Ready to experience next-level stargazing? The U.S. is full of Dark Sky Parks: areas with exceptionally starry skies and environments that restrict light pollution, as designated by the International Dark-Sky Association.
With the Perseid Meteor Shower visible through August 24th, now is the perfect time to snag a stay and watch for shooting stars. Pack a blanket and your telescope and head out.
| Here are a few Dark Sky Parks. Many more can be found at Darksky.org Moab Utah is a hotspot for astronomers and stargazers, with three Dark Sky Parks nearby: Arches National Park, Canyonland National Park, and Capitol Reef National Park. Take in world wonders, both day and night. Florida’s first Dark Sky Park rests just an hour from the beach, promising open blue skies and little to no light pollution. Visitors are treated to immaculate views of the Milky Way without the need for telescopes or binoculars. Headlands International Dark Sky Park sits on two miles of undeveloped Lake Michigan shoreline. Not only can you see the Milky Way during the summer, but stop by from fall through spring and, if you’re lucky enough, you might catch the Northern Lights. Prineville Reservoir State Park gained Dark Sky certification in 2021 and is Oregon’s only Dark Sky Park. Cozy up in a cabin with friends and family as you watch stars and satellites overhead. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area in Central Texas has some of the best stargazing in the country. Scenic Texas Hill Country enjoys access to three International Dark Sky Parks: Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, Lyndon B. Johnson Historical Park, and South Llano River State Park. End the summer with a dip in the pool and a night of stargazing. Joshua Tree National Park is only a half-hour drive from the Coachella Valley and its alien-like terrain makes for a one-of-a-kind stargazing experience. |
