Upcoming events

  • SBVC - June Canary Sunset

    • Wed, June 18, 2025
    • 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM
    • Kimpton Canary Hotel, 31 W Carrillo St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
    Register


    Sunset at the Canary
    benefitting Pacific Pride Foundation
    Theme: Rooted in Pride
    Queens of the night |  Pop Icons

    June 18, 2025   6:00PM-8:00PM

    In lieu of our regular monthly social gatherings, we're excited to announce that we'll be joining our nonprofit partner, Pacific Pride Foundation, for their Canary Rooftop Sunset Mixer in both June and July!

    Enjoy breathtaking views, delicious drinks, upbeat tunes and great company as we mingle and support this fantastic organization.

    Please note: We'll be holding a shortened version of our core group meeting from 5:30-6:00 PM in the hotel lobby for those who wish to attend.

    We look forward to seeing you there!

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  • Pride Night Happy Hour @ MOXI

    • Fri, June 20, 2025
    • 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM
    • MOXI Museum of Exploration & Innovation, 125 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
    Register


    Pride Night Happy Hour (21+)
    @ MOXI, the Wolf Museum of Exploration and Innovation

    Join Great Outdoors Santa Barbara Ventura County and other local LGBT organizations for a fun night of socializing and celebrating our community during Pride Month! We will be hosting a table at the event and are looking for any of our members who would like to be involved! We are brainstorming an activity to provide that will engage the attendees and showcase our organization. Please reply or contact [email protected]!

    If you simply would like to come as an attendee, you're absolutely invited! Tickets are $18 or free if you have a MOXI membership. Scan the QR code above or visit this link to purchase a ticket and we hope to see you there!

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  • CORP - HIKE LEADER Virtual Workshop - Outdoors Experience

    • Wed, June 25, 2025
    • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Zoom Online
    Register

    Great Outdoors Hike Leader Virtual Workshop

    Location: Zoom (link will be provided upon RSVP)

    Who Should Attend:
    All are welcome! Whether you're a seasoned hike leader looking for a refresher or someone interested in becoming a hike leader for the first time, this session is designed for you. Anyone who loves hiking and wants to build skills for leading safe, enjoyable group hikes will benefit.

    Hike Leader Review/Refresher (2 Hours)

    Goal: To refresh experienced hike leaders on essential safety protocols, best practices, and updated procedures for leading successful and safe group hikes.

    I. Welcome, Introductions, and Objectives (10 minutes)

    • Brief welcome and icebreaker (if applicable, depending on group familiarity).
    • Review course objectives:
      • Reinforce key safety procedures.
      • Discuss any updated organizational policies or guidelines.
      • Share best practices and lessons learned specific to the region.
      • Provide a platform for Q&A and discussion.
      • Quick round-robin introductions (if needed), highlighting local experience.

    II. Essential Safety Review: (45 minutes)

    • Pre-Hike Preparation (15 minutes):
      • Reviewing and communicating hike details (difficulty, distance, elevation gain, terrain, heat exposure risk, water requirements).
      • Participant screening and ensuring appropriate gear/preparedness (sun protection, hydration packs, electrolyte considerations).
      • Emergency planning: identifying potential hazards (heatstroke, dehydration, flash floods, wildlife), establishing emergency contacts and procedures.
      • Importance of pre-hike briefings. Importance of signed GO Liability Terms & Conditions from all participants.
    • On-Trail Safety Protocols (20 minutes):
      • Pace management and group cohesion (staying together, sweepers, monitoring for heat stress).
      • Navigation skills refresher (map, compass/GPS basics, trail markings,).
      • Identifying and mitigating common hazards (slips, trips, falls on rocky terrain, encounters with rattlesnakes/scorpions, sudden weather changes in the desert).
      • Basic first aid review: recognizing common injuries and administering basic care, with focus on heat-related illnesses.
      • Communication on the trail (hand signals, verbal cues, consideration of limited cell service).
    • Emergency Procedures (10 minutes):
      • Reviewing established emergency protocols (lost hiker, serious injury, severe weather including flash floods).
      • Using communication devices (radios, phones - limitations and best practices in remote areas).
      • Decision-making in emergency situations, with emphasis on the need for rapid response in heat emergencies.

    III. Best Practices and Updates: (35 minutes)

    • Leave No Trace (LNT) Principles in the Desert (10 minutes):
      • Reinforcing the seven LNT principles and their practical application during group hikes.
      • Addressing specific LNT challenges specific areas. (e.g., fragile desert soils, water conservation, packing out everything).
    • Group Dynamics and Leadership (15 minutes):
      • Effective communication and engagement with participants in challenging conditions. Important role of the sweep.
      • Managing different skill levels and expectations within a group. Adjusting your hike pace as needed.
      • Dealing with challenging participant behavior (if applicable).
      • Promoting a positive and inclusive hiking experience while prioritizing safety.
    • Organizational Updates and Policy Review (10 minutes):
      • Introducing any new or revised organizational policies, procedures, or guidelines related to hike leading.
      • Discussion of any recent incidents or lessons learned from past hikes
    IV. Q&A and Open Discussion: Local Challenges (20 minutes)
    • Open forum for hike leaders to ask questions, share experiences, and discuss challenges.
    • Facilitator addresses questions and encourages peer-to-peer learning.

    V. Wrap-up and Resources (10 minutes)

    • Summary of key takeaways.
    • Distribution of any updated materials or resources (e.g., checklists, emergency contact sheets, policy documents, local resources).
    • Feedback opportunity (brief survey or verbal).
    • Closing remarks and encouragement.








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  • CORP - TRIP LEADER Virtual Workshop - Outdoors Experience

    • Thu, July 10, 2025
    • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Zoom Online
    Register

    Great Outdoors Trip Leader Virtual Workshop

    Ready to sharpen your outdoor leadership skills or curious about becoming a trip leader for Great Outdoors? Join us for our Trip Leader Virtual Workshop on Zoom! This session is designed for everyone—from our seasoned leaders looking for a valuable refresher to those new to leadership roles. With now being the perfect time to start planning for 2026 outings, anyone who wants to build skills for leading safe, fun, and memorable group events will benefit. All are welcome, and we can't wait to see you there!
    • Quick Check-in & Expectations
      • Briefly review poll results.
      • "What's one topic you're hoping to refresh on or get clarity on today?" (Enter your responses in chat).

    II.  Trip Planning & Logistics Refresher (45 minutes)

    Review of GO's Trip Planning Process.

    Prepare for All Chapter Conference in October. Set up a Trip Planning meeting with your Chapter.

    Comprehensive Trip Planning (40 minutes)

    • 10 min: Defining Your Trip Profile & Location
      • Defining Trip Profile (target audience, activity level, trip type).
      • Campground Identification and Considerations (amenities, group size, local regulations).
      • Discussion Point: What's one key consideration for choosing a campground in Southern California?
    • 10 min: Scouting for Success
      • Importance of Scouting (why it's crucial for safety and success).
      • Key elements of a Scouting Checklist.
      • Discussion Point: Share a quick tip or a lesson learned from a recent scouting trip.
    • 10 min: Financial Fundamentals
      • Finances and Budget (overview of common Expenses).
      • Registration Fees (Ticket Type) - setting appropriate fees and what they cover.
      • Key Reminder: GO's financial policies, especially for trips over $1,000 or international trips (no direct collection of payments by GO or leaders).
    • 10 min: Reservations & Logistics
      • Making Reservations (process, timing, securing group sites).
      • Discussion Point: Any recent changes or challenges with making group reservations?

    III. Communicating & Promoting Your Trip (20 minutes)

    • 10 min: Crafting Effective Trip Notes & Resources
      • Importance of clear, comprehensive Trip Notes (GO standards, what must be included).
      • Including essential References: Maps, Books, Websites.
      • Discussion Point: What's one piece of information you always ensure is in your trip notes?
    • 10 min: Cancellations, Refunds & Promotion
      • Review GO's Cancellations & Refunds policy.
      • Brief overview of Event Posting on GO Website (WA) - registration setup.
      • Effective Promotion strategies for your trip.

    IV. Leading Your Trip & On-Site Management (40 minutes)

    • 10 min: Pre-Trip & Arrival Logistics
      • Essential Pre-trip emails to participants (final details, reminders).
      • Leader's Pre-trip preparation (gear, documents, final checks).
      • Arriving at camp and efficient Set up of the camp area.
    • 15 min: Camp Management & Group Engagement
      • Effective Camp management (rules, logistics, assigning basic participant roles). Extra parking, group site gathering location
      • Meet and greet tips (fostering community, setting expectations).
      • Potluck tips (organization, managing dietary needs).
      • Identifying and organizing camp activities, hikes, road trips, museums.
      • Discussion Point: Your best tip for creating a positive camp atmosphere.
    • 15 min: On-Site Risk Management & Safety
      • Brief review of common on-site risks and mitigation:
        • Camp safety (fire safety, proper food storage, tent placement).
        • Environmental hazards (heat/cold exposure, sun protection, water sources).
        • Wildlife awareness at camp (bears, raccoons, snakes).
        • Basic first aid kit availability and knowing when to escalate.
      • Emphasis on the leader's role in continuous monitoring of group well-being and making real-time safety decisions.
      • Quick reminder of emergency contact procedures and communication strategies in remote areas.
      • Quick Scenario: A participant feels unwell at camp – what's your immediate action? (Brief, quick answers in chat or verbal).

    V. Post-Trip & Wrap-up (10 minutes)

    • 5 min: After Your Trip
      • Post-trip follow-up with participants (photo sharing, feedback requests).
      • Financial reconciliation and submitting trip reports.
    • 5 min:  Conclusion: Open Q&A & Resources
      • Open Q&A (brief, final questions).
      • Highlight key GO resources for Trip Leaders (online manuals,, forms, emergency contacts, contacts).







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  • CORP - Website Event Creating and Posting

    • Tue, July 15, 2025
    • 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
    • Zoom online
    Register

    How to create  and manage events on GO WildApricot website.

    We will review how to set up and manage events, including registration categories, registration form options, emails, waitlist settings, tags, and registrant contact management. Get tips for setting up and managing. Bring your questions. 

    Great Outdoors Event Manager Manual: Click Here

    This is for all WildApricot Event Managers with administrative access and any members who plan to have access and would like to learn the process.

    Zoom meeting access link will be in confirmation and reminder emails.

    Contact: Scott Connelly, Chair Outdoor Experience: email click here


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  • SBVC - July Canary Sunset

    • Wed, July 16, 2025
    • 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM
    • Kimpton Canary Hotel, 31 W Carrillo St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
    Register


    Sunset at the Canary
    benefitting Pacific Pride Foundation
    Theme: Rooted in Truth
    Live Musical performance

    July 16, 2025   6:00PM-8:00PM

    In lieu of our regular monthly social gatherings, we're excited to announce that we'll be joining our nonprofit partner, Pacific Pride Foundation, for their Canary Rooftop Sunset Mixer in both June and July!

    Enjoy breathtaking views, delicious drinks, upbeat tunes and great company as we mingle and support this fantastic organization.

    Please note: We'll be holding a shortened version of our core group meeting from 5:30-6:00 PM in the hotel lobby for those who wish to attend.

    We look forward to seeing you there!

    Show details

  • SBVC/PPF - Outside with Pride 2025

    • Sun, July 20, 2025
    • 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
    • 3098 Oso Flaco Road, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
    • 5 registrants
    Register


    We warmly invite you to join us for a delightful docent-led walk with the Pacific Pride Foundation and Great Outdoors Santa Barbara/Ventura Counties at the beautiful Oso Flaco Coastal Trail on July 20th at 0930 AM. The Oso Flaco Lake trail takes folks through various coastal habitats and ends at the beach! This a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature and the local community. 

    Info Link for Oso Flaco:
    https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=30597

    "I would like to acknowledge that these are the traditional lands of the Chumash people who lived in this area and I would like to express my gratitude for their stewardship of the land."


    Oso Flaco Trail

     2.2 mi. 32 ft elevation gain. One way in, and out back. Bring snacks if you'd like!
    When: July 20th, 0930 AM.
    Parking Day Use Fee: $5. There are restrooms by the parking lot and appx. 3/4 mile in.

    Don't forget your Walking/ Hiking Essentials! https://americanhiking.org/resources/10essentials/


    For Questions/Concerns/Comments: Please reach out to PPF Programs Manager J. Trinidad Coates or GO Secretary: Gener B.

    See you out there!

    "GREAT FRIENDS, GREAT TIMES, GREAT OUTDOORS"

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  • CORP Great Outdoors - Quarterly Board Mtg

    • Sat, July 26, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
    • 1301 N Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs, CA 92262
    • 30
    • Be the first
    Register


     

    		  

    California Great Outdoors - Board Meeting

    And Optional Summer Pool Party / Dinner

    Saturday, July 26, 2025, 10 AM -  Board Meeting

    3 PM Pool Party / Dinner

    10:AM Great Outdoors Board meeting. Location: The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert 1301 N Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs, CA 92262, Room 4. It will also be on Zoom.

    When you register for the Corporate Board Meeting,  you will receive the Zoom link in the confirmation email. 

    All GO Board Members and Chapter Representatives attending this meeting will need to register for this event. 

    All GO members are welcome to attend.

    3:00 PM  Everyone attending is invited to PS Summer Pool Party and Catered Dinner at a members residence. If you can stay for the pool party and dinner please RSVP and register for the event : Click Here

    July Board Meeting Agenda 

    April Board Meetings Minutes 

    If you have any questions, please contact Peter Emond-Worline via email - [email protected].

     


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  • CORP - Website Event Creating and Posting

    • Wed, July 30, 2025
    • 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
    • Zoom online
    Register

    How to create events on GO WildApricot website.

    We will review how to set up and manage events, including registration categories, registration form options, emails, waitlist settings, tags, and registrant contact management. Get tips for setting up and managing. Bring your questions. 

    Great Outdoors Event Manager Manual: Click Here

    This is for all WildApricot Event Managers with administrative access and any members who plan to have access and would like to learn the process.

    Zoom meeting access link will be in confirmation and reminder emails.

    Contact: Scott Connelly, Chair Outdoor Experience: email click here


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  • SBVC - Duck Creek, UT Campout

    • Wed, August 06, 2025
    • Sun, August 10, 2025
    • Duck Creek, UT
    • 20
    Register

    Ready for an Escape? Let’s Head to Southern Utah! 

    Tired of the daily grind? Then it’s time to trade traffic for towering trees and spreadsheets for starry skies! Join your Great Outdoors friends on a five-day, four-night camping adventure in the breathtaking landscapes of Southern Utah! 

    We’ll be setting up camp at Duck Creek Campground, a peaceful hideaway nestled in the Dixie National Forest near Cedar City—just 450 miles east of LA. You’ll be surrounded by groves of aspen and Douglas fir, with ancient ponderosa pines (some over 500 years old!) standing tall all around you. 

    There are hiking trails right from camp,Duck Creek Pond and Navajo lake nearby if you feel like casting a line, renting a boat or just kicking back. One day, we’ll hit the trails at Cedar Breaks National Monument—a jaw-dropping natural amphitheater—on a scenic hike along the South Rim Trail (note: there’s a $15–$25 fee per vehicle to enter). We’ll also explore the Mammoth Lava Caves, a wild formation from Utah’s volcanic past. 

    And if that’s not enough? Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks are just about an hour away. If you forget something or need supplies, Duck Creek Village is just down the road with shops, firewood, and a few local eats. 

    So….Let’s get outside, breathe in that mountain air, and make some memories! 

    Details: 

    We have reserved campsites 31,33,34(Loop A) 

    We are allowed one vehicle per site, however there is overflow parking which is about ¼ mile away at the visitor’s center.We may be able to park a few more vehicles at the campsite but that will be figured out when you get there. There is a fee for overflow vehicles in camp which the driver will be reimbursed. 

    Sorry because of the limited space,this is tent camping only. 

    There are no showers so bring your solar shower, however, Pine Wood resorts,which is in Duck Creek Village,offer showers if availability permits, $10/person. 

    Campground amenities include flush toilets, fire rings, picnic tables and potable water. 

    Make sure to bring firewood and buy it locally as they are discouraging firewood brought in from outside the area due to exotic pest infestation. 

    For more info about duck Creek Campground go to:  

    Duck Creek, Dixie National Forest - Recreation.gov 

     

    Registration:$65 per person, 5 days and 4 nights. 

    Registration by credit card only 

    Each camp site is allowed one vehicle per site, (we probably can squeeze a few more in) but overflow parking is available at the visitor’s center, and carpooling is highly encouraged to limit the number of vehicles.  Let the trip leader know if you have room to share in your vehicle. 

    Itinerary: 

    Wednesday Aug. 6th: Arrival AFTER 2pm. Meet and Greet tea and other yummies! Feel free to share your favorite finger food and/or beverage if you so desire, GO will be providing drinks and snacks as well.  BYOB. Dinner on your own. Campfire gathering 

    Thursday Aug. 7th: Breakfast on your own. Explore local trails around the area, TBD at the site. Lunch on your own, more exploring, Potluck dinner!  Prepare your favorite dish for 4 to 6 people.  Campfire gathering 

    Friday Aug 8th:Breakfast on your own then drive to Cedar Breaks National Monument (carpooling to be figured out) Pack a lunch. Taking the5-mile South Rim trail which offers spectacular views, a moderately strenuous hike but well worth it!Have plenty of water, comfortable hiking shoes and sunscreen! Dinner at a nearby restaurant. (Paesano’s Pizzeria or Aunt Sues Chalet) Return for our Campfire gathering. 

    Saturday Aug 9th:Breakfast on your own, visit Navajo Lake, maybe rent a boat or walk around the lake, more exploring TBD. Have lunch in Duck Creek Village. Dinner on your own, relax, take in the beauty, campfire gathering. 

    Sunday Aug 10th: Our last day!  Breakfast on your own, pack up and head out and prepare for your next GO adventure! 

    Note: This itinerary is subject to change as weather, moods and circumstances permit! 

    Refund Policy: Cancel on or before August 4th you will receive a refund minus a $15 processing fee.Sorry but no refunds will be issued after that date. 

    Contact the trip leader if you need to cancel. 

    This event is limited to GO members only.  When you register, you’ll need to have your credit card ready and pay your registration fee within 15 minutes.  If you’re not a member, you can first join as a member online and then return to register for the event.  We’d love to have you join!! 

    Dogs are allowed if they are on a leash. 

    Weather this time of year is usually pleasantly warm and breezy (low 80’s high 70’s) Very slight chance of rain but it has been known that an occasional thunderstorm can pass through now and again, so be prepared! 

    Bring your 10 essentials, camping and cooking gear, food and a bundle or two or three of firewood. (We can always go down the road to buy more) 

    Sunscreen and a wide brimmed hat and comfortable hiking shoes highly recommended! 

    Additional e-mails will be sent out with more details, changes and other pertinent info as the date of the trip nears. 


    Your Trip Leader, Brian Miller: Duck Creek, UT (circa 1963)
    [email protected]     

     

     


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  • CORP - Training - Interest Survey - Outdoors Experience -

    • Fri, October 03, 2025
    • 12:00 PM
    • Sun, October 05, 2025
    • 12:00 PM
    • TBD To Be Determined
    Register

       OUTDOORS EXPERIENCE

    Hike Leader - Trip Leader

    Let us know if you are interested in participating in or learning more about our Outdoor Experience training programs. No dates or locations have been determined yet, but stay tuned for updates!

    In-Person Training: Hike/Trip Leader

    • Duration: 2-day weekend 

    • Location: To be announced

    Workshops:

    1. Trip Leading Virtual Workshop:

      • Learn the essentials of planning and leading successful trips.

      • Interactive sessions with experienced trip leaders.

    2. Hike Leading Virtual Workshop:

      • Master the skills required to lead safe and enjoyable hikes.

      • Tips and techniques for navigating different terrains.

    3. Mastering Outdoor Skills Virtual Workshop:

      • Develop essential outdoor skills.

      • Topics include wilderness survival, first aid, and navigation.

    4. Website Event Manager:

      • Learn how to set up and administer events online.

      • Step-by-step guidance on using event management tools.

    5. Other - let us know

    Why Join?

    • Gain invaluable skills for leading outdoor adventures.

    • Network with like-minded outdoor enthusiasts.

    • Enhance your confidence and leadership abilities.

    How to Register:

    • Interest Form: Click on Register and you can choose which options are of interest to you and give us suggestions.

    • Contact : Scott Connelly, Chair Outdoor Experience: email click here

    We look forward to embarking on this journey with you. Let's explore the great outdoors together!






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  • SBVC - Santa Cruz Island Campout

    • Thu, October 09, 2025
    • Sun, October 12, 2025
    • Scorpion Canyon Campground, Channel Islands National Park
    • 18
    Register


    Great Outdoors Santa Barbara / Ventura County presents…

    A Santa Cruz Island Campout

    October 9 - 12, 2024

    Escape to Santa Cruz Island, the largest of California's Channel Islands, and immerse yourself in breathtaking ocean views and relaxing beach time. Join us at Scorpion Canyon Campground, sheltered from harsh ocean winds and located a short hike from the pier, for a classic getaway experience.

    Discover the island's rich cultural history, shaped by over 10,000 years of Native American inhabitation and 150 years of European exploration and ranching. Marvel at the magnificent landscapes and unique biodiversity, home to over 600 plant species, 140 land birds, 11 land mammals, and various amphibians and reptiles. Keep an eye out for the island fox and island scrub-jay, found nowhere else in the world!

    The trip will begin on Thursday, October 9th (8:30 AM departure from the dock at Ventura harbor - arrive at 7:30 AM), with an option to boat in on Friday, October 10th, and will conclude on Sunday, October 12th in the early evening (12 PM return to Ventura harbor).  We have arranged two group campsites and boat transportation over to the island, all covered by your trip fee. 

    No services are provided on the island (such as a general store), so bring all provisions that you will need during your stay (don’t forget your 10 essentials).

    Potable water is available at the campsite, however.

    Bring your own reusables! To keep our impact on nature as small as possible, no disposables plates or utensils will be provided.

    Prep for a schlep. The campsites are about a quarter of a mile hike from the pier, so pack accordingly. We may rent a wagon or two to help haul some stuff. If you're taking a cooler, make sure it has wheels and don’t forget the ice!

    A tandem kayak may be available for individuals to use to explore the incredible coastline, though if you have your own kayak that you would like to take or would like to rent one, you can do so by contacting Island Packers (805) 642-1393 to arrange for rental and/or transportation. There are special regulations for kayaking around the island: you must have life vests and helmets (for falling rocks). Island Packers can advise you on all the details. 

    This jewel off our coast offers some of the most beautiful ocean and landscape views to be had in Southern California, we hope to see you there!

    Cancellation Policy
    You may cancel for a full refund on or before Thursday, September 18th.  Cancellations after September 18 will not be eligible for a refund.


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  • San Diego/CORP - 47th All Chapter Conference and Campout

    • Thu, October 16, 2025
    • 2:00 PM
    • Sun, October 19, 2025
    • 10:00 AM
    • William Heise County Park, 4945 Heise Park Road, Julian, CA 92036

    We're Off to the Wicked & Wild Great Outdoors!

    47th Annual All Chapter Conference


     Join us this fall when the prettiest cyclone you've ever seen brings sparkling bubbles from Palm Springs, Los Angeles, Orange County/Long Beach, Santa Barbara/Venture County, and San Diego. The bubbles will descend full of happy campers ready for a weekend of fellowship, dancing, slippers covered in non-descript gems, a tricky doll that people keep wanting to steal, and the annual meetings that keep us strong (and legal)!

    Thursday, Oct 

    Friday, Oct 

    Saturday Oct 

    Sunday, Oct


    Business Meetings: 

    Friday,  Oct 

    Saturday, Oct 

    Registration:

    • Day Tripper– $5.00

    • 1st Tent camper- 

    • 2nd Tent camper - 

    • 1st RV Camper - The price is per site because we have a total of 15 RV sites with a maximum space of 40 feet.

    • 2nd RV Camper - 

    • Payments: Registration is available to Great Outdoors members only.- Click Here for Membership

    • Carpool Information: 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.

    • Quiet hours: 10pm - 8am.

    • Non-Campers: Lodging can be found in Julian, CA nearby https://visitjulian.com/lodging/#!directory

    • Pets: Welcomed if leashed, controlled, picked up after. Dogs are only allowed on paved trails.

    Conference FAQs

    What is the difference between a regular GO campout and a conference campout?

    Conference is held once every year in October (as required in the by-laws) where delegates from each of the five chapters and the Corp board come together to:

    • Nominate and elect a new Corporate Board for the upcoming year.

    • Vote and amend any by-law changes that may occur.

    • Schedule and coordinate the next year's camping trips.

    • Special awards and recognition will be presented.

    Who puts on the Conference?

    • Hosting conference is on a rotational basis by one of the five chapters.

    • This year is hosted by the San Diego Chapter.

    Do I need to attend any of these business meetings?

    • Only if you are a chapter delegate, a corporate committee chair or Corporate Board member; however, all are welcome to attend.

    Can I come to any of these meetings if I am not on the Corp board or a delegate?

    • Yes! We encourage anyone who is interested in how our organizational leadership works to come and observe our meetings!

    What if I am not part of the Corp board or a delegate, can I still attend the conference?

    • Yes! There will be other planned activities and events to attend..

    • This is a great opportunity to become acquainted with GO leaders, members, and learn the organization of Great Outdoors.

    Can I attend the day activities without camping?

    • Yes, register for day use only.

    Volunteer?

    • Each Chapter elects or appoints a Board Representative to represent your Chapter at all GO Corp. meetings. 

    • The GO Board also consists of the following appointed committees or positions:  Archives, Awards, Bylaws, Outings, Outdoors Experience, and Webmaster

    • If you are interested in running for one of the three (3) elected positions or serving on one of our Committees, attend the meetings and let us know.


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  • Outdoor Experience Hike - Trip Leader Training SAVE THE DATE

    • Fri, January 23, 2026
    • Sun, January 25, 2026
    • Palm Springs

    SAVE THE DATE

    OUTDOOR EXPERIENCE HIKE  LEADER AND TRIP LEADER TRAINING

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  • CORP- All Chapter Jamboree - Save the Date!

    • Thu, May 28, 2026
    • 12:00 PM
    • Sun, May 31, 2026
    • 12:00 PM
    • Hurkey Creek Campground


    ALLCHAPTER JAMBOREE

    SAVE THE DATE

    This event is being planned by Great Outdoors Corporate. For more information about this trip, check back here for updates. The event will be either the last weekend in May or the first weekend in June.





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  • CORP- All Chapter Jamboree - Save the Date!

    • Thu, June 04, 2026
    • 12:00 PM
    • Sun, June 07, 2026
    • 12:00 PM
    • Hurkey Creek Campground


    ALLCHAPTER JAMBOREE

    This event is being planned by Great Outdoors Corporate. For more information about this trip, check back here for updates.  The event will be either the last weekend in May or the first weekend in June. 




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You may filter your Santa Barbara/Ventura County (SBVC) Chapter event selections by clicking on one of these links:
 Hikes - Camping - Backpacking - Day Events  - Social Events - Movie Nights - Meetings - All Events

To see all the events by the other GO Chapters, click on one of these links:
  Hikes - Camping - Backpacking - Training - Social Events - Meetings - All Events

If you have any questions for the SBVC Chapter, email us at: [email protected]


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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 policyy