About Us
The Lake Hughes Outpost officially opened its doors March 14th, 2025, to give our community a place to gather, celebrate home town pride, share local talent, and welcome the adventurers passing through. We're a small but mighty nonprofit visitor center and artisan marketplace nestled right here in Leona Valley, in historic Lake Hughes, and along the path of the Pacific Crest Trail.
Whether you're a local, a hiker, a cyclist, or just someone who took the scenic route on Elizabeth Lake Rd., we're glad you found us.
Our Team
The Outpost is guided by a team of locals who are deeply rooted in this community and passionate about what makes it special. Our Board of Directors brings together a mix of creative, operational, and community-building experience, all united by a shared love for the Lakes & Valleys region we call home.
President / CEO
April Rockmun
April has called Leona Valley home since 2021 and wasted no time making her mark on this community. A hardworking mama, artist, and natural connector, she brings over 15 years of sales and business development experience, including a long tenure at Clif Bar, to her role leading The Outpost.
In 2024, April founded the Lakes & Valleys Community Business Association, a local network dedicated to helping rural entrepreneurs connect, share resources, and grow. She's an active presence at the Lakes Community Center, helps organize local events and vendors, and genuinely loves bringing people together.
Avid world traveler, nomadic free-sprit, and an endless river of creativity! April is also the hands and heart behind MoonRock Enterprises, handcrafted resin jewelry inspired by the wildflowers and landscapes right outside her door.
The Outpost was built on her vision, her hustle, and her deep belief that this community deserves a place to shine.
Secretary & CFO
Rachel D. Mark
With over 20 years of experience as an artist and technical creative in the entertainment industry, Rachel brings a rare mix of artistic vision and serious problem solving skills to The Outpost. Chances are if something in the shop was built, painted, engraved, or designed, Rachel made it happen. She painted the building, installed the reclaimed pallet wall, built the custom checkout counter, and created all the signage you see out front. She also designed and built our website and keeps the business side of things running behind the scenes as our Secretary and CFO.
Outside of The Outpost, Rachel is as active as they come. She's an avid hiker, a PCTA volunteer, CERT trained, and a regular volunteer with the Three Points Town Council. She founded Pine Canyon Crafts, where she creates laser engraved signs, wooden jewelry, home décor, and custom furniture.
Rachel believes deeply in community, getting involved, and showing up, and The Outpost is a pretty good reflection of that.