If you’re looking for an amazing outdoor activity, look no further than stargazing! There are few things more breathtaking than looking up at the night sky and seeing countless stars on a clear night. And what better place to do this than in a national park? These parks are known for their pristine landscapes and dark skies, which make them perfect for stargazing. Each of these parks is a certified International Dark Sky Park.

Here are the 16 Best National Parks for Stargazing

Big Bend National Park

Big Bend National Park is one of the best stargazing spots in the country. The remote park is located in West Texas and is home to some of the darkest skies in the country. Big Bend is an international dark sky park, which means that it has some of the darkest skies in the world. This makes it an ideal spot for stargazing.

There are many different stargazing sites within the park, so you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. You can also take part in ranger-led stargazing programs, which are offered on select nights throughout the year.

There are very few artificial lights, so you’ll be able to see a ton of stars. The best time to stargaze is during the new moon when the sky is at its darkest.

If you’re planning on visiting Big Bend National Park for stargazing, be sure to pack a few essentials. First, bring a blanket or chair so you can comfortably lie down and look up at the night sky. You’ll also want to bring a red flashlight, as this will help preserve your night vision. Finally, don’t forget to dress warmly! Even in the summer months, temperatures can drop significantly at night.

So whether you’re a first-time stargazer or a seasoned pro, Big Bend National Park is sure to offer an unforgettable experience.

Arches National Park

Arches National Park is one of the most picturesque national parks to stargazing in the United States. . The night sky is so clear and bright, that you’ll feel like you can reach out and touch the stars. Make sure to bring a blanket or chairs to sit on, as you’ll want to spend hours marveling at the constellations overhead. Don’t forget your camera, too – Arches is one of the best places to photograph the Milky Way! Stargazing at Arches National Park is an experience you’ll never forget.

Some of the best places in Arches for stargazing include:

The Windows Section, Devils Garden, Sand Dune Arch, Double Arch, and the North and South Window Arches. No matter where you choose to stargaze, you’re in for a treat at Arches National Park.

Arches National Park is an International Dark Sky Park, meaning that it has some of the darkest skies in the world. This makes it an ideal place for stargazing and astrophotography. When you visit, make sure to take advantage of the incredible night sky!

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

When it comes to stargazing, few places in the world can compare to the Dark Sky Park at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. This is one of the darkest skies in North America and it’s perfect for those who want to get a clear view of the stars. With no light pollution, you’ll be able to see more stars than you ever thought possible.

Some of the best places to stargaze in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park include the South Rim Drive, Painted Wall View, and the Gunnison River Overlook. These are just a few of the many great places to enjoy the night sky in this park.

In order to get the most out of your stargazing experience, you’ll want to be prepared for the nighttime weather. The temperature can drop quickly after sunset, so be sure to dress warmly. It’s also a good idea to bring along a blanket or chair to get comfortable. And of course, don’t forget your camera! Capturing the night sky is one of the best parts of stargazing.

If you’re looking for an amazing stargazing experience, be sure to check out Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is another wonderful place for looking at the night sky. The park is home to some of the darkest skies in the country, making it a perfect place to see the stars. When you’re stargazing at Bryce Canyon, you’ll be able to see like constellations, planets, and even the Milky Way Galaxy. You may also see some of the most amazing meteors streak across the sky.

Bryce Canyon is truly a place where you can marvel at the night sky. So next time you’re looking for a place to go stargazing, make sure to head to Bryce Canyon National Park! You won’t be disappointed

Some of the best areas in Bryce canyon for stargazing are:

-The amphitheater

-Inspiration point

-Sunset point

-Bryce point.

There are many different ways you can view the night sky while at Bryce Canyon. One option is to use a telescope. Another option is to use binoculars. You can also just lay on your back and look up at the stars. Whichever way you choose to view the stars, you’re sure to have an amazing experience!

The best time for stargazing at Bryce Canyon is during the summer months since there is less chance of clouds in the sky. However, you can still see the stars during other times of the year. Bryce Canyon is one of those places where you can stargaze all year round!

Bryce Canyon is truly a place where you can marvel at the night sky. So next time you’re looking for a place to go stargazing, make sure to head to Bryce Canyon National Park! You won’t be disappointed

Canyonlands National Park

Canyonlands National Park is another great park for seeing the night skies. The park is designated as a Dark Sky Park, which means that light pollution is kept to a minimum. This makes it an ideal place to view the night sky in all its glory. There are many ways to enjoy stargazing at Canyonlands National Park. One popular option is to take a ranger-led tour. These tours are offered on a regular basis and provide visitors with an opportunity to learn about the night sky while also seeing some of the most amazing views in the park. Another great option for stargazing at Canyonlands National Park is to head out on your own and explore. There are plenty of pullouts and overlooks throughout the park that offer stunning views of the night sky. So, grab a blanket, some snacks, and your favorite telescope or binoculars and enjoy a night under the stars.

The best places to stargaze in Canyonlands National Park are :

– Mesa Arch: This is one of the most popular places in the park to stargaze. The arch frames the night sky perfectly, making it a photographer’s dream.

– Dead Horse Point State Park: This state park is adjacent to Canyonlands National Park and offers some of the best views in the area.

– Grandview Point: This overlook provides visitors with panoramic views of the canyon and the night sky.

– Green River Overlook: This overlook offers sweeping views of both Canyonlands National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park. It is also one of the darkest spots in the park, making it ideal for stargazing.

The best time for stargazing at Canyonlands National Park is during the summer months. The park is located in the desert, so it can get very cold at night during the winter.

If you are planning on stargazing at Canyonlands National Park, be sure to dress warmly and bring plenty of water. There are no lights in the park, so you will need a flashlight to find your way around. Finally, don’t forget your camera! The night sky is truly a sight to behold.

Capitol Reef National Park

One of the best places to stargaze in Capitol Reef National Park is the Fremont River picnic area. This site has been designated as a Dark Sky Park by the International Dark-Sky Association. The night sky here is truly incredible, and you can see many stars and constellations with the naked eye.

If you have binoculars or a telescope, you’ll be able to see even more! Be sure to dress warmly, as it can get chilly at night in this high desert environment. And don’t forget to bring a blanket or lawn chair to relax in while you gaze at the stars above.

Some of the best places for stargazing at Capitol Reef National Park include the Grand Wash, Capitol Gorge, and the Fruita Campground. The park is open 24 hours a day, so you can come any time to enjoy the dark night sky. Remember to bring a blanket or lawn chair to sit in while you stargaze! You might even see some shooting stars! If you’re new to stargazing, there are plenty of resources available online and at your local library to help you get started. So don’t be afraid to look up – you never know what you might see.

The best time for stargazing at Capitol Reef National Park is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and dry. However, you can also see plenty of stars during the winter months if you dress warmly. So no matter when you come to visit, be sure to look up at night and enjoy the show!

Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is another awesome park for stargazing. The park’s location, combined with its lack of light pollution, makes it a perfect place to see the stars.

There are several ways to experience the night sky in Death Valley. One popular option is to take a ranger-led night tour. These tours take place at various locations throughout the park, and they offer visitors a chance to learn about the constellations and other astronomical phenomena.

Another great way to see the stars is to simply go outside and look up. Death Valley has some of the darkest skies in North America, so you’ll be able to see countless stars and even some planets with your naked eye.

Some of the best places for stargazing in Death Valley National Park include Zabriskie Point, Dante’s View, and the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes.

The best time of year for stargazing in Death Valley National Park is from October to April. This is when the weather is cooler and there is less chance of rain or clouds obscuring the view. Visitors should dress warmly as it can get cold at night in the desert.

Grand Canyon National Park

Among the many amazing things about Grand Canyon National Park is the view of the sky at night. The park is huge, and there are many different vantage points to choose from. The best time to go stargazing is during the summer months when you’re more likely to have clear skies.

However, even during the winter months, the Grand Canyon is an excellent place for stargazing. Grand Canyon National Park is an International Dark Sky Park.

There are also many different types of telescopes that you can use to get a better view of the stars. If you are interested in learning more, we’ll have a blog post about it soon.

There are several different ways to experience the stars at Grand Canyon National Park. One option is to take a ranger-led tour. These tours are offered on select nights from March through October. Reservations are required and can be made online or by calling (877) 444-6777.

Another great way to see the stars is by attending one of the park’s astronomy programs. These programs are offered throughout the year and include talks, slide shows, and telescope viewing sessions. Check out the park’s calendar of events for more information.

And finally, don’t forget that you can always just step outside and look up! No matter when you visit, there will always be stars shining overhead. So take a break from your busy life and go stargazing in Grand Canyon National Park.

Great Basin National Park

One of the lesser-known national parks is also one of the best for stargazing.  Great Basin National Park is home to some of the darkest skies in North America, making it a perfect place to see the stars. When you’re at Great Basin, be sure to check out one of the many stargazing programs offered by park staff. These programs are led by experienced astronomers who can help you get the most out of your stargazing experience.

Some of the best places for stargazing in Great Basin National Park include the Lehman Caves Visitor Center, the Baker Creek Campground, and the Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive. The Lehman Caves Visitor Center is open 24 hours a day and offers ranger-led stargazing programs on clear nights. The Baker Creek Campground is also open 24 hours a day and has great views of the night sky. The Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive is a great place to stargaze during the day or at night.

The best time of year for stargazing at Great Basin National Park is during the summer months. The park receives very little precipitation, but temperatures are likely to be well below freezing at night in the winter.  Even if you are planning on visiting Great Basin National Park for stargazing, be sure to bring a blanket and some comfortable clothes so that you can lie down and look up at the night sky. You may even want to bring a telescope or binoculars so that you can get a better view of the stars. Great Basin National Park is a great place in the world for stargazing, so be sure to take advantage of it if you have the chance.

Great Sand Dunes National Park

Another great park and International Dark Sky Park is Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado. The high elevation and lack of light pollution make it an ideal spot for stargazing. The best time to visit is during the new moon phase when the sky is at its darkest. Make sure to dress warmly though, as it can get chilly in the desert at night!

If you’re really serious about stargazing, you’ll want to invest in a good-quality telescope. But even if you don’t have one, you can still enjoy the beauty of the night sky. Just look up and let your imagination run wild. See if you can find constellations or shooting stars. With a little bit of patience, you might just see something amazing!

Some great places for stargazing in Great Sand Dunes National Park include the Dunes Overlook, the Medano Creek area, and the Zapata Falls Parking Area.

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is one of the best places in Southern California for stargazing. The park is very dark, and there are many areas where you can get away from light pollution. There are also many interesting objects to see in the night sky, including the Milky Way Galaxy, star clusters, and nebulae.

If you’re interested in astronomy, Joshua Tree National Park is a great place to visit. And even if you’re not an astronomer, it’s still a beautiful place to look at the stars. So come on up and enjoy the darkness! Joshua tree national park offers some of the darkest skies in southern California making it ideal for stargazing activities.

Some of the best places for stargazing in Joshua Tree National Park are:

– Hidden Valley

– Barker Dam

– Keys View

– Ryan Mountain

– Cottonwood Springs Oasis.

Each location offers unique vantage points and experiences for visitors. For example, at Keys View, stargazing enthusiasts can see the San Andreas Fault while looking up at the stars. Or visitors to Cottonwood Springs Oasis can enjoy a night hike under a blanket of stars before reaching the oasis spring. No matter where you go in Joshua Tree National Park, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience stargazing in one of America’s most beautiful places.

The best time of year for stargazing at Joshua Tree national Park is during the summer. There is very little precipitation, and you can expect comfortable night-time temperatures in the 60’s. However, stargazing can be enjoyed year-round in Joshua Tree National Park. So come on up and enjoy the darkness!

If you are planning a trip to Joshua Tree National Park for stargazing, be sure to check out the park’s stargazing program. The program offers ranger-led activities, such as night walks and talks, as well as information about the best places to stargaze in the park.

Mammoth Cave National Park

A surprising park with dark skies that are great for stargazing is Mammoth Cave National Park, in Kentucky. The park is famous for its caves, but it also has great open areas where the night sky can be enjoyed. The best time to go stargazing is during the new moon phase when the skies are at their darkest.

Some of the best places in the park for stargazing include the Cedar Sink, the Valley of the Kings, and Echo River Spring. Each of these locations has great views of the night sky.

The best time of year for stargazing in Mammoth Cave National Park is in the fall when the skies are clear, and the weather is cool.

Mesa Verde National Park

An amazing park for stargazing is Colorado’s Mesa Verde National Park. The “dark sky” here is incredible, and on a clear night, you can see countless stars shining bright. Mesa Verde is also one of the best places in the country to view the Milky Way. If you’re interested in stargazing, this is a park you should add to your list!

The best places in Mesa Verde National Park include the Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum and Spruce Tree House. The museum offers great views of the night sky, and Spruce Tree House is an excellent spot for stargazing. There are also plenty of other places to explore in this park, so be sure to add it to your list!

The best time of year for stargazing at Mesa Verde National Park is typically from May to September. This is when the weather is the most stable, and you’re more likely to have clear skies. The clearest skies of the year in Mesa Verde National Park occur in June and July.

Petrified Forest National Park

One of America’s most unique national parks is also one of its best for looking at the stars. Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona is home to one of the country’s darkest skies. On a clear night, you can see about 14,000 stars with your naked eye.

The best time for stargazing is during the new moon phase when the moon is not visible in the sky. Make sure to dress warmly though! Even in October, nighttime temperatures in Arizona can dip below freezing.

If you’re interested in learning more about the stars and planets visible overhead, consider attending one of Petrified Forest’s ranger-led astronomy programs. These free events are offered several times each month and no reservations are required. Just show up at the appointed time.

Some of the best places in Petrified Forest National Park for stargazing are the Painted Desert Inn National Historic Landmark, the Blue Mesa, and Newspaper Rock.

Voyageurs National Park

Located in the far northern reaches of Minnesota, Voyageurs National Park is great for seeing the skies at night. The park is designated as a Dark Sky Park, meaning that light pollution is minimal. This makes it an ideal spot for stargazing and seeing the stars in all their glory.

On a clear night, the northern lights are also a spectacular sight. The best time to see them is typically from August to April, when the nights are longest. Although, of course, the weather in the winter can be brutally cold. For a more manageable experience, you can still see them for a shorter period of time in the summer.

Some of the best places in Voyageurs National Park for stargazing would be at one of the many lakes within the park. Lake Superior is especially good because it has very little light pollution. Another great spot would be at one of the viewpoints, where you’ll have a clear view of the sky.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park is not just beautiful during the day, but it’s also great for stargazing. The dark sky in Zion makes for some great views of the stars. And, if you’re lucky, you might even see a shooting star! So, next time you’re planning a trip to Zion National Park, be sure to bring your telescope or binoculars and enjoy the show. Happy stargazing!

Some of the best places for stargazing in Zion National Park include :

– The Temple of Sinawava

– Weeping Rock

– Cascade Falls

– Emerald Pools

– The Watchman Trail

The best time of year for stargazing at Zion National Park is typically from March to October. However, you can still see plenty of stars during the winter months. So, no matter when you plan your trip, be sure to take some time to enjoy the night sky.