CFAS Ocala Forest Observing Site Information

CFAS has received a permit from the National Forrest to use the old Navy facility site in the Ocala National Forrest for observing sessions during new moon periods. This is the viewing schedule we requested for 2007.

This site has no facilities. The area consists of multiple paved parking areas and concrete slabs where buildings once stood. It is a very dark area, and should be excellent for viewing. By permit we are required to have a portable rest room available for all viewing sessions. The CFAS generator can be used at the site. Members should request it. At least one member present must have a copy of our permit. They can be downloaded here Page 1 and Page 2.

Viewing period information will be promulgated and controlled through the CFAS_Fl. yahoo group site. Through this group web site an observing committee member will specify when each viewing sessions will be held.

You should arrive before sunset and set up your equipment. You are able to remain at the site all night. No fires are allowed. It is also imperative that we remove all trash when leaving the area.

The site is located about one mile off of SR 19 on NFS Road 524. The site is 58 miles from Winter Springs. When coming from Orlando area the fastest route is from I-4, Bypassing DeLand by using SR15A, then US 17 to SR 40 to SR 19. Go south on SR 19 for about a mile to FSR 524. There is a sign on SR 19 at NSF 524 indicating a NAS JAX Facility. You will drive past this fenced area on the way to the observing site.

From I-4 East to Daytona Beach,
Take the SR-472 exit 114 to Orange City/Deland - go 0.4 mi
Turn left at SR-472 W - go 3.0 mi
Bear right onto the US-17 N/US-92 E ramp - go 0.3 mi
Bear right at S Woodland Blvd - go 3.6 mi
Continue on N Woodland Blvd - go 4.7 mi
Continue on US-17 N - go 3.2 mi
Continue on US-17 - go 6.2 mi
Turn left at SR-40 - go 14 mi
Turn left - go 1.9 mi

These directions are from Google and have not yet been verified by a club member. Also, as we have not yet received permission to use this site, please do not venture there at this time.

If you arrive after dark look for the parking lights only sign and turn off your headlights accordingly.

Rough GPS coordinates: N 29 08' 33" W 81 38' 38"

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