A night in the desert: The winter vacation you must discover

During the winter season, when the nights grow longer and the desert wraps itself in a pleasant chill, the Nature and Parks Authority invites the public to experience the magic of desert nights at its campgrounds. This is the time to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life, let go of worries, and immerse yourself in an irreplaceable experience – a night under the stars, surrounded by sparkling constellations and the magical desert winds.

In the desert, special moments begin with the fall of night: The sky fills with thousands of twinkling stars, and the quiet expanses invite you to stop, listen, and fill up on calm and serenity. A variety of campgrounds offer diverse activities combining heritage, nature, and history. These experiences are perfect for the whole family and provide an opportunity to disconnect from screens and the busy routine, connecting to quality moments with loved ones, far from the urban noise.

Limor Katan Friedman, Director of the Night Campgrounds Division at the Nature and Parks Authority, says: "The autumn season is the perfect time to experience the night campgrounds of the Nature and Parks Authority. It’s an exceptional opportunity to say goodbye to routine, connect to open nature, and enjoy cool nights with star-filled skies. Sitting around a fire with friends or family, hearing stories, and feeling the unique tranquility of the desert – each campground offers a unique experience with diverse activities suitable for all ages. We are here to ensure that the experience is exciting, unforgettable, and will make you want to visit more campgrounds."

Lotz Cisterns Night Campground – The Perfect Desert Experience

The Lotz Cisterns night campground offers a unique camping experience in the heart of the Negev Highlands, with an atmosphere of detachment from routine and connection to wild nature. It is ideal for star gazing, especially on meteor shower nights, offering a quiet environment with breathtaking views of the desert and surrounding hills. The campground is suitable for families, groups, and solo travelers, providing unforgettable experiences of sleeping under the starry sky. Visitors enjoy the refreshing chill in winter and the colorful spring blooms, adding magic to the place.

The campground stands out for its strategic location, providing easy access to a variety of hiking trails around Ramon Crater and the Negev Mountains. The combination of quiet nature, open desert views, and local flora creates a unique desert experience. Additionally, the campground features stone walls providing protection from the wind, adding comfort for overnight stays. In the winter season, visitors can enjoy the refreshing chill and stunning blooms as the area becomes colorful and full of life.

Barbecues and fires are allowed only in designated areas with wood brought from home, and the use of local vegetation is prohibited. It is very important – the area is home to many wild animals, so food and trash must be packed away and stored in the vehicle at night.

Tel Arad Night Campground – A Unique Camping Experience in the Judean Desert

The night campground at Tel Arad National Park is located in the heart of the Judean Desert and offers visitors a unique camping experience in a desert landscape. The combination of staying with views of the Canaanite Tel, starry skies, peace, nature, and detachment from routine creates a particularly magical atmosphere.

Tel Arad stands out for its strategic location, providing easy access to a variety of hiking trails and activities. Visitors can tour the biblical tel, see the ancient water reservoirs, explore the streets of the Canaanite city, and view the remains of the Jewish Temple from the First Temple period. The campground is equipped with traditional tents, hospitality pavilions, and designated areas for sleeping under the stars, ensuring maximum comfort in the desert.

The campground also includes bonfire areas and large barbecues in designated spots, as well as tables and benches for the convenience of visitors. A shared kitchen, restrooms, and showers with hot water are available, along with power outlets for charging mobile phones, allowing visitors to enjoy maximum comfort alongside the desert experience. It is important to carefully pack food and trash to prevent wild animals from accessing them and to protect the local nature.

Khan Barot Night Campground – A Nighttime Experience Under the Desert Sky

At the Khan Barot night campground in Ramon Crater, an evening full of exciting experiences awaits. The evening begins with a pita-making workshop on a saj, where you will learn the secrets of desert bread and savor the fresh flavors. After dark, you are invited to the "Space Garden" – an area designed for stargazing through fixed telescopes. It’s the perfect place to observe the stars and learn about the universe in fun and enriching ways. In the morning, visitors are invited to continue on a self-guided hike in the Ramon Crater National Park and visit the innovative visitor center in Mitzpe Ramon, offering interactive experiences for the whole family. The desert stay enhances the feeling of inner calm and serenity, leaving you with lasting memories.

When? Friday, November 29, from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM.

Further Details: The activity is for campers at the campground and is included in the camping fee, with a discount for "Matmon" members. The activity is weather-dependent, and it is recommended to check the Authority’s website before arrival.

Masada West National Park – A Multi-Sensory Show "From Sunset to Sunrise"

The spectacular nighttime show at Masada offers a combination of large projections using video mapping technology, advanced lighting, and a unique soundtrack composed by Shlomo Gronich. The show tells the historical story of the Jewish-Roman struggle on the mountain's slopes and inspires every visitor. It is recommended to arrive early to enjoy the stunning sunset views over the desert, and after the show, you can spend the night at the Masada West campground to complete the experience.

When? Tuesdays and Thursdays in November, at 7:30 PM.

Further Details: Advance registration is required on the Authority’s website. A discount is available for "Matmon" members. Please note that parts of the show include complex scenes suitable for viewers over the age of 10.

Masada West Night Campground – Desert Workshops and Bonfires

Masada West Night Campground offers the perfect combination of daytime and nighttime activities. Participants are invited to take part in unique workshops like making desert bread over coals and roasting coffee in traditional methods. In the evening, everyone gathers around the bonfire, where ancient desert stories are told, and the images are reflected in the starlight. At dawn, visitors climb the ramp trail for a breathtaking sunrise view over the Dead Sea and the Moab Mountains. The serenity and beauty of the moment make the night experience meaningful and inspiring.

When? Thursdays and Fridays, November 14-15 and 21-22.

Further Details: Advance registration is required, with discounts for "Matmon" members.

Mamshit National Park Night Campground – Desert Magic for a Friday-Saturday Stay

In the heart of the desert, Mamshit National Park night campground offers a weekend full of activities. A musical Kabbalat Shabbat under the stars, a lantern tour among the Nabataean ruins, and sitting around a fire with sweet tea are just part of the experience. On Saturday morning, enjoy a refreshing hike in the Mishorit Stream, discovering the wonders of the desert while playing a family mystery-solving game. The connection to nature and the history of the place enrich the experience and fill the soul.

When? Friday-Saturday, November 22-23.

Further Details: The activity requires advance registration, with discounts for "Matmon" members.