Upcoming events

  • SBVC -Jalama Beach Camp Ground

    • Thu, September 03, 2026
    • 3:00 PM
    • Mon, September 07, 2026
    • 11:00 AM
    • Jalama Beach, CA
    • 18
    Register

     Join us for a relaxing getaway to one of California's most spectacular coastal campgrounds!


    Nestled along the rugged shoreline about an hour west of Santa Barbara, Jalama Beach offers a rare opportunity to unplug, unwind, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Central Coast. Early September is one of the best times to visit. The summer crowds have begun to thin, while the days remain warm and sunny with cool, comfortable evenings perfect for gathering around a campfire. Wake up to the sound of crashing waves, take a leisurely stroll along miles of sandy beach, search for shells and driftwood, or simply sit back and watch pelicans, dolphins, and perhaps even migrating whales offshore.

    No visit to Jalama is complete without trying the legendary Jalama Burger at the campground's beachfront store and grill—a favorite among campers and day visitors alike. The camp store also carries groceries, camping essentials, ice, firewood, and other necessities, making it easy to settle in and enjoy your stay. Evenings are magical at Jalama. As the sun sinks into the Pacific, the sky often explodes into brilliant shades of orange, pink, and purple before giving way to a canopy of stars rarely seen from the city. It's the perfect setting for happy hour, shared meals, campfire stories, and great conversation with your Great Outdoor friends old and new. Whether you're looking for peaceful solitude, outdoor adventure, or simply a weekend of good company in an unforgettable setting, Jalama Beach is the perfect destination. Pack your camping gear, bring your favorite beach chair, and come enjoy one of California's hidden coastal treasures with us!

    Cost: $100 for drivers or $80 for passengers.

    Campout start time: Thursday, Sept. 3, 2026 -check-in 3 pm, check-out Mon. Sept. 7, 11:00 AM.  Duration: 4 nights, 5 days.

    Location: Jalama State Beach, 9999 Jalama Rd, Lompoc, CA 93436.

    Star Fish Group Site.


    Special Note:  Jalama Beach is about 20 miles South of Vandenberg Space Force Base (VSFB), which is where most, if not all west coast rocket launches take place. (90% SpaceX) There is the possibility one could launch during our camp out!  -Its averaging 3/month! You can refer to rocket launch schedule times and what actions we may need to take at this link:

    Vandenberg SFB - Space Launch Schedule

    Itinerary:

    Thursday, Sept. 3

    • 3:00 PM - Check-in NOTE: we are limited to 8 vehicles -no overflow parking, sorry no RV's, carpooling is required!
    • 5:30 PM - Meet and greet, bring something to share,BYOB, dinner on your own
    • 7:00 PM - Group Camp Fire  -Star Gazing

    Friday, Sept. 4

    • Breakfast on your own, 
    • Beach walk/hike explore the amazing area.
    • Lunch at Jalama Burger or on your own
    • Relax, enjoy the surf!
    • 6:00 PM Dinner on your own
    • Group Camp fire

    Saturday, Sept. 5

    • Beach hike more exploring
    • Road trip, possible visit to Lompoc's famous 'Wine Ghetto'
    • 6:00 PM potluck, practice your culinary skills!
    • 7:30 PM group fire

    Sunday, Sept. 6

    • Breakfast on your own -FYI Jalama Burger serves great coffee and donuts!
    • Day trip Picnic to historic La Purisima Mission
    • Dinner on our own (maybe a local eatery?)
    • 7:30 Group Fire   
    Monday, Sept. 7 (Labor Day)
    • Another stroll on the beach, contemplate the meaning of life, have a sip of your favorite morning drink
    • Pack-up 11:00 am check out and return to reality!

    The groups site includes (4) picnic tables, (1) prep table, (2) 30-amp RV pedestals -25 yards from the restrooms.  Hot showers and flush toilets are nearby.

    We are limited to only 8 vehicles with no overflow parking.  Each 'tent first person' registration includes parking for 1 vehicle, the second or third person etc. registered with you must arrive in same vehicle.  Due to the  parking limit, because of this limitation, sorry no RV's.

    You must be a paid GO member to register.  If you are not a GO member, visit our Join page, click here,  and sign up as a member and then return here to register for this event.

    Refund Policy: Full refund if cancellation is prior to 20 days (August 14) before the event.  50% refund 10 days (August 24)  No refund after that.

    Any questions contact trip Leaders:

    Justin or Brian

     


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  • SBVC - Monthly Meeting September 2026

    • Wed, September 09, 2026
    • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
    • Pepe's Mexican Restaurant - 254 Orange Av, Goleta
    • 27
    Register

    Great Outdoors SBVC
    Santa Barbara & Ventura Counties

    Monthly Meeting,
    Wednesday, September 9, 2026
    from 6:00 to 8:00 PM
    @ Pepe's in Goleta


    Join us as we prepare for our
    2026 All-Chapter Conference & Campout
    hosted by GO-SBVC at beautiful Cachuma Lake
    Into The Woods

    This October, we’re heading Into the Woods for a campy adventure-filled weekend of hiking, fun in the sun by the lake, good food, great entertainment, an awards ceremony, and, of course, our business meetings. A great time with friends old and new—and there’s room for everyone around our campfire.

      

       

    • When & Where:

    • Parking is free in the restaurant lot or across the street
    • Please RSVP and we'll save you a seat
    • We meet in the back private dining area next to patio
    • Pepe's usually limits the total number of separate checks to 4

    Find your people. Get out and explore together.
    Building community through shared adventures.


    Pepe's Mexican Restaurant-Old Town Goleta
    254 Orange Avenue

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  • SBVC - Flying Club & Primetimers Picnic

    • Sat, September 12, 2026
    • 11:00 AM
    • 5986 Sandspit Road, Goleta, CA 93117
    • 3 registrants
    Register

    Flying Club & Primetimers Picnic


    Join GO-SBVC, our friends from Unusual Attitudes — the LGBT Flying Club, and the Prime Timers of the Central Coast for a fun-filled afternoon of food, friends, and good times! 


     WHEN: Saturday, September 12, 2026
     ARRIVE: 11:00 AM
     LUNCH: 12:00 PM
     WHERE: Goleta Beach Park, Picnic Area C 

    Bring your camping chairs as there is limited seating.

    GO-SBVC will be providing the burgers, dogs and fixings.
    PTCC will be bringing sides and desserts.
    Don't forget any special beverages you may require.

    Please RSVP/register by Wednesday so that we can get a good headcount.
    See you there!


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  • SBVC - Lake Lopez California: Arroyo Grande Harvest Festival Weekend!

    • Thu, September 24, 2026
    • 4:00 PM
    • Sun, September 27, 2026
    • 12:00 PM
    • 6800 Lopez Drive, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
    • 35
    • 5 registrants
    Register


    ag harv fest web banner 124.jpg

    Lake Lopez - Arroyo Grande Harvest Festival

    The Arroyo Grande Harvest Festival is a local favorite event that features everything from entertainment to food, scarecrow and baking contests, games for the kids, movie night, and so much more! This family-friendly event highlights the best of Arroyo Grande and its neighboring communities. Harvest festival not your thing? Lake Lopez has lots to offer as well, with fishing, boating, zip-lining, water slide activities, hiking, and more! Also the Arroyo Grande area has several wonderful wineries minutes from Lake Lopez for touring and tasting! The village of Arroyo Grande is sprinkled with antique shops galore as well! 
    Your weekend is only limited by your imagination folks! 

    So come join us for a four day weekend of fun, friends and relaxation! 

    When: Sept 24 - 27, 2026 @ Lopez Lake Recreation Area-El Jardin Group Site

    Thursday-Check-in starts at 3pm-come on in, set up, settle in, meet your fellow campers and enjoy some snacks after all that set up work! 

    Friday-Harvest Festival starts in the afternoon at 4pm, so that gives you the whole morning to explore Lake Lopez itself, or the surrounding areas. 
    Saturday-Today's got a lot going on, with the Harvest Festival Parade from 1000-1130AM in town. Followed by the Harvest Festival Wiener Dog Races from 2pm-3pm. 

    Sunday-A mellow morning of breakfast with your fellow campers and packing up, as check out is at 1100AM. 
    So come on out to this central coast location and enjoy your Great Outdoors folks! 

    PARKING LIMIT-As always, there is a limitation of how many vehicles (ANYTHING with a license plate {car, truck, travel trailer, motorhome} counts!) of 10 vehicles for this trip. So please please please, carpool if you can, and if there's any question, please touch base with your trip leader:
    Joe D-805-588-1142
    [email protected]

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  • SBVC/CORP - 48th All Chapter Conference and Campout

    • Fri, October 16, 2026
    • 4:00 PM
    • Sun, October 18, 2026
    • 1:00 PM
    • Cachuma Lake Recreation Area, 2225 CA-154, Santa Barbara, CA 93105
    Register

    ~~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 4:00 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

    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 but one version of this list is as follows:
    1. Navigation
    2. Headlamp
    3. Sun Protection
    4. First Aid
    5. Knife
    6. Fire
    7. Shelter
    8. Extra food
    9. Extra water
    10. Extra clothes

    EVENTS:

    FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16
    -Meet and Greet
    -Raffle tickets
    -Afternoon Tea SBVC Provided
    -Dinner is on your own
    -Entertainment

    SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17
    -Breakfast SBVC Provided
    -Corporate Meetings
    -Mid-Day Activities
    -Lunch is on your own
    -Happy Hour
    -Dinner SBVC Provided and Awards
    -Entertainment

    SUNDAY, OCTOBER 18
    -Breakfast SBVC Provided
    -Clean-up and pack


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  • CORP - Outdoors Experience - Hike Leader - Trip Leader -- SAVE THE DATE

    • Fri, February 19, 2027
    • 1:00 PM
    • Sun, February 21, 2027
    • 12:00 PM
    • O'Neil Regional Park, Trabuco, CA

    OUTDOORS EXPERIENCE

      Hike Leader - Morning 4 hrs
      Trip Leader - Afternoon 4 hrs


      You may attend one, or both training sessions.  Option to camp for the weekend or just come in for the day.

      The training is open to all interested members, including novice hikers, but even those of us who have been hiking for many years come away with new skills or insights.

      Some more great things about the training:


      •  The courses are free for those who complete their training.*  
      •  The information about emergency response could save your life.
      •  The discussion of leadership and people skills has applications beyond the hiking trail.
      •  The certification allows you to lead other day trips you may be interested in, such as bike rides or museum visits. (Anything that broadens our awareness of our environment is a valid outing.)
      * Money paid for personal copies of the training manuals will be refunded upon successful completion of the course.  
        The next Outdoor Experience Training is the second weekend in April at O'Neil Reginal Park in Trabuco, California.  Participants can enjoy hiking, dining, and camping together around the full day of training in the campground's Clubhouse. The hike leader training is on a Saturday morning, and is followed by training on leading overnight trips.

        Friday April 10

        1 pm Check-in campground:  Check in at the Office; tell them you are with Great Outdoors.

        3:30 pm - Fun hike nearby. We will adjust the time if needed to accommodate those arriving on Friday and camping for the training. This is a welcome and training hike for attendees.  We will discuss and demonstrate the Ten Essentials and safety protocols on the trail.  Sunset at 7:13 pm.

        6 pm -- Meet and Greet at campground; Bring something to share. Dinner on your own.

        Saturday April 11 - Training class at the Clubhouse. 

        • 8 am - 12 pm  Hike Leader Training    
        • 1 pm - 5 pm Trip Leader Training
        • 5:30 pm  Potluck at campground

        Sunday April 12 

        8:30 am -12:00 - Training hike nearby where participants will be confronted with a variety of situations that one may encounter on the trail.

        DAY HIKE LEADER - SECTION I

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

        Hike Leader Syllabus

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

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

        Objectives: Introduce participants to the skills, knowledge and qualifications of a hike leader. Present skills for leading a safe, environmentally responsible and enjoyable hike.

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

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

        Pre-Course Assignment: Review training manuals and video:

        Link to Training Resources:  click here

        Printed manuals available at the training location at no cost to participants. Option to have manual(s) mailed to you upon registration.

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

        TRIP LEADERSHIP - OVERNIGHT EVENTS - SECTION II 

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

        Course Outline:

        • Create a new trip or update a former trip.

        • Planning, scouting, securing reservations.

        • Finances and budget.

        • Create a trip description and promotion.

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

        • Communicate with participants to provide information and answer questions.

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

        Course Length/Hours: 4 hours.

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

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

        Weather: Average: February 77° / 47° Joshua Tree, CA: current: click here

        Facilities:  Courses will be conducted in the campground Clubhouse with tables, chairs, projector, TV monitor and restrooms.  

        Overnight accommodations:

        Camping at Joshua Tree RV & Campground:  8 tent sites (20 x 30 pads) that can accommodate 2 tents per site.  If needed, 2 RV sites that can accommodate 2 tents per site.  

        Motels located nearby: Safari Motor Inn and Casa De Frank

        More information:

        Course Preparation: You are encouraged to review the Outdoor Experience Training Manuals and material at the following link ahead of time. Please print out and review the applicable review questions below prior to the training.  

        Link to Training Resources: Click Here

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

        Print and complete the following review questions and bring them with you:

        HIKE LEADER REVIEW QUESTIONS with Page Ref 2022.08.05.pdf.

        TRIP LEADER REVIEW QUESTIONS with Page Ref 2022.08.05.pdf

        © 1981 - 2026 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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      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]


      © 1981 - 2026 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., 
      a 501(c)(7) not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQIA+ and Allies organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved. Privacy policyy