Lions Camp at Wrightwood

Lions Camp at Wrightwood, located at 28000 Big Pines Hwy, Valyermo, CA 93563, USA, offers a distinctive camping experience primarily tailored for groups and non-profit organizations. For booking inquiries and more information, you can reach them at (760) 249-3400 or +1 760-249-3400. Part of the larger Lions Camps at Teresita Pines, this specific site, often referred to as Wrightwood Village, provides a back-to-basics approach to outdoor lodging, emphasizing community and shared experiences in the beautiful Angeles National Forest. If you're searching for "Camping Near Me" for a group retreat that values simplicity and outdoor engagement over luxury, Lions Camp at Wrightwood presents a compelling option.

Environment: Mountain Serenity in Angeles National Forest

Lions Camp at Wrightwood is situated just outside the charming mountain community of Wrightwood, within the scenic Angeles National Forest. The camp's location at an elevation that provides cooler temperatures, especially during the summer, makes it an attractive retreat destination. The surrounding environment is characterized by the diverse ecosystems of the Angeles National Forest, including pine forests, chaparral, and high desert flora. The topography around the camp can be varied, with some cabins located up a steep incline, offering good views of the natural landscape, as noted by visitors. The air is clean, and the views are often described as great, providing a refreshing escape from urban life.

The Angeles National Forest is a vast protected area, offering a rich habitat for various wildlife and a backdrop for numerous outdoor activities. Guests can expect to be immersed in a natural setting with the potential for wildlife sightings and the tranquility that comes with being surrounded by nature. The area experiences distinct seasons, with warm summers and cold, snowy winters, each offering unique opportunities for outdoor enjoyment. The camp is set back from the main Big Pines Highway, providing a sense of seclusion while remaining accessible.

Services and Amenities: Group-Oriented Basic Comforts

Lions Camp at Wrightwood is designed to accommodate groups, with facilities that emphasize functionality and communal living rather than individual luxury. The camp primarily offers cabin-style accommodations, described by users as "back to basics cabins" typically furnished with 4 to 6 bunk beds in each. This setup is ideal for large groups, youth camps, and retreats. The Wrightwood Village site can accommodate a minimum of 40 people and a maximum of 80 people, making it suitable for medium to large gatherings. Each cabin typically includes essential private facilities: a shower, toilet, and sink, which are considered a significant "plus" by guests looking for rustic yet convenient lodging. Some cabins are also ADA accessible, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity and ensuring that individuals with varying mobility needs can participate in the camp experience.

Beyond individual cabins, the camp features a large dining hall/lodge that can accommodate up to 100-140 people, serving meals cafeteria-style. Hot and cold beverages are available throughout the day. While bedding is not provided, and guests are advised to bring their own sleeping bags and pillows, the cabins are insulated and heated, ensuring comfort even in colder months. The camp also includes additional facilities such as a meeting space and a fireplace, fostering a communal and warm atmosphere. For even larger groups or different camping preferences, Lions Camps at Teresita Pines also manages "The Lions Den," a tent camping site for up to 40 people with tent platforms, a bathroom/shower house, and easy access to potable water, available during fall, winter, and spring.

The camp is available for rent 12 months of the year on a weekly or weekend basis, depending on the season, making it a versatile option for year-round retreats. The staff are frequently praised for being helpful, contributing to an overall positive experience for volunteers and guests.

Features and Activities: Engaging Programs for Groups

Lions Camp at Wrightwood distinguishes itself with a focus on group activities and a mission that extends to serving various non-profit organizations, with a strong emphasis on the needs of the deaf and disabled. The camp offers a wide array of activities, some with certified staff and others for self-serve enjoyment. Seasonal activities, often provided with staff, include archery, canoeing (likely at a nearby lake such as Jackson Lake), a climbing wall, and access to a swimming pool. Additional self-serve activities include hiking on surrounding trails, Gaga ball, volleyball, basketball, Gel Blasters, and horseshoes. These activities are designed to foster team-building, skill development, and outdoor enjoyment for groups of all ages and abilities.

The camp's dedication to inclusivity is a core feature. It serves as a venue for various special camps, including the Jay Nolan Camp for children with and without disabilities, and the Lions Wilderness Camp for Deaf Children, which provides a free outdoor experience staffed by individuals proficient in sign language. The camp's facilities have been renovated to be ADA accessible, with concrete pathways connecting accessible cabins to dining halls, pools, archery ranges, playfields, campfires, and chapels. These pathways include tactile indicators to assist the visually impaired, ensuring that the camp is genuinely accessible to all. The focus on providing a supportive and engaging environment for special needs groups highlights the camp's unique mission and community-oriented approach.

The proximity to Jackson Lake, which is typically open for swimming, canoeing, and fishing, adds another layer of recreational opportunity. The town of Wrightwood itself, a short drive away, offers additional amenities, dining options, and access to other trails and winter sports at Mountain High Resort.

Promotional Information and Group Booking Details

Lions Camp at Wrightwood operates as a non-profit organization, aiming to provide a beautiful mountain facility for group camping. Its mission is deeply rooted in serving other non-profit organizations and particularly emphasizing the needs of the deaf and disabled. Those interested in booking should note that the camp is primarily for large groups and retreats rather than individual or family camping. Information regarding pricing for groups, such as the staff price ($225.00) and missioner price ($350.00) for certain events, is available through direct inquiry. Specific programs, such as the Lions Diabetes Camp, also utilize the facilities, offering free attendance for diabetic children and siblings. A non-refundable deposit may be required to reserve a place for campers in certain programs.

Prospective groups should contact the Lions Camps at Teresita Pines directly via phone at (760) 249-3580 or email at info@campteresitapines.org to inquire about availability, specific group needs, and pricing. The camp also encourages donations to support its mission, especially for special camps that provide free services to children with disabilities. As a retreat center, Lions Camp at Wrightwood offers a valuable service to the community by providing an accessible and enriching outdoor experience, making it a top choice for organizations seeking "Camping Near Me" with a purpose.

Lions Camp at Wrightwood

28000 Big Pines Hwy, Valyermo, CA 93563, USA