The Hidden Hollow Star Party returns in 2025 with another weekend of stargazing, education, and astronomy activities. Set in the woods near Bellville, Ohio, the event runs from Friday, September 19 through Sunday, September 21. It takes place at Hidden Hollow Camp, home to the Warren Rupp Observatory and the Richland Astronomical Society.
The event has built a reputation over the years as one of the most comfortable and welcoming star parties. It offers quiet surroundings, wooded trails, and clear fall skies. Hidden Hollow’s location gives attendees a dark sky setting and access to large telescopes like the 36-inch “Big Blue.” The site also includes indoor spaces for lectures, meals, and social activities.
The Hidden Hollow Campground sits in the rolling hills southeast of Mansfield, Ohio. Its physical address is: 5127 Possum Run Road Bellville, OH 44813
Pictured above: Sh2-108 ngc6910 by Bob Rossiter
AT80EDT with .8 reducer 384mm
Sirius EQ-g mount
Guided with ZWO 120mm-s & 30mm guide scope and ZWO ASIair
Modded Canon 90d ISO 800
24-600 seconds 4 hours
The area offers dry camping space for tents and RVs. For those who prefer more comfort, there are bunkhouses and cabins available by reservation. Restrooms are modern, showers are available, and the observing field is well-groomed and drains well in wet weather. In the case of rain, the event continues indoors. There are warm areas to gather, watch movies, play games, or hang out with other attendees. The event kicks off Friday evening with registration, vendor displays, and the first lecture. Saturday includes a full day of speakers, solar observing, and prize raffles. Observing resumes each night after sunset. A Sunday morning checkout wraps up the event.
The 2025 event takes place during a new moon, meaning skies will be as dark as possible. This makes it an ideal time for deep sky viewing.
Telescopes are welcome, but not required. Those without gear can observe through other attendees’ setups or the large observatory scopes. A range of prizes are offered, donated by astronomy companies and club members. Sponsors include Agena Astro, Celestron, and the Richland Astronomical Society. Prizes may include telescopes, binoculars, eyepieces, accessories, and books.
Raffle tickets are sold on site. Door prize tickets cost $10 each. At least 50 tickets must be sold, or refunds will be issued. If you cannot be present at the drawing, write your name on the ticket. Prizes must be picked up by 11:00 AM Sunday or will be forfeited. Food service is provided by Grub Brothers, who will serve meals, snacks, and drinks on-site throughout the weekend. There are also nearby restaurants in Bellville and Mansfield if you'd rather eat off-site. Attendees can order a 2025 Hidden Hollow Star Party T-shirt using a form on the official event website. Designs for this year’s shirts are posted online. To help everyone enjoy the weekend, the organizers ask guests to follow a few guidelines:
If there’s an emergency or you need help, contact a Richland Astronomical Society staff member. Registration is now open. You can download the registration form as a PDF from the official event website. Fees are:
This includes access to all scheduled talks, the observing field, and on-site camping. RV sites and bunkhouses must be reserved in advance.
To register, email Christy Wallace at momto3daughters@hotmail.com. Use “Hidden Hollow 2025” in your subject line. Accommodations include:
This event welcomes everyone, from seasoned astronomers to people who have never looked through a telescope. Kids, families, beginners, and advanced imagers all attend. There’s no pressure to stay up late, participate in talks, or even bring gear. Come to learn, relax, and enjoy time under the stars.
Address:
1855 S Ingram Mill Rd
STE# 201
Springfield, Mo 65804
Phone: 1-844-277-3386
Fax: 417-429-2935
E-Mail: hello@scopetrader.com