SBCAMFT Presents: Camping Therapy – An Overnight Retreat for Therapists

SBCAMFT Presents: Camping Therapy – An Overnight Retreat for Therapists

Date: Saturday, May 3, 2025
Location: Freedog Farms @ Cactus Flower Ranch (3 miles south of Buellton)
Address: 1350 US HWY 101, Gaviota, CA
Coordinates: Approximately 34.5580° N, 120.2250° W
Host: Jack May, LMFT

Event Description

Join SBCAMFT for a unique and restorative overnight camping retreat exclusively for therapists. Hosted at the beautiful Freedog Farms @ Cactus Flower Ranch, this experience offers therapists a chance to unplug, recharge, and connect with fellow clinicians — all while immersed in the healing power of nature. Families, friends, and loved ones are all welcome!

Check-In & Schedule

Check-in opens after 3:00 PM on Saturday, May 3, 2025.
While arrivals after sunset are permitted, we strongly encourage participants to arrive before sunset to allow time for setup and orientation in daylight.

Cost & Accommodations

Standard Campsite: $50 per night
This includes access to a tent campsite. Bring your own tent and personal gear.

Upgraded Lodging Options:
Participants may request upgraded accommodations such as camper vans, trailers, or rustic cabins, available at an additional cost based on availability.

Important: All lodging payments will be made directly to Freedog Farms @ Cactus Flower Ranch. SBCAMFT does not collect or manage funds for accommodations. Instead, we assist in connecting participants with options based on their stated needs during registration.

Registration Process

1. Register through the SBCAMFT website event page.

2. Indicate whether you will bring your own tent, car camp, van camp, or RV camp, or if you would like to request upgraded lodging (such as a trailer or cabin).

3. Note any accessibility needs or personal comfort preferences.

4. Download and sign the required SBCAMFT Physical Activity Liability Waiver Form using the link below and email it to: community@sbcamft.org

5. Once both your registration and signed waiver are received, you will receive a follow-up email that includes:

   • Instructions on how to reserve and pay for your site directly with Freedog Farms

   • Accommodation details (if applicable)

   • Logistics for arrival, packing guidance, and group meal coordination

Download the Waiver Form Here:
SBCAMFT Physical Activity Liability Waiver Form.

Email your signed waiver to:
community@sbcamft.org

Why Attend?

• Reconnect with nature, yourself, and your peers in a grounded and gentle setting.

• Experience screen-free time designed to restore presence and clarity.

• Explore ways to integrate nature and wellness into your clinical practice.

• Build organic, authentic relationships in a non-clinical space.

About Freedog Farms @ Cactus Flower Ranch

This 50-acre haven in the hills south of Buellton features:

• Expansive tent and vehicle-accessible sites

• Optional rustic cabins and converted trailers

• Friendly goats and chickens roaming the land

• Nearby trails, beaches, wineries, and open skies

Onsite Amenities

• Outdoor kitchen and communal cooking area

• Fire pits for group connection

• Cowboy-style mineral cold dunk tubs

• Hot outdoor shower and eco compost toilet

• Wine and 12 beers on tap ($5 – cash or Venmo)

• Fresh farm eggs for purchase ($10/dozen)

What to Bring

• Tent and gear (if tent camping)

• Sleeping bag, blankets, and pillows (for all accommodations)

• Food and drinks (meal coordination details coming soon)

• Drinking and dishwashing water

• Cooler and ice

• Reusable plates, cups, and utensils

• Layers for warm days and cool evenings

• Flashlight or headlamp

• Bathing suit and towel

• Journal or creative tools for reflection (optional)

• Backpack, sunscreen, toiletries

• Trash bags (pack it in, pack it out)

• Instruments or contributions for the campfire

Optional Activities (depending on group interest):

• Morning yoga and meditation

• Guided nature walks (iNaturalist app encouraged)

• Wine tasting at Vega Vineyard or Folded Hills Winery

• Excursions to local beaches or Santa Ynez River (conditions permitting)

• Herbology talk and chakra evaluations

• Arts and crafts sessions

• Goat feeding and morning egg collecting

• Zipline and ropes course at Highline Adventures (use code FREEDOGFARMS15 for 15% off)

Questions?

We're here to help! Reach out with any questions or special requests at:
community@sbcamft.org

We can’t wait to share this peaceful and enriching experience with you — where therapy, nature, and community come together under the stars.

Physical Activity Participation Liability Waiver and Release Form

All participants will be required to complete the SBCAMFT Physical Activity Participation Liability Waiver and Release Form prior to attending the event. 

Please check our website and social media for updates and registration announcements.