Patreon Fall GatheringA Special Weekend
for Our Patreon Family
A weekend of camaraderie and epic trails in the beautiful Palo Duro Canyon — hosted by Matt & Cara.
Where the OOA Family Gathers
Once a year, our Patreon community trades the screen for the trail. This members-only weekend is our way of saying thank you — a few days of guided trail rides, wide-open overlanding, shared meals, and stories around the campfire. It's family-friendly through and through: bring the kids, bring your rig, and settle in for the kind of weekend that's as much about the people as it is the driving.
Come for the trails. Stay for the campfire.
What's Included
Pricing is per rig — one rate covers your vehicle, your camping, and the MERUS-guided trail runs all weekend.
Trail Camping
On-site camping is included with your rig rate — set up basecamp inside the canyon and stay all weekend.
MERUS-Guided Trail Rides
Led routes across the canyon's 62+ mile system, grouped by skill level so every driver finds the right line.
Campfire Community
Evening hangs, a Saturday potluck, and the campfire stories that only happen when the OOA family is together.
One Rate Per Rig
One price covers the whole vehicle — bring your co-pilot, the kids, and the crew.
Weekend Schedule
A rough shape of the weekend — final details are shared with registered guests.
Arrive & Set Up Camp
Roll in, claim your campsite, and gather for a welcome around the fire.
Guided Trail Rides & Campfire Stories
Morning driver's meeting, guided trail groups head out across the canyon, then stories around the fire after dark.
Guided Trail Rides & Potluck Dinner
The signature day — more trail time, then a community potluck in the evening.
Pack & Head Home
A relaxed morning, last goodbyes, and pack-out. Until next year.
Ready to Join Us?
Our Patreon weekend fills up fast every year — reserve your rig's spot and we'll see you in the canyon, November 12–15.
MERUS Adventure™
This event is hosted at MERUS Adventure — Texas's premier outdoor adventure destination, set across more than 5,500 acres along the rim and floor of Palo Duro Canyon, the second-largest canyon in the United States. With a 62+ mile trail system, towering canyon walls, and some of the most pristine backcountry in the state, MERUS is built for off-roading, overlanding, hiking, mountain biking, and caving — with on-site camping and cabins so the whole experience stays in one place.
4510 County Road 9, Claude, TX 79019 · Learn more about MERUS Adventure →
Questions, Answered
Who can attend?
This gathering is exclusive to Ozark Overland Adventures Patreon members. All skill levels are welcome — from first-timers to seasoned wheelers.
What kind of vehicle do I need?
MERUS is a true 4WD park. You'll need a full-size four-wheel-drive vehicle with recovery points. AWD vehicles are only allowed as an exception when they're lifted and running off-road tires. ATVs, UTVs, side-by-sides, and dirt bikes are not permitted anywhere on the property.
What safety equipment is required?
Every rig must carry a working fire extinguisher and a GMRS radio. If you need them, fire extinguishers are available at the Park Office for $30 and GMRS radios rent for $15. The radio matters — it's also how the park sends trail and weather updates (on GMRS channel 6).
Is registration required?
Yes — this is a members-only weekend and spots are limited, so reserve early to guarantee your place.
What time can I arrive and check out?
Campsite check-in is 3:00–5:30 PM, and all guests must be on-site by 5:30 PM. You're welcome to enter earlier (from 8:30 AM) for trail time before you set up. Check-out is 10:00 AM with your site cleared of all trash. Final arrival details go out with your registration.
Where do we camp, and are there bathrooms and showers?
Camping is on primitive, trail-accessible sites inside the canyon — no water or electricity at the sites, so come self-contained. Clean bathrooms and showers are located at the Park Office; note there are no restroom facilities down in the canyon, so plan accordingly.
Do I need to bring my own food and supplies?
Come self-contained — the nearest gas and stores are about 15 miles away in Claude, TX, so pack what you'll need for the weekend, plus a lunch and snacks for the trail rides, and a dish to share for the Saturday potluck.
Are campfires allowed?
MERUS does not allow wood, charcoal, or any open/live-fuel fires — a $500 fine applies. Propane fire pits and cooktops are welcome, so bring a propane pit for the evening hangs and campfire stories.
Are RV hookups available?
Yes — full-hookup RV sites and boondocking spots can be booked separately through MERUS on a first-come, first-served basis, and are not included in the event rate. Only full-hookup reservations may dump on-site.
Are dogs allowed?
Absolutely — we love having furry family at the park. Dogs must stay leashed and under your full control at all times, and please clean up after them.
Is alcohol allowed?
Alcohol is fine around camp and the event areas, but never in a moving vehicle or out on the trails. Drink responsibly and keep it in camp.
What happens if the weather turns?
The gathering runs rain or shine. That said, guest safety comes first — MERUS may temporarily close trails during severe storms and will send closure and re-opening updates over GMRS radio (channel 6).
Can I get a refund?
All events are non-refundable. Cancellations due to weather, mechanical failure, illness, or emergencies are reviewed case by case, with a rain check or refund possible depending on the circumstances. For major emergencies, please contact the park directly.