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Home PageCAMP WITH THE STARS JUNE 27 THROUGH JUNE 29 AT HAWN STATE PARK
JEFFERSON CITY, MO., MAY 27, 2008 -- Take advantage of a unique opportunity to camp with astronomy enthusiasts at the Camp with the Stars event June 27 through June 29 at Hawn State Park near Ste. Genevieve. Sponsored by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, Astronomy Magazine, REI, the St. Louis Science Center and the St. Louis Astronomical Society, this event is open to anyone with an interest in astronomy.
Take the guesswork out of learning about the night sky and enjoy camping in one of Missouri's most scenic parks. Throughout the weekend, skilled volunteers will teach you the basics of astronomy observation. Intended for all skill levels, this is a great opportunity to increase your knowledge about camping and to build your confidence before setting out on your own. Weekend activities will include a presentation on Leave No Trace principles, global positioning system training, solar observing, a 1,000-yard solar system scale demonstration, individual telescope use instruction, an evening constellation tour and telescope observing.
The fee for this event is $10 for individuals or $35 for a family of four. Primitive campsites for two nights and telescopes will be provided. You are encouraged to bring telescopes, binoculars and star maps, as well as enthusiasm and questions. Because of the nature of the activity, no campfires will be allowed; you must arrange to cook your food on a portable stove or a grill in the park's picnic area.
To register for this event, call the St. Louis Astronomical Society at 314-289-4444 or send an e-mail to campout@slasonline.org, or register online at www.SLASonline.org. The registration deadline is June 13. More information and rules can also be found online at www.SLASonline.org. A pre-event workshop on basic camping skills and beginning astronomy will be held June 11 at REI, 1703 S. Brentwood Blvd., in St. Louis. Register for the pre-event workshop by calling REI at 314-918-1004.
Hawn State Park is located 11 miles west on Highway 32 from Interstate 55 (exit #150), then left on Highway 144 in Ste. Genevieve County. The park contains lush stands of native pines and hardwoods and features the scenic Pickle Creek.
For more information about the park, call 573-883-3603 or the Department of Natural Resources toll free at 800-334-6946 (voice) or 800-379-2419 (Telecommunications Device for the Deaf) or visit the Web at www.mostateparks.com.
