Recumbent Retreat

In August, my friend Michael and I camped out at Fort Stevens State Park in Warrenton, Oregon. It was beautiful weather, and the park has miles and miles of paved trails that just cry out for bike riding. That's exactly what we did as part of the 13th Annual Recumbent Retreat. The Recumbent Retreat is a weekend long bike fest filled with rides and activities for all of the of it's 130 or so participants. Each year, the organizers reserve two complete "circles" of campsites as well as a "group site". The group site is where the evening fireside story swapping takes place, and where the Saturday morning rides depart. Social activities include a Saturday evening potluck, treasure hunt, and endless opportunities to compare stories and ride bikes together.

The high point of the weekend, for many, is the Lighted Bike Parade (see above picture of "Tweety"). Riders decorate their bikes with amazing displays of lights. Then, after dark, ride in a parade line through the entire campground to the cheers and encouragement of families lining the roadway. There are some campers who plan their camping trip each year just to be at Fort Stevens for the lighted bike parade.

If you are on the west coast, then planning an annual trip to the Recumbent Retreat should be an essential part of your summer ride plans. There are a few pictures on my Flickr page.

Jack