Newcomers Make Their Leap: An Introduction to the Novices Taking the Dive for the First Time
Preparing for the 2025 USPA Nationals: Travel and Lodging Details
Get ready for the exciting 2025 USPA Nationals, taking place at two iconic drop zones – Skydive Elsinore in Lake Elsinore, California, and Skydive Arizona in Eloy, Arizona. Here's a breakdown of travel and lodging details for both locations.
Skydive Arizona (Eloy, Arizona)
The nearest major airport to Skydive Arizona is Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), approximately an hour's drive from the drop zone. Renting a car from Phoenix airport is the most recommended option to reach the drop zone and for local travel.
Skydive Arizona offers on-site lodging, with rates of $15.00 per night (plus tax) for stays of 1–6 nights, and a discounted rate of $14.00 per night (plus tax) for stays of 7 or more nights.
Remember to check the event calendar for team camps, meetups, or open tunnels or safety briefings leading into the competition. SIM Section 5-1 and 5-2 provide guidance on canopy size, reserve gear maintenance, and documentation in line with FAA policy.
Skydive Elsinore (Lake Elsinore, California)
While specific details for the USPA Nationals at Skydive Elsinore were not found, generally, the closest major airports are John Wayne Airport (SNA) or Ontario International Airport (ONT). Car rental is typically recommended for reaching Skydive Elsinore and nearby accommodations.
For lodging, skydiving drop zones often have partnerships with local hotels or rental properties rather than extensive on-site lodging. It is advisable to check Skydive Elsinore's website or contact them directly for current on-site or nearby lodging options.
Skydive Elsinore has a restaurant and bar on-site, three large grass landing areas, a swimming pool, and a dedicated rigging loft.
Competition Details
At Skydive Elsinore, Canopy Formations, Wingsuit Flying, Speed Skydiving, and Accuracy Landing events will take place. Skydive Arizona will host all Formation Skydiving, Artistic, and Canopy Piloting disciplines.
Before departure for the 2025 USPA Nationals, SIM Section 6-2 recommends verifying AAD battery life, pack card validity, and reserve data card entries. Both drop zones require participants to bring hydration, sun protection, and backup batteries for all devices.
Transportation
Rental cars are strongly recommended for transportation at both Skydive Arizona and Skydive Elsinore, as ride shares are limited around Eloy and public transport in the area is minimal. A 14ft indoor skydiving tunnel is present at Skydive Elsinore for last-minute drills.
Ontario International Airport is the nearest airport to Skydive Elsinore, located approximately 40 miles away. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is the nearest airport to Skydive Arizona, located approximately 65 miles north.
Skydive Elsinore will have a safety briefing leading into the competition, so be sure to check the event calendar for updates. Booking early is essential for the 2025 USPA Nationals, as October is peak season for both drop zones.
For more information or to book on-site lodging at Skydive Arizona, please contact the DZ office or visit the website provided.
[1] Rates and details are subject to change, so it's always a good idea to double-check with the drop zone directly for the most accurate information.
- During the 2025 USPA Nationals, Canopy Formations, Wingsuit Flying, Speed Skydiving, and Accuracy Landing events will take place at Skydive Elsinore, while Skydive Arizona will host Formation Skydiving, Artistic, and Canopy Piloting disciplines. (Competition Details)
- Participants in the 2025 USPA Nationals are recommended to verify AAD battery life, pack card validity, and reserve data card entries before departure. (Transportation)
- At Skydive Elsinore, there is a restaurant and bar on-site, three large grass landing areas, a swimming pool, and a dedicated rigging loft, making it a sports-focused destination. (Skydive Elsinore)
- Skydive Arizona offers on-site lodging with special rates for stays of 7 nights or longer, featuring a wind tunnel for last-minute drills. (Skydive Arizona)
