ARRL Summer Field 2025, Start preparing now!

CARC in the PARK; ARRL Field Day!

Dear Columbia Amateur Radio Club Members, ARRL Field Day is almost here — and we’re looking forward to a fantastic weekend of radio, fellowship, and fun at Sesquicentennial State Park!

 Location & Access Info:
Sesquicentennial State Park
9564 Two Notch Rd, Columbia, SC 29223
Park Hours: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM daily
If you arrive after hours, the gate code will be provided to those camping.

👉 IMPORTANT: When entering the park, just let the gate attendant know you’re with the Columbia Amateur Radio Club for Field Day — you will not have to pay the entrance fee!

🔧 Tons of Activities Throughout the Weekend: Whether you’re new to the hobby or a seasoned operator, there’s something for everyone:

🎯 Contesting: Operate and make contacts across the country during ARRL Field Day.

🧪 ARRL License Testing: Saturday at 9:00 AM (volunteers needed!)

📡 Amateur Radio Demos: Winlink, Meshtastic, Digital Modes (FT8, VARAC, JS8Call, and more!) Hands-on gear setups and portable ops

🛠 Volunteers are needed for testing, station setup, and general support. Your help makes Field Day a success!

🏕️ Camping & Setup Info– We have access to the Primitive Area starting Thursday, June 26. If you plan to camp, please contact Jim (W4JLP) as soon as possible to coordinate your site.

🍽 Dinner & Dessert – Saturday, June 28 @ 5:30 PM. Join us for a delicious dinner on Saturday at 5:30 PM – just $5 cash per person.

🧁 Please consider bringing a dessert to share! Let Jim know what you can bring.

🌞 Be Prepared for the Heat– South Carolina summers can be hot and humid, so please come prepared: Water, electrolytes Shade (tents, hats, umbrellas)Sunscreen, fans, and cooling gear. Bring a refillable water bottle.

📞 Most Important: Don’t Forget the Wednesday 7:00 PM Planning Call! Join us this Wednesday at 7:00 PM for our final Field Day planning call. We’ll go over logistics, roles, and answer any last-minute questions. Details and meeting link can be found on the Club Calendar at w4cae.com.


Let’s make this our best Field Day yet — whether you’re operating, testing, learning, or just enjoying the outdoors with fellow hams!
73,
Jim Lathan; W4JLP
President, Columbia Amateur Radio Club

🌐 w4cae.com
📞 Questions? Contact Jim (W4JLP) at Jim.Lathan@gmail.com

Permanent link to this article: https://w4cae.com/arrl-summer-field-2025-start-preparing-now/