Winter Solstice Campout Dec 20th-22nd 2025
The Winter Solstice campout is part of our quarterly campout series that will coincide with the seasons, particularly the solstices and equinoxes. Each campout will be in a different location and somewhere along or close to the Stagecoach 400 route.
For this years Winter Solstice Campout we are driving back out to Borrego/Ocotillo desert to stay at our favorite (kind of) secret campground: Bow Willow
The Campground: Bow Willow Campground
Amenities:
-Pit toilets
-Water **Non potable**
-Fire pits
-Covered picnic tables
-Grills (only at some sites)
***We have AT&T and had little to no cell service there so be prepared***
This is a remote campground with limited amenities but spectacular views. We are planning to drive out Saturday the 20th after we close up the bike shop, so probably around 4pm if anyone wants to caravan. It's first come/first serve for the sites so if people want to get out there early and grab some sites we are happy to reimburse payment (It used to be $25 a night cash only). It is a small campground, so finding the group will not be a problem. The campground is off a dirt/sand road that is manageable with most 2-wheel drive vehicles, there can be sandy/washboard sections so if you're concerned about your vehicle please reach out. Last year everyones 2-wheeled vehicles didn't have any problems.
CAUTION: There are two possible entrances to Bow Willow and if you are driving in from the south the first enttance is VERY SANDY and for 4-wheel drive vehicles only, we do not want any stuck vehicles since we are pretty remote with extremely limited cell service. Another thing to consider: the only water there is one non-potable spigot, so definitely make sure and bring enough water for drinking, cooking and cleaning.
Location of campground: Click Here
Sundays Route:
Still working out the details but thinking of changing it up and heading south to the east exit of the San Diego Railroad Trail and riding the abandoned tracks to the Goat Canyon Trestle. We will be doing some recon rides out there leading up to the campout and will update details as we figure them out.
Optional Monday Activity:
In years prior we did about a 2 mile hike (out and back) from the campground to the Mountain Palm Springs Pygmy Grove, it was a beautiful little oasis and would love to do that again if people are interested.
Food and Beverage:
We will not be providing meals, but will have a limited amount of food and beverages to share with the camp and we invite you to bring some of your camp favorites! Note: There aren't any stores close by so come prepared.
Shuttling Gear and Carpooling:
Since this is a drive to camp and ride we aren't offering gear shuttling. If you are looking to carpool please let us know if you have room in your car or if you need a ride. Most of you know each other but we can try to help link people up.
***There is a signup sheet in the shop or call and let us know you're coming***