We offer some guidelines to help you plan your project. Your theme camp s hould create an ambience, a visual presence, in some way provide a communal space or provide activity. It may be the anchor for a larger event taking place. The best camps succeed by simplicity. Concepts that are too big, like scholarly attempts to debunk complex social theory or Titanic-length storytelling arcs, will die from disinterest.
More specific pitfalls await the unprepared.
Pay full respect to the open desert, a harsh environment that punishes presumption. Design safety into your plans. No natural structures exist to block the force of 40 MPH gusting winds across the hardpan flats. The heat is oppressive, electrical storms are common, and dust storms can affect sensitive equipment. All your needs must be thoroughly thought through to make your camp completely autonomous.