1. Overview

Scorched Festival is a four‑day, burner‑style camping and art event near Austin, Texas. This guide will help you prepare for self‑reliant, community‑centered participation. Please read it carefully, bring what you need, and be ready to contribute to the experience.

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2. Principles & Community

We honor Radical Inclusion, Radical Self‑Expression, Radical Self‑Reliance, Leave No Trace, Gifting, and Communal Effort. You are responsible for your own well‑being and for helping create the environment in which everyone can thrive.

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3. Arrival & Access

Gates Open: Thursday at noon.

 

Gates Close: Saturday at 4:00 PM (no entry after this time).

 

Wristbands: Must be worn at all times while on site no wristband, no entry.

 

Vehicles: RVs and trailers must be registered in advance and must be placed in the designated RV/trailer camping area.

 

Carpooling: Strongly encouraged to reduce traffic and environmental impact.

4. Property Information

The event takes place on privately‑owned land that is generously made available to us. Please treat it with respect so we may continue to return in the future. Stay within the marked event boundaries at all times.

 

Do not enter restricted or unmarked areas these may include private residences, barns, or other sensitive locations.

 

Respect all posted signs and instructions from staff or rangers.

 

Natural hazards such as uneven ground, holes, wildlife, and thorny vegetation are present watch your step and wear appropriate footwear.

 

Leave gates as you find them; do not disturb livestock or animals on the property.

 

The landowner’s rules and requests must be honored at all times failure to comply can result in removal from the event.

5. Hazards

This is rugged outdoor land. Be mindful of the following hazards:

Wildlife: Expect to see insects (including fire ants), snakes, spiders, and possibly other wildlife. Do not disturb or provoke them.

 

Plants: Some plants have thorns, prickles, or cause skin irritation. Wear sturdy footwear and be cautious when walking through brush.

 

Ground Conditions: The ground can be uneven, with holes, rocks, and loose soil. Good shoes will help protect you from injury.

 

Weather: Texas weather can change rapidly be prepared for intense sun, heat, wind, cold nights, or sudden rain.

 

Fires & Heat: The sun and heat can cause dehydration, sunburn, and heat exhaustion. Drink water frequently and take breaks in the shade.

 

Nighttime Visibility: It gets dark at night use flashlights or headlamps to avoid tripping or stepping on hazards.

 

Noise: Sound systems and generators can be loud.

Treat the land and its creatures with respect and remember, you are responsible for your own safety.

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6. Parking & Camping

Theme Camps: Register early for a designated space and to help shape the community experience.

 

Open Camping: First‑come, first‑served in designated areas.

 

Respect the Land: Drive only where directed; avoid damaging terrain.

7. Art, Performance & Effigies

Art Installations: Pre‑register so participants can find you and so we can plan for safety.

 

Effigy Burn: Scheduled for the final night, weather and safety permitting.

 

Fire Performers: Must attend a fire‑safety meeting before performing.

8. Fire Policy & Equipment

No campfires or burn barrels unless specifically permitted.

 

Burn Ban Compliance: If a burn ban is in effect, only authorized performance fire will be allowed.

 

Fire Extinguishers: Every camp should have at least one.

 

Never leave fire unattended; never burn trash.

9. Generators & Sound

Generators: Quiet models only; point exhaust away from camps; secure fuel safely.

 

Sound Systems: Must be respectful of neighbors; large systems belong in theme camps.

 

Sound Ordinance Compliance: Our site is subject to local sound ordinances.

Amplified sound should be kept to reasonable levels during daytime hours.

 

No excessively loud sound is permitted during quiet hours, which run 2:00 AM to 10:00 AM daily.

 

If rangers or event staff request that you lower your volume, you must comply immediately.

 

Keep in mind: sound travels far in open areas, especially at night. Please be considerate so everyone can enjoy the event.

10. Water, Food & Supplies

Bring EVERYTHING you need for the weekend:

Drinking water (minimum 1.5 gallons per person, per day)

 

Food for all meals and snacks

 

Trash bags & recycling containers

 

Toilet paper (single‑ply preferred)

 

No Ice Sales On Site bring your own and store it properly.

11. What to Bring

Plenty of drinking water (1.5 gallons per person, per day minimum)

 

Enough food for the duration of your stay

 

Shade structures and tie‑downs

 

Tent and sleeping gear suitable for Texas weather

 

Flashlights and extra batteries

 

Sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses, and hats

 

Personal first‑aid kit and any prescription medications

 

Comfortable clothing and shoes, plus costumes if you wish

 

Trash bags and recycling containers

 

Cups, plates, utensils (reusable preferred)

 

Personal hygiene supplies (biodegradable soap, toothbrush, etc.)

 

Camp chairs or other seating

 

A positive, cooperative, and creative spirit

12. What NOT to Bring

Firearms or weapons of any kind

 

Illegal drugs or substances

 

Fireworks or explosives

 

Unregistered drones

 

Generators without mufflers

 

Pets (except pre‑approved service animals)

 

Anything you cannot or will not take back home with you

 

Attitudes that conflict with consent, respect, or the community spirit

13. Safety & Emergencies

Safety Team/Rangers: Available to help resolve safety issues find them at HQ or on patrol.

 

First Aid: Bring your own kit; limited medical support available.

 

Emergency Info: Posted at central locations learn where it is upon arrival.

14. Children & Pets

Minors: Under 18 must have a legal guardian present and a signed waiver.

 

Supervision: It is strongly advised that you do not leave your children unsupervised or alone with someone you do not know or trust. Do not ask a stranger to watch your child.

 

Pets: Not allowed, except registered service animals with pre‑approval.

Service animals must be leashed and wearing their service animal vest at all times.

15. Drone, Media & Photography

Drones: Must comply with FAA rules and be approved by organizers before flying.

 

Photography & Video: This is a private event commercial use without permission is prohibited.

 

Always ask for consent before photographing participants.

16. Leave No Trace

Everything you bring must leave with you.

 

Remove all trash, MOOP (Matter Out Of Place), and structures.

 

Camps will be inspected; failure to clean up may result in being denied entry in the future.

17. Code of Conduct

Consent is required for all interactions silence is not consent.

 

Respect personal boundaries.

 

Harassment, discrimination, and unsafe behavior will not be tolerated.

18. Exodus & Cleanup

All participants must be off-site by noon on Sunday.

 

No exceptions.

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Leave your camp spotless help your neighbors if you can.

 

19. Cell Phone Signal
Some carriers have limited signal at and around the event location. There is no Wi-Fi available.

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20. Volunteering
If you would like to volunteer before or during this event, there will be plenty of opportunities to do so. We will be having a property preparation day approximately one week before the event. We will be needing volunteers for gate shifts and bonfire attendants. If you are certified EMS or first responder and would like to be available to volunteer in case of an emergency, please let us know.