Top Dark Sky Parks to Explore Worldwide.

Light pollution is the bane of every stargazer. Every streetlight, digital billboard, and glaring stadium brightens the night sky, obscuring the cosmic wonders above. But not if you're in a Dark Sky Park.

Dark Sky Parks—along with Dark Sky Sanctuaries, Reserves, and Communities—are designated areas that DarkSky International aims to preserve through effective lighting policies and educational initiatives. As of August 2024, there are 125 Dark Sky Parks globally, with 88 located in the US.

Significant astronomical events in 2024 - 2025

Numerous astronomical events are happening in 2024 and 2025, making it a great idea to plan your visit to a Dark Sky Park around one of these occasions—whether it's the super full moon in October or the total lunar eclipse in March.

• Saturn Closest to Earth (September 8, 2024)
• Super Full Moon (September 18, 2024)
• Partial Lunar Eclipse (September 18, 2024)
• Orionid Meteor Shower (September 26 - October 19, 2024)
• Tsuchinshan-ATLAS Comet (October 12 - 19, 2024)
• Super Full Moon (October 17, 2024)
• Pleiades Star Cluster (November 2024)
• Geminid Meteor Shower (December 4 - 17, 2024)
• Quadrantids Meteor Shower (January 3 - 4, 2025)
• Mars Closest to Earth (January 16, 2025)
• Total Lunar Eclipse (March 14, 2025)

The Best Dark Sky Parks in the US

Joshua Tree National Park

Located in southern California, Joshua Tree National Park is famed for its wildlife, rock formations, and unique desert scenery, and it was designated a Dark Sky Park in 2017. During winter, the darkness becomes even more pronounced and lasts longer. In December, sunsets can begin as early as 4:30 PM, with the sky fully dark by 5 PM. Be sure to bring warm layers when visiting the four designated stargazing spots in the park, as temperatures in Joshua Tree can drop significantly at night.

Big Bend National Park

For some of the darkest skies in the US, head to Big Bend National Park in southwest Texas. Located about a six-hour drive from San Antonio, the park is renowned for its remarkable remoteness, a crucial aspect of its Dark Sky Park designation. While stargazers are encouraged to bring binoculars and camp out, the park also hosts ranger-led stargazing programs throughout the year.

Grand Canyon National Park

While the Grand Canyon is stunning by day, it also ranks among the best nighttime destinations for stargazing. This Dark Sky Park is accessible 24 hours a day, featuring numerous locations to gaze at the stars (some are better than others). If you’re at South Rim Village, make your way to Mather Point, just a short walk from the visitor center. On the North Rim, Cape Royal is the prime spot to enjoy the night sky.

Death Valley National Park

Due to its isolation and below-sea-level elevation, Death Valley National Park offers an exceptional opportunity for stargazing and viewing the hazy Milky Way. While pristine night sky views can be found throughout the park, rangers recommend Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Ubehebe Crater, Harmony Borax Works, and Badwater Basin. Additionally, the park hosts an annual Dark Sky Festival in March, featuring three days of complimentary stargazing activities.

Great Basin National Park

Some of the most breathtaking sights in Great Basin National Park are revealed after dark. During summer, visitors can marvel at the Milky Way, countless stars, and occasionally catch a glimpse of the Andromeda Galaxy. In winter, the Orion constellation and the Pleiades star cluster are typically visible. Regardless of the season, the Astronomy Amphitheater and Mather Overlook are prime spots for enjoying the best views of the night sky.

The top 5 Dark Sky Parks around the globe

Albanyà - Spain

Albanyà is a municipality located in the Alt Empordà region of Girona, Catalonia, Spain. It has earned its Dark Sky Park designation due to its isolation, promotion of astrotourism, and the educational initiatives available at Bassegoda Park, its main stargazing hub. In July 2017, the park's observatory, in collaboration with NASA, received a 40cm telescope for public educational use. Beyond stargazing, visitors can enjoy camping, hiking, fishing, and swimming in the park.

Aenos/Ainos National Park - Greece

Greece's inaugural International Dark Sky Park, Aenos (or Ainos) National Park, was designated in June 2023. Situated on Kefalonia Island, the park offers free night sky observing and astronomy nights to the public. During these 'starry nights,' visitors use telescopes to view planets, star clusters, and nebulae, while a park guide employs a green laser to highlight specific stars and demonstrate how they can assist in navigating the night sky.

Mayo Dark Sky Park, Ireland

By night, Wild Nephin National Park transforms into Mayo Dark Sky Park, renowned as Ireland's first International Dark Sky Park. The park is free to enter and welcomes visitors around the clock. Stargazers can select from several viewing spots within the park, with Brogan Carroll Bothy being the darkest accessible area. Here, you’ll enjoy complete seclusion and a chance to witness stars, planets from our solar system, meteor showers, and the Milky Way.

Øvre Pasvik National Park - Norway

Recently added to the International Dark Sky Parks list, Øvre Pasvik National Park received its Dark Sky Park designation in July 2024. Nestled in Norway’s northeastern region, the park experiences two months each year when the sun remains below the horizon. Furthermore, there are no permanent light sources within the protected area, creating optimal stargazing conditions. However, if visiting during the colder months, be prepared for temperatures that can plummet well below 0 degrees Fahrenheit.

Kozushima - Japan

Located just over 100 miles south of Tokyo, the secluded Kozushima Island requires a 4-hour boat ride or a 30-minute flight to access. However, the journey is well worth it. In 2020, the island transitioned over 400 street and road lights to dark sky-compliant fixtures, earning it Dark Sky Park certification and exceptional stargazing potential. For optimal viewing spots, consider Yotane Square or the Akasaki walking path, which also offers stunning sunsets and coastal vistas.

Tips for exploring Dark Sky Parks

Choose the right timing for your visit.

Adverse weather conditions can completely obstruct your view of the night sky. It's advisable to use a resource like Clear Sky Chart to check the weather forecast before you go to a Dark Sky Park.

Bring the right equipment.

You might have to hike to reach your stargazing location, so being well-prepared is essential. In addition to binoculars and a telescope, ensure you have sturdy footwear, a red light flashlight or headlamp, and clothing suitable for the weather.

Plan your accommodation in advance.

Camping regulations vary by park, so it’s wise to do some research beforehand to find out if you can bring a tent or an RV. You might need to book a cabin or lodge—check out DarkSky Approved Lodging for your options.

Explore more stargazing locations

This year is packed with astronomical events, and Dinogo is here to assist you. Take a look at our guide to the Northern Lights, then find the ideal flight for your next stellar adventure.