INFORMATION
The Alvord Desert is a dry lake bed in Southeastern Oregon about 12 miles long by 7 miles wide, at an elevation of 4,060 feet. Steens Mountain, at 9,773 feet, rises more than a mile above the Alvord Desert playa.
We encourage all our friends and family to camp, explore and enjoy the landscape! Please follow the Leave No Trace Seven Principles.
October 14th has a new moon, which means incredible stargazing!
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ANNULAR ECLIPSE
October 14 — Maximum Annularity 9:22 a.m.
During an annular solar eclipse, as the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth the apparent size of the Moon’s disk is slightly smaller than the apparent size of the Sun’s disk. Therefore, only the outer edge of the Sun remains visible and the Sun appears as a brilliant ring if you are inside the path of annular solar eclipse. This is an otherworldly sight often called a “ring of fire”.
Eye Safety
The Sun is never completely blocked by the Moon during an annular solar eclipse. Therefore it is never safe to look directly at the Sun without specialized eye protection designed for solar viewing (which will be provided for our guests).
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October temperatures should see highs between 60 and 80°F. Expect lows at night between 30 and 40°F. Temperatures will drop rapidly at sunset (6:30 pm).
Wind gusts and/or dust storms are probable. The open playa is exposed to every element and is unyielding to human sensibilities. Be prepared for - better yet, embrace - the thrill of some possible discomfort.
We’re so excited to share this unique landscape with our loved ones. Let us know if you need more assistance with preparations. That said, self-reliance in an inhospitable environment is part of what makes the experience memorable!
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ACTIVITIES & NEARBY ATTRACTIONS
Hiking
Hot Springs
Shooting
Biking
ATV
Hunting
Fishing
Land Sailing
Astronomy
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HELPFUL LINKS
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FAQ
Is this a wedding? No. It’s a celestial event. But…yes. Also no. Mostly yes. Come party!
Can we bring our kids? Adventurous kids are more than welcome.
What is the bathroom situation? There will be portable camping toilets in a privacy tent for collective use at the event site. Toilet facilities are available at the Frog Spring access road and Hot Springs area (7 miles from the event site). Please be prepared that this is an off-grid environment without luxury accommodations.
Where will I sleep? If you choose to tent camp, bring a mattress pad for comfort and insulation from the cold ground. You may bring a camper, RV, trailer, etc. if you’re comfortable driving it off-road.
Do I have to pay for access to the playa? To avoid fees, use the Frog Spring access road. The private road from the Alvord Hot Springs to the playa costs $10 but will have fewer ruts for less rugged vehicles.
Is there a dress code? Please wear your most colorful and fun clothing! Be prepared to bundle up after sunset.
Will there be cell phone service? Mobile cell coverage may be unreliable. Wifi will be available…we are millennials after all.
Will I be comfortable? Yes and no. You will get dirty. There also might be bugs.
Will I survive? Undetermined.
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WIFI PASSWORD: brieders
PHOTOS HASHTAG: #brieders
areasonableplacetopark@gmail.com
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SUGGESTED PACKING LIST
In addition to your usual camping supplies:
• Colorful party attire
• Shoes suitable for uneven and dusty ground
• Eclipse glasses (we will have cardboard ones available)
• Warm layers for nighttime celebrating and comfortable sleeping. Temperatures may be near freezing at night. Bundle and cuddle up!
• 20°F / 3-season sleeping bag and mattress pad if tent camping
• Your own chair to bring to dinner
• Travel charger for your devices
• Bandana or masks for possible dust storms
• Food/snacks (we will provide light breakfast, full dinner, and libations on Saturday only)
• Lots of water! Altitude on the playa is 4,060 feet with very dry air
• Sunscreen! Sunglasses!
• Heavy duty/long tent stakes or rebar in case of wind
• Supplies for recreation such as bikes, binoculars, cameras, etc.
• Bathing suit & towel for Hot Springs (there’s a small fee & subject to availability)
• Leave no trace - pack out all your garbage