Participants should arrive at the listed tour start location at least 15 minutes before the scheduled tour departure time to allow time for check-in and preparation. Tours will depart promptly at the scheduled time and will not be delayed for late arrivals. Participants arriving after departure may not be able to join the tour and may not be eligible for a refund.
If you can no longer attend a tour or need to change the number of tickets on your registration, please visit our website and log in to your account to request a refund through our automated system. Once you have logged into your account, click on “Orders” and look for the “Request Refund” button to start the process
All ticket changes and cancellations must be made by midnight on November 2. Requests submitted after this deadline will not be eligible for a refund and may be considered a donation to the Lodi Sandhill Crane Association.
Making your changes as soon as possible allows us to offer your spot to someone on the waitlist.
Please note that all refunds are subject to a 4.25% processing fee, which will be deducted from the refund amount.
For partial changes and/or refunds, you may have to contact us at tours@lodisandhillcrane.org
If a tour is cancelled by the tour operator because of weather, unsafe conditions, site closure, transportation problems, or other circumstances beyond the operator’s control, customers will receive a full refund or alternative arrangement specified for that tour.
The tour operator may cancel or modify a tour because of unsafe weather, site closures, transportation problems, insufficient staffing, or other circumstances beyond its control. Customers will be notified of significant changes when reasonably possible.
Dress in layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Outdoor birding tours may begin early in the morning when temperatures are cool and become warmer later in the day. Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy walking shoes are recommended. Depending on the season and location, sun protection, rain gear, or extra layers may also be helpful.
Tours are held rain or shine unless the tour is cancelled by the tour guide or tour operator due to unsafe weather or other conditions. Participants should come prepared for the weather conditions expected on the day of the tour, including appropriate clothing, footwear, sun protection, rain gear, and water as needed. Please be prepared for changing weather conditions throughout the tour.
The tour operator may cancel or modify a tour because of unsafe weather, site closures, transportation problems, insufficient staffing, or other circumstances beyond its control. Customers will be notified of significant changes when reasonably possible.
If a tour is cancelled by the tour operator because of weather, unsafe conditions, site closure, transportation problems, or other circumstances beyond the operator’s control, customers will receive a full refund or alternative arrangement specified for that tour.
Food and water availability varies by tour. Unless specifically stated in the tour description, participants should plan to bring their own water and any snacks they may need. For longer tours, bringing sufficient water and food is especially important.
Some birding tours take place on California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) properties where a CDFW Lands Pass is required. A Lands Pass is an access pass for certain CDFW wildlife areas and ecological reserves. It helps support the management of these public lands and wildlife habitat.
If a Lands Pass is required for your tour, participants 16 years of age or older generally need either a one-day Lands Pass or an annual Lands Pass. A valid California hunting or fishing license may be used instead of a Lands Pass. School and organized youth groups, including accompanying adults, are also exempt from the Lands Pass requirement.
A Lands Pass is not required at every CDFW property or for every birding tour, so please check the specific tour description for the requirements that apply to your trip.
CDFW Lands Passes can be purchased online through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Daily passes can be purchased as a guest, while an annual pass requires a CDFW customer profile.
For more information about Lands Pass requirements and properties where they apply, visit the CDFW Lands Pass information page.
Absolutely. Binoculars are highly recommended for birding tours. Spotting scopes are also welcome when appropriate for the tour, although participants should consider the terrain, distance, and amount of walking involved when deciding what equipment to bring. On bus and boat tours, all personal equipment must be kept on your lap or between your feet during the tour. Please bring only equipment that you can comfortably manage within your personal space.
Guides, transportation operators, and Lodi Sandhill Crane Association are not responsible for damage or loss of your equipment.
Yes! Cameras are welcome on our birding tours. A camera with a telephoto lens can be especially useful for photographing birds and other wildlife. On bus and boat tours, all camera equipment must be kept on your lap or between your feet, as there may not be room to store larger bags or equipment separately. Please bring only equipment that you can comfortably manage within your personal space. Remember to enjoy wildlife responsibly and follow your guide’s instructions regarding distance and photography.
Restroom availability varies by tour location. Most sites have some type of restroom facility at or near the starting tour location. Most are portable facilities.
Physical requirements vary by tour. Outdoor birding tours may involve walking on paved paths, dirt trails, boardwalks, uneven terrain, inclines, or other natural surfaces. Some tours may require walking a mile or more and standing for extended periods. Please review the physical activity information for your specific tour and contact us if you have questions about whether a tour is appropriate for your needs.
Accessible parking availability varies by location. If you have accessibility needs or questions about parking, please contact us before the tour.
Celebrate Sandhill Cranes, local wildlife, art, education, and community at this one-of-a-kind Lodi tradition. View festival information or contact us with any questions.
