We have one of those really quiet Honda generators for our camper (we dry camp in the woods) They are indeed quiet, but it would still be heard. And they're around $1,400 new. I don't think they would be the best solution for you.
I like the idea of an abandoned campsite. Even if you don't have much going on the serenity of it would be creepy, anticipation goes a long way.
Haunted Host, Madam T. and Hallorenescene, I agree with all of you. Being new here I wasn't sure what to think. I sent a private message to Haunted Host thanking him for speaking out on this topic. The truth is I should have posted it like you all did to let others know not everyone agrees. that is why I am posting now. You are all right some topics should never be viewed at as acceptable no matter what the venue.
That said, Gothic Princess what a great idea. How fortunate you are to have so much room to do such a great idea. I am loving the camp ideas. I would, Like you, like to know how do you pull something off like this without a lot of actors. I am in the same postion, help is limited.
I would also like to know how do others space their scenes out and how many actors per scene. How much is too much and how much is not enough. Lets keep the ideas going, I am getting very inspired for my own Haunted Trail.
I guess it depends on what kind of trail you're looking to build. Do you want a spooky atmosphere, or do you want a SCARY atmosphere?
I personally think that static props will add to that spookie feel, but if you're really trying to scare people, you need to have something that poses a threat. Actors are probably the best and cheapest way to go. Getting some friends together and have a good time with it. Perhaps bribe them with the promise of cocktails (beer around a campfire is my personal favorite) and toasted marshmallows after the haunt. Maybe use one of the camps you set up as the hang out place afterwards. That would be a pretty cool atmosphere to hang out and have some drinks.
If you go with props, I'm thinking you'd have to build some of your own animated props like a witch stirring a cauldron. Gemmy props just won't cut it outside and they're sure to fail on you in a very dark setting because there won't be enough light to set off the motion detector. Besides, you wouldn't want strangers getting that close to those anyway because they're rather delicate. I've seen some outstanding home made props that would make a person look long and hard to see if it's a real person, but they still don't add the scare factor that real people do.
I'm guessing that two actors per setting would probably be plenty. The darker it is, the fewer actors you'll need.
As for spacing, I think you really want to space it out pretty well... at least 150 ft between scenes. The anticipation between scenes and what can jump out at them in between will add to the scare. You'll also add to the overall length. You may also want to add at least one actor somewhere between camps in the darkness.
Now, I have to admit that I've never tried anything like this before, but I'm just thinking it out and giving my opinion. I got to tell you though, I'm really getting excited about this. I hope you do a video walk through the night of your haunt because I'd love to see it. I personally will need to find a haunted trail in my area for this year. My wife and I go to at least two haunted houses each Halloween, but I'll have to find a trail for this year.
How would you guys feel if I posted a daylight walk through of my trail. It would probably be best if I got on the 4 wheeler and rode it VS walking it, probably take to long. I would post it on you tube and put the link here. Give you an idea of what I have to work with..
On this trail we have a creek bed that runs along the right side. There is 1 or 2 places that we have set up some boards to cross the creek. I would have to secure this area better, being night time. But I could do wonders there, maybe float some bodies in the water, drowning victim, etc... Think rickety old bridge here obviously stable enough for our 4 wheeler to go over, but not pretty looking..
We cleared off one area for a possible campsite years ago, so this area would be the perfect spot to hold a tent. I am thinking that I could use my battery operated lanterns hanging from the trees here. Or even tin cans with candles inside hanging from the trees.
Would I need to rope off the area even though we have orange flagging tape marking the trail?
How would you suggest asking the local fraternity for help for 1 night with the trail?
Hey Haunted Host great ideas. Yeah my friends like the cocktails.
On this trail it would take well over 20 minutes to walk through, so spacing out is not a problem, but I don't want to few settings.
I have about 6 battery operated strobe lights, does anyone know or have suggestions of any other battery operated lighting that could be used. Thinking some spotlights pointed up in the trees would be pretty freaky.
I have about a dozen of those made now, and they do look awefull creepy setting out in the dark. Even though I haven't actually made the area I planned on using them in yet.
But, yeah, you can get all kinds of solar powered lights in the garden dept these days. Spots, floods, etc. They're not too bright or powerfull, which actually can be an advantage for what you're doing. Just throw some colored film on the end.
Ahhh, a creek bed adds lots of possibilities. In the 80s there was park district near my house that sponsored a haunted house on the shore of a small recreational lake. Part of the haunted house forced people to walk on the paving that boats would back up to dump their boats in the water. They would have zombie looking actors about 2 ft deep in the water with multiple layers of tattered clothing, stringy wigs, and makeup that looked dark and decayed. They zombies just sort of staggered towards the shore in the darkness and groaned... kind of like zombies in Michael Jackson's Thriller... except no dancing. It was bone chilling.
Gothic Princess - I was wondering also who I could use for actors as the friends I have would be at the party. I've heard a suggestion before (I believe on this forum) that you might want to check out. Contact your local high school drama department. I'm guessing tell whoever's in charge what the plan is and they might be able to help. Doesn't hurt to ask. If it's a good group of kids, it might work out really well.
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