California Camping Adventures

FOSSIL FALLS CAMPING — November 28 to 30, 2025

Looking for something to do for Thanksgiving? Let’s go explore one of the wildest and most unique landscapes in California, the Fossil Falls area. We will be camping on the dry lake bed behind the mountain, accessed off Cinder Road. This is true dispersed camping with no toilets, no water, no utilities, and no cell service. The area has volcanic formations, mountain views, hidden petroglyphs, and quiet trails. Alabama Hills is about one hour away, Lone Pine is about 45 minutes, and Darwin, Panamint Springs, and Death Valley National Park are also within reach.

Road conditions are dirt and usually manageable, but everyone must decide for themselves if their vehicle can handle it. Most cars should be fine if driven carefully. Temperatures will be around 55 degrees during the day and the mid 30s at night.

PLAN
Friday, November 28:
Arrive between 10 am and 11 am. We will set up camp on the dry lake bed area behind the small mountain.

It is roughly 4 hours from San Diego and 3 hours from Los Angeles.

This trip is fully do your own thing. You are free to explore whatever interests you, whether that is Fossil Falls itself, petroglyph areas, trails, nearby towns, or simply relaxing at camp. If you want to explore together, that is something you can arrange on your own while camping.

A CCA sign will be posted at the campsite so you know exactly where we are.

Saturday, November 29:
Open day. Explore Fossil Falls, the volcanic formations, or any nearby areas, or hang out at camp. Everything is optional.

Sunday, November 30:
Pack up and clean up whenever you are ready. Leave no trace.

WHAT TO BRING
Bring all your own gear, food, and water. We do not provide anything.
Bring at least one gallon of water per person per day.
Bring one bundle of firewood per person.
Bring warm clothes for the cold nights.
Pets are allowed at the campsite, but you are fully responsible for them. Some areas and trails may not allow dogs, so research before going.

COST
This trip is free. Just show up, camp, and enjoy.

RULES AND NOTES
21 and over only.
No kids.
No cell service.
You are responsible for your own safety, your vehicle, your gear, and your decisions.

Liability disclaimer:
By signing up, you agree that you are fully responsible for yourself, your belongings, your vehicle, your pets, and your actions. California Camping Adventures and its organizers are not liable for any injuries, damages, losses, delays, or issues that may occur. Participation is voluntary and at your own risk.

TRONA PINNACLES ADVENTURE — January 17–19, 2026

Let’s go explore one of the most unique desert landscapes in California! The Trona Pinnacles area features towering tufa formations scattered across an otherworldly desert plain. It’s an incredible place to camp under the stars.

This will be dispersed camping/boondocking — no amenities provided (no running water, electricity, or trash service). There is a toilet near the main pinnacles area, but it likely won’t be close to where we camp.
Access: The road in is mostly dirt and washboard. Trailers should be good. All terrain tires recommended.

I’ll have a CCA sign posted at the campsite, and once we pick the exact spot, I’ll go up to the road to update the coordinates for anyone arriving later.

Weather: Approx. 50–60°F during the day and around 30°F at night.
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PLAN
SATURDAY (1/17):
We’ll meet around 11:30 AM at the entrance to Trona Pinnacles — the intersection of Trona Rd (Route 178) and Pinnacles Rd. It’s about a 3-hour drive from Pasadena/LA and 4 hours from San Diego. From there, we’ll caravan in, pick a spot, and set up camp. Then relax and enjoy the views.

SUNDAY (1/18):
Exploration day. Check out the pinnacles, nearby trails, and the train tracks area. Explore at your own pace or hang out at camp. We’ll have a fire pit going at night to gather around.

MONDAY (1/19):
Pack up and clean up whenever you’re ready.
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WHAT TO BRING
• Water/Ice: Minimum 1 gallon per person per day (drinking and washing).
• Firewood: Fires are allowed (unless conditions change).
• Camping gear: Tent, chair, sleep setup, warm clothes, lanterns, etc.
• Dogs: Friendly dogs are fine, but they may not be allowed on some trails — please check local rules on your own.
• Cell service: Verizon generally has coverage; AT&T and T-Mobile do not.
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COST
$5 per person (not per RSVP). This helps cover Meetup hosting fees — not for profit and helps to ensure you will show up to your RSVP.
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RSVP & PAYMENT RULES
Payment is due at the time of RSVP to confirm your spot.
Venmo: @californiaadventures

If the event is full, you’ll be moved off the list until payment is made. No-shows do not receive refunds. Cancellations prior to the last week may receive a credit toward a future trip.

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LEGAL
Minimum age 21 for all members and guests. No children. Friendly dogs are okay. You are responsible for yourself and your belongings. By signing up, you agree not to hold Meetup or California Camping Adventures responsible for any losses, injuries, or damages.