Membership Application

Nature Friends Los Angeles is a welcoming community for people who enjoy nature, conservation, hiking, friendship, and spending time outdoors. This page explains how to apply for membership and what you can expect as part of the club.

Before You Apply

Before your application can be considered, prospective members should:

• Attend a few social gatherings, volunteer days, or club events in person.

• Get to know current members and board members.

• Find two current members who are willing to sponsor your application.

• Request a tour and orientation.

• Complete the membership application and pay your dues.

Once submitted, your application will be reviewed for approval by the Los Angeles Branch Executive Board.

About Nature Friends

Nature Friends Los Angeles is part of Nature Friends of California, a nonprofit corporation that also includes Nature Friends San Francisco and Nature Friends Oakland. We are also part of the larger Nature Friends International network, which includes more than 1,000 Nature Friends houses and locations around the world, especially in Europe.

Membership in one Nature Friends branch is generally recognized by other branches, giving members access to a wider network of lodges, cabins, and outdoor communities.

Nature Friends Facilities

Members may have access to Nature Friends lodges and cabins in California and around the world, often at discounted member rates. Each location is managed independently, and facilities vary by branch.

California Facilities

• Nature Friends Los Angeles: Sierra Madre Lodge and San Jacinto Cabin

• Nature Friends San Francisco: Muir Woods Lodge and co-ownership of Heidelmann Lodge

• Nature Friends Oakland: Oakland Lodge and co-ownership of Heidelmann Lodge

• Heidelmann Lodge: A Lake Tahoe ski lodge jointly owned by the San Francisco and Oakland branches

International Facilities

• Members can also explore Nature Friends houses around the world through the Nature Friends International network.

Sierra Madre Lodge

Our Sierra Madre Lodge is located in the foothills near Angeles National Forest. The lodge and grounds are used for member activities, private events, retreats, weddings, parties, and community gatherings.

Members, their families, and guests may reserve the property when available. Advance reservations are required, and rates and availability can be provided upon request.

San Jacinto Cabin

The San Jacinto Cabin is a rustic mountain retreat on the slopes of Mt. San Jacinto, near Palm Springs. The cabin has no electricity, but includes chemical toilets, a spring-fed water supply, a kitchen, and dining facilities.

Members who wish to use the cabin independently must first receive training from the Cabin Committee so they understand the procedures for safe and responsible use of the property.

How the Club Is Run

The Los Angeles Branch is managed by an elected Executive Board, which includes four officers: President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer, along with five Directors. Board members are elected annually by the membership.

The Board meets monthly and helps guide the operations, facilities, events, and long-term planning of the club.

Committees and Volunteering

Members are encouraged to get involved through committees, volunteer days, and special projects. Common areas of involvement include:

• Cabin maintenance

• Membership

• Outreach

• Hospitality

• Archives and history

• Property care and improvements

Volunteering is an important part of keeping the club active, affordable, and welcoming.

Activities and Events

Nature Friends Los Angeles hosts a variety of member activities, including hikes, outings, cabin weekends, potlucks, dinners, social gatherings, volunteer days, and special events.

Members are also welcome to suggest, organize, or help support activities that fit the mission and spirit of the club.

Member Bulletin

Members receive a regular bulletin with news, updates, and upcoming activities from the California branches. Some events may also include Los Angeles-specific flyers or announcements.

Because schedules can change, members should confirm event details with the event leader before attending.

Membership and Community

Nature Friends is a member-supported organization. Members help keep the club strong by attending events, volunteering, bringing food to gatherings, sharing useful skills, donating resources, helping with maintenance, and welcoming new people into the community.

Membership is not just about access to facilities. It is about helping care for a historic outdoor club and keeping it active for future generations.

Questions?

Please text Nature Friends Los Angeles at 626.355.0117.