What’s Camp Caftan?
Camp Caftan is a queer campout with a focus on music, community and art, with all the amenities of a typical summer camp: mess hall, outdoor amphitheater, swimming pool, games area, hiking trails, fire pits, cabins and camping areas.
What’s included?
Your ticket to camp includes all programming and activities. Camping, Cabins, Other On-Site Accommodations, Transportation, and Meal Plans are available to add on to your camp ticket.
Where is it?
Camp Caftan takes place at a summer camp in Big Bear, CA (about 2 hours from LA).
When should I plan to arrive?
You can arrive starting the afternoon of Friday, July 26th.
How much does it cost to come and what does that include?
Base ticket price starts at $200 (early bird pricing), with accommodations ranging from $50 to $125 each (sold as a single ticket with total group accommodation price) depending on which option you select. Check out the different types of accommodations available here.
If you’re interested in a discounted Camp Caftan experience consider applying to become a Volunteer!
What food is available and what if I have dietary restrictions?
We’ve added an optional meal plan to camp this year, which will include Dinner on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, as well as Brunch on Saturday and Sunday. More details and sample menus coming soon, but every meal will have a vegetarian/vegan option, and have options to be prepared for other common dietary restrictions.
We’ll also have other vendors on site who will be offering food for sale, but those not purchasing the meal plan should pack some food and drinks to keep yourself going for the weekend.
What are sleeping arrangements like? Who will I be staying with?
We’ve changed our Accommodations this year, and have more options to fit various budgets. You can camp alone or with friends, or share a cabin with a group of your choice.
Can I stay somewhere else?
You may miss out on some special camp moments, and will need to ensure you’re in/out of camp while the front gate is open, but you’re welcome to stay in an off-site rental if you’d prefer. For a general idea of area, camp is about a 10-15 minute drive from Big Bear’s Mineshaft Coaster (which is really fun btw).
What’s the crowd like?
Camp Caftan is a beautiful mix of queers and allies of all genders and ages, sharing the love of dance music collectively in the mountains! It is a fully inclusive event that seeks to generate a community free of any type of violence or prejudice.
Homophobia, transphobia, racism, ableism, fatphobia, or any bad vibes are not welcome nor will they be tolerated!
Beyond the music, what other activities can I expect?
We’ll have plenty of classic camp activities (hiking, yoga, swimming, a talent show, bon fires, chill out lounges, etc), the first annual Caftan Games, along with other activities curated by our community.
Have an idea for an activity? Tell us about it and we’ll help get you on the schedule!
What should I plan to bring?
Sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, bathing suit, CAFTANS, bed linens (blanket, sheets, pillow, towels, soap, shampoo, bugspray, water bottle, snacks, food and drink, alcohol/mixers, coolers/ice,
LEWKS, shoes for hiking, jackets/clothes for cooler night time weather, flashlights, power banks, propane grills to cook with, etc.
What shouldn’t I bring?
Can I drive and park?
What if i don’t drive? How can I get to camp and back?
Can I bring pets?
Unfortunately no pets are allowed. 🙁
What’s the alcohol situation?
We will NOT have a bar selling alcohol on site this year, so it’s BYOB! Stock up before leaving LA, or there are several in the area to grab drinks at.
Forgot ice, mixers, or cups? We’ll have some for sale at camp to help!
How can I get more involved, be part of the talent show, or sponsor a camp activity?
We’d love to have you more involved! If you’re interested, let us know:
What if my plans change and I can’t come anymore?
Unfortunately, tickets are non-refundable. However, we’re happy to transfer your ticket to someone else if you’re unable to come.
Join our mailing list to stay up to date about Camp Caftan and future events from your team at Somos.