We do not require proof of vaccine and masking is optional. Anyone who exhibits cold symptoms (such as coughing or sneezing) is strongly encouraged to use a mask in public spaces. Masking is welcome in all spaces. Please bring your own supply. 

A negative COVID test result is not required, however self-testing is strongly encouraged prior to arrival on opening-day, mandatory if symptomatic, and if you become symptomatic while on retreat. 

We have tests onsite, and anyone who tests positive must leave the retreat. Our decision to no longer require testing is in alignment with other retreat centers and in consideration of CDC guidance which states that testing is appropriate when individuals show symptoms of COVID.

The land at Big Springs is a mix of gravel roads and forest paths, some with boulders and roots, at varying degrees of slope. The paths traverse various mountain terrain from soft and winding through conifer forest to steep rocky steps and exposed shale slopes. Sturdy shoes are highly recommended for walking on these paths and around the center. If you use hiking poles, we recommend bringing those as well. The most direct path that connects the Meeting Hall and the Dining Hall has a staircase with 12 stairs and handrails. The picturesque Monet bridge has one handrail. Please use it. There are two double rooms with attached bathrooms that are ADA accessible for guests. Please communicate any access needs to your retreat organizer so we can best assist you with your participation in the retreat.

Big Springs is a fragrance-free environment. We ask that everyone coming to the land refrain from using any products that contain fragrance during their time at Big Springs. Please also refrain from the use of essential oils. We encourage you to check product labels to confirm that there is no fragrance listed in the ingredients before you pack it. This helps those that are affected by these products in the shared spaces. An increasing number of people have allergies, asthma or other chemical sensitivity to a variety of common chemicals and fragrances. We appreciate your partnership in creating a space that is welcoming and safe to all.

• A variety of loose, comfortable, casual, layered clothing.

• Warm clothing/jackets/beanies as we are at elevation with cold nights.

• Rain attire and umbrella.

• Sturdy outdoor walking shoes and hiking poles if you use them.

• Slip-on shoes and indoor slippers if you need them. No outdoor shoes are allowed in the Meeting Hall or cabins.

• Sun hat and unscented sunscreen. We have unscented sunscreen and insect repellant available.

• Flashlight or headlamp with fresh batteries. We do have down-facing “moon lights” that go off at 10pm.

• Wristwatch or battery-operated clock. Clocks are provided in guest rooms.

• Earplugs, if you’re a light sleeper.

• Water bottle and reusable thermos for hot beverages.

• Prescription medications and Epi Pen, if you require one.

Optional

• Bathing suit and towel, if our cold plunge is in use during your retreat (temp. is low 40s).

• If you have special sitting supports or you require a large number of pillows, consider bringing some of your own supply. The Meeting Hall has zafus (round sitting cushions), zabutons (floor mats), blankets, chairs, and back jacks available.

• A sitting cushion and/or yoga mat that you can use outdoors. Please do not remove cushions or mats from the Meeting Hall.

• Personal unscented toiletries. We provide unscented shampoo, conditioner, and body soap in each shower as well as unscented sunscreen.

• Your own personal linens. We provide towels, sheets, blankets, and a pillow.

• For silent meditation retreats: a checkbook, cash, or credit card, for dāna contribution.

What Not to Bring

• Scented personal hygiene products.

• Intoxicants: plant, chemical, or alcohol. (Please bring your prescription medications.)

• Candles or incense.

• Food and beverages (unless medically necessary). 

• For silent meditation retreats: clunky jewelry, which can be noisy in the Meeting Hall. It is frequently discouraged to bring printed books, ebook readers, and magazines as well as any unnecessary technology. (Many silent meditation retreats have a renunciation ceremony where you can relinquish your smartphones and smartwatches for the duration of the retreat.) Please turn off or silence all notifications on smartphones and smartwatches if you bring them, and plan to leave computers, tablets and other devices in your car.

Big Springs is located at approximately 5,200 ft. above sea level. For those not used to high altitudes, it's important to be aware of how your body might respond. While many people experience no issues at all, it's a good practice to be prepared.

What to Expect

At this altitude, you may feel some minor effects as your body adjusts, such as:

• A slight headache

• Mild fatigue or shortness of breath

• Changes in sleep patterns

• Increased need to use the restroom

These symptoms are usually temporary and typically resolve within a day or two.

How to Prepare and What to Do During Your Stay

To ensure you have the most comfortable experience possible, we recommend the following:

• Consult Your Doctor: If you have any pre-existing health conditions (such as heart, lung, or blood pressure issues), we strongly recommend consulting with your doctor before traveling to a high-altitude environment. Please advise your retreat organizer of any pre-existing conditions, allergies and medications that you take.

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before you arrive and throughout your stay. It's easy to get dehydrated at this altitude, and proper hydration is key to feeling well. We have electrolyte packets available in our general store.

• Avoid Caffeine: In the first 24-48 hours, consider limiting your intake of caffeine, as it can contribute to dehydration.

• Take it Easy: Listen to your body. Plan on moving at a slower pace, especially on your first day. Save strenuous activities like long hikes for once you've acclimated.

Emergency Phone Number

If you need to be reached in an emergency during the retreat, the Office number is 530-862-1005. We’ll be checking the answering machine regularly. For emergencies, there is Wi-Fi at the retreat site. Every cabin has emergency information posted by the door. There is an air horn to signal for help and a red emergency phone to dial 911. Next to the phone, there is a walkie talkie to reach a staff person in case of an emergency. Please reserve these for emergencies only. There will always be a First Aid, CPR, AED trained emergency staff member on call.

Information About Health and Safety and Nearby Medical Services

Big Springs is a remote retreat center at an elevation of 5200 ft. We highly recommend that anyone with pre-existing conditions talks to a medical professional about how altitude can affect your health. In the event that you need medical attention, the nearest medical clinic is about 30 minutes away in Downieville and is only open on weekdays:

• Western Sierra Medical Clinic, 209 Nevada St, Downieville, CA 95936 (approx. 30 min.)

The nearest 24/7 medical center with emergency care is in Portola: 

• Eastern Plumas Health Care, 500 First Ave, Portola, CA 96122 (approx. 45 min.)

The nearest hospitals are between an hour and an hour and a half away:

• Tahoe Forest Hospital, 10121 Pine Ave, Truckee, CA 96161 (approx. 1 hr.)

• Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital, 155 Glasson Way, Grass Valley, CA 95945 (approx 1.5 hrs.)

• Renown Regional Medical Center, 1155 Mill St, Reno, NV 89502 (approx. 1.5 hrs.)

If you are concerned about your ability to get to an emergency medical center, we recommend that you purchase an AirMedCare membership so you can get air medical transport to the nearest hospital in the event of an emergency. For more information, please visit their website: https://www.airmedcarenetwork.com/air_ambulance-service/coverage-area-pricing

There is no cell service at Big Springs unless you are connected to Wi-Fi, which is available in the Office. The Office is available if use of technology or calls are necessary during your retreat. Please check in with your retreat organizer on these allowances.

Cell service is spotty on the way to Big Springs and there is no cell service at Big Springs unless you’re connected to Wi-Fi. Please review the Driving Directions on our website and print or download them so they do not require connectivity to view. The directions specify gas stations and EV charging along the way. We have one EV charger at Big Springs available for use with a fee.

There is typically cell service in Downieville and coming from the other direction, in Sierraville. If you need assistance, you can call the Office at Big Springs: 530-862-1005.

If someone you know is attending the retreat, we encourage carpooling to minimize environmental impact.

Upon arrival, drive past the Office and park in the lot just above it. There will be staff to direct you. Check in is at the Office. After check in, staff will help direct you to your cabin or camping spot and alternate parking, if applicable. Please remove all food or scented products from your car as they can easily attract mice and bears. This includes lip balm, lotion, toothpaste, chewing gum, etc. Bags left on the ground may invite an unwanted visitor into your car or cabin. No food is allowed in the cabin rooms or at your camp site. Please store any food items in the small refrigerator in the Dining Hall or the refrigerator in your cabin.

Camping at Big Springs is a delightful experience. You will be camping on a large tent platform in the forest and will have an umbrella for shade. Platforms are at least 12 x 10, and some platforms are larger.

What to know:

• A platform will be assigned to you upon arrival.

• There is a Bath House with one indoor shower, one outdoor shower, and toilets. There are cubbies provided for personal toiletry storage.

• Absolutely NO food, snacks, beverages, or scented things that might attract bears or other creatures should be stored at your tent. There is space for food storage in the Dining Hall. A whistle and bear repellant will be provided.

• Absolutely NO smoking of any kind at camp platform. Smoking is only allowed at a designated site by the parking lot.

What to bring:

• Tent, sleeping pad, pillow and sleeping bag/bedding. Bring extra blankets as temperatures can drop significantly at night.

• Bath towel, washcloth, and personal toiletries. We have unscented shampoo, conditioner, body wash and lotion available for campers in the Bath House.

• A battery-operated clock or wristwatch with an alarm.

• A headlamp or flashlight will be needed since there is no trail lighting to the platforms.

If you leave anything behind, please let your retreat organizer know or email us at: info@bigspringsretreat.org. We will keep items for 30 days before giving them to charity. Big Springs will ship items, but you will be responsible for all the costs related to shipping your item.