Multi-Day Camps

ASSA multi-day camps give members the opportunity to travel to darker skies, spend several nights observing or imaging, and enjoy time with others who share an interest in astronomy.

These camps suit visual observers, astro-imagers, binocular observers, beginners wanting to learn from more experienced members, and anyone who enjoys being under a dark night sky. During the day, members can relax, explore the local area, review images, discuss equipment and techniques, or prepare for the next night's observing.

Camp locations are selected for their dark skies, practical facilities and suitability for group astronomy activities. Attendees should expect to be largely self-sufficient, including bringing their own food, drinks, bedding, warm clothing and observing equipment.

Current Camp Locations

Bendleby Ranges

Mid-North Dark-Sky Camp Location

Bendleby Ranges is located approximately 50 km north of Orroroo in the mid-north of South Australia. It offers dark skies, group accommodation, camping options and facilities suitable for extended astronomy camps.

Facilities: Shearers' Quarters, bunkhouse accommodation, powered and unpowered camping, kitchen facilities, bathrooms, BBQ facilities and Wi-Fi via Starlink.

Members should bring: meals, drinks, snacks, bedding, warm clothing and observing equipment.

View camp details and upcoming events

Alpana Station

Flinders Ranges Dark-Sky Camp Location

Alpana Station is located near Blinman in the Flinders Ranges, approximately 505 km from Adelaide. The area is known for clear air, spectacular scenery and very dark skies.

Facilities: Shearer's Quarters, nearby camping or van sites, shower and toilet rooms, large kitchen, dining and lounge area, BBQ, fridges, gas stoves and basic kitchen equipment.

Members should bring: meals, bedding, warm clothing, observing equipment and other supplies needed for the stay.

View camp details and upcoming events

At a Glance

Camp	Region	Approx. distance	Accommodation	Best for
Bendleby Ranges	Mid-North	50 km north of Orroroo	Shearers' Quarters, bunkhouse, powered and unpowered camping	dark-sky observing, imaging and group camps
Alpana Station	Flinders Ranges	505 km from Adelaide	Shearer's Quarters, van sites and camping options	extended dark-sky observing and imaging trips

What to Expect

Several nights of observing and astro-imaging under darker skies
A relaxed camp environment with other ASSA members
Opportunities to learn from experienced observers and imagers
Time during the day for rest, local sightseeing, equipment setup and image processing
Shared facilities, with attendees responsible for their own food, bedding and equipment

What to Bring

Food, drinks and snacks for the duration of the camp
Bedding, towels and personal items
Warm clothing suitable for cold nights
Observing or imaging equipment, batteries, chargers and power leads
Red light torch, chair, notebook and any personal observing aids

Booking and Attendance

Members attending a camp should read the relevant location page carefully before booking. Each site has its own accommodation options, facilities, costs, travel considerations and booking contact.

Places may be limited and some camps can book out quickly. Members are encouraged to contact the listed organiser early once camp details are announced.

Weather and Conditions

Astronomy camps are weather dependent. Conditions can become very cold at night, even when daytime weather is mild, and observing plans may change if cloud, wind, rain or other conditions make astronomy unsuitable.