Solar Eclipse 2024
On the afternoon of April 8, most of the Hoosier National Forest will experience the effects of a total solar eclipse and an influx of visitors will be here to witness it. The amount of visitors will be unprecedented for our area and we all need to be prepared for the effects.
Campgrounds on the National Forest are opening the season early, however, for the period March 29 through April 9 they are by reservation only and were completely booked by early March. If you are planning to come to the area and camp you can do dispersed, or primitive camping. Dispersed camping entails following the guidelines and establishing your own campsite, keeping in mind there are no amenities such as tables, fire rings, restrooms or trash cans, and the site must be returned to how it was found when you leave. It is not for everyone and requires planning and preparation, as well as the ability to “rough it”. Dispersed camping information can be found on our website.
If you are local it is advised to stay home to view the eclipse as there will be traffic congestion and travel will be difficult. If you must travel, fill up with fuel in advance, have cash for purchases, carry your food with you, and have printed maps as cell phones are likely to be impacted by the increased demand. If possible, plan to stay until April 9 to alleviate congestion on area roads and minimize your time spent waiting in traffic.
For those staying on the Hoosier National Forest or other natural areas, use caution with campfires as emergency response will likely be delayed. Clear the area of debris such as leaves and sticks, keep fires small and always keep watch. Put your campfire completely out when done by pouring water on it, stirring it and placing your hand close to insure it is cold.
The Forest Service and our concessionaire will be providing portable toilets, trash receptacles and dumpsters at campgrounds and recreation areas. Visitors are encouraged to pack out their trash or dispose of it properly and follow the Leave No Trace principles while visiting.
Visitors who wish to travel to the Hickory Ridge Lookout Tower, Hickory Ridge Campground and trails, and areas east of State Road 446, should be aware that Tower Ridge Road will be closed to through traffic from April 4th through April 8th and should plan to use Hunter’s Creek Road. In addition, the Hickory Ridge Lookout Tower will be closed on the evening of April 7th through April 8th for visitor safety.
To meet the needs of the influx of visitors and provide the best customer service during the Total Solar Eclipse event and the days leading up to it, office operations will be adjusted as follows starting April 1:
The Tell City office will be open with full services, including sales of maps, etc. Tuesday and Wednesday. To provide visitor information in-person or via phone, this office will be staffed April 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th and 8th with extended hours as needed. Normal operations will resume April 9. The office is located at 248 15th Street, Tell City, IN, and the phone number is 812-547-7051.
The Bedford office will be open with full services, including sales of maps, passes, eclipse glasses, etc. Monday through Friday as usual. Full services will also be available on April 6th, 7th and 8th. Extended hours will be offered as needed between April 4th and April 8th. The office is located at 811 Constitution Avenue, Bedford IN, and the phone number is 812-275-5987.
For more information about the Hoosier National Forest and preparing for the eclipse visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/hoosier/learning/nature-science/?cid=fseprd1101633.
Solar Eclipse Tips
Here are a few tips for a safe viewing experience!
· Protect your eyesight: The only safe way to look directly at the uneclipsed or partially eclipsed sun is through special-purpose solar filters, such as “eclipse glasses”. Forest Service offices in Bedford and Tell City are offering protective glasses so that you can safely view the eclipse. We expect these items to sell quickly. Limited quantities may be available for school groups, educators, and other organizations. Please call 812-275-5987 if you wish to arrange a larger order.
· Bring your own supplies: Have enough food and water for your entire stay. There is a good chance that stores may run low on supplies the closer it gets to the day of the Eclipse. Bring garbage bags to pack out what you pack in. Have toilet paper and a small shovel in case toilets are unavailable in your location (and know how to dig a cat-hole in the woods). The website www.lnt.org has the information you need on how to “Leave No Trace”.
· Have a map: Have a paper map of where you are going or download directions to your GPS unit in case cell service goes out due to large crowds.
· Gas up: Fill up your car with gasoline before making the trek up to the Forest to view the Eclipse. Local gas stations may run low, and traffic may be an issue.
· Be patient and courteous: We don’t know how many people to expect—hundreds, thousands, or tens of thousands. Avoid frustrations that can happen in crowds by being courteous and patient with other visitors.
• Arrive early and leave late: Avoid the worst of the crowds on the roadways. Give yourself lots of time to get to the location. Take the normal driving time and at least give yourself double that amount of time to get here in case traffic is backed up.
• Drive slow and carefully! Be cautious of large vehicles on the road. Know exactly where you are going before you head out on your adventure to prevent accidents from looking at maps and electronic devices while driving.
• All developed campground campsites are reserved! For information about dispersed camping options, please visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/hoosier/recreation/camping-cabins/?recid=41466&actid=34.
