Access in/out of the camp is via the east gate (see the Map of Camp Cullom). The check-in booth is on the main road through the camp, at the entrance to the "single-day" parking lot. Those paying only the daily fee will have to park in this lot. Those paying the full weekend fee will be allowed to drive past to the observing field (during daylight hours only!) The check-in booth will be staffed from 4pm to 10pm Friday and 10am to 10pm Saturday. During other hours (after 3pm Thursday or 10am to 4 pm Friday), weekend registrants can check in at the info room at the Nature Center.
Special Note for RVs: The road through the camp via the east gate has steep hills and low overhanging tree branches, so owners of larger RVs may want to use the west gate, which can be used if necessary during daytime hours. The gate will be closed, but call the camp's phone at (765) 296-2753 for us to come open the gate. The camp does not have RV hook-ups.
“Saving” parking/camping spaces on the observing field for later arrivals is limited to one extra space per “already arrived” individual/family. (Please make sure this spot is well marked to avoid disputes.)
The event's organizers and volunteers will be using FRS ("Family Band") radios set to channel 11 to communicate. If you are using FRS radios, please use a different channel.
No driving on the observing field after dark.
No white lights in the observing areas. If you don't have a red-light flashlight, we will have a roll of transparent red plastic available at the info booth at the Nature Center that you can put over your light to convert it to red light.
Campfires are permitted in established campfire rings only, and must never be left unattended. No campfires in or near the observing field.
Camp stoves are permitted on the observing field before dark and some group campsites have charcoal cooking grills. Smoke-free cooking only on the observing field. There's a microwave oven in the Nature Center.
Do not run generators on the observing field. Generators can be used north of the observing field on the north side of the gravel lane (near the playground area), or at other areas further from the observing field and observatory, but only from noon to 8pm.
Since many observers will be up until dawn and may be sleeping late, excessive noise before noon is prohibited.
Bag all garbage, dispose of cigarette butts, and clean up your campsite. We have trash and recycling containers at several locations. Additionally, you can use the dumpster just east of the playground.
Water and restrooms are available at the Nature Center.
The event's organizers and volunteers will be using FRS ("Family Band") radios set to channel 11 to communicate. If you are using FRS radios, please use a different channel.
No driving on the observing field after dark.
No white lights in the observing areas. If you don't have a red-light flashlight, we will have a roll of transparent red plastic available at the info booth at the Nature Center that you can put over your light to convert it to red light.
Campfires are permitted in established campfire rings only, and must never be left unattended. No campfires in or near the observing field.
Camp stoves are permitted on the observing field before dark and some group campsites have charcoal cooking grills. Smoke-free cooking only on the observing field. There's a microwave oven in the Nature Center.
WiFi is available on the field, but given the number of users, you should not expect high speed. Streaming of music or video is prohibited. No firearms, fireworks, controlled substances, or alcohol are allowed in the camp. This is a childrens' camp and we obey their rules. Anyone found with any of these is subject to immediate eviction from the event and forfeiture of all fees.
Questions? Contact Russ Kaspar at 765-659-4451 rk@kasparradio.com.
STAR PARTY ETIQUETTE If you've never been to a star party before, here are a few tips:
STAR PARTY ETIQUETTE If you've never been to a star party before, here are a few tips:
Most amateur astronomers love to show off what’s visible through their scopes, but some may be doing astrophotography and so may not be able to share. Always obtain permission before looking through anyone’s telescope. Do not touch unaccompanied equipment.
No white light! Many astronomical objects are faint, even when viewed through a telescope, so preserving the dark-adapted state of our eyes is very important. Red-light flashlights are permitted, since red light has less effect on dark-adaptation. If you don't have a red-light flashlight, we will have a roll of transparent red plastic available at the information booth (at the Nature Center) to put over your flashlight to convert it to red light. Even then, keep it aimed low, and avoid shining it in people's faces.
Bring warm clothing. Even in July/August, it can get surprisingly cold late at night. And if you'll be there during the day, remember to bring sunscreen. Also, bring bug repellant.