Youth Group Trip Planning Checklist

Know Before You Go

Timing: We recommend weekday visits for groups as weekends are typically very busy.

Schedule in Advance: The Outpost and Field Station are spaces you explore on your own. That means families, children with their caregivers, and groups can just walk into the Field Station and Outpost during open hours and start their own adventure. That said, our Adventure Guides and Park Guides may be able to welcome and orient your groups during your visit if scheduled in advance. Click here to get on our calendar.

Length of Visit: We recommend a minimum two-hour visit. Typically, groups start in the Outpost playground. We suggest 30 to 60 minutes for Outpost play followed by a 20- to 30-minute Field Station experience. If you have enough chaperones, we recommend allowing kids to move between the Outpost and Field Station. If you have additional time, you may want to include one of our many self-guided adventures. You can note this in your calendar request.

Group Size: There is not a limit to your group’s size. Note that the Field Station is a public space with a limited capacity of 70 people at a time. Your group may need to adjust your time of entry or break into smaller groups, as needed. The adjacent Outpost is a good option to pass the time.

Chaperones: We recommend a ratio of 1:10 (adults to youth).

 

Just Before Your Trip

Prepare Your Group

• The Outpost includes water features.
• Kids should wear clothes that can get dirty or wet, as well as comfortable closed-toed shoes for climbing.
• You may want to bring a change of clothing for after the adventure.

Prepare Chaperones

• Field Guide for Planning a Youth Group Visit has everything you need to stay organized.
• Print copies for adults who are supporting the visit.

Check the Weather

• The Outpost stays open rain or shine but may close when hazardous weather is in the forecast.
• Visit the National Weather Service website for up to date weather conditions.

Coordinate Transportation

• Driving: Provide directions to Presidio Tunnel Tops to your drivers (parking information included).
• Your own bus: Parking for buses can be reserved.
• Public transportation: Learn how to get here using Public Transit.

 

Arriving at Presidio Tunnel Tops

Lunch: If possible, leave lunches in your vehicles. If you will need space for lunches and backpacks, there are lockable storage chests in the Outpost that can be reserved in advance. Please note this need in your youth group scheduling form.

Gathering Point: When you arrive, gather your group on the plaza between the Field Station and the Outpost. There is an all-gender public restroom and a water fountain nearby.

Staff Notification: Notify a staff member at the Field Station and your group will then be welcomed and oriented to the site.