Join Santa Cruz 4WDC

Become a member of the Santa Cruz 4 Wheel Drive Club and join a community dedicated to responsible off-roading, trail preservation, and outdoor adventure!

Membership Benefits

As a member of SC4WDC, you’ll enjoy:

  • Organized Trail Rides: Access to monthly trail rides and special events.
  • Community: Connect with like-minded off-road enthusiasts.
  • Knowledge Sharing: Learn from experienced members about vehicle preparation, maintenance, and trail techniques.
  • Statewide Advocacy: Through our affiliation with Cal4Wheel, your voice is heard in the fight to keep California trails open.
  • Social Events: Monthly meetings with food, fellowship, and trip planning.
  • Discounts & Publications: Access to Cal4Wheel’s In-Gear magazine and potential discounts from local/statewide sponsors.

How to Join

We want to make sure our club is the perfect fit for you! To ensure we’re all on the same wavelength regarding safety, trail etiquette, and club culture, we invite prospective members to complete our introductory process:

  1. Attend 2 Club Meetings: Come hang out at our monthly meetings in Watsonville. It’s the best way to meet the crew and hear about upcoming trips.
  2. Join us for 2 Club Runs: Get your tires dirty! Participating in two runs allows you to experience our trail style and safety standards firsthand.
  3. Cal4Wheel Membership: Because SC4WDC is a member club of the California 4 Wheel Drive Association (Cal4Wheel), all our members must also maintain an active Cal4Wheel membership.
  4. Complete Application & Pay Dues: Once you’ve hit your “2-and-2” milestone, you can submit your club application and pay dues for both SC4WDC and Cal4Wheel.

Membership Requirements

  • Own or have regular access to a 4x4 vehicle.
  • Completion of the introductory period (2 meetings and 2 club runs).
  • Active membership in Cal4Wheel (we can help you get signed up!).
  • Commitment to responsible off-roading and Leave No Trace principles.
  • Respect for public lands and fellow trail users.
  • Willingness to participate in club activities and trail maintenance.

Guest Policy

Not ready to commit? No problem! You are always welcome to attend our meetings and guest-friendly trail rides. This “intro period” is designed to be fun and low-pressure—it’s all about making sure you feel at home in the club before you officially join.

Monthly Meetings

Our meetings are casual and fun! We discuss upcoming trail rides, vehicle modifications, and community service opportunities. Check the Contact page for current meeting times and location.

Questions?

Have questions about membership, dues, or our next run? Come to a meeting or contact us through our social media channels. We’re always happy to help new members navigate the setup!

Note: Total annual dues consist of both SC4WDC club dues and Cal4Wheel association dues. Ask a board member at our next meeting for the current combined total.