Caspers Wilderness Park

Starr Parties

Tour our night skies with our group of amateur astronomers, the Caspers Stargazers.

Why "Starr," not "Star"? Caspers Wilderness Park was formed out of the historic Starr Ranch — the park rangers like to keep the park's heritage alive, so we do too.

Images captured by smart telescopes (astrographs) at Caspers

The Whirlpool Galaxy (M51), a spiral galaxy interacting with a smaller companion galaxy, 22 million light-years away — **Whirlpool Galaxy (M51)** A spiral galaxy interacting with a smaller companion galaxy 22 million light-years away

The Orion Nebula (M42), a birthplace of stars, 1,340 light-years away — **Orion Nebula (M42)** A birthplace of stars 1,340 light-years away

Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park and NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassadors host Starr Parties that are open to the public.

The observing sessions are manned by several amateur astronomers who bring a variety of telescopes that open an amazing new view to our skies. Get a chance to see beautiful star clusters, galaxies, brilliant gas and dust clouds, and remnants of stars that have exploded either partially or totally. Some of the telescopes will have you looking at the actual object; other telescopes are cameras and show what they're pointed at on tablets. Curious what you'll actually be looking at? See the telescopes we bring to Starr Parties.

In addition, the astronomers will be available to answer questions, and periodically throughout the night will identify the stars and constellations that are visible that evening — including descriptions and myths about stars and constellations.

The Caspers Stargazers were started by Alan White 30 years ago. Alan remained the prime driver of the monthly event until 2025. He is still active with the group and attends most of the events at Caspers.

The location of Caspers Wilderness Park provides a unique opportunity to see much darker skies than in most of Orange County. The park has been a hub for stargazing, earning California's first "Star Park" designation in 2013. Most of the observing sessions are conducted on dates when the moon is not visible.

Schedule & Status

See the Current Schedule Next Star Party — Status

Location

Caspers Wilderness Park, 33401 Ortega Hwy, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675

The programs are hosted in the parking lot of the Nature Center and the Nature Center itself.

Parking for the Starr Party is in a lot just before you get to the Nature Center (the road is closed at the parking lot). Park there and walk up to the Nature Center (about 400 feet).

Map showing parking and the walk to the Nature Center at Caspers Wilderness Park

Attending the Starr Party

All programs are on Saturdays. The park officially closes at sunset, but on the nights of Starr Parties, entrance is permitted to the Nature Center after sunset.

Registration is not needed to attend the Starr Party, but please be aware there is a limited number of parking spots in the lower parking lot for those wishing to attend the Starr Party and are not camping at the park.

Cancellation

The event might be cancelled if the forecast is for clouds or inclement weather. If the forecast doesn't look good, please call the Entrance Booth for the latest information at 949-923-2203, or click here and check the status of the next Starr Party.