Join us for a weekend at Wheeler Gorge in the mountains above Ojai — getting comfortable navigating the outdoors while managing Type 1, and meeting great people along the way. We'll rock climb, hike the Wheeler Gorge and Ventura River Preserve trails, cook together, and share the fire. 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
- Trail hikes at your own pace on the Wheeler Gorge Nature Trail and Ventura River Preserve
- Camp cooking, a basic first-aid session, and nights around the fire
- 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)
- Warm layers for cool mountain nights, plus a rain layer just in case
- 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, elevation, 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 (climbing, hiking) — consider a reduced basal or extra snacks
- Keep fast-acting carbs within reach at all times, including overnight in your tent
- Cool nights can affect insulin and CGM adhesives — keep insulin from freezing and sensors warm
- Tell the group when you're treating a low; someone always has a snack
Schedule
Friday
- 6 PM — Introductions & camp orientation
- 7 PM — Dinner
Saturday
- 7 AM — Breakfast · pack a trail lunch
- 8:30 AM — Leave for rock climbing
- 12 PM — Wrap climbing · lunch
- 1 PM — Back to camp · relax · basic first aid
- 3 PM — Partner walk on the Wheeler Gorge Nature Trail (0.7 mi)
- 5:30 PM — Dinner prep
- 8 PM — Stargazing, reflection, games & s'mores
Sunday
- 6 AM — Hike the Ventura River Preserve Trail (2.9 mi)
- 9 AM — Breakfast
- 10 AM — Pack up camp (check-out at noon)