Easy Backpacking @Castle Rock Trail Camp - Beginner-Friendly 2-Night Trip
Details
This is a relaxed two-night backpacking trip at Castle Rock State Park, ideal for beginner backpackers or anyone looking for a low-mileage weekend outdoors.
We'll hike about 2.6 miles from the main parking area to Castle Rock Trail Camp via the Saratoga Gap Trail. The route is short, but expect normal backpacking conditions, including uneven and rocky sections while carrying your own gear. Once at camp, we'll have plenty of time to settle in, relax, and explore the nearby trails, sandstone formations, forest, and ridge views.
The trail camp has picnic tables, vault toilets, trash receptacles. Please carry all the water you'll need. The water source at the camp is not functional.
Please respond to all questions when you RSVP. This will be a small group, and your spot is confirmed only after you receive a confirmation from me. Please be specific if you can only attend with a carpool.
Dates: Friday, September 18 to Sunday, September 20
Trail: ~5.2 miles minimum round trip, with optional exploring from camp
Plan: Two nights at Castle Rock Trail Camp, relaxed pace, nearby hiking, and camp time
Difficulty: Easy/beginner-friendly backpacking, but you must be able to carry your own overnight gear over uneven trail
Group size: Small group; park limit is 6 people per campsite
Parking: One overnight vehicle is included. We'll coordinate carpools because extra vehicles cost $10 per night. Overnight parking is only in the designated trail-camp lot, with check-in at the Robert C. Kirkwood entrance
Trip Cost: 10$ per person for the whole trip
Trip confirmation: Your participation is confirmed after you have answered the pre-req questions, made the payment, and received a confirmation from me
You'll need your own backpacking gear, food, water, and the 10 essentials. We must reach camp before sunset. No dogs, smoking, or bikes on the trail. Cell service is likely unavailable in the backcountry.
As always - respect the wilderness, follow Leave No Trace principles, and use good trail etiquette. If you're unfamiliar with Leave No Trace, please read up on it before the trip.
INDEMNITY - This group, its organizers, event hosts, volunteers, and members are not liable for accidents or incidents at the venue or outside it. By RSVPing or attending this event, you agree to waive liability. Participants are responsible for their own conduct, safety, preparation, and gear.