Black and white  Desert Hearts Microfest logo illustration in stylized text, with a small flower and a cup symbol with a heart inside it.

FAQ

TICKETS & ENTRY

Desert Hearts Microfest is a campout experience with lodging availability.

Every ticket includes a campsite in our self-camping village (bring your own tent and camping gear). We also offer Indoor accommodations, bell tents, and RV spaces AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE SEPARATELY. Vehicle Parking Passes, and a limited number of Car Camping Passes are available separately.

Where do I purchase tickets?

Tickets can be purchased here: DH Microfest Tickets

Tickets include access to the full Microfest event experience, including music programming, a campsite in the self-camping village (bring your own tent and camping gear), and standard event access for the full weekend.

Capacity is intentionally limited, and we recommend purchasing tickets early.

What does my ticket include?

Your ticket includes access to the full microfest experience: Three days of music, connection, and time on the land.

Each ticket includes:

  • Full event access

  • Bring-your-own-tent camping in the self-camping village (camping space only; guests must provide their own tent and camping gear)

  • Access to shared event amenities

  • Entry to all scheduled music programming

Early Thursday entry, Vehicle Parking Passes, and a limited number of Car Camping Passes are available separately. Visit the lodging Upgrades page for current information and availability.

Early Arrival access is available separately as an optional add-on

Food and beverages are available for purchase during the event.

What is the Early Arrival Pass?

The Early Arrival Pass allows guests to arrive and check in one day before the official event opening.

Early Arrival check-in begins THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1 at 12:00 PM.

Guests with an Early Arrival Pass will have access to the property, pool, light music programming, and available food and beverage service beginning THURSDAY afternoon.

Please note that a microfest event ticket is also required. The Early Arrival Pass is an optional add-on and does not include event admission.

Are there other accommodation options besides tent camping?

Every microfest ticket includes access to our self-camping village, which is designed to be the heart of the weekend experience.

Standard camping is included with every ticket. Vehicle Parking Passes, and a limited number of Car Camping Passes are available separately.

a limited number of bell tents and various indoor accommodation upgrades are available for purchase

Availability is extremely limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

Visit the Campout Upgrades page of this website for current availability and accommodation details.

What is car camping?

Car camping allows you to camp directly next to your vehicle within designated car camping areas on the property.

Unlike standard self-camping, where vehicles are parked separately, car camping provides the convenience of keeping your vehicle at your campsite throughout the weekend.

Car camping is ideal for guests bringing larger camping setups, additional gear, or those who simply prefer easy access to their vehicle during the event.

Please note:

• A valid microfest event ticket is required for each guest.
• No additional Vehicle Parking Pass is required with car camping pass.
• Space is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• One Car Camping Pass covers one vehicle and one designated campsite space.
• Each campsite measures approximately 10' x 20'.
• No electrical hookups are available.
• No water hookups are available.
• No sewer hookups are available.
• A Car Camping Pass does not include a tent. Guests are responsible for providing their own camping setup.

Does a Car Camping Pass include parking?

Yes.

A Car Camping Pass includes vehicle access and campsite placement within designated car camping areas.

Guests with a Car Camping Pass do not need to purchase a separate Vehicle Parking Pass.

Do most guests camp?

Yes.

microfest is designed as a campout experience, and most attendees stay in the self-camping village included with every ticket.

Unlike many large festivals, camping areas at Deloro Valley are located close to the music, pool, food vendors, restrooms, showers, and gathering spaces.

Camping is not a backup plan—it is the core microfest experience.

Is parking included with my ticket?

No. A separate parking pass must be purchased unless you have purchased a car camping pass.

a parking pass includes in & outs as long as it’s during box office hours.

Because on-site parking capacity is limited, we strongly encourage guests to carpool whenever possible.

Vehicle Parking Passes, and Car Camping Passes are separate products that serve different needs.

Why is parking now being sold separately?

microfest takes place at a private venue with limited on-site parking capacity. we are implementing parking passes to manage vehicle count, protect the guest experience, and ensure safe, organized arrival and access throughout the weekend.

This helps us better accommodate guests while keeping the property comfortable, navigable, and enjoyable for everyone.

Do I need a vehicle pass?

Yes. if you plan to bring a vehicle, you must purchase ONE of the following vehicle access options:

• Vehicle Parking Pass
• Car Camping Pass

You only need one vehicle access option per vehicle.

Guests arriving together are strongly encouraged to carpool and share one vehicle whenever possible.

Can multiple guests share one vehicle pass?

Yes.

Vehicle access passes are issued per vehicle, not per person.

Guests traveling together may share a vehicle and only need one Vehicle Parking Pass, or Car Camping Pass for that vehicle.

Vehicle access passes apply to vehicles, not individual attendees.

What is the difference between a Parking Pass and Car Camping Pass?

Parking Passes are intended for guests who will park their vehicle onsite and remain at the event for the duration of the weekend.

Vehicle access and re-entry privileges are included.

Car Camping Passes allow guests to park and camp directly next to their vehicle within designated car camping areas.

You only need one of these options per vehicle.

What if parking passes sell out?

Once available parking capacity has been reached, additional parking passes may no longer be available.

If you plan to bring a vehicle, we recommend securing your Vehicle Parking Pass, or Car Camping Pass as early as possible.

Are tickets refundable or transferable?

All ticket sales are final. Please refer to your ticket provider regarding any regulations on the transfer of tickets.

Will tickets sell out?

Yes—this is a very limited-capacity event. We recommend purchasing early to secure your spot.

Do ticket prices increase over time?

Yes. Pricing tiers increase as the event approaches and inventory becomes limited.


ACCOMMODATIONS

standard camping is included with every ticket. Vehicle Parking Passes, and a limited number of lodging upgrades and car camping passes are available separately.

Do I need to bring my own tent?

Yes.

Standard camping included with your ticket is a bring-your-own-tent experience. Guests are responsible for providing their own tent, sleeping gear, and camping equipment.

Your ticket includes access to a campsite within the self-camping village, but does not include a tent or camping equipment.

If you prefer to camp next to your vehicle, a limited number of Car Camping Passes are available separately.

Do I need to bring my own setup?

If you are camping or car camping, bring everything you need to be self-sufficient and comfortable for the weekend.

  • tent

  • sleeping gear

  • cooler

  • shade

  • lighting

  • reusable water bottle

  • etc.

Can I choose my exact accommodation or campsite?

Lodging reservations guarantee a category, not a specific unit. Self-camping and car camping are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis within designated areas.

What should I bring if I’m camping?

Specific packing guidance will be shared closer to the event, but in general:

  • Tent

  • Sleeping gear

  • Personal essentials and toiletries

  • Bedding comfort items if desired

  • Layers for daytime and nighttime conditions

  • Anything that will make your stay more comfortable

Shade structures are welcome, but suitable locations for large shade sails or overhead shade installations cannot be guaranteed.

Fortunately, many camping areas at Deloro Valley benefit from natural tree cover and shade throughout the day.

What time is check-in and check-out?

Arrival details and check-in instructions will be shared with guests ahead of the event.

We recommend arriving during designated check-in hours to ensure a smooth experience.

Can I arrive early or stay late?

Guests who wish to arrive before the official Thursday opening must purchase an Early Arrival Pass.

Early Arrival check-in begins Thursday, Oct 1 at 12:00 PM.

Extended stays beyond the event weekend are not available unless arranged separately with Deloro Valley in advance.

Can I camp with my friends?

Yes. Guests arriving together are welcome to camp together within designated camping areas, subject to available space.

If camping together is important to your group, we recommend arriving together whenever possible and coordinating your campsite setup upon arrival.

Car Camping Pass holders may also camp together if space and vehicle placement allow within designated car camping areas.

Can I bring a sound system or host music at my campsite?

Personal speakers for casual listening are permitted at reasonable volumes.

However, renegade sound systems, unofficial stages, amplified performances, campsite DJ setups, or independently organized sound camps are not permitted.

microfest features professionally curated music programming throughout the weekend, and we ask guests to help maintain a comfortable camping environment for everyone.

Is carpooling encouraged?

Yes. Carpooling is strongly encouraged.

Parking is limited, and reducing the number of vehicles on site helps preserve the flow, comfort, and overall experience of the property.

What qualifies as a standard vehicle?

A standard vehicle includes typical passenger vehicles such as cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans.

Oversized vehicles, RVs, trailers, and campers are not permitted.

If you’re unsure whether your vehicle qualifies, we recommend reaching out in advance.

Is lodging required to attend microfest?

All guests must have a plan for where they will stay during the event.

Every ticket includes a campsite in the self-camping village, making camping the default and most common way to experience microfest.

If you want to upgrade your experience, you can purchase one of our loding options.

What happens if I don’t book lodging?

Most attendees will be camping.

Simply bring your own tent and camping gear and enjoy the weekend.

Guests seeking additional convenience may purchase a Car Camping Pass or campout lodging upgrades, subject to availability.

ABOUT Accommodations

The following information applies only to guests who reserve indoor accommodations, cabins, houses, RV spaces, or other upgraded lodging options.

Do lodging reservations include an event ticket?

No. Lodging is booked separately from admission.
Every guest staying on site in lodging upgrades must also purchase an microfest event ticket.

Is lodging priced per person or per unit?

When available, lodging accommodations are priced per unit rather than per person.

This means one guest reserves the full house, cabin, room, tent, or RV spot, and can decide which ticketed guests stay in that space.

Can I book just one bed in a shared room?

No. All lodging is reserved by pre-formed groups.

Deloro Valley does not match roommates or fill individual beds. If you’re booking a shared space, your group is responsible for filling it.

Can I add guests to my lodging reservation later?

Yes. You don’t need to finalize your group at the time of booking.

However, all guests staying in your lodging must have their own event ticket before arriving.

What is included with lodging?

Your reservation includes your selected accommodation for the duration of the event.

Event admission is not included and must be purchased separately.

Can I transfer my lodging to someone else?

No. Lodging reservations cannot be transferred to another person.

What happens if I don’t have enough people to fill my space?

That’s up to your group.

Since lodging is sold by unit, you are welcome to use the space as you wish, but unused capacity will not be refunded or adjusted.

What is the cancellation or refund policy?

All lodging purchases are final.

Reservations are non-refundable and non-transferable.


EVENT EXPERIENCE

What kind of event is microfest?

microfest is a multi-day music experience blending electronic music and natural surroundings, in a relaxed, community-driven atmosphere.

What kind of music can I expect?

Expect the very best house, techno, and electronic music from a carefully curated lineup of artists.

Deloro Valley also features an on-site radio station, broadcasting 24 hours a day on the FM dial. We encourage attendees to bring an FM radio so you can tune in to programming from anywhere on the property.

What is the overall vibe?

Quality vibes! Nod your head poolside, chill out and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings and dance through the night to your favorite artists from the desert hearts family and beyond.

How far is camping from the music and activities?

One of the unique aspects of microfest is how compact the experience is.

Unlike many large festivals, where campgrounds can be a long walk from stages and amenities, Deloro Valley is designed so that everything remains close at hand.

Whether you're self-camping or car camping, you'll be within a short walk of music programming, the pool, food vendors, restrooms, showers, and common gathering spaces.

The goal is simple: spend less time commuting across a festival site and more time enjoying the weekend.

Who can attend?

21+ persons only. Please see the Age Policy section below for details regarding minors and family attendance.

Can I dance in the dj booth?

Yes. Dancing in the DJ booth is part of the desert hearts experience and we encourage you to do so. this is a privilege, not a right. if at any point we need to clear the booth for any reason, please be respectful, listen to the staff, and get the fuck out ;)


GETTING THERE

Where is the event held?

microfest takes place at Deloro Valley in Tuolumne, California.

Detailed directions will be shared after booking.

When should I arrive?

Standard event check-in begins friday, october 2 at 10:00 AM.

Guests who have purchased an Early Arrival Pass may check in beginning thursday, october 1 at 12:00 PM.

There will be pool access, light music programming, and food and beverage service available for Early Arrival guests.

GATE SCHEDULE

  • Thursday (Early Arrival Only): 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM

  • Friday: 10:00 am – 12:00 AM

  • Saturday: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM

  • Sunday: Gates Closed

Please note that the event takes place at a private rural venue and there is no vehicle access before official gate opening times.

Can I leave and come back?

in and outs are ok at dh microfest.

however, microfest is designed as a campout experience and most guests remain onsite throughout the weekend.

an admission ticket and vehicle pass are needed for in and outs.

in and outs will only be honored during box office hours.

What about parking and ride share options?

Parking availability depends on when your ticket was purchased. Please see the Parking section above for current policies and parking pass requirements.

Oversized vehicles, RVs, and campers are not permitted without a reserved RV camping space. RV camping is currently sold out.


FOOD & BEVERAGE

What food options will be available?

There will be a variety of healthy, and delicious food options available for purchase during the event.

There will also be grab-and-go snacks and beverages available. More info on this soon.

Will there be dietary options?

Yes, most vendors will offer vegetarian and other dietary-friendly options.

Can I bring my own food?

Yes, guests are welcome to bring their own food. Note that refrigeration is not available in most rooms. Please bring your own cooler for perishables.

What about drinks?

Bars will be open onsite with beverages available for purchase.

Additional guidelines around outside beverages will be shared prior to the event.

Is water available?

Yes, free well drinking water will be available onsite. We strongly encourage everyone to bring their own reusable water bottle.

If you prefer non-well water please plan to bring your own water source.

Some bottled water will be available for purchase at the bar during operation hours.

How do I pay for food and drinks?

Meals may be purchased with cash or credit card. (More info to come).

3rd party vendors will accept card payments. Some may accept cash. ATMs are not available onsite.

Can I purchase ice on site for my cooler?

Yes, bags of ice will be available for purchase, however, there is limited supply and only during hours of bar and food concession operations.


WHAT TO BRING

What should I bring?

The venue is located on a historic summer camp property, with a variety of indoor and outdoor gathering spaces, spread across 132 woodland acres in the Sierra Nevada foothills. 

So you’re going to be in the woods, and somewhat subject to the elements.

It will be hot during the day, but there’s a massive pool at the center of base camp to cool off. It could get chilly at night, so prepare accordingly.

We recommend:

  • Tent

  • Sleeping gear

  • Comfortable clothing for day and night

  • Warm layers for evenings

  • Swimwear and a pool towel

  • Sunscreen and hat

  • Bugspray

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Flashlight or headlamp

  • A cooler for perishables

  • An FM radio so you can tune into Deloro Valley’s 24-hour music programming

  • Hiking boots/long pants aren’t a bad idea if you plan to explore the property

If you’re camping, bring everything you need to be self-sufficient.

What items are not allowed?

To keep the space safe and enjoyable for everyone, the following are not permitted:

  • Fireworks

  • Open flames or campfires

  • Weapons of any kind

  • Illegal substances

  • Pets

  • Generators intended to power amplified sound systems


FACILITIES AND COMFORT

What kind of amenities are available?

You’ll have access to restrooms, showers, food vendors, and open space to relax between sets, and all are located within a short walk of camping areas.

This is an outdoor, nature-forward environment—come prepared for a balance of comfort and simplicity.

Are bathrooms and showers private or shared?

Most restroom and shower facilities onsite are shared and centrally located.

Many of these have been upgraded to include private shower stalls and individual toilet areas, offering a comfortable and semi-private experience within shared facilities.

Do any accommodations include private bathrooms?

Lodge rooms and cabins do not include private bathrooms; guests will use the shared facilities nearby.

Private houses included private bathrooms and showers.

How close are the shared facilities?

Shared restrooms and showers are distributed throughout the property and are generally within a short walking distance from accommodations and camping areas.

Is the venue ADA accessible?

We strive to provide accessibility where possible. Please contact us in advance for specific needs.


SAFETY AND RESPECT

Will there be medical staff onsite?

Yes, first aid services will be available throughout the event.

How is safety handled?

Our team and security staff are present to support a safe and respectful environment for all guests.

What’s expected of guests?

Respect the space, the music, and each other.

We’re creating something shared—everyone contributes to that experience.

Respect the space, the music, the land, and each other.

We're creating something shared—everyone contributes to that experience.

Zero Tolerance Policy

microfest is committed to fostering a welcoming, inclusive, and respectful environment where all guests can feel safe, comfortable, and free to be themselves.

Harassment, discrimination, intimidation, unwanted physical contact, non-consensual behavior, hate speech, threats, or any conduct that compromises the safety or well-being of others will not be tolerated.

If you experience or witness behavior that concerns you, please speak with a member of our staff, security team, or event organizers as soon as possible. Reports will be taken seriously and handled thoughtfully, respectfully, and as confidentially as circumstances allow.

Guests who violate this policy may be removed from the event without refund.

We all play a role in creating the atmosphere that makes microfest special. Please look out for one another and help us maintain a culture of respect, consent, and community.

How can I help care for Deloro Valley?

Deloro Valley is a special place, and we're all temporary stewards of the property during the weekend.

Please help us leave the land as good as—or better than—we found it.

Pack it in, pack it out. Dispose of trash properly, respect the natural environment, and take a moment before departing to ensure your campsite and gathering areas are clean and free of debris.

A little care from each guest helps preserve the property and ensures we can continue gathering here for years to come.

What happens if event rules are violated?

Violation of event rules may result in removal from the event without refund.


AGE POLICY

Is this a 21+ event?

microfest is a 21+ experience, with programming and atmosphere intended for an adult audience.

Are children allowed?

no - we realize a lot of our community are having kids, but this party is for the adults. maybe next time jr can come.


PETS POLICY

Are pets allowed?

Pets are not permitted at microfest.

This policy helps ensure the safety of all guests, wildlife, and the overall environment of the venue.


WEATHER

What should I expect weather-wise?

The foothills of the Sierra Nevadas can range from warm or hot in the days, to cooler nights. Conditions may shift, so plan accordingly and bring layers :)

Is the event rain or shine?

Yes. The experience continues regardless of weather.


VENDORS

Will there be vendors onsite?

Yes—a small selection of clothing, accessories, and other goods will be available.


COMMUNITY

What kind of community can I expect?

microfest is built around music, connection, camping, and shared experience. We encourage respectful, inclusive, and mindful participation from all guests.


VOLUNTEERING

Can I get involved as a volunteer?

Yes. Opportunities may be available—please watch our social media to connect with our volunteer team.


Still have questions?

Reach out anytime: info@DESERTHEARTS.US