Join us for an immersive outdoor weekend for adults with T1D at Malibu Creek State Park — managing diabetes in the outdoors, finding in-person community, building resilience, and de-stressing in nature. We'll cover camping basics, hike the creek trails, try rock climbing, and cook together over two nights in the Santa Monica Mountains. No experience needed — first-timers and seasoned campers are both welcome.
What to Expect
- Two nights camping with a small, close-knit group of T1Ds
- Introductory outdoor rock climbing, with tips for CGM and pump placement
- Hikes at your own pace to the Rock Pool and along Malibu Creek, plus camp cooking
- A basic first-aid session and a mental-health discussion
- No experience required — first-timers and seasoned campers both welcome
What to Bring
- Tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, pillow, and a camp chair (need gear? We can lend you a tent, bag, and pad)
- Layers for warm days and cool coastal-canyon nights, plus a light rain layer
- Sturdy shoes, sun protection, and a headlamp
- More diabetes supplies than you think you'll need — extra low snacks and backup pump/pen gear
- Your insulin in a labeled zip bag to keep in our cooler
- A refillable water bottle, toiletries, and any medications
We supply all the food, water, and kitchen gear for the weekend.
Managing Blood Sugar
Camping moves your numbers in ways a normal day doesn't — long active days, warm afternoons, cool nights, and new meals all play a part. You don't have to have it figured out; experienced T1Ds are here to help.
- Plan to run lower on active days (hiking, climbing) — consider a reduced basal or extra snacks
- Warm days mean more insulin sensitivity and faster dehydration — hydrate and check often
- Keep fast-acting carbs within reach at all times, including overnight in your tent
- Tell the group when you're treating a low; someone always has a snack
Schedule
Friday
- 5–7 PM — Arrive & camp orientation
- 7 PM — Dinner & introductions
Saturday
- 7 AM — Breakfast · pack a trail lunch
- 9 AM — Intro to rock climbing (CGM / pump placement tips)
- 12:30 PM — Lunch
- 2 PM — First aid course
- 3 PM — Hike to the Rock Pool along Malibu Creek
- 5:30 PM — Camp kitchen & dinner
- 8 PM — Mental-health discussion, reflection & s'mores
Sunday
- 7 AM — Morning hike
- 9 AM — Breakfast
- 10 AM — Pack up camp (check-out at noon)