Star Party
27 miles west of Austin, TX
Once a Month • 2025 Dates through July Open!
Spend an evening stargazing!
Rates
Adult Non-Member - $25
Adult Member - $20
Child - $10
Duration
2 hours
- 15 mins Before Start time: Gates open, welcome!
- 15 mins after start time: Gates close to public. If you are late there is no refund or entry.
- 2 hour long Program
- 15 mins after program ends: All guest are to leave property.
About
Tour the night skies at Westcave Preserve, a dark sky location convenient to Austin. Star Party nights are an ideal opportunity to enjoy an evening gazing at the stars through a high quality telescope.
With local astronomers on hand to answer questions, you'll be delighted and amazed by what you see and learn!
The star party will occur in our parking lot on pavement. You are welcome to bring portable chairs and blankets to the telescope viewing area. Snacks and beverages are allowed in the viewing area, but please consume them away from the telescopes and take your trash home with you. No glass please! Water is highly recommended as water will not be available.
Maintaining night vision is important and using a red filtered flashlight is the best way you can help. Please refrain from using any other lights, camera flashes or cellphones. If your child has light up shoes, please cover the light area with thick tape or have them wear a different pair of shoes.
Note:
- Please arrive 15 minutes prior to program start time to check in.
- There is NO access to the canyon and cave for this event.
- All events are weather permitting.
- Westcave is a Smoke Free Property at all times.
- No pets are allowed even if left in the vehicle.
This event takes place in our parking lot. You can NOT access the canyon or cave via this event. Access to the canyon and cave is available as a public Guided Canyon Tour.
FAQs
What is your Cancellation Policy:
Customers MUST provide a 24-hour notice via email to request a rebooking or full refund/credit for any reason. If Westcave cancels due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances, customers will receive an email notice and a full refund. To cancel, click the "Cancel Booking" link under the picture of the grotto on your confirmation email. If you have any difficulties, please contact us by sending an email to info@westcave.org. No-shows will be charged the full price.
What is your current COVID-19 Policy?
Please DO NOT visit Westcave if anyone has close contact with a person who has tested positive for COVID-19. Visitors who are feeling under-the-weather should not visit Westcave. We welcome you back you when you are better. We still require 24-hour’s notice to cancel your reservation for a refund or to rebook.
Tour Cancellation Due to COVID-19?
In the unfortunate case we have to cancel your tour due to COVID-19 related staff shortages you will be notified within 24 hours of your tour time. If your tour is canceled, you will receive an email to offer a rebooking or a full refund. If your tour is not canceled, you must still provide 24-hours advanced notice to request a refund or rebooking for any reason.
Can I take a ride share to Westcave?
Please DO NOT take a ride share (ex. Uber, lyft) to Westcave. We are outside the service range for pickups and you may become stranded.
Do you have restrooms?
Two composting toilets and sinks for hand washing are available for guest usage. Cleaning and disinfecting procedures are in place.
Do you allow pets?
No pets are allowed on the premise of Westcave Preserve, even if on a leash, and may not be left in a vehicle. If you are found with a pet on the Preserve or locked in your car, you will kindly be asked to leave.
We recommend visiting Milton Reimers Ranch Park (2 miles away) if you want to spend time outside with your pet.
Can we swim at Westcave?
There is no swimming at Westcave or access to the Pedernales River.