Few experiences compare to camping under a sky full of stars. Additionally, it can be quite fun to observe the stars, constellations, planets, comets, satellites, and meteor showers at the ideal stargazing site. Those who enjoy such outdoor experiences can find multiple stargazing and camping spots in the country itself. These places offer clear skies and minimal light pollution, making it possible for stargazers to enjoy breathtaking views of celestial objects.
1. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado
The Great Sand Dunes National Park is one of the underrated camping spots in the US. It is a refreshing vacation alternative to the arches and canyons typically associated with the Southwest. The park also offers a clear, picturesque view of the starry night sky.
Before planning a trip here, one must check the park’s website and look for scheduled night programs like quicksand survival stories and constellation lectures. Attending these events can add value to the overall camping experience. Also, on any trips to the park, it is best to leave contact lenses at home and bring glasses along to avoid dealing with windy weather and sand when trying to observe celestial bodies.
2. Natural Bridges National Monument, Utah
Utah has several state parks and must-visit spots, of which the Natural Bridges National Monument remains underrated. However, it can be a great spot for camping and stargazing, thanks to its serene landscape and clear night skies. This place is also the First International Dark Sky Park. Here, one will find countless astronomy-related events throughout the year and some of the darkest nights with clear views of the stars and the Milky Way over the Owachomo Bridge.
3. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
This famous tourist spot is also a great location for stargazing, thanks to its favorable lighting conditions. As another International Dark Sky Park, the Grand Canyon National Park is quite popular among stargazers. Every June, the park holds an annual Grand Canyon Star Party, where one can meet astronomers, access advanced telescopes for stargazing, attend constellation talks, and so on. When here, one must explore the Desert View Watchtower—the perfect spot for astrophotography. The park also offers ranger-led hikes and constellation tours, making it a must-visit stargazing spot.
4. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
Another stargazing hotspot in Utah, the Bryce Canyon National Park, is known for its bizarre, towering hoodoos (tall, slender rock spires). That said, it is also among the great stargazing spots in the US. The park’s elevation and dry desert air are the reasons behind its clear night skies. The North Campground and Sunset Campground here provide excellent stargazing opportunities.
On exceptionally clear nights, visitors can see thousands of stars, including the dense star clusters of the Milky Way. The park also hosts astronomy programs led by rangers and volunteer astronomers. Campers also get to access telescopic views of planets and deep-space objects. To elevate the whole camping-stargazing experience at this location, one can hike to Inspiration Point or Natural Bridge at night and catch the stars illuminating the unique rock formations.
5. Cherry Springs State Park, Pennsylvania
For stargazers on the East Coast, Cherry Springs State Park can be the most accessible stargazing point. This International Dark Sky Park is located in Pennsylvania’s remote Susquehannock State Forest. Here, one can witness incredible meteor showers, the Northern Lights, and even faint galaxies. The park also offers designated Astronomy Observation Areas, away from artificial lights, for visitors who want to camp specifically for stargazing. Another key area here is the Rustic Campground, which offers a more immersive experience by allowing campers to sleep under a portion of the sky nearly untouched by light pollution.
Cherry Springs is also a hub for astrophotographers, as the park’s unique weather and light conditions allow for crisp, detailed images of deep-space objects.
6. Death Valley National Park, California/Nevada
Although this park has a reputation for extreme heat, it transforms into a stunning stargazing destination once the sun sets. The place is recognized as a Gold Tier International Dark Sky Park, as its vast empty landscape, dry air, and lack of cloud cover provide an uninterrupted canvas for stargazing. Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Badwater Basin, and Dante’s View are the key spots for stargazing within the park.
7. Glacier National Park, Montana
This scenic spot in the US is also among the popular camping spots for stargazing. Due to its remote location in northern Montana, the place has virtually non-existent light pollution. This makes it possible to catch an astonishing array of celestial objects even with the naked eye. The park is also one of the few places in the lower 48 states where people get to occasionally witness the Northern Lights. Camping here is a way to catch the breathtaking nighttime views of the Milky Way rising over jagged mountain peaks. The park also has Night Sky Programs, where rangers guide stargazers, allowing them to witness the wonders of the cosmos with the help of high-powered telescopes.
8. Joshua Tree National Park, California
This park’s remote desert location and unique rock formations create stunning silhouettes against the night sky. This International Dark Sky Park is particularly known for its meteor showers. If planning a camping trip here, one can choose the month of August, as this is when they can catch the Perseid Meteor Shower. Alternatively, December would work if one wants to witness the Geminid Meteor Shower. Camping here is also a good option, as the minimal light pollution and year-round wide-open skies are ideal for nighttime skywatching.