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Craters of the Moon Star Parties
(June 11-12, September 11-12, 2010)

The Idaho Falls Astronomical Society and MVAS sponsor Star Parties in June and September each year at the Craters of the Moon National Monument.

Craters of the Moon is located 18 miles southwest of Arco, Idaho, on Idaho Highway 26 / US Highway 93. (Lat: 43.4459, Lon: -113.53336) It is named for its resemblance to the landscape of the moon. Formed by huge lava flows, the monument features hiking trails, lava tube caves, and some fascinating geology. It's high elevation desert climate far from population centers makes Craters of the Moon a PREMIER dark sky location. The monument includes camping facilities and a Visitor Center.



The Star Party starts at dusk at the Caves area, about seven miles inside the park. Rangers will be on hand to guide you. Restrooms are available but no water. There is no charge for the party, but entry and camping fees apply. The public is encouraged to participate in our activities. Plenty of parking is available for both cars and RVs. Camping is available at the campsite.

What to bring:
  • Warm Clothes! This is high elevation desert, it may be hot during the day, but it cools off fast at night. Below freezing temperatures are possible at the September star party.

  • Your own Power for your telescope. Plugs are tough to find, and generators are not allowed at night.

  • Water Containers as water is only available at the campground and visitor center.

  • A RED flashlight. Red flashlights help save our night vision for observing.

It will be dark around the telescopes so please be careful! We cannot be responsible for accidents or injuries.

Park Facilities & Fees

NOTE: Prices shown here are copied from the Craters of the Moon web site, and may not be current.
 Entrance Fees: $4.00 per vehicle, $2.00 per person on bicycle, motorcycle, or on foot. There is no charge for the Star Party.

There are no facilities in the park which provide food or lodging. Some motels are available in Arco.

A campground is located amoung the lava formations just past the Visitor Center. There are 52 sites with a nightly fee of $10.00 per campsite. Flush toilets, drinking water, picnic tables, and charcoal grills are available in the campground from mid-May to early October. This is a first come first served campground. Wood fires are not allowed. An RV dump is available, but no hookups.

Address: P.O. Box 29 Arco, ID 83213
Phone: (208) 527-3257

About Craters of the Moon

The Craters of the Moon Lava Field is the largest (816 sq. miles) lava field in the United States. The monument which protects 83 square miles of the field provides a stunning array of volcanic features and is literally an outdoor classroom.

The features include: lava flows such as pahoehoe, aa, and block; cinder cones; spatter cones; rafted blocks; and lava tubes (caves.) It hosts a fascinating number of plants and amimals adapted to live in the harsh volcanic and high desert environment.

Daytime Activities

Numerous hiking trails are found in the park ranging from 1/4 to 8 miles round trip. the Visitor's Center is open from 8AM to 6PM. Guided tours are available.

Water is only available at the visitor center and the campground. Be sure to BRING A WATER CONTAINER. A flashlight is required to exlplore lava tubes (caves), and a hat is recommended. Bring sun-screen and sunglasses.

Contact Info

Magic Valley Astronomical Society