The campsite accommodates up to 250 people. This is a primitive camp without electricity or potable water located at an elevation of ~7,400 ft. There are no RV hookups.
The campsites are primitive, without electricity or potable water. Camping is welcome on open meadows as well as in treed areas; however, camping on the ritual ground is not permitted. Quite a few campsites are located either uphill or downhill. Although parking may be nearby to some camping spots, expect to have to transport your gear to your camp. A portable wheeled cart is a plus. There is ample space for camping.
There are certain designated areas for camping. Information about where you can and can’t setup your camp will be provided in your confirmation packet which will be sent to you after registration. Details will also be available at the gate during check in. If you happen to setup camp outside the designated areas, you will be asked to move your camp to an appropriate location. If you have any questions at all, please ask before setting up.
Bathroom Facilities
The campground has non-flushing vault-type toilets. Additional portable toilets will be on site. Handwashing stations and sanitary wipes will be provided, but we recommend that you also bring personal hand sanitizer. A flashlight will be helpful in the dark, as the facilities have no electric lights.
Accessibility
The camp has level as well as hilly terrain. Some paved and some unpaved paths lead to the main areas where most activities occur. There are some steps in the camp, though paved slopes can also be used to access the same areas. Handicapped accessible portable bathrooms are provided. Those with limited mobility may find getting around a challenge.
Lighting
Roads and paths are not lighted; having a headlamp or flashlight at night is highly recommended.
Seating
Workshops take place in covered pavilions with cement picnic tables for seating or in portable pop-ups without chairs. The bardic and fire circles are out in the open. Folding chairs that you can carry around camp are highly recommended.
Water
This bears repeating: The campsite has no potable water.
Bring plenty of drinking water (we recommend two gallons per person per day), plus water for washing and cooking. Stay hydrated! There are no food trucks on site, so bring camp-friendly food and snacks. Propane may be used on camp stoves. There are no RV hookups.
Weather
Temperatures may range from low 30s to high 80s in mid-September at this elevation (~7400 ft.). Be prepared for shifts in temperature, wind, and the occasional rainstorm.
Bears and Critters
Bears and other critters may be interested in loose food and coolers. At night, put coolers and food in your vehicle for everyone’s safety. Do not leave garbage bags out; rather, put refuse in an area designated by the Forest Service (if provided) or in your vehicle. We encourage you to pack it in and pack it out.
Trash and Recycling
Leave your campsite and area cleaner than you found it. Pack it in and pack it out! The Forest Service does not provide trash or recycling services. Bring ample bags to accommodate your trash. Collect and carry out your trash and recyclables. Pick up trash you see, even if it’s not yours. Be a good steward. Love your Mother Earth!
Parking
Park in designated areas only. Make sure you display your name and phone number on the inside of your vehicle clearly visible on the dash. Please park with your vehicle backed into your space (where possible) to allow rapid evacuation if necessary. RVs spots are in specific areas approved by the Forest Service; if you arrive in an RV, wait at the gate for one of our staff to escort you to an available space.
Recreational Vehicles
When you register, you can add-on a space for an RV (if you don’t, we assume you will either be camping or staying off site). If you plan to bring an RV, we recommend that you register early as RV spaces are limited ($20 per space; about 15 spots available) and will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis.
We require that you notify our registrar by email that you have reserved an RV space; please indicate in the email the length of the RV and your expected day and time of arrival so we can hold your spot. If you arrive in an RV without a ticket for an RV, we cannot accommodate you.
There are no RV hookups.
Generators
Generators are permitted but cannot be run after 9 PM or before 9 AM.
Medical Assistance
Silver Moon Care will be onsite to assist if you have basic medical or first-aid needs. If you take advantage of their services, please consider making a contribution to help support them. Please also make sure to bring your normal supply of necessary medications and supplies.
Being exposed to direct sun at altitude, even for short periods, can result in sunburn. Even for those who “don’t burn,” we suggest you use sunscreen. If you notice someone who is disoriented, flushed or red in the face, or very pale and clammy, get them to sit down in the shade and get help from Silver Moon Care or the gate immediately. Heat/sun stroke and/or dehydration can strike suddenly and are potentially life threatening.
Safety & Security
The festival provides its own security and safety oversight; in addition, the Forest Service is available in an emergency. If you feel unsafe or notice someone engaging in unsafe or inappropriate behavior that violates the sacredness of this event, report it to the gate or security. Security volunteers roam the camp regularly, checking in on guests. Although we don’t expect any negative security or safety issues, it’s very important that we all keep a watch out for each other. Security will take immediate action if notified of any problems. In the event of a dispute or disturbance that cannot be quickly resolved, we will notify the Forest Service for assistance.
Happy Cauldron & Orientation
The Happy Cauldron is a drop-in spot for the whole camp (sponsored by Ardantane). Don’t know anyone? You will after you stop in at the Happy Cauldron! This camp also hosts an informative workshop for those new to Paganism early in the festival schedule. You are welcome anytime. And if you are a regular at MMSW, introduce yourself to someone you don’t know and get to know them. Build connections and community through the weekend.