Welcome to the scavenger hunt. At a secret lab in Costa Mesa, a formula for a concoction is being tested. If successful, this chemical mixture could result in a smiley.
To be a good scientist, you must be observant. First, you must camp out and collect the needed materials, which can then be brought into the lab for mixing. Good luck! Chemistry can be a dangerous matter and you don't want an accident that could result in a ... DNF.
You will have to explore the area to try to find clues to the final. You will stay within the boundaries of the map below while you hunt. Each time you find a picture, write down the letter from behind the skull and use it to complete your experiment.

The object in the 14th picture is missing. The uploaded picture titled "Missing Sign" can be used to get the info.