Organizer's Camping Retreat (Invite Only)

This event is a camping retreat for long-standing members of the group. This is one of the few events we have that is invite-only. There will be no Saturday Practice this week.

If you have not received a direct invite from either Natasha or Stefani or attended a prior camping trip, please ask before posting an RSVP. This includes any +1's. All decisions are final.**

If you are attending, please take the time to read through the trip details. (I know it's long, but there's a lot of important stuff in here.)

RETREAT DETAILS:

Swallow Falls State Park contains some of Maryland's most breathtaking scenery. The Youghiogheny River flows along the park's borders, passing through shaded rocky gorges and creating rippling rapids and hemlocks dominate the silent woods.

We have three sites reserved from Friday to Sunday allowing for a maximum of 18 people to attend. Since space is limited, your spot will be reserved on a first come, first serve basis that you must secure by paying camping fees (instructions below). We will maintain a wait list in case there are people that drop out after we have met capacity.

The earliest we can check in is 3pm on Friday and we'll need to be out of the sites by noon on Sunday. Feel free to come whenever works for your schedule as long as you come before dark so that you are able to set up your own tents.

These sites are dog friendly, but dogs are not allowed on the trail by the falls. Additionally, dogs will need to be on leash at all times at the campsites.

BASE-COSTS:

These are TBD based on how many people RSVP but estimated to be around $70, payable preferably via Venmo to @Natasha-Levinsohn or in cash to George, Natasha or Stefani. You must submit your camping fee to secure your spot!

ADDITIONAL COSTS:

Vehicles: There is no cost-per-car for entrance into the park. Plan on carpooling and reimbursing your driver for gas. Each campsite is limited to two vehicles. Overflow parking is available nearby and we will be shuttling back and forth.

Other Activities: There may be some activities planned that have an additional cost (i.e. kayak or paddle board rentals). We will inform you of these in a future e-mail.
The activities are optional, and there will likely be some folks who stay at the campsite.

Chores (yes, chores.): Camping does involve work and everyone will be responsible for chipping in to set up, break down, cook, wash up and keep the campground tidy. By RSVPing, you are agreeing to contribute equally to other participants. When a few people don't chip in, it really puts a burden and damper on other people's experience. Those that don't contribute along with the group, will not be invited to future camping trips.

EQUIPMENT/FOOD:

General: Please take the time to post what equipment you are bringing and what equipment you need. Over the years, we have amassed a large amount of camping equipment and will be able to fill any deficit. We also want to try to cut down on the amount of unnecessary duplicates.

Tents: There is a limit to the number of tents allowed per site, so we will have to coordinate who is bringing/sharing tents. Sleeping arrangements will be co-ed, and STRICTLY divided between snorers and non-snorers. Ask if you have questions!

Food: Your base cost for the retreat will cover all meals (but not trail-snacks). If you have any dietary restrictions, please post them below. If you want to bring additional items, please post them below. ALL FOOD MUST BE STORED IN BEAR-PROOF CONTAINERS.*

Drinks: Your base cost for the retreat will cover water, soda, juice and coffee. If you have a preference for other beverages, please BYOB. Remember to pack a container you can hike with and a thermos for hot beverages.. ALL BEVERAGES MUST BE STORED IN BEAR-PROOF CONTAINERS.*

Electronics: Electricity is not available in the park and you are responsible for charging your own devices! Cell reception unknown.

DISCLAIMERS:

• Your car can be considered a bear-proof container. Your tent can not.

**In the past we have had attempts to crash our retreats. We don't enjoy being mean. Please don't be that guy/gal.