Anza-Borrego Under the Stars: Culp Valley
Join Us for a Stargazing Adventure in Anza-Borrego!
Experience the night sky like never before in historic Culp Valley, nestled within Anza-Borrego Desert State Park—an official International Dark Sky Park. Explore stars, planets, and constellations through high-powered telescopes, guided by an expert astronomer.
What to expect:
- A Stunning Night Sky: Experience the awe of a crystal-clear, star-filled sky in one of California’s premier Dark Sky Parks—perfect for spotting constellations, planets, and even the Milky Way.
- Guided Stargazing: Learn the basics of stargazing, including how to identify major stars, constellations, and planets visible this time of year – with and without a telescope.
- Relaxed Atmosphere: Bring your camp chair, snacks, and drinks—this is a laid-back, come-as-you-are evening. You’re welcome to hang out, ask questions, and simply enjoy the desert night.
- Optional Camping: Extend your visit by camping nearby to fully soak in the nighttime experience (this portion is not hosted).
Who should attend:
- Nature and outdoor lovers – anyone who enjoys spending time in scenic, natural settings.
- Astronomy enthusiasts – beginners or experienced stargazers who want to observe the night sky in a designated Dark Sky Park and learn to use a telescope.
- Families – kids and adults alike can enjoy the storytelling, skywatching, and peaceful desert setting.
- Campers and adventurers – perfect for anyone looking to spend a night under the stars or camp nearby.
REGISTER TODAY!
Date: Friday, November 21, 2025
Time: 8:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m.
Location: Culp Valley Campground in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
Cost:
ABF Member: $17 Not a member? Join today for as little as $35 and save!
Non-Member: $20
Student: $10
Cancellation Policy & Scholarships: Please see our FAQs page to read our cancellation policy and learn about scholarship options.
Astronomer: Ron Bissinger volunteers at national and state parks, providing interpretive outreach, visitor information, and leading guided hiking and astronomy programs. He works with the National Park Service at Yosemite and Bryce Canyon National Parks, as well as with California State Parks at Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Ron is a Certified Interpretive Guide (CIG), accredited by the National Association for Interpretation.
An amateur astronomer since childhood, Ron pioneered the use of backyard telescopes and cameras to detect planets orbiting other star systems. In 2005, he discovered an exoplanet using a backyard telescope—an achievement that remains unique among amateur astronomers. In recognition of this groundbreaking work, he received the Chambliss Amateur Achievement Award from the American Astronomical Society in 2007. His research has been featured by CNN, Reuters, The Economist, New Scientist, The Christian Science Monitor, Sky & Telescope, and Astronomy. He has co-authored several papers published in The Astrophysical Journal and appeared in the PBS documentaries Seeing in the Dark and Hunting the Edge of Space.
Ron holds an MBA from the University of Denver, an M.S. in Chemical Engineering from the University of California, Berkeley, and a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from Clarkson University in Potsdam, New York.
