10 of the best stargazing locations in North America

image via Space.com

August 28, 2025, 2:00 PM

• •Identifies prime locations in the U.S. and Canada for stargazing, where dark skies are prevalent.
• •Explains the Bortle scale used to measure sky darkness and emphasizes the importance of planning visits around the new moon for optimal viewing.
• •Highlights ten of the best stargazing locations, including national parks and state parks, with a focus on their sky quality and designations.
• •Provides insights into each location's unique features, such as historical significance, geographical characteristics, and available activities like astrophotography and astronomy programs.

Many people worldwide live under light-polluted skies, but dark skies thrive away from urban centers. This article explores ten of the best stargazing locations in North America, including national parks and state parks. These locations offer some of the darkest skies, rated on the Bortle scale, and are ideal for astrophotography and astronomy. Planning visits around the new moon is recommended for optimal stargazing, and each location has unique features and programs for visitors.

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