Model rocketry is an increasingly popular activity that is enjoyed by all ages in all seasons.  Model rocketry is one of the activities welcomed in the Special Use Zone at Richard Bong State Recreation Area.  Whether you are a family, individual, scout troop or school group launching a hand-full of small, low-power model rockets or a rocketry club sanctioned to fly high-power rockets, we may be able to accommodate your event.

The Special Use Zone (SUZ) is a unique, multi-use area at Richard Bong where a wide variety of activities may take place on a scheduled basis. Any event permitted in the SUZ must be approved to help ensure visitor safety, protection of the resources and to avoid conflict with other user groups.

The following information should be understood, agreed to and met by all persons wishing to launch rockets.

1.  All rocket launches must be approved.

2.  Rockets may be launched only in designated launching areas.

3.  A group of 25 or more that wishes to reserve an area and a day for a launch must fill out a Special Events Recreational Use License (2200-127) at least 30 days in advance and provide proof of insurance.  There is a $25 reservation fee.

4.  Anyone that wishes to launch but is not making a reservation must fill out the Rocket Launch Request form and receive approval. 

5.  If you wish to launch on a weekend, the Rocket Launch Request form must be received by our office a minimum of five (5) days in advance. i.e. Monday for a Saturday launch. 

6.  If you wish to launch on a weekday, we prefer to receive the Rocket Launch Request five (5) days prior to your launch but it is often possible to make your request on the day of launching.

7.  Filling out the form in advance does not guarantee approval to launch.  If conditions change, permission to launch may be denied.

8.  As a precaution, anyone who launches rockets on Richard Bong SRA should have the means and ability to extinguish a fire.  If you do not have a minimum of 5 gallons of water you may borrow a water extinguisher from the office for a deposit.  Please do not use chemical extinguishers.

9.  Please check for and remove any litter in the launch zone and surrounding area.

10.  You must notify Visitor Services before you begin your launch and when it is finished. 

11.  Enter the Richard Bong phone number (262) 878-5600 into your cell phone to call if you have any concern regarding a fire.  In an emergency, dial 911.

12.  Please ask where you are allowed to go for rocket retrieval, some areas are closed to protect wildlife.