Today we’d like to introduce you to Craig Saloner.
Hi Craig, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
The Founding of the Emerald Village Oasis
The Emerald Village Oasis was founded in 2011 by five couples who decided we wanted to live in community, raise our families, and grow together. We had all been part of the Burning Man culture — where you go out to the desert, set up camp, live, laugh, and play together for seven days. After seven days, you break it all down, leave no trace, and head back to the single-family home. We asked the question: Could there be more?
We came together to vision what we wanted, and three weeks later, we found a beautiful 8.88-acre piece of land in North County San Diego — tucked at the bottom of a valley, with multiple homes, a community pool house, gathering spaces, and enough room for the five families to move in. The land was absolutely beautiful, with two streams, big trees, abundant wildlife — hawks, owls, coyotes — and adjacent to a nature preserve.
Moving five families who had never lived in community before was incredibly challenging. We all came from different backgrounds, religious affiliations, and ways of life, and we had to figure out how to share resources, make decisions, and steward the land together. We rolled up our sleeves and built systems for governance, finances, human resources, and decision-making — a tremendous amount of work to make sure needs were met, concerns were heard, and grievances were managed effectively.
In addition to the five founding families, we created additional spaces for others interested in living in community. Over the years, many people have spent time at the Oasis and contributed their energy, skills, and spirit.
Living on this beautiful property, and being a unique example of intentional community, many people from the greater community have been drawn to us and have asked to host events, workshops, rites of passages, gatherings, meditation retreats, and celebrations. As such, the Emerald Village Oasis has become a place where people gather to connect. To share space and time. A get away that is still in San Diego but is deeply tied to nature. A place for people to play, pray, learn and grow.
In addition, we host children for wilderness school, work with farmers and herbalists, and provide programming for communities with special needs. We also host our bi-annual festival June Bloom, where we gather artists, musicians, teachers and community leaders for a three day family festival.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Having multiple founders from diverse backgrounds with different religious beliefs, financial means, childhoods, values and putting them on a single piece of land to make decisions will certainly bring up a lot of process.
The property we purchased was old, and while it had multiple structures they were all different sizes, in different conditions. Deciding which family got what house, how much did they pay, was it fair?
With such a big piece of land, managing the land, animals, children, community, who was going to hold which responsibilities? Who was working hard, while others were not holding their weight? Who was going through emotional turmoil, while others were not.
Managing needs, expectations, differences in opinion. All of these have brought up issues that we needed to navigate.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
The Emerald Village Oasis is a hidden gem located on 8.88 acres of beautiful land in North County San Diego. Founded in 2011 the Oasis has evolved into a vibrant hub where individuals, families, and groups can connect, learn, grow, and celebrate together.
We specialize in creating transformational spaces and experiences that foster connection to self, others and nature, Our offerings include hosting and facilitating workshops, retreats, ceremonies, and educational events focused on lifelong learning, ecology, arts, and inner development. With multiple stages, structures and locations, we can customize a truly unforgettable experience.
What sets the Oasis apart is the natural beauty and the uniqueness of the land and it’s structures within San Diego County. You feel like you have been transported to another time and space. There is a magic to the land.
Brand-wise, we are most proud of the authentic, heart-centered culture we’ve cultivated — a place where people don’t just visit; they belong, connect, and are transformed.
We want your readers to know that the Emerald Village Oasis isn’t just a place — it’s a living invitation to reimagine what’s possible when we come together with intention, respect, and creativity.
Whether you’re looking to host a retreat, join a workshop, collaborate with visionary leaders, or simply experience a place where community thrives, the Emerald Village Oasis is a place to reconnect, recharge, and be inspired.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
I see more and more people seeking community. I believe there is an epidemic of loneliness, caused by the nuclear/ single family home. People are isolated, stressed and overworked. I think more people recognize the importance of coming together in natural settings. Companies are seeking ways to connect with their employees. Teachers and leaders are looking to create transformational experiences. At the Emerald Village Oasis, we are able to create bespoke experiences in San Diego county that is completely unique and so needed.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.emeraldvillageoasis.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emeraldvillageoasis/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emeraldvillageorganization
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@emeraldvillageorg
