You can easily join a group of friends who, like you, are interested in nature, conservation, hiking and having a fun time outdoors. We have prepared this prospective membership information to briefly describe the benefits of joining the club. 

Read below before you apply

Before you can join and be accepted as a member you will need to do the following:

  • Attend a few of our social gatherings or volunteer events in person. 
  • You’ll need two people to sponsor you when you apply. So, make a couple friends and get to know the board members. 
  • Express your interest in joining and request a tour and orientation. 
  • Fill out the application and pay your dues. 

Your application is then submitted for consideration and approval by the Los Angeles branch executive board. 

About Nature Friends

Organization
Nature Friends Los Angeles is part of the non-profit corporation Nature Friends of California, which also includes Nature Friends San Francisco and Nature Friends Oakland. Our clubs are part of the larger Nature Friends International Network, which is made up of over 1,000 locations worldwide, mostly in Europe. A membership to one Nature Friends branch is accepted at all other branches. 

Facilities
As a member, you can access various world-wide Nature Friends lodges, typically at a discounted rate. Each location offers unique facilities, often including meeting rooms, sleeping accommodations, kitchens, etc. The size and amenities of these locations vary, and each is managed independently.

California Facilities:

  • Los Angeles Branch: Operates the Sierra Madre Clubhouse Lodge.
  • San Francisco BranchMuir Woods Lodge and co-owenership of the Heidelman ski lodge.
  • Oakland Branch: Oakland Lodge and co-owenership of the Heidelman ski lodge in Lake Tahoe.
  • San Jacinto Cabin: Rustic cabin owned by Los Angeles Branch.
  • Heidelman Lodge: ski lodge in Lake Tahoe owned by San Francisco and Oakland Branches. 

International Facilities:

Explore the map of international Nature Friends Houses

Sierra Madre Lodge
Our Sierra Madre lodge offers comfortable accommodations available to members, their families, and friends for stays or private events. Reservations should be made in advance, as the lodge is frequently in use for weddings, parties, retreats, and other gatherings. Rates and availability can be provided upon request.

San Jacinto Cabin
Situated on the slopes of Mt. San Jacinto, near Palm Springs, our cabin offers a rustic experience with no electricity but includes chemical toilets, a spring-fed water supply, kitchen, and dining facilities. To use the cabin independently, members must undergo training from the Cabin Committee on essential procedures to ensure proper care and security of the facility.

Operations
The day-to-day activities of the Los Angeles branch are managed by an Executive Board composed of four officers—President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer—and five Directors, all elected annually by members. The Board meets monthly at the Sierra Madre Lodge.

Committees
Members are encouraged to participate in one or more ad-hoc committees that focus on various areas such as Cabin maintenance, Membership, Outreach, Hospitality, and Archives.

Activities
The Club organizes a variety of events, including hikes, outings, cabin weekends, dinners, and socials, often featuring a potluck lunch at the Sierra Madre Lodge.

Monthly Bulletin
Members receive a Monthly Bulletin by mail, featuring news, updates, and a schedule of activities for all branches. Compiled in San Francisco, the Bulletin sometimes includes additional flyers with Los Angeles-specific information. Members are encouraged to confirm event details with the event leader.

Workdays
Occasional workdays are held at the Sierra Madre Lodge, offering members an opportunity to assist in maintaining the facilities. Member participation in these workdays is highly encouraged.

Membership and Involvement
The Club welcomes friends and associates at events and encourages them to become members. Membership provides various ways to contribute, such as bringing food to events, donating resources, or volunteering skills like accounting, legal assistance, or maintenance. Members can also help organize activities, ensuring the Club continues to grow and thrive.

Any Questions? – Please text the club at 626.355.0117.