Happy Camp, Moorpark

This is an easy, beginner friendly, 4 mile hike, with an elevation gain of 300'.

My hikes are slow paced (1.5-2 mph) and the listed end time is only an estimate. We take breaks, we explore, and we don't leave anyone behind. If this hike isn't for you, please find another that best suits your needs.

Meet me at 6:30 in the gravel parking lot near the gate of the Rustic Canyon golf course parking lot. Don't park in the golf course parking lot, those gates close at dusk. We'll begin the hike at 6:35.

Sunset is at 7:49 (last light is at 8:15) but still, bring your flashlights.

The trail starts at the north edge of the lot. We'll walk along the fire road next to the golf course for just over a mile, then make a left at the junction. At some point, we will be walking through the dry riverbed and the ground will become sandy and powdery.

Just a reminder to keep your eyes open for snakes (for you and your dog's safety), they are very prominent this year.

**Essentials**

* [Ventura County Search and Rescue (SAR) 10 Essentials](http://sar/)
* Bring 2 liters of water, flashlights, snacks, electrolytes
* Bring your hiking poles if needed.
* Wear good hiking boots/shoes, sunscreen, hat
* Bring a jacket for cooler weather
* Bug spray

**Other Details**

* Trail: fireroad and dry river bed
* Dogs: On a leash per state law
* Restrooms: None
* Water Fountain: None
* Parking: Free
* Known Dangers: Slip-'n-fall, rattlesnakes and tarantulas

**DIRECTIONS**
Address to the Rustic Canyon Golf Course:
15100 Happy Camp Canyon Rd., Moorpark, CA

Google Coordinates: 34.311704, -118.866110
[Click to view the Google Map](https://www.google.com/maps/place/34%C2%B018'42.1%22N+118%C2%B051'58.0%22W/@34.311704,-118.868304,1017m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m4!3m3!8m2!3d34.311704!4d-118.86611?hl=en&authuser=0)

**Driving Directions**

* From Thousand Oaks, take the CA-23 and onto the I-118 toward Simi Valley.
* From Simi Valley, stay on the I-118 heading west.
* Exit 19A Princeton Ave., turn right (north) if coming from Simi Valley, turn left if your coming from Thousand Oaks.
* On Princeton Ave. drive north for 0.2 miles.
* Turn left on Campus Park Dr. for 0.4 miles and continue on Happy Camp Canyon Rd. for 0.7 miles.
* Follow signs to Rustic Canyon golf course.
* Do not park in the golf course parking lot (they lock the gates at dusk)
* Park in gravel lot, just before golf course paved lot.

**DISCLAIMER/RELEASE OF LIABILITY:**

1. You must RSVP to attend this event, no exceptions.
2. The PM Hiker organizers are not trained leaders and do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips.
3. If you sign up for any event, you are releasing the PM Hiker organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries.
4. Hiking and other outdoor events can be dangerous, and accidents can happen.
5. Per Meetup rules, you are responsible for your own safety and well-being. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience. You take full responsibility for your own actions.
6. If you decide to proceed ahead, or in another direction, with or without informing the PM Hiker organizer, you become responsible for your own safety and return to the trailhead.
7. These rules apply to any guests you may invite.