If you've ever looked up at a clear, dark sky and felt small, curious, or just completely amazed, you're not alone. That feeling is exactly what brings hundreds of people together every summer at the Washington State Star Party. It’s not just about telescopes and star charts—it’s about stepping away from the daily grind, sitting under a sky full of stars, and being part of a welcoming, slightly nerdy, totally wonderful community of people who love space as much as you do. Whether you’ve never touched a telescope or you’ve been mapping the moons of Jupiter for decades, this event is your chance to get lost in the night sky—and maybe find a few new friends along the way.
The Washington State Star Party, formerly known as the Table Mountain Star Party, continues its long-standing tradition of bringing together astronomy enthusiasts from across the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Now held at the scenic Jameson Lake site in Moses Coulee, this event offers both seasoned astronomers and curious newcomers an unforgettable experience under some of the darkest skies in the region. With its welcoming community, educational programs, and strict respect for the night sky, the Washington State Star Party (WSSP) is more than just a camping trip—it’s an immersive dive into the wonders of the cosmos.
Despite the word "party," a star party is not a rowdy social gathering. Instead, it’s a peaceful, community-centered event where amateur astronomers, families, and curious skywatchers unite to share their passion for the night sky. Star parties are about camaraderie, learning, exploration, and, of course, observing the heavens. Many attendees return year after year, building friendships that often start with a simple, “What are you looking at tonight?” Even if you don't own a telescope, you're welcome to come, look through other attendees' equipment, and soak in the experience.
The move to Jameson Lake in 2024 was a significant change for the event, but one that has been met with excitement. Located about 30 miles north of Ephrata and west of Coulee City, this site places the event closer to Washington's Puget Sound population centers, making it more accessible than previous years.
Jameson Lake offers expansive horizons, with unobstructed north and south views and minimal obstructions to the east and west. The site's natural coulee walls sit about 20 degrees above the true horizon, providing excellent observing conditions, particularly for deep-sky targets and planetary viewing.
The 2025 Washington State Star Party runs from Tuesday, July 22, through Saturday, July 26, with Sunday, July 27, designated as pack-up-and-depart day. Attendees are welcome to arrive and leave at any point during the event, although strict rules apply to arrivals after dark to protect the observing environment.
You do not need a telescope to attend. In fact, attending WSSP is one of the best ways to explore your options if you're considering buying one. The field is full of telescopes of all shapes, sizes, and price points, and their owners are often more than willing to share views and advice.
WSSP has a well-deserved reputation as a family-friendly event. The Student Program keeps kids engaged with educational activities like building stomp rockets, while adults can enjoy guest speakers, workshops, and, of course, nighttime observing. If you’re comfortable taking your kids camping, they’ll fit right in here.
While the main event happens under the stars, there’s plenty to do during daylight hours. The event offers:
Hillside Catering will provide short-order food service throughout the event, offering everything from burgers and hot dogs to smoothies and espresso. Pre-purchased meals are no longer offered, so attendees are encouraged to bring their own food as well. Please note that no open fires, charcoal grills, or campfires are allowed; only propane or gas stoves may be used for cooking.
Portable toilets are stationed around the site, and a large dumpster is provided for trash. However, there is no on-site potable water, so attendees must bring sufficient water for drinking and cooking.
To ensure a safe, enjoyable experience for all attendees, WSSP has detailed rules in place. Some of the most important include:
Violations of these rules may result in removal from the event.
Pre-registration for WSSP 2025 closed on July 5, but on-site registration is available for those arriving during event hours. Note that a $25 group surcharge applies to primary on-site registrants. Registration fees are structured per vehicle, not per person, encouraging carpooling to reduce the number of vehicles on-site.
Registration fees are as follows:
Optional apparel, including annual shirts, sweatshirts, and hoodies, are available for purchase during registration (while supplies last).
Camping is first-come, first-served, with designated areas for RVs and tents. Dispersed camping options are available for those who prefer solitude. Most campsites lack shade, so bringing a canopy or awning with proper tie-downs is highly recommended.
The ground is rocky in places, so heavy-duty stakes or bucket-style anchors filled with rocks are recommended for securing tents and shelters. Be prepared for hot days, cool nights, occasional gusty winds, and insects like flies or mosquitoes.
Due to the remote nature of the Jameson Lake site, cell phone coverage is minimal to nonexistent. The nearest reliable phone service is at Jack's Resort. Emergency services can be summoned from there, but response times are estimated at a minimum of 30 minutes. Attendees should bring a basic first aid kit for minor injuries.
Jameson Lake is public land managed by the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife. Attendees are expected to treat the land with respect, clean up after themselves, and avoid causing damage. Trash, animal waste, and inappropriate items must not be disposed of in portable toilets. Illegal dumping may result in removal from the event.
The Washington State Star Party represents more than just a chance to look at the stars. It's a celebration of shared passion, an opportunity for education, and a break from the hustle of modern life. Whether you're an experienced observer, a newcomer curious about astronomy, or simply seeking a unique, family-friendly summer event, WSSP is a welcoming place to connect with the universe—and each other.
When the telescopes are packed up, the campsite is quiet, and the stars begin to fade with the first light of morning, what really stays with you isn’t just the view through the eyepiece—it’s the conversations, the laughter, and that simple, shared awe of looking up at the universe together. The Washington State Star Party isn’t just about astronomy, it’s about connection—to the sky, to each other, and to that childlike wonder that reminds us how vast and beautiful this world (and everything beyond it) really is.
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