Reset & Prepare for the Seasonal Transitions.

Join us for the SISTAS Empowerment Corp & GeauxBlaqOutside Fall Retreat, a day or overnight experience designed to rejuvenate and restore Black/African descent women through the power of nature. Held on September 22-23, this retreat will take place in a peaceful outdoor setting, offering a chance to disconnect from daily stress and reconnect with yourself. From a welcoming opening circle to guided meditations, a silent nature walk, gentle movement, creative vision board session and more, every moment is designed to help you find balance and tools to help you heal. 

This is a space for Black/African Descent women to come together, honor the Fall Equinox, and recharge mind, body, and spirit. 

Sponsored by Metro and East County Rising Community Projects. 

 SISTAS Empowerment Fall Retreat Campout FAQ 

Where is Oxbow?

3010 SE Oxbow Parkway, Gresham, OR 97080

GPS (latitude, longitude): 45.50083, -122.31111, 45°30'3"N, 122°18'40"W

Oxbow Regional Park is 30 minutes from downtown Portland. From I-84, take the Troutdale exit (17).

Go past the truck stop to the light and turn right on 257th Drive. Go 3 miles to Division Street and turn left. Continue east for 5 miles following the signs. Turn left on Oxbow Parkway and drive 1.6 miles to the park entrance.

Website for more detail information about the park https://www.oregonmetro.gov/parks/oxbow-regional-park/camping-oxbow

Do I have to pay to park?

Yes, There is a $5.00 entrance fee per Car.

Who do I call when I get to Oxbow?

There is no cell phone or WI-FI service in the park. We unplugging sis! Campsite information wil be emailed to you after you have registered. 

See map https://www.oregonmetro.gov/sites/default/files/2022/03/01/Oxbow-Regional-Park-camping-guide-20220301.pdf

Can I bring my pup?

No, they have to stay home for this one. Oxbow has a great deal of wildlife that has to be protected, please don't feed any of the animals.

Does the park close? What if I want to make a store run after hours?

Yes. The gate closes at 6:00pm and it's recommended you arrive an hour prior to closure. After the park is closed, once you leave no re-entry is allowed. Those of you planning to stay over will want to come prior to the start of the retreat so you can set up camp.

I don't have a tent and or I can't stay overnight. Can I still come for the day?

Yes! There's no pressure to stay overnight if the woods aren't your thing, your schedule or life doesn't allow it, or you don't feel comfortable because you don't have the right equipment. We can accommodate 4 vehicles at the site itself and you're also welcome to car camp! Check the Amazon list for air mattresses made just for car camping! You're welcome to bring a hammock to sleep in as well.

I have mobility barriers, is the campsite ADA accessible?

Absolutely, pull up! We got you sis. Our Campsite is ADA accessible.

I don't be eating everybody food, can I bring my own?

Yes! But please know it's your sole responsibility to keep your food at safe temperatures for consumption. We will not store any of your food for you.

I ain't thinking nothing but I do wanna know what are we going to be eating!?

We will have an inclusive menu to attempt to accommodate all dietary preferences for Saturday and Sunday morning for those choosing to stay over. Please bring something for lunch on Sunday if you plan to hang after we camp out. Be mindful of keeping your food at safe temperatures until ready for consumption. A good cooler or insulated lunch bag with an ice pack or blanket should hold it long enough.

Food options that will be available:

Saturday:

Breakfast- Fruit, Muffins, Breakfast bars, Oatmeal,Tea.

Lunch-Salad Bar, Dinner: Salad/Taco Bar

Snacks- Sunchips,Popcorn, Veggies,Fruit Snacks

Sunday:

Breakfast Same as Saturday

I've never camped before. What do I bring and where do I get it!?

Our adventure planner Raina, has you covered like butter on grits! She curated an Amazon list https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/3D8VZMW0PGXOU?ref_=wl_share of tried and true products and items. You can also find them just about anywhere else. Portland State University also does camping gear rental you don't have to be a student to access! https://www.pdx.edu/recreation/gear-rentals.  Facebook Marketplace and your village can also be a good resource for equipment to borrow or get on the low.

Here is a  checklist for things to pack for this Campout in particular so you're not intimidated or overwhelmed. It also has food item ideas. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vi9zlWqSFS5VvQZC-ABlRAeBayP8plp9EdYjBrG-Pk0/edit?usp=drivesdk

For any questions please contact our Adventure Planner Raina at (503) 995-7441 email Geauxblaqoutside@gmail.com or Shalonda at (503) 809-9936.