California Experiences & Outdoor Adventures

4.3•56 ratings

About us

Member Owned (without any $$$ investment required) Created Travel, Experiences and Adventures with a Purpose.
Below are the main hosting groups for events & trips.

California Experiences & Outdoor Adventures :
This our/your Meetup Group for SoCal and Surrounding Area Experiences, Outdoor Adventures and Small Group Customized Trips. ***ALL members joining this Group may organize and Post Meetup Events at no charge via this Group. If you would like to become an Event Organizer and start creating events, contact us. Make sure you follow the rules below for posting meetups.

Hike, Bike, Kayak & Walk SoCal : This our/your Meetup Group for SoCal and Surrounding Area Kayak/SUPing, Biking, Hiking & Walking Events. ***ALL members joining this Group may organize and Post Meetup Events at no charge via this Group. If you would like to become an Event Organizer and start creating events, contact us. Make sure you follow the rules below for posting meetups.

Goodwill Ambassadors Travel :
This is our/your parent Group based in SoCal that showcases ALL Groups Created Experiences, Outdoor Adventures and Small Group Trips regardless of location as the other 4 Groups are Location Specific. We also peruse sites for the BEST WOW Events and Trips.

Central Florida Based Group:
Kayak, Bike, Hike & Walk Central Florida
Caliridion
Florida Experiences & Outdoor Adventures

I am as many of us Blessed to be involved in multi projects/businesses on the U.S. West Coast and U.S. East Coast. Suggestions are always welcomed to make these Meetup Groups Better and Better!!! Thanks, Steven.

Updated: 04/07/25
Best Practices for Events Steven Caliridion/Goodwill Ambassador Steve is Hosting
1) Most Events are limited to 18 incl. Host/Guide. Most Events are posted on a Maximum of 3 Meetup Sites to avoid over cross-posting. Once limit is reached others go on a wait-list.

2) 3Days prior to event start time host/guide Steven Caliridion/Goodwill Ambassador Steve will Post a Re-Confirmation of GOING Notice in the Event Comments Section and any Event Updates. We Require Re-Confirmation of GOING by reply to message sent to all RSVP GOING by just replying "Going w Event Code" up to 24hrs. before start time of most events if no wait-list or 48hr. before start time of event if event is maxed and has a wait-list. If no re-confirmation is received by 48hrs. prior to event start time spot(s) available will be released to those on a wait-list. For those on a wait-list, spots will be released via prvt. message with Confirmation Reply of GOING Required by Host/Guide up to 24 hrs. prior to event via reply to this message. Once maximum number of spots have been re-confirmed all others on a wait-list will be given notice that event has maxed out. Event RSVPs close 48hrs./2Days prior to event. If you need to Edit your RSVP and are having trouble you can give notice in the events comment section or prvt message me.

3) 24 hrs. prior to Event Total Re-Confirmed Going will be posted in Event Comment Section regardless of total RSVP Going number shown which will give us a better number of those actually showing vs no-shows. This also should be the latest host Steven Caliridion/Goodwill Ambassador Steve cancels or changes an event unless unforeseen issues or weather conditions.

4) Habitual changing status from Going to Not-Going on Meetup 12hrs. or less prior to event start time is cause for person(s) being flagged and for possible removal from group.

5) ZELLO Instant 2Way Walkie Talkie Communication w FREE Download . Talk w me and the group via Goodwill Ambassadors Travel channel. This is the easiest way to communicate w Host/Guide and Group starting 1.5hrs. before events. TRY it!!! ***Unique Channels may be created for events***

6) Most Events Start Time show a 15min. meet&greet time prior to actual starting of event. Any Late Arrivals once event has started may get updated info via the FREE Zello 2-WayWalkie Talkie Communication APP on the unique event channel. which is preferred vs messaging which is easier and faster for the host/guide to respond.

7) 3x that an attendee fails to show at an event without changing status Going to Not-Going is cause for removal from group.

8) Host Steven Caliridion/Goodwill Ambassador Steve has the option to cancel event or non-host/guide event up to 24hrs. prior to event if a min. of 4 Re-Confirmed Attendees is not reached, weather and/or other.

***All notices above and last minute notices will be given in the Comments Section of Meetup event and also in the discussion section of event via the hosting Facebook Page/Group. This is an additional way all attendees can stay updated and on any last minute changes to event. ***If you are getting too many emails go to settings and adjust but be sure to check comments of event starting 4Days Prior to event.
***Most events Steven Caliridion/Goodwill Ambassador Steve Host will be min. of 4.

====RULES FOR POSTING MEETUPS=====
Before posting your meetup, come back here and check the rules for posting a meetup BEFORE you post to make sure your meetup is acceptable. Meetups not following these rules will be deleted.
You can post anything you like as long as it's not
- Something offensive (you have some leeway here, just don't piss people off).
***Group Trips should be posted on Caliridion Travel and/or Goodwill Ambassadors Travel Groups. Contact if you would like to be able to create trips and post. ***
- Something illegal
- Something that's similar to a craigslist post.
- Something that is overtly or covertly promotional without express permission in advance of The Admin of the group
- Something that is trying to promote an App or Website or Social Media. Hooch or other scams are not allowed.
- Posts of events of other groups is OK WITH permission of The Admin. No links to other groups. The event must be able to stand on its own. Do NOT divert or direct members to other groups.
NO OUTSIDE LINKS ALLOWED UNLESS ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY: Outside links are links to websites, or social media or anything. You are only allowed to use outside links if they are ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY to your meetup, AND you get prior approval from Admin. If you do not have approval: the links or event will be removed.
DO NOT E-MAIL MESSAGE THE GROUP UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES: You may not email members or message the group via meetup using the bulk email feature for any reason, if you think or feel you need to do so, message The Admin to do it for you. ***You MAY message and/or email those that already RSVPd to CONFIRM GOING to your event or to let them know about any changes. Do this directly and NOT with the bulk email feature. Violation of this will result in immediate removal, and then you can explain after and get back in the group.
SPAM: If you use the "discussion box" feature or if you use bulk email to spam groups you will be removed. There is zero tolerance for spam from Event Organizers or Members of this group. This group will not be associated with allowing spam. Do not overuse the discussion box since we ALL receive more than enough messages/e-mails to try to weed through.
YOU MUST ATTEND YOUR OWN MEETUP: You must host the meetup in-person and be present at your own meetup. You must least a clear way and where for people to meetup at the event. If there is a no host event you will be asked to add a host or the event will be removed. https://Meetup.com rules state there are no "No Host" events allowed.
THE MORE NOTICE THE BETTER: Meetups MUST be posed at least 1 day in advance, but the more the better. Please don't post any same-day or last-minute meetups; it's not enough time for people to make plans to attend. Four weeks advance will get you the most RSVP's
Important:::MEETUPS MUST BE MEETUP ORIENTED and ***related to what the Group is about.***
DO NOT EDIT OR DELETE ANYONE ELSE'S MEETUP: Admin will ban anyone that edits or deletes someone else's meetup without their permission.
Frequency: It is ideal to NOT repeat an event less than 6 weeks. There are exceptions. Just ask The Admin if you wish to post carbon copy events in less time. This rule is aimed at event promoters or bands. Repeating a band at a different location is a repeat. If you think The Admin will see your event as a copy that you are promoting, then contact first and ask for permission
Money: If your event has a charge of more than $10 You MUST message the main admin BEFORE you post.
MEETUPS THAT VIOLATE THE ABOVE RULES WILL BE EDITED or DELETED. The person who posted it may receive a warning afterwards or they may be removed and placed on hold pending sorting out of any issues. IF your event is Edited or Deleted contact The Admin. Do NOT re-insert removed content.
If any negative issues are suspected or encountered please contact us directly @ GoodwillAmbassadorTravel@gmail.com
STANDARD DISCLAIMER OF LIABILITY:DISCLAIMER: Group organizer and assistant organizers assume no liability unless made notice of. By being a member of this group you hereby agree to assume all risks and liability related to or resulting from any group functions. You agree that neither you nor any third party will hold any of the group's leaders, officers, or representatives liable for any injury, loss, or damage to your own person or any members of your family, friends, acquaintances, children, pets, or property, arising directly or as a consequence from a group activity. You also agree that your membership of this group is based on an "at will" basis. See the Meetup terms of service: https://www.meetup.com/terms .

Upcoming events

See all

1st Holiday Mixer of the season: Potluck@Hollywood Sculpture Garden (free event)
Sat, Nov 7 · 4:00 PM PST
The Hollywood Sculpture Garden, 2430 Vasanta Way, Hollywood, CA 90068, USA, Los Angeles, CA, US
The Hollywood Sculpture Garden is really a neat place . . . AND WE GET TO VISIT AND HAVE A SOCIAL THERE!!!

It's located on private property and not normally open to the public. So it is indeed a special thing for us to go.

(for free)

Now . . . About this event: It is outdoors in a super-funky, pretty and cute location of The Hollywood Sculpture Garden.

This is intended as a "New To Meetup Mixer." Meaning if you are new to Meetup, or new to the group, been in the group for a while but not attended an event or even just new to the city, . . . then come.

A perfect way to meetup some quality people over some even better wine.

And very perfect if this is your first meetup ever!! Come join us.

If you are an existing member, . . . then you are equally welcome. After all . . who will be the welcome wagon for all the new people?

Now . . . A little bit MORE about this event:

Sunset is expected for 4:55 PM

4 PM Event STARTS
4 to 5 PM . . . General arrival window.
4:55 PM . . . . Sunset (if all goes according to plan)
6:00 PM . . . . The light show begins
4:0 PM to 8:59 . . . General socializing & art appreciation over food and drinks.
9:00 PM Event Ends
9:01 onwards . . . the night is young. Head off to other cool places with new friends.

Oh!!!!!! One other thing

It's Pot-luck/Drink-luck.

Your ticket for entry is a dish or a drink. Bring anything that is good to share for serve 10 people. Or a nice bottle of wine, or dozen beers (if cheap beer), 6 pack of craft beer.

We will provide the tables, dishes, plastic-ware, cups, napkins, etc.

Frist: RSVP
SECOND: Be sure to Fill out the Attendees Form so have name on guest list https://forms.gle/oPv6oB7gmV6wL8Pf9
Third: Pick up a dish or drink to bring to the event.
Fourth: Show up (at the event) with your best self and be ready to be social and have fun.

I know what you are thinking . . .
- will this be fun?
- is this a cool place?
- will there be people as cool as me there?
- or even . . . . I'm not cool & I am shy/introverted . . .
- will I be able to fit in and enjoy too?
And the answer is yes to all.

WATCH THIS!!! Here is a vid from an actual event we did there. It was summer of 2021. Watch the whole thing and you will see the food/wine . . . the place, . . . where we hang out and how. As well as what it looks like at day and nite. AND . . . you get of feel of the people, place and vibe. (reg link to the vid) https://youtu.be/xm3TLYKLHqI
And to see pix from past visits. https://photos.app.goo.gl/dGoqMzDfCuFT4NDJA

The Plan:
- Event Starts 4:00 PM
- We socialize . . . Catch Sunset.
- Then more socialize and the the lights will go on.
Question: Tell me about this socialize thing?
Answer: It's a Potluck. Bring a dish. OR bring Merlot. Then social happens from there.

Question: The cost for all this?
Answer: FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE. And bring a dish or drinks.

PARKING: Parking is tight to non-existent the location. The Google Form will used to make sure you have ALL the best parking info.

This event is cross posted to several meetup groups. So there will be plenty of folks.

Some goals for this event . . .
- To make new friends.
- To make more friends.
- To go to new places.
- To be more social (in real life).
NOTICE: For our events we do not discriminate by Age, Race, Color, Religion, Ethnicity, National Origin, Political Affiliation, Relationship Status, Gender, Gender Preference, or even Belly Button Lint.

We welcome all, . . . and that includes you.
5 attendees
Awesome NYE Camping: Calcite Mine Slot Canyons, Galeta Meadows, Font's Point.
Thu, Dec 31 · 2:00 PM PST
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, California, USA, California, CA, US
This is easy camping, moderate hiking and a culture vulture tour all in one! AND Meteor Showers AND Night Photography opportunities.

This event is ALSO a NYE Alternative festivity or gathering. A more sedate appreciation of the world and the people in it. Celebrated together around a campfire.

The itinerary

Thu, Dec 31:

Arrive when you can (anytime after 2PM)

After sunset . . . Galeta Meadows at night.

NYE at midnight.

Quadrantids Meteor Shower before and after.

Fri, Jan 1:
Sunrise at Font's Pont for the ambitious
Hikes at Calcite Mine Slot Complex
Galeta Meadows (in the daylight)
Font's Point in the late afternoon (for those that missed it)

Sat, Jan 2
Two Options . . .
For those with a 4X4 . . . Sandstone Canyon and Arroyo Tapiado
OR
For those who want a good hard hike . . . Goat Canyon Trestle Bridge . . . The worlds largest wooden trestle railroad bridge that is also semi abandoned.
A third option is Ladder Canyon/Painted Canyon (Slot Canyons)

Sun, Jan 3 (on the way home)
Obsidian Buttes
Mud Volcanoes
Salvation Mtn
East Jesus
Bombay Beach
The Dinos at Cabazon.

We will pack in a LOT!!!
"The Slot" A short but AWESOME hike
and (the slow version)
Galleta Meadows in Anza-Borrego
Font's Point (this is optional)
This vid shows The Slot and a lot of Font's Point The whole flat lakebed parts we are not going to

I also suggest you just google "Font's Point Sunrise" in google images.

Cost? $105 Per Person.
- Payment Link (click the payment link to take care of payment)
You do not need a paypal to use the link. You can use any credit or debit card. Click continue as guest.

Mainly this will be what is called Tent Camping or Car Camping.
Meaning most folks will be in tents and our cars are parked nearby and easily accessible. Thus you can bring lots of gear easily.

You do bring your own tent, sleeping gear and food.
This way it's the kind of food you like and you can make meals when you wish. Also . . . the logistics of us providing tents and food and making meals would fill up a cargo truck.

What are you providing?
- We will be providing tons of of hardwood firewood.
- Stove Burner for community use.
- Hot water for instant meals and teas.
- The site for up to three nights camping.
- Leading Activities/Schedule
- The social
- The campfire time
- The meetup
What are the restrooms and showers? Is there electricity?
Use your car to charge your phone.
There will be flush restrooms and coin-op showers

Is this dog friendly? Yes. Dogs OK on the trail (mostly).

Is this kid friendly? Yes.

To attend this event:
- RSVP on this event. (then)
- Payment Link (click the payment link to take care of payment)(then)
- Click Here and fill out our google form
You can also fill out the form if only interested and want to stay in the loop.

Got questions?
Click Here to send a Direct Message to Marc (screen name Oddie)
and/or
Click Here for our Local Camping Zoom Q & A (once a month) 7:30 PM
Meet others attending, be social. Come to the zoom and ask any questions about the event.
Also:
- General Policies Including: Notice of Non-Discrimination, General Refunds Policy, Cancelation Policies as well as General Liability and Safety Policies/Procedures/Practices
- Carpool info
- Newbie Camping Advice All things GEAR
- Newbie Camping Advice All things FOOD
Main Event Link
Pix from a previous time we went
AND lastly:
To see and join our other events

Q What about food?
Fri eve is a Potluck as people arrive as they arrive. People will arrive to midnight even. Late is OK

Q Carpools How does this carpool thing work?
A When you sign up your info is taken. 1 week before the event carpool info will go out all as a matrix and matching is done then.

Q I don't camp OR I have not camped OR I am a newbie camper. Is this a good start?
A YES!!!! Car is steps from the site. Site is flat and without rocks. Plenty people there to help and be company. Clean bathrooms with flush toilets and running water and even showers!!

Q I want to come but don't have a friend to come with.
A Most folks come on their own. After all it is a meetup. You will feel right at home with a good bunch of good people enjoying the stunning outdoors and adventure.

Q I want to do the hiking but not the cultural wasteland stuff.
A That's OK.

TERMS
Payment is Refundable (less any fees) if you cancel more than 2 weeks before the event. Under 2 weeks and credit given for future event.

Rain and Weather: The canyon hikes are carved by water. Rain will reschedule.

Notice of Non-Discrimination: On our event we do not discriminate by Age, Gender, Gender Preference, Ethnicity, National Origin, Race, Color, Religion. This is NOT true of all organizers or all groups. Some overtly or secretly limit, exclude, discriminate.
We do not discriminate by age, gender, gender preference, ethnicity, race, color, national origin, disability or family status.

We believe in good decent social. We have a set of sister groups we post our local free, local/regional camping, and our overseas events to.

We welcome all . . . And that includes you.
2 attendees
San Diego Mission Bay Kayak/SUPabout
Sun, Mar 7, 2027 · 12:45 PM PST
Aqua Adventures Mission Bay Kayaks & Stand Up Paddleboards Rental & Sales, 1548 Quivira Way, San Diego, CA, US
Please Read All Event Details :) Life Happens but please as a Courtesy to All Update/Edit RSVP as needed:)

***Any Cost of FOOD/DRINK, Kayak/SUP rental and/or other is Guest Responsibility. ***

Let's enjoy Kayaking the World's Largest Aquatic Created Park, Mission Bay. Meetup and Kayak/SUP Rentals Location. We will meetup at location and start moving by 1P. Approx. Kayaking/SUP distance of 4miles.

***Look for the Host/Guide Steven Caliridion wearing an Orange Goodwill Ambassadors Travel/Caliridion T-Shirt & Purple Hat. ***Host/Guide is/are not liable for Injury and/or Loss from attending this event.

ZELLO Instant 2Way Walkie Talkie Communication w FREE Download . Talk w me and the group via the Goodwill Ambassadors Travel channel. This is the easiest way to communicate w Host/Guide and Group starting 1.5hrs. before events. TRY it!!!

***Please identify Event in Message via Meetup Chat/Msg &/or Phone Text you are corresponding about. Thank You!!!
Make sure you start checking the comments and your messages starting 3Days Prior to Events. I require ALL RSVP Going to Re-Confirm in Good Faith Going via REPLY to Message sent by 48hrs prior to event if there is a waitlist to release spots or 24hrs. prior to event if no waitlist. Re-Confirming via Message vs Comment section prevents clogging up emails notifications for comments. Thanks!!!:)
1 attendee
Yosemite! March 26-29, 2027 w/ Valley Floor Activities!! 4 days/3 nights
Fri, Mar 26, 2027 · 2:00 PM PDT
Yosemite Entrance Gate (Central) - El Portal, 804 El Portal Rd, Wawona, CA 95389, USA, Wawona, CA, US
Yosemite is that amazing and iconic place that everyone loves to go.

March is the wettest month of the year. The MOST water from all the Waterfalls!!!! It will also be wildflowers!!!

What it will NOT be? It is NOT a designated holiday weekend . . . such as Memorial Day Weekend. As such . . . I am hoping to avoid those crowds or parking.

We have done Yosemite before on the group. And each and every time it fills up early with lotos of people with big sadness they can not go.
Plain and simple . . . our events have limited size. So when it fill . . . it fills.
If you do wish to attend . . . Be sure to make a payment now!!

There are Saturday/Sunday planned Easy, Medium and Hard Options. We will divide by interest for different hikes.

The "Easy" route:

Yosemite Falls (the easy walk)

Tunnel View

Glacier Point

Bridal Veil Falls

Mirror Lake

The Meadows

The River

Ahwahnee Hotel

Planned Medium Hike:

Vernal/Nevada Mist Trail

Planned Difficult Hikes

Yosemite Falls

4 Mile Trail

Pohono Trail

Want to do Half Dome? Since you have the date you can apply for the lottery as we get closer.

To attend this event:
- CLICK HERE for the payment link. https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/ZLTEGZRUUSJJW
- Click Here and fill out our Attendees google form (this is also what the carpool info gets built from)
Notes:
- You MUST take care of payment to be confirmed to go. https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/ZLTEGZRUUSJJW
- Refunds given if request is made at least 2 weeks before event start date/time.
- After payment you will get a confirmation email from Paypal
- You do NOT need a paypal account. Click the process as guest, or use any credit or debit card.
- If you X2 or have a Plus One . . . chose X2 or 3 during payment.
- Up to 10 years old are free.
- 11 to 17 are 1/2 (contact me for a link)
- Dogs OK (this will limit where you can go in the park).
- You may see LOTS of people RSVP on the event.
- Many do RSVP and not take care of payment (RSVP number not accurate).
- This Event is limited in size. When filled the payment link will be disabled.
- Since the event WILL fill . . . take care of payment sooner instead of later. If your plans change . . . refunds given up to 2 weeks before event start date/time.
- If you not ready to commit yet . . .
- Click Here and fill out our google "interest" form (there is a box for "interested and keep me in the loop")
Includes:
- Site (on private land) for a three day weekend
- All Firewood & propane heaters provided.
- Flush restrooms (that are clean)
- (free)(hot) Showers available
- Restaurants and Grocery adjacent
- Pool and Jacuzzi available.
- Super Civilized Camping.
- Perfect for the beginner and first timers.
- Many come solo.
- Come alone and leave with friends. Come with friends & leave with more friends.
Tell me about food and everything else . . .
The logistics of providing food for every possible diet, as well as food prep issues is just not feasible or safe.
AND
Due to varied dietary needs and food contact issues, it's better if bring what you like and prep it.
Thus . . . you bring your own food. This way it is the food you like.

What gear do I need?
The only specialized gear you need is Tent, Sleeping bag, Sleeping Pad (yoga mat). Everything else is household items you already have.

Special note: this is Tent camping. No RV. No Trailers. No giant campervans.

Can I park my car next to my tent?
Sniffing tires, oil, exhaust and fuel? Yuck!!! You cars will be close. But not on top of us. Cars on one side. Humans on the other. If we overflow our parking area . . . there is an overflow parking area.

Carpools?
- Carpool info goes out ONLY to paid attendees. (it really sucks to set up a carpool with a person who is not actually going)
- Carpool info ONLY goes out to those who fill out the ATTENDEES/CARPOOL FORM (this way it is reliable info)
- Carpool info goes out all at once (not as you sign on)
- Carpool info goes out 1 week before the event. Too early and most carpools fall apart. It really sucks when your ride canceled at asked for a refund a month ago but did not tell you. Carpools info sent when it is stable of who is attending.
- Carpool in week before makes sense because that's when people can really determine schedule and departure time and availability.
Refunds?
- If requested 2 weeks before event start: 100% refund (less paypal fee)
- If requested less than 2 weeks: 100% Full Credit be applied to ANY future event we run.
Questions? CLICK HERE to send a Direct Message

OTHER INFO:
This event is cross-posted to several groups. The number RSVP'd is not accurate. ONLY Paid attendees are actually going to be attending.
To see most of the RSVPs' AND RSVP on the main event CLICK HERE

CLICK HERE to join in on the other fun events planned.

Notice: We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, age, disability, gender, gender preference, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, national identity, marital status, familial status, parental status, religion, political beliefs or even for belly button lint.

We welcome all, and that includes you!
2 attendees