Why should I come?

This is a great way to get connected with people from church. You may connect with people that you otherwise would never cross paths with (balcony people have opportunity to get to know floor level people; first service folk meet second service attenders. If you have children, you may find people with children the same age as yours. This is a great way to deepen friendships so we can know each other and build each other up.

 

When is this event?

August 2-4, Friday afternoon any time after 2 through Sunday late morning (check out time is noon).  The site is reserved for both Friday night and Saturday night.

 

Where is this event?

Fir Group Campsite in the Sequoia National Forest.  Check out the link or, if you prefer, we’ll have directions ready for you.

 

What if I forget something?

According to REI’s site reviewing this campground, “The Giant Sequoia Mercantile offers a wide variety of books, maps, gifts, local art, camping supplies and other merchandise.” 

 

Can I borrow a tent or a chair?  

We have a few to loan - let us know what you need and we’ll see what’s available.

 

What do I need to bring?
  • Tent
  • Sleeping bag or blankets
  • Air mattress / sleeping pad recommended
  • Flashlights
  • Sunblock / insect repellent
  • Swimsuit if you want to try the water at the lake
  • Personal items
Speaking of tents, will someone at our site help me set it up?

Absolutely!  If you sign up, we’ll make sure to have someone ready, or you can just ask for help when you get there.

 

Should I be worried about critters?

The National Park website says this is black bear country, and food should be kept in the provided bear boxes.

 

What is there to do?
  • Hume Lake is nearby - every year a group heads down to splash around or fish.  It’s about a half hour drive from this campground.
  • Trails are nearby - every year a group takes a hike.
  • Stay in camp and play games, read, enjoy a craft, or take a nap. Every year folks relax at camp.
  • Talent show - some years we hold these on Saturday night, some years we don’t.
  • Sunday morning service in the open-air “cathedral of the pines.”

 

What are the campground amenities?

There are picnic tables, benches around the firepit, bear boxes to store food, faucets for clean drinking water, and pit toilets.  Showers are available across the highway at Stony Creek Lodge.

 

How much does it all cost?
  • $30 for adults 26 years and up for the trip
  • $15 for those 25 and under

 

Please note:  There is a $35 charge per vehicle to come through the park, which allows a 1-week pass.  If you pay $80, you can get an annual pass ($20 for a Senior Pass for those 62 and older) which will be good through the end of August of next year - see the national park site for more details.

 

Do I have to bring my own food?

No!  That’s one of the benefits of this trip - the menu is planned and the food is brought up by camp “hosts.”  You may have special snacks in mind that you want to bring for yourself or to share. Just remember to get everything put safely back in the bear boxes over night.

 

Do I have to prepare my own food?

You get to help by signing up for one (1) session of preparing or cleaning, and then you’re done for the weekend!  Get to know church family by signing up to work with people you don’t know as well yet.

 

Can I bring a friend?

Sure!  It’s up to you to figure out which of you is paying for what, but this is definitely not a closed group.