Come one, come all, to the 37rd annual Stanislaus Grotto Barbeque to be held on Saturday, August 11th, at California Caverns (AKA Cave City) in Mountain Ranch, Calif.
This may be the last year that we are able to have our annual BBQ at Cave City as the family corporation that owns several caves (Sierra Nevada Recreation) – including California Caverns – is undergoing changes and future ownership of the caves is uncertain.
And as always, other grotto members from near and far are welcomed to join in the festivities.
And as this is a social event, it is open to all; bring your family, friends, relatives, co-workers, etc., – anyone who is interested in a good time. Also, past barbeques have had unusual events, such as belly dancers and six-foot toucans, but there is no guarantee of any such aberrations this time. Someone might also rig a vertical challenge area for energetic cavers.
The standard barbeque etiquette rules apply – bring something to throw on the grill, and bring something to share with the group: a side dish, salad, appetizer, or dessert. Grills and charcoal are provided. There are three stationary grills, and it has been noticed in the past that there might be wait times to use a grill. If you have a small grill that can be easily transported that would be a nice addition. There are several picnic tables but folding chairs are also handy to bring along. Also, an extra couple of folding tables might be helpful if a lot of people attend.
For evening entertainment we will have a LCD projector and screen, so bring your digital cave pictures. Please provide your own laptop if possible.
*FREE CAMPING!! * That’s right, after eating so much food, and maybe consuming an adult beverage or two, why drive home on dark, windy roads. Spend the night under the stars at California Caverns. Then you can meander home the next day, or head off to a caving adventure in the local area.
WHEN: Saturday, August 11th WHERE: California Caverns (AKA Cave City) near Mountain Ranch, CA TIMES: Social hours 3:00 – 5:00 pm Grilling times 6:00 – 8:00 pm Slide shows??? – 9:00 pm
*IMPORTANT: While the barbeque is being held at California Caverns, this event does not include entry into the commercial cave – either on tours or wild caving. You may purchase tour tickets on your own. During past BBQ’s we have been very fortunate to have John Fairchild available to lead a late evening walking tour through the cave, but this is not likely to happen this year. There are numerous local wild cave you may visit before the BBQ, and also on Sunday.. If it is a hot day, Natural Bridges is a great place to visit and cool off.*