is available at the park.

Maximum RV length is 40 feet. One site can accommodate one RV and one tent or two tents. Depending on popularity, we will try to accommodate tent campers on separate sites.

The sites are on blacktop and are narrow, but behind each site is a picnic/camping area able to accommodate 1-2 tents and shared picnic/camping site amenities. Very doable with some imagination, patience, and kindness. Tent campers should bring blow-up mattresses or cots to sleep on as the ground is hard dirt. Tent campers should also bring long extension cords for electricity as the pedestal is located a 10-20 ft. from the camping area. For a video of the campground, click here

Leashed dogs are welcome at $1/night/dog. Campers will pay for their own dogs upon check-in at the campground. The cost for extra-vehicles is included in the unit price.

We will have access on a first come/first serve basis to one of the two outdoor picnic areas across from the sites in the middle of the circle. There is a massive firepit between the two picnic areas which most likely we will be able to use for evening fires as we have reserved 15 of the 20 sites available in the loop. Please bring 1-2 bundles of fire wood for the group fire on Friday and Saturday nights. There is also a large outdoor fireplace for cooking available in the group area for the potluck Saturday. Home made cobbler with ice cream is planned for all at the Saturday night potluck.

Typical weather in this area in June is a high of 80, and a low of 53.

For those driving larger RVs, be sure to follow the brown County Park signs in rather than the GPS. It's a little longer, but a better road in. For those driving RVs, if you want to avoid some of the winding roads through the mountains, go to Borrego Springs by way of the Salton Sea, then right at Borrego Springs Road before you get to the traffic circle in Borrego Springs, and take the 79 to Julian. It gets a little curvy just before your get to the town of Julian, but, doable. Go through the town of Julian and follow the signs to Wm Heise park.

Cancellation policy: cancel for full refund minus applicable fees on or before June 12, 2023. Contact trip leader if you need to cancel.

William Heise County Park

4945 Heise Park Road

Julian, CA 92050

(760) 765-0650

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.

Friday, June 23

2:00 pm - Check-in (please don't arrive early)
5:00 pm – Meet and Greet, at the picnic area across from site #3; bring finger food to share
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 (recommended amount 1-2 bundles per person)

Saturday, June 24

10:00 am – local hike somewhere close by—see white board for details
1:00 pm – activity on your own or impromptu group activity
6:00 pm – PotLuck dinner at the picnic area across from site #3; please bring a dish to share. GO will be providing a delectable cobbler and homemade ice cream for all to share.
8:00 pm - group fire, please bring firewood

Sunday, June 25

9:00 am - pack up and clean up, say our tearful goodbyes
12:00 pm - Check out

Contact Trip Leader: Beth Schneider - email click here / Doug Wylie - email click here

Prices: Prices listed are per person. Each person going must complete a separate registration. We do this so each registrant acknowledges our liability waiver condition.

What to Bring: Camp chair, camping/cooking gear, food, warm/cool/wet weather clothing, potluck item, one bundle of firewood per person and the Ten Essentials.

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