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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! Check out camping events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.

Discover all the camping events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.

Absolutely! Find camping events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.

Camping Events Today

Join in-person Camping events happening right now

NuCalm - Brain Health
NuCalm - Brain Health
NuCalm is a patented, drug-free neuroscience technology designed to rapidly reduce stress, improve sleep quality, and aid recovery by shifting the body from a "fight-or-flight" state to a deeply relaxed parasympathetic state within minutes. [https://stamina.xosialx.com/nucalm.html](https://stamina.xosialx.com/nucalm.html) It uses neuroacoustic software, a biosignal processing disc, and light-blocking eye masks to guide brain waves from active beta states down to alpha/theta (relaxation/meditation) levels NuCalm uses a patented, clinically proven pitch and frequency matrix with non-linear oscillating algorithms to safely present your brain with precise signals, prompting what is known as a frequency-following response. Your brain synchronizes with the incoming NuCalm signals helping you naturally and effortlessly manage your state of mind by speeding up or slowing down your brain wave frequencies. NuCalm has mapped all of your brain wave frequency zones and created products to safely and predictably guide you to whatever mental state you desire. The amazing thing is, NuCalm is all-natural and works every time you use it within minutes. The best thing to do now is to watch the video on the website and download the NuCalm app. All you need is a headset and eye mask. This app purchase is covered with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Get started today and FEEL the difference even 15 minutes can make. WATCH THE VIDEO ON THE WEBSITE. [https://stamina.xosialx.com/nucalm.html](https://stamina.xosialx.com/nucalm.html)
South Melbourne to St Kilda Pier Beach Walk
South Melbourne to St Kilda Pier Beach Walk
Join us for a relaxed evening walk along the beach from South Melbourne towards St Kilda Pier. We’ll follow the waterfront path, with bay views, beach paths, and a social, low-pressure pace. The full AllTrails route is about 7.1 km return, listed as moderate, with minimal elevation. AllTrails also lists it as an out-and-back trail, so we can keep the plan flexible depending on how people are feeling. You can choose what suits you: * Shorter option: walk one way towards St Kilda Pier and head off from there. Trams are available nearby. * Full option: walk back with the group towards South Melbourne. This is a casual walk, not a fitness challenge. We’ll keep an easy social pace, and you’re welcome to leave early if you prefer the shorter option. **Links** Meetup start point: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/nGWgU4Fni1xPMgPG7](https://maps.app.goo.gl/nGWgU4Fni1xPMgPG7) AllTrails route link: [https://www.alltrails.com/trail/australia/victoria/st-kilda-pier-via-south-melbourne-beach](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/australia/victoria/st-kilda-pier-via-south-melbourne-beach) **Rough timeline** * 6:00pm – Meet outside South Melbourne Life Saving Club * 6:15pm – Start walking towards St Kilda * Around 7:00pm – Arrive near St Kilda Pier / short-walk finish option * 7:00–8:15pm – Return walk towards South Melbourne, with optional food or gelato depending on the group * 8:15pm – Meetup ends **What to bring** Comfortable walking shoes, water, and a warm layer. **What to expect** * Distance: About 7.1 km return for the full option * Difficulty: Moderate according to AllTrails, but mostly straightforward waterfront walking * Pace: Slow, easy, and social * Vibe: Relaxed, low-pressure, and welcoming to solo attendees **Important notes** * You can do the shorter one-way option and finish near St Kilda Pier. * You can leave early if needed. * The walk is weather-dependent, so please check the forecast and dress warmly. * We’ll aim to stay together, but the route is simple and flexible. * Optional food or gelato will depend on the group on the night.
Monday Climb
Monday Climb
Hello Climbers! Just meet at the yellow sign and introduce yourself :) From there we pair up to climb. If we have an odd number of people, we can make a rotating group of 3. There is also a self-belay area if you want to get in more climbing if in a group of 3 or arriving earlier. If the event you are planning to go to only has one or 2 people on the ‘attending’ list, we encourage organising a climbing partner in advance so you can make sure you have at least one other person there to climb with! Feel free to reach out on the event wall or message a host :) Meet up will start at 6pm but if you want to start earlier you certainly can, but again you will need to organise a climbing partner in advance. New climbers are welcome, however your mandatory induction takes about 15/20mins. Harnesses, shoes and chalk bag can be hired also. Current pricing for Hard Rock here: https://www.hardrock.com.au/prices/
Queer Meditation
Queer Meditation
Join Queer Meditation Melbourne for an evening of self-exploration and mindfulness in a safe and inclusive space. Start the event with a guided meditation session focused on promoting wellness, positive thinking, and spiritual growth. Connect with like-minded individuals from the LGBT community and enjoy meaningful conversations that nurture self-empowerment and consciousness. After the meditation practice, we will engage in social activities, promoting healthy living and dining out experiences. This event is designed for gay men and gay and lesbian friends who are looking to nurture their spiritual journey while building connections within the community. Come together to foster a sense of belonging and support each other in a space that celebrates diversity and self-care.
Moonee Ponds Toastmasters Meetup
Moonee Ponds Toastmasters Meetup
We meet at the Essendon Bowls club, 50 Raleigh St, Essendon VIC 3040. Toastmasters is an opportunity to refine the various aspects of public speaking and a very encouraging environment to experience growth.
Evening Meditation and Chanting
Evening Meditation and Chanting
Meditation practicing
Bayside Crunchy Monday (Elsternwick)
Bayside Crunchy Monday (Elsternwick)
Play board games with around 20 people on 5+ tables in Elsternwick. Friendly. Inclusive. Free entry, Crunchy Euro and Thematic games. Close to public transport and free parking. Exclusive use of a function room with good lighting at the Caulfield RSL. Join our group in the Aftergame App to stay in touch: https://aftergame.app/groups/bayside-games-1853 Games are sometimes organised in advance on our WhatsApp group or in the Aftergame app, however most games are organised following a brief discussion at the venue on the Monday night. Recently we have played the following games: Euros: Brass, Dune Imperium, Anachrony, Endeavor Deep Sea, Inis, On Mars, Ark Nova, Galactic Cruise, Viticulture, Scythe, Concordia, Terra Mystica, Gaia Project, Terraforming Mars, Castles of Burgundy, Lost Ruins of Arnak and Grand Austria Hotel, and Orleans Economic: Indonesia, Food Chain Magnate, Bus, Irish Gauge and Container. Thematic: Voidfall, Dune (Original), Root, Eclipse, Nemesis, Spirit Island, Undaunted, Chaos in the Old World, The Godfather, Spartacus and Dominant Species. **Arrive early** The best time to arrive is around 6:50pm as people discuss which games they would like to play before starting longer games at 7:00pm. Arrive early and we can ensure that you are included in a game. However, should you arrive after 7:00pm you may need to wait for games to finish to be included, or if people are playing long games, it might not be practical to start a new game. **Full bar and snacks available** The Caulfield RSL generously provide the venue free of charge. A selection of food and drinks are available for purchase at the bar. Note that only food or drink purchased at the RSL can be consumed at the venue. We look forward to seeing you!

Camping Events This Week

Discover what is happening in the next few days

Oot & Aboot – Community Camp at Mornington Peninsula VIC
Oot & Aboot – Community Camp at Mornington Peninsula VIC
**Registration required at below link:** **Tickets: $50** https://events.humanitix.com/oot-and-aboot-community-camp-autumn-edition-or-mornington-peninsula-vic-or-1-5-hours-from-melbourne-cbd Oot & Aboot’s Community Camp is a relaxed, low-pressure overnight camping experience designed to bring LGBTQIA+ people and allies together in nature. This is our second event, and we’re intentionally keeping it simple. There’s no packed schedule or expectations — just space to slow down, connect, and enjoy the outdoors in good company. Across one night, you can look forward to: * A welcoming and inclusive camp environment * Lawn and board games * Casual group walks in nature * Swimming * Plenty of unstructured community time to talk, laugh, and connect * A simple self-serve breakfast on Sunday morning This is an **adults-only (18+)** event with a maximum of **12 participants**, creating an intimate and friendly atmosphere. No prior camping experience is required. The campsite is located in Mornington Peninsula, VIC, approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Melbourne CBD. For safety and privacy reasons, the exact location will be provided only to confirmed ticket holders and can be found on the ticket sent via email after payment. Please remember to check your junk or spam folder if you don’t see it in your inbox. Know before you go: * Participants should bring their own camping gears (tent, sleeping bag, air mattress, pillow, etc.), warm clothes, food, and drinks (except breakfast) * Alcohol may be consumed responsibly * As a new, volunteer-run charity, we’re not yet able to cater for specific dietary or allergy requirements — please bring food that meets your needs * Some uneven ground and bush walking may be involved * Dogs and other pets are not permitted due to our insurance Park Facilities (shared with other guests): * Unpowered and grassed sites * Camp Kitchen: Includes electric stove, stove, fridge, sink and kettle. * Water taps throughout the park * Toilets and showers * No campfire is allowed Oot & Aboot events are grounded in respect, inclusion, and care. We aim to create spaces where LGBTQIA+ people and allies feel safe, welcome, and supported. If you’re looking for a gentle way to reconnect with nature and community, we’d love to have you join us. ## FAQs **Who is this event for?** This event is for LGBTQIA+ adults and allies (18+). It’s designed to be welcoming, inclusive, and low-pressure. **Do I need camping experience?** No. This is a relaxed community camp. If you can set up basic camping gear, you’ll be just fine. **What does my ticket include?** Your ticket covers campsite fees, access to facilities, lawn and board games, casual group walks, and a simple shared breakfast on Sunday morning. **What food is provided?** A simple self-serve breakfast (bread, spreads, fruit, tea & coffee) is included. Please bring your own food and drinks for all other meals. Can you cater for dietary requirements or allergies? As a new, volunteer-run charity, we’re not yet able to cater for specific dietary or allergy requirements. Please bring food that meets your needs. **Can I bring alcohol?** Yes — alcohol may be consumed responsibly in line with campsite rules and community expectations. **Are pets allowed?** No. Dogs and other pets are not permitted at this event. **Will I get the exact location after booking?** Yes. Exact campsite location will be shared with confirmed ticket holders for safety and privacy. **What should I bring?** Bring your own camping gear, food and drinks, a camp chair, warm layers, and a torch or headlamp. More details will be shared via email closer to the event.
Port Campbell/12 Apostles/Lake Colac (4 spots - road trip)
Port Campbell/12 Apostles/Lake Colac (4 spots - road trip)
[Instagram: Road Trips by The Dancing Voyager: Ron Singh](https://www.instagram.com/the_dancing_voyager_ron_trips) Spontaneous day trip to Port Campbell/12 Apostles/Lake Colac! Very short notice! These are always fun! Over 60 road trips done in 4 years! I run 3 Meetup groups (shown on my profile). This road trip is for people new to Australia who have not been to this location (International Students, Working Holiday Makers and tourists)! No evidence is required. I will trust you! **Details given below in sections: (1) Questions / (2) Road trip itinerary / (3) Payment / (4) Responsibility / (5) Breaks / (6) Weather / (7) Phone charging / (8) Contact** **\-\-\- \(1\) QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS \-\-\-** **Your questions for me:** Why is the total fee so low at $20, covering a new, large rental (SUV), fuel and driver, on something that seems really high quality and well planned, like a private tour company? Sounds too good to be true or that there is a catch. Is this genuine? **My answers to you:** Because this project is my community service to give back. I explain this further below. The low fee is just a formality to confirm your place, so that I know you are serious on attending. This is genuine. Over 60 road trips done in 4 years! I have created precious memories for many people new to Australia. Photos on Instagram link further above. **\-\-\- \(2\) ROAD TRIP SUMMARY AND ITINERARY \-\-\-** Day trip to Port Campbell/12 Apostles/Lake Colac. Going to 12 Apostles on a direct, inland route. This will allow more time to enjoy this inspiring place, millions of years in the making! **Itinerary: Lookout at Geelong - Colac - Lake Colac - 12 Apostles lookout - Loch Ard Gorge lookout - Port Campbell - Gibson Steps lookout - 12 Apostles beach walk - Lake Colac encore** **Meeting point: Fed Square, 8:45 am**. Back there by **8:45 pm**. Meet by the steps (main entrance, opposite the Swanston Street tram stop). **\-\-\- \(3\) PAYMENT \-\-\-** **Total fee: $20 in total (no other costs). This covers a new, large rental (SUV), fuel and driver.** **Eventbrite link for payment:** [https://12apostles-road-trip.eventbrite.com.au](https://12apostles-road-trip.eventbrite.com.au/) **Cancellations:** If I cancel the road trip for any unforeseen issues, a full refund will be given. If you cancel, there is no refund. **Why is the fee so low?** The low fee is just a formality. It might sound too good to be true or that there is a catch. There is no catch. I am simply someone who has been giving back for many years. I playfully call this project a “Melbourne travel secret”! There are people in this world who want to genuinely give back without any expectations because they are truly fulfilled and grateful for what they have. I am one of those people. This is my community service. I am not doing this for money and I never have. Money cannot buy passion. The nature of majestic Australia helped me find peace and passion and I want to give back by sharing that inspiring nature with people new to this country. If they are also inspired by that nature, then that is my reward. There is no hidden agenda in doing this project. The reason I am being quite upfront is because in this day and age, there is always a catch when people do something like this. There is none with me and I am not selling or promoting anything. I do not need anything because I have peace, passion and fulfilment. I have everything. I am truly humbled and grateful. Photos from road trips are on Instagram link below: [Instagram: Road Trips by The Dancing Voyager: Ron Singh](https://www.instagram.com/the_dancing_voyager_ron_trips) **\-\-\- \(4\) RESPONSIBILITY\, LIABILITY\, SAFETY \-\-\-** As your driver, I am responsible and liable for your safety while we are in the vehicle. Passengers are insured as per the Australian law. For times we are outside the vehicle, we then become responsible for our own liability and safety, just like every other capable adult in society. **\-\-\- \(5\) BREAKS/MEALS \-\-\-** There will be many breaks for sightseeing/walks. I will stop at places where food/snacks will be sold but you are welcome to bring your own as well. There will be a lunch break at either a cafe or takeaway shop. **\-\-\- \(6\) WEATHER AND WHAT TO WEAR \-\-\-** I plan events when weather looks good but please also see itinerary for location details and check the forecast to dress accordingly. My advice is to always be prepared! Recommend to have something to cover you if rain suddenly appears or if winds suddenly get cool. Also recommend to carry sunscreen and a hat. Please also wear good, comfortable shoes that can provide protection from water (in case there are muddy areas). You can bring many things, as the vehicle will have a lot of storage space. My road trips do not have a lot of long walks. The focus is on sightseeing, relaxing and appreciating the beauty of nature. **\-\-\- \(7\) PHONE CHARGING \-\-\-** Please charge your phone before joining. In the past, people have taken lots of videos and photos and used up their batteries! You can bring your charging cable if you want. The vehicle will have various charging ports. **\-\-\- \(8\) CONTACT \-\-\-** If you need to contact me, please reach out through Meetup, Eventbrite or Instagram. If you wanted my mobile number, please let me know.
Jacksons Creek Explorer Walk - Sunbury
Jacksons Creek Explorer Walk - Sunbury
🌿Dandenong Ranges Experience: Hike+ Ukranian Dumplings, Meditation, Bakery&more
🌿Dandenong Ranges Experience: Hike+ Ukranian Dumplings, Meditation, Bakery&more
* 🌏 **MELBOURNE → DANDENONG Ranges** 🏙️ * 📅 **SUN 24 MAY, DAY TRIP ☀️** * ✨*Walk gently • Taste deeply • Breathe fully*✨ \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ### 🌿 Wander the Rail Trail of the Dandenong Ranges 🌿 Step into a storybook journey just beyond Melbourne — a day where forest paths, quiet villages, and simple moments come together. ☕ With **coffee and snacks** in hand, we begin gently in the charming village — easing into the rhythm of the day. 🚶‍♂️ From here, our trail unfolds along the historic rail line — a \~15 km **easy hike** through tall eucalyptus forests, fern gullies, and peaceful clearings where time slows and nature leads. 🌲 Along the way, we pause… to breathe, to listen, to take in the stillness of the forest — not just a hike, but a moving reset. 🚂 If we’re lucky, we’ll catch the iconic **Puffing Billy** passing through — a quiet moment where everyone stops and simply watches. ☕ Midway, we arrive in a small village for a relaxed **coffee stop** — warm drinks, easy conversation, and a chance to recharge. 🥟 By early afternoon, we reach the beautiful Lake — where something special awaits. A lakeside picnic with **Ukrainian dumplings**, shared together in the open air — simple, soulful, and unforgettable. 🧘 We slow down even further with a gentle **guided meditation** by the water or forest— a moment to reset, reflect, and just be. 🥐 And to finish the day on a delicious note, we visit a **renowned gourmet bakery** — a final treat of something fresh, flaky, and indulgent. 🌄 As the day winds down, we take a final scenic pause at a **beautiful lookout** — where golden light stretches across the ranges. 🚐 Then, a relaxed drive back to Melbourne — calm, content, and filled with fresh energy. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **🎒 All-Inclusive for $99** ✅ Round-trip **transport** in a comfortable **MERCEDES minivan** 🚐 ✅ Guided **15 km hike** + all gears 🥾 ✅ Unlimited **snacks**, **soft drinks, coffee & tea** ☕ ✅ **Picnic** \- with great company 🧃 ✅ **Ukrainian dumplings** experience 🥟 (Veg.) ✅ **Meditation** session 🧘 **✅** **Puffing Billy** viewing experience 🚂 ✅ Visit **stunning scenic lookouts** 🌄 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- #### 🕒 Itinerary: 🌅 07:30 — Meet at **St Paul’s Cathedral,** Flinders Street 🍉 08:00 — Short **break** to stretch and refresh ☕ 09:00 — Morning **coffee/tea** and snacks (included!) 🥾 09:15 — **Hike** into the forest magic 15 km - 180 elevation 🍫 11:00 — **Break** & snacks🦘 🥾 12:00 — Continue to **Hike** 🚂 12:30 — **Puffing Billy** Experience • Visit a historic railway station • Scenic stop to observe the steam train passing (timing dependent) • Photos, short break, storytelling moment 🍽️ 13:30 — Picnic & **Ukrainian dumplings** 🥟 +snacks & drinks (included) 🎨 14:30 — **Art-Gallery** \- local artists ✨ 15:00 — **Wishing Well** \- make a wish 🥐 15:30 — Finish hike and visit **gourmet bakery** 🚐 16:00 — **Scenic drive** through Ranges 🌄 16:30 — Breathtaking **lookout** 🏙️ 18:00 — Return to **Melbourne** with a heart full of memories 📍 Drop-off: Hammer Hall, Melbourne \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **💰 How to Book?** Secure your spot with a **$99 transfer**: 🔹 **PayID:** 0414 661 458 🔹 **Bank Transfer:** **NAME:** KARAPETIAN G **BSB:** 013233 **ACCOUNT:** 226325836 **Ref:** Dan 🌟 **Limited spots available—RSVP now!** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ## **🎒 What to Bring?** **✔️ Wind/water-resistant jacket**🧥 ✔️ **Long pants & long sleeves** 🌿 ✔️ **Hat/beanie** 🧢 ✔️ **BYO lunch** 🍽️ (optional) ✔️ **A positive mindset & big smile!** 😊 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 📢 **Questions?** Feel free to **DM me anytime!** 📩 ✨ **Let’s make this an adventure to remember** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ❗️**Please Note:** **Payments are only credited or refunded if the event is canceled or rescheduled by the organizer.** In all other circumstances, payments are **non-refundable and non-transferable**. ❗️Thank you for understanding and supporting the planning involved in creating these experiences! 🌿 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 🌿✨ Don’t miss this **epic day of adventure, nature, and fun!** ✨🌊 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Visit our sources: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/812911556223655/?ref=share](https://www.facebook.com/groups/812911556223655/?ref=share) Instagram: [nogeography.hike.kayak](http://nogeography.hike.kayak/) [https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/no-geography-hike-and-kayak/](https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/no-geography-hike-and-kayak/) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **LIABILITY WAIVER** The organizer of this group cannot accept any liability for any loss, damage, injury, or accident to participants or their property on this event. By participating in this event, you're taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. By joining this event you agree to these terms. ## **COVID-19 Safety Measures** * The event host is instituting the above safety measures for this event. * Please do not attend if you are experiencing any flu-like symptoms, such as fever, cough, or sore throat. * If you have recently tested positive for COVID-19 or have been in close contact with someone who has, we kindly ask that you refrain from attending. * Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in keeping our community safe!
Warburton Bridge Walk
Warburton Bridge Walk

Camping Events Near You

Connect with your local Camping community

Cookout bonfire party free camping
Cookout bonfire party free camping
More details to come Combined event with central Ohio friends This may be the very last cookout bon fire party central Ohio friends hold so don’t miss it!
Ultimate Frisbee at Whetstone
Ultimate Frisbee at Whetstone
Morning at the Zoo!
Morning at the Zoo!
Ultimate Frisbee on Saturday
Ultimate Frisbee on Saturday
Memorial Day Potluck Cookout!
Memorial Day Potluck Cookout!
Trails & Ales! Blendon Woods Metro Park / Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery
Trails & Ales! Blendon Woods Metro Park / Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery
**History** The history of [Blendon Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blendon-woods/) began long before its 1951 opening, rooted in a landscape of rugged ridges and deep ravines that made the land unsuitable for traditional farming. In 1945, a report proposing a metropolitan park system for Franklin County specifically highlighted these cliffs of Bedford Shale as some of the "wildest land in the vicinity". Following this recommendation, the recently formed park district purchased the first 229 acres in early 1949. Because the terrain was so uneven, developers had to cut a mile-and-a-half-long roadway through dense woods just to bring in heavy equipment. This initial preservation effort ensured that the mature second-growth hardwood forests remained largely untouched by the urban expansion spreading toward Westerville. Opening day arrived on Labor Day, September 3, 1951, marking Blendon Woods as the second park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system. The final push to open was a frantic race; the State Highway Department only finished the primary gravel access road four days before the gates opened. Early staff members, consisting of just four full-time employees, had to hand-dig pit toilets and learn construction skills on the fly to build the first picnic shelters. Despite the dusty conditions and limited facilities, the park was an immediate success, drawing massive crowds from across Central Ohio. By the end of the 1950s, annual visitation had already climbed to over 190,000 people. As the surrounding suburbs grew in the 1960s, the park faced severe overcrowding that threatened its natural habitats. In response, Franklin County voters passed the first Metro Parks levy in 1960, providing the funds necessary for a decade of steady expansion. During this era, the park nearly doubled in size, growing from 264 acres to over 570 acres by 1968. Planners also addressed a critical water shortage by collaborating with the U.S. Soil and Conservation Service to build a lake in 1964. This body of water originally served as a temporary reservoir before its role shifted toward conservation and wildlife support. The 1970s marked a transition toward the specialized wildlife and educational focus for which the park is known today. In 1971, the Walden Waterfowl Refuge was established around the 11-acre Thoreau Lake, creating a sanctuary that remains restricted to provide a quiet habitat for migratory birds. A formal nature center was also developed during this period, expanding on the guided Sunday walks that had been a park staple since the early 1950s. The park’s famous "Monarch Mansion" also became a prominent fixture, starting a long tradition of raising and releasing thousands of monarch butterflies each September. These initiatives cemented the park’s reputation as a premier destination for birders and nature enthusiasts. In more recent decades, Blendon Woods has continued to modernize while maintaining its wilderness character. The 10-acre Natural Play Area was added in 2017, encouraging kids to explore the ravines and woods off-trail. This was followed by the opening of a $1.5 million inclusive playground in April 2025, designed to accommodate children of all physical abilities. The nature center also underwent major renovations to include immersive, three-dimensional exhibits and a new butterfly house. Today, the park encompasses 653 acres, preserving a unique geologic and biological corridor amidst the bustling Westerville and Northeast Columbus area. **Map of the Park** Here is a map of [Blendon Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/BLN_map_Inclusive-Playground-and-Butterfly-Trail_May-2025_1980px.png). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Lake View, Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook, Brookside, and Sugarbush Trails. This sounds like a lot, but it will really be only a little over five miles. Blendon Woods has a few hills here and there, but it's not one of the more strenuous metro parks. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet just in front of the Nature Center. This is about a mile into the park from the main entrance. You have to go past the Ranger Station and the Shadblow Reservable Area to get to it, so don't stop too early at the Ranger Station and get it confused with the Nature Center. **After the Hike** Afterward, we will head over to [Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/) at Easton for [drinks](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/#dinner-menu) and [food](https://forbiddenroot.com/wp-content/uploads/Cbus-Food.pdf). We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks. The brewery's actual address is [4080 Worth Ave, Columbus, OH 43219](https://www.google.com/maps/place/4080+Worth+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43219/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88388a86d10b6619:0x4d42b470a5cf11d3?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111); however, I recommend pointing your GPS to the [Worth Garage](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Worth+Garage/@40.0542293,-82.9137962,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388b4df6082825:0x17582f0eccd9dda1!8m2!3d40.0542293!4d-82.9137962!16s%2Fg%2F11rzfvvv8b?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQxNS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) across the street. Parking in this garage is free as long as you're not on the first floor, and it is literally right next to the brewery.