Plan Your Perfect Camping Trip for the 2024 Solar Eclipse
When I asked my daughter what she wanted to get her dad for Christmas, without pause, she answered, “A camping trip.” A million thoughts went through my head: I’m so proud, that’s so sweet, she’s such an adventurer; she values experiences over things. However, this meant I now had to plan a camping trip.
Where should we go? And most importantly for a busy mom, when? Then I remembered a great resource: GoTravelDaily. Imagine my joy when I discovered a map displaying the eclipse path of totality for 2024 and all the locations it will be visible across Canada, Mexico, and the US.
I was thrilled. Not only did this solve my “where” problem, but it also helped with the “when.” I recalled the magical experience of the 2017 eclipse, gathered in a park with friends to witness the spectacle. The temperature dropped, the nocturnal insects began to sing, and stars appeared in the sky. It was eerily beautiful, and I want to experience it again. Moreover, the next total eclipse in the contiguous United States will be in 2044, the year my daughter turns 30. Therefore, planning now is essential!
What to Consider When Deciding on a Location
I consulted experts, including Robyn Higdon from the Exploratorium in San Francisco, to determine the best places to view the eclipse. Robyn, a senior project director and executive producer, has been helping NASA and the museum plan online solar eclipse broadcasts for over two decades. She is genuinely passionate about eclipses.
“There are few experiences that rival the wonder of an eclipse,” says Robyn. “These fascinating events lead to amazing questions, which we deeply value here.”
Robyn emphasizes starting with weather conditions when planning a viewing location. Specifically, she refers to Jay Anderson and his website, Eclipsophile, which uses 100 years of data to predict the clearest skies within the path of totality. This year, Higdon is setting up camps in Torreon, Mexico, and Junction City, Texas, based on favorable conditions.
The second consideration is the path of totality band. Near the edges of the band, the eclipse may only last a few seconds, whereas in the center, it can last up to four minutes.
Finally, opt for wide-open fields with expansive sky views and a horizon line when selecting a viewing or camping spot. During my 2017 experience, I missed the stunning pink horizon that often accompanies a total eclipse.
Best Spots to Go
Texas Hill Country
After discussions with Robyn and our travel experts, Texas Hill Country emerges as a prime location. What better reason to plan a road trip through this incredible region of the US than for the eclipse?
Note that arriving a few days early and leaving a day after the eclipse is wise. Many residents from Austin, San Antonio, and Dallas will likely be heading to the countryside on the day of the event, creating heavy traffic.
If you’re looking for a fun atmosphere, Reveille Peak Ranch just outside Burnet is hosting a Texeclipse Music Festival. With available hiking and mountain biking, along with ample space for a great viewing experience, it’s an excellent spot for your camping adventure.
Indianapolis, Indiana
Indianapolis is located near the center of the path of totality, making it a great weekend getaway. This lively city features an energetic food scene, wonderful walking and biking trails, and a beautiful art museum. Consequently, it offers plenty of attractions to enhance your eclipse journey.
Purdue University is partnering with NASA to host a large viewing event at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, where experts will answer questions and provide additional eclipse-related activities.
Little Rock and Hot Springs, Arkansas
This is where my daughter and I plan our trip since we have friends in Little Rock, and we enjoy Hot Springs. The town is home to one of the more unique national parks, offering numerous family-friendly activities.
In this area, you can find the Mid-America Science Museum, a fantastic venue with interactive exhibits. The Garvan Woodland Gardens is another highlight, boasting a lovely lake for paddleboarding and pontoon boating. Hot Springs National Park itself features historic bathhouses dating back to the 19th century, making it a fascinating destination.
What to Bring
Don’t forget your solar eclipse glasses, as regular sunglasses won’t suffice. Ensure you order certified solar glasses from reputable sources well in advance. Higdon recommends stores like Rainbow Symphony or Lunt Solar Systems for safe options.
Additionally, consider bringing a colander with large holes or creating a pinhole viewer to observe the crescent-shaped shadows that occur during the eclipse. Nevertheless, don’t spend too much time on this; don’t miss the main event!
What to Expect
During the brief four minutes of totality, watching the moon cross in front of the sun is the highlight. As the moon shifts, the sunlight refracts around its surface—a dazzling effect known as Baily’s Beads.
In 2024, the sun’s 11-year cycle will reach solar maximum, creating opportunities to spot incredible solar flares.
As the sun dims and stars emerge, enjoy a unique sky unlike any seen earlier that day. Plan to explore afterward as certain planets become visible that aren’t typically seen at dusk.
Unless you’re an experienced photographer, consider putting your camera away. Being present for this remarkable experience is far more rewarding than capturing it through a lens.
