Your Guide to Dark Sky Camping
Picture yourself under a clear, star-filled sky, far from the bright lights of the city.
Picture yourself under a clear, star-filled sky, far from the bright lights of the city. This is what dark sky camping offers—a chance to reconnect with the nature of the night. With light pollution increasing, many travelers are seeking these special spots to enjoy the stars, planets, and cosmic events. In this guide, we'll introduce you to some of the top dark sky camping destinations across North America, must-have gear for stargazing, and tips to make your trip unforgettable. Let's dive in.
What is Dark Sky Camping?
Dark sky areas are destinations that offer unadulterated views of different constellations, the Milky Way, and even cosmic events like shooting stars, meteor showers, and the Northern Lights.
Today, as industrialization continues to muffle our connection to the starry night sky, more travelers are seeking opportunities to witness the beauty of the universe, driven by a desire to reconnect with nature and experience the night sky as our ancestors once did.
As urban sprawl accelerates, the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) works hard to combat light pollution through education, advocacy, and the designation of International Dark Sky Places. These protected areas are recognized for their exceptional starry nights and natural nocturnal environments. Thanks to the IDA, we can still find sanctuaries where the night sky remains unspoiled by artificial light.
Popular Destinations for Dark Sky Camping
Grand Canyon, Arizona
During its 100th anniversary in June 2019, Grand Canyon National Park was certified as an International Dark Sky Park by the IDA. The park offers free ranger-led programs, including constellation talks and night sky viewing areas where visitors can learn about light pollution and how to reduce it. A visitor favorite for astrophotography is the Desert View Watchtower.
Big Bend, Texas
If you head Southeast to the Texas/Mexico border, you’ll run into the 9 million acres that make up Big Bend International Dark Sky Preserve which is home to Big Bend National Park. In 2012, the International Dark-Sky Association designated Big Bend a Gold Tier International Dark Sky Park, which is a ranking shared by only 13 other parks worldwide. The area is known for having some of the darkest skies in North America and the clearest night skies in the world.
Joshua Tree, California
Recognized by the IDA as a silver tier dark sky park, Joshua Tree National Park is far enough away from the major cities to offer some of the darkest skies in Southern California. Every year, the park hosts a Night Sky Festival and a local non-profit organization, Sky’s the Limit, offers visitors year-round opportunities for telescope viewing and an observatory dome.
The Whole State of Utah
Of all the IDA-certified dark sky parks and destinations around the country, the greatest concentration is found in Utah. Northern Utah is home to some of our favorites that are easily accessible from city center including Antelope Island State Park and the Timpanogos Cave National Monument. Southern Utah is also full of popular dark sky places including Moab, Arches National Park, Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon, and more. It’s safe to say, if astrotourism is your thing, Utah is the place to be!
Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado
Located deep in the San Luis Valley, Great Sand Dunes National Park’s remote location and high elevation make it one of the best places for stargazing across the country. In fact, on a moonless, clear night, you can see up to 15,000 stars. If you plan your trip for late spring when the Medano Creek levels are elevated, you’ll likely catch a glimpse of the starry display reflected on the waters. The park offers night programs in the summer time to teach visitors about the night sky and the local nocturnal ecology and kids can also earn their title as a Junior Ranger Night Explorer.
Big Cypress National Preserve, Florida
Located West of Miami, Big Cyprus stretches out over 730,000 acres of swampland where campers can enjoy some of the darkest skies East of the Mississippi. This preserve is home to 5 distinct habitats, 35 mammal species, 190 different types of birds, and over 50 reptile species. And dark sky campers are in for a treat because with the area’s remote location and flat terrain, the night sky looms large over the everglades.
Gear Up for Stargazing
To make the most of your stargazing adventure, here’s what you should have in your pack:
Telescope: A portable telescope can bring the celestial display to life, magnifying constellations, planets, and cosmic events like meteor showers. If you don’t have access to a telescope, many dark sky places have programs that offer telescope viewing opportunities to the public.
Binoculars: Binoculars are also a great alternative if the telescope doesn’t work out. They are more portable and can still provide impressive views of the night sky.
Star Map: A star map or a stargazing app can help you identify constellations, planets, and other objects in the night sky. Sky Guide, StarGazer, and SkySafari are all great options. Make sure you download before you head out because many remote dark sky places lack cell service.
Red Flashlight: Use a red flashlight instead of a regular one to preserve your night vision. Red light is less likely to interfere with your ability to see faint stars and other celestial objects. Many dark sky places also ban the use of white flashlights as part of the initiative to keep their skies as clear as possible for visitors.
Celestial Events You Won’t Want to Miss
While visiting a dark sky place is a treat any time of the year, planning your trip around major events like meteor showers and eclipses adds another special element. Here’s a list of some annual cosmic events to help you get started with the planning process.
Quadrantid Meteor Shower (January): This meteor shower is one of the year's most active, with a peak rate of up to 120 meteors per hour. However, the peak period is short-lived, often lasting only a few hours. The meteors radiate from the constellation Bootes, and the Qunatrids are known for producing bright fireballs of light.
Lyrid Meteor Shower (April): In late April, the Lyrid Meteor Shower sends meteors radiating from the constellation Lyra. It is one of the oldest recorded meteor showers, with observations dating back over 2,500 years. Typically, the Lyrids produce about 10-20 meteors per hour at their peak, though they can occasionally surprise observers with surges of up to 100 meteors per hour. Known for their bright and fast meteors, the Lyrids sometimes leave glowing dust trails that last for several seconds.
Eta Aquarid Meteor Shower (May): Peaking in early May, the Eta Aquarid Meteor Shower is famous for its association with Halley's Comet, as the meteors are fragments from the comet's tail. At its peak, the Eta Aquarids can produce up to 30 meteors per hour in the Southern Hemisphere and around 10-20 meteors per hour in the Northern Hemisphere.
Perseid Meteor Shower (July-August): One of the highlights of the stargazing calendar, the Perseid meteor shower peaks in mid-August. It's one of the most prolific meteor showers, producing up to 60 meteors per hour.
Leonid Meteor Shower (November): The Leonid meteor shower peaks around mid-November and is famous for its periodic meteor storms, where thousands of meteors can be seen per hour. The meteors radiate from the constellation Leo, giving the shower its name, and are known for their fast, bright meteors that often leave persistent trails.
Geminid Meteor Shower (December): The Geminid meteor shower peaks in mid-December and is considered one of the most reliable and prolific meteor showers visible from Earth. It consistently produces a high rate of meteors, often exceeding 100 meteors per hour at its peak under ideal conditions. The Geminids are known for their bright, multi-colored meteors that tend to be slower-moving compared to other showers, making them easier to spot.
Star Parties and Events: National parks and designated dark sky places regularly host star parties, featuring guided tours of the night sky, educational talks, and hands-on activities. These events provide a great opportunity to learn more about astronomy, meet fellow stargazers, and enjoy a communal experience under the stars. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced astronomer, star parties are an excellent way to enhance your understanding of the cosmos.
Constellations to Look For During Your Dark Sky Adventure
Orion
Visible in winter, Orion is one of the most recognizable constellations with its iconic belt of three stars. This constellation also includes the bright stars Betelgeuse and Rigel, which mark Orion's shoulder and foot, respectively.
Ursa Major
Also known as the Big Dipper, this constellation is visible year-round and helps locate the North Star. The Big Dipper is part of the larger constellation Ursa Major, or the Great Bear. Its distinct shape makes it a useful tool for navigation and stargazing beginners.
Scorpius
Best seen in summer, Scorpius is known for its bright star Antares, which shines with a reddish tint. This constellation resembles a scorpion and is easily recognizable by its curved tail and stinger. Look for Scorpius low in the southern sky during the summer months.
Cassiopeia
This W-shaped constellation is easy to spot and is visible all year. Cassiopeia is located opposite the Big Dipper in the sky and its distinct shape makes it a favorite among the stargazing community.
Dark Sky Campgrounds Across the U.S.
Bryce Zion Campground | Glendale, Utah
Bryce Zion Campground perfectly positions you in Southern Utah to enjoy some of the state’s most beautiful natural areas including Bryce Canyon, Zion, Arches, Escalante, and even the Grand Canyon to the South. Choose between RV sites, tent sites, and cabins for a comfortable stay no matter what time of year you visit this stunning area of the country. Plus, enjoy onsite amenities like horses, an outdoor pool, a playground, and more.
Crescent RV Park | Crescent, Oregon
This dark sky campground on the border of Oregon’s Deschutes National Forest offers incredible opportunities for adventure and premium West Coast stargazing. This no frills campground features rustic tent and RV sites as well as basic amenities like sitewide wifi, hot showers, and laundry. But the true luxuries? The wide open skies and the many beautiful lakes and hiking trails nearby.
Lake Tamarisk Desert Resort | Desert Center, California
Located on the outskirts of Joshua Tree, this 55+ resort offers incredible opportunities for stargazing just a short drive away from major Southern California cities. This park is located in the largely undeveloped Chuckwalla Valley and is truly an oasis in the desert, offering guests a unique experience with an outdoor pool, hot tub, and sauna, palm tree-lined walkways, billiards rooms, a fishing lake, and so much more.
Blue Ridge RV Resort | Morganton, Georgia
Blue Ridge RV Resort is a quaint, family-owned campground in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains in North Georgia. This dark sky campground offers incredible opportunities for RV campers to enjoy the beauty of the Southern skies as well as the amenities like food trucks, boat rentals, a dog park and more!
Spacious Skies Walnut Grove | Alfred, Maine
This incredible dark sky campground just 30 minutes from Portland, Maine and Southern Maine beaches offers campers an opportunity to explore this beautiful part of the country. Onsite, you’ll find cabins, RV sites, and RV rentals as well as a pool with a jumping pillow, a community fire pit, and so much more. And just down the street, you’ll have access to a fishing pond, paddleboarding opportunities, and ATV trail access.
Finding the Perfect Dark Sky Camping Spot With Spot2Nite
Ready for your dark skies camping adventure? Use Spot2Nite’s Dark Skies filter to find more camping spots with unobstructed views and clear skies. This tool helps you discover prime stargazing locations, whether you're looking for a secluded campsite, a well-equipped RV park, or a luxury glamping site. Prioritize areas away from city lights and other sources of light pollution to ensure the best possible view of the night sky. With Spot2Nite, finding the perfect spot to lay back and marvel at the stars has never been easier.
