About Elks

We hear it all the time... What are Elks?

People drive up and down Vista Way all the time, they've seen our lodge for years but they still don't know about us, or they know the Elks as the place their grandfather used to belong to.

We're much more than what you are probably aware of.  In short, we are a community of like-minded people who 1) are this country's premier patriotic and charitable organization, and 2) like to have lots of fun!  Please read on...

• The Elks provide investments of over $12 million annually toward enriching our communities.
• The Elks support active military forces and retired veterans.
• The Elks visit thousands of hospitalized veterans annually.
• The Elks contribute more than $45 million annually to more than 300 Veterans Administration Centers, clinics, and state care facilities.
• The Elks invest millions of dollars each year to provide therapies for disables children through Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Speech-Language Therapy, and Pre-School Vision Therapy at no cost to the families.

But wait. There's more!  We're innovators.

• The Elks created the first MASH Unit to aid the sick and wounded in WW I (1917).
• The Elks built a 700-bed Reconstruction Hospital to accommodate maimed and wounded veterans in 1918.  They GAVE the hospital to the War Department.  This was the first ever Veterans Hospital and remains in operation to this day.
• After World War I, a war in which more than 70,000 of our Members served, and more than 1,000 of our Members perished, the Elks made 40,000 rehabilitation, vocational and educational loans to disabled Veterans, without requiring any security. This was the genesis of the G.I. Bill. 
• The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks started over 150 years ago.
• Women can be members, too!  

Being patriotic and charitable is important to us, but so is having fun!

In today's world, having a safe place to gather with friends is more important than ever.  We're a community of like-minded members, a place where you are known and accepted.   

• We're open everyday of the week for our members.
• Our food and beverage prices can't be beat.
• We have entertainment 3-4 days a week, including Karaoke, live music, and dancing... and let's not forget our Game Room.

So, you think the Elks is just a great place for your grand-dad?  Think again.

• Vista Elks Lodge is growing.  
• Our overall average age is getting younger.
• The average age of a new member is 12 years younger that the age of the Lodge, overall.

The Benevolent and Protective Brotherhood of Elks (B.P.O.E.) accepts men and women who:

• Are American citizens
• Believe in God
• 21 years of age or older 

There is a one-time fee relating to a background check.  This helps protect our Lodge and its members.  There are also membership fees that are paid yearly, equalling less than $10 per month!

That's it.  No other fees or hidden charges for membership.

Elks Lodges are famous for their outstanding food and beverage service... at member prices, and Vista Elks Lodge certainly embraces that tradition.  We also have a game room for billiards, shuffleboard, foosball, darts, card games, and more.

We have a fun social quarters area for just hanging out, a large and beautiful dining room, one of the biggest dance floors in north county, and an outdoor patio featuring a BBQ area, a fire pit, a gazebo, and more.

You can volunteer with one of our many charitable committees.  Doing so not only helps our community, but it's also a great way to meet people!

There are nearly 2000 Elks Lodges across the country and many of them have RV Parks.  Elks RV Parks are available to all Elks members at very affordable prices.  Vista Elks has an RV Park that is regarded as one of the best in Southern California.  

Our Lodge is available for rent to Elks and non-Elks, alike.  However, if you're a member, the Lodge is available for your private party at a discounted price!

Have we piqued your interest?  We invite you to come and visit our Lodge as a guest.  Complete the form below and we'll reach out to you and set up a time to meet.