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5 Camping Spots for Stargazing in the West

5 Camping Spots for Stargazing in the West

November 15, 20151123Views

Spending a night under the stars can be astoundingly memorable in the right destination, and being away from the light pollution of the cities and suburbs can offer up a vast expanse of things you can’t spot in your own backyard. Instead of a garden variety overnight campout, how about making those twinkling bits of celestial matter the focal point of your trip? Here are five top camping spots for stargazing in the American west.

1. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Of the thousands of visitors to Joshua Tree National Park each year, an estimated 29 percent come just to gaze at the night sky. The desert’s low humidity provides clear skies for bright starlight. Plus, despite its proximity to Southern California, there is a decided lack of light pollution. The park offers “Night Sky” programs during the summer to enhance your experience.

2. Clayton Lake State Park, New Mexico

One of just a few parks in the world to earn the moniker, Clayton Lake State Park is a certified “International Dark Sky Park.” This means you will find exceptional views of the night sky along with a natural nighttime habitat. Clayton Lake also features the Star Point Observatory, with a retractable roof for the main telescope, as well as smaller telescopes located outside the building.

3. Grand Canyon National Park, Colorado

Away from Grand Canyon Village and other brightly lit areas of the park, it comes as no surprise that the Grand Canyon is covered in a delightful blanket of stars. During a new moon, you can even see the Milky Way splashed across the star filled sky. Meteor showers are not uncommon here. Stargazing maps are available from area gift shops, and free telescopes can be borrowed from the Visitors Center as well as the Grand Canyon Lodge. The annual “Star Party” takes place in June.

4. Big Bend National Park, Texas

Big Bend is another International Dark Sky Park, and here you can see nearly 250 miles on a clear day. On a clear night you can even spot the Andromeda Galaxy, which is a whopping 2 million light years away. How’s that for visibility? The secret is in the naturally low humidity of the area. At the right time of year you can see Antares, a red star found in the constellation Scorpio. You won’t even need a telescope or binoculars to take in some incredible sights here.

5. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Literally thousands of stars can be seen winking back at you here in Bryce Canyon. This park is a favorite of the “Dark Rangers,” an astronomy-loving park ranger group that guides guests through nightly shows about the surrounding celestial bodies. There are also 40 telescopes scattered throughout the park free for anyone to use, as well as guided tours.

As you can see, there are plenty of camping spots for stargazing in the West! It’s no secret that city dwellers fall asleep to sirens and street lights. If you could use a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, choose any one of these 5 camping sites listed and touch grass!

Featured Image from Bernard/Unsplash