Parks on the Air (POTA) combines outdoor activity with amateur radio. Licensed operators contact stations transmitting from qualifying parks, or take their own approved portable station to a park and make contacts.
Two ways to participate
- Hunter: listen for active park operators and complete valid contacts within your operating privileges.
- Activator: set up in a qualifying park, operate responsibly and follow POTA’s current rules and park restrictions.
How to begin
Visit the official POTA app for spots, references and current program details. Use the current Hunter Guide before logging or spotting stations. Make sure your privileges, station power and operating mode comply with amateur radio rules.
Portable station basics
- Choose a location and antenna with proper public and electrical safety.
- Bring sufficient battery capacity and protection for your station.
- Keep audio levels and contacts clear, identify by call sign and protect the park environment.
- Log contacts accurately according to the current POTA rules.
More: ham radio licensing and digital modes basics.