Wild Hearts: A Joshua Tree Couples Retreat

Unplug and reconnect with your person on this special couples' retreat. Camp at the beautiful Lost Horse Campground and spend the weekend hiking, bonding around a campfire, and sharing meals. Instruction covers the foundations of safe (and fun) outdoor activities. Arrive on Friday to set up camp and enjoy sharing stories around the campfire. On Saturday morning, we'll embark on a 2-hour hike, followed by an afternoon of camp cooking (only your dinner for Saturday is provided). The evening will wrap up around the campfire with a discussion about camping and hiking safety. On Sunday, we’ll rise early for a short walk around Lost Horse Campground before breaking down camp and departing by 2:00 PM.

• The discussion portion of this retreat takes place via Zoom. This is an opportunity to ensure that you are well-prepared.

• This educational weekend takes place at the private Lost Horse Campground in Joshua Tree National Park.

• This excursion is suitable for intermediate to experienced outdoor enthusiasts.

• Entry to Joshua Tree National Park is included in the cost of enrollment.

• Dinner for Saturday is provided. You are responsible for bringing your own dinner for Friday night, lunch on Saturday, and your breakfast for Saturday and Sunday mornings. No equipment is provided.

• Participants are responsible for their own transportation.

• Participants who arrive unprepared may be turned away.

Activity level: The hiking in this class is moderate. It requires walking with limited elevation gain on somewhat variable terrain. It requires less than 5 miles of walking, which may include several hours outdoors in the elements. You will need personal hiking, backpacking, and camping equipment.

Required items for participants: 

• Water, between 3 and 4 liters per person - per day

• Closed-toe athletic shoes or hiking boots (no sandals, not even hiking sandals)

• Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen; light-colored, long-sleeved shirts are recommended and very effective on hot days

• Warm layers for cooler mornings/evenings (it can be surprisingly cold!) 

• Backpack to carry food, water, and any personal items you need for the day

• Camping equipment including: Tent, Sleeping bag and pillow, foam pad, blow-up mattress or cot, folding chair, an extra layer of warm clothing, an extra blanket or sleeping bag in case it gets too cold at night

• Food and cooking supplies: Participants will bring and cook their own breakfast and dinner for Friday night; please bring lunch for Friday that can be carried during day outings, snacks for day hikes that can be easily packed and eaten in the field, cooler (bring your own ice if you bring perishables)

• Lantern & flashlight (your headlamp will do just fine) 

• Trash bags, toiletries, and towel (there is a vault toilet and no running water at camp)

• Optional: hiking poles

Any other pertinent information: The Zoom session on Thursday night will go over your gear and answer any questions you may have. The following day, on Friday, we will meet at the Joshua Tree Visitor Center and caravan into Lost Horse Campground. We will set up camp and then do activities. This is open to couples! 

Photo credit: NPS/Carmen Aurrecoechea