The summer cicadas create an orchestra of music, the campfire produces a smoky aroma of burning embers and charcoal, and Mother Nature paints the night sky with visions of ancient constellations. Camping captivates each one of your senses, creating a remarkable outdoor scene. You know where the sounds are coming from (hopefully) and you’ve built the fire that fills your nose, but what about the astronomy you look at in wonder?
Stargazing is easily the most accessible, awe-inspiring activity available to campers. With more and more of the U.S. population living under light pollution, your chances of stargazing regularly are low if you’re not in the most rural of towns. Whether you’re planning an entire trip around night sky viewing, or you’re just looking for a fun nighttime activity, there’s no better time to soak up the sky than when you’re camping in the great outdoors.
Besides the fact that astronomy is just plain cool, why should you consider adding this activity to your itinerary? And how can you make the most of your stargazing experience? Read on to find out.
The Benefits of Stargazing
Apart from a clear night sky being one of the most beautiful scenes available to the human eye, there are several benefits to stargazing on your next camping trip.
It puts things into perspective
Have you ever looked up at the night sky and suddenly felt small? There’s something magical, and a bit poetic, about the Milky Way’s ability to humble the human experience. Stargazing allows us to understand how vast the universe is, and how small we are in comparison. This refreshing perspective can help us focus on what truly matters in our lives, and can even help ease situational anxiety.
It’s good for your mental health
On a similar note, stargazing is a great way to improve your mental health. One study shows that this simple activity relieves stress and another argues that the awe produced by night sky viewing can even make you a kinder person. Stargazing also serves as an excuse to reconnect with nature, which has been proven to benefit our health in multiple ways.
It can be educational
Night sky viewing is an activity suitable for all ages, and it’s an opportune time for us to learn more about astronomy. With the right guidebook, or even a friend passionate about astronomy, you’ll have the chance to expand your horizons and dive into one of the most interesting subjects in science. Many national and state parks also offer astronomy programs for campers looking to learn more, so don’t skip out on those resources if they’re available.
It’s accessible
Unlike many other outdoor activities, stargazing is free! This makes it an incredibly accessible experience that almost anyone can partake in. If you’re stargazing while camping, you likely already have all the essentials to make a comfortable and fun night under the stars. Plus, it’s a nighttime activity that doesn’t require you to leave the comfort of your tent. What’s not to love?
Do Your Research Before You Go
Like any successful camping trip, the key to a memorable stargazing adventure is researching before you go. There are many factors to consider, from location to weather. Unfortunately, light pollution makes it impossible to stargaze from anywhere, so you’ll want to find a campsite known for having dark skies. In addition to minimal light pollution, prioritize destinations with high altitudes to maximize your chances of a great view.
When you get to your campground, try to secure a site in the darkest part of the property. This likely means being as far as possible from communal areas like restrooms and toilets, which may have lighting that will disrupt your viewing abilities. If you’re able to, try to get away from other campers in your search for the best site. Not only can neighbors be a noisy addition to your peaceful evening, but you also risk their campsite flashlights and lanterns disrupting your clear view.
It’s also vital to consider the season of your trip. Believe it or not, the winter months tend to have the clearest skies, making it the best season to stargaze. If you’re willing to brave the cold, break out your 4 season tent and have the experience of a lifetime!
No matter the season you venture out in, it’s imperative to check the weather in the weeks and days leading up to your trip if you plan on stargazing. The last thing you want to do is plan a getaway with the intent of seeing the beauties of the night sky, only for thick clouds to ruin your view. Lastly, consider the phase of the moon during your trip. The bigger and brighter the moon, the harder it will be for you to see surrounding celestial objects. For optimal viewing, prioritize camping around new and crescent moons.
Not sure where the best areas to stargaze are? Check out the top 4 destinations across the continental U.S. below.
The 4 Best Campgrounds to Stargaze From Across the U.S.
On the East Coast: Cherry Springs State Park
Located in Coudersport, Pennsylvania, Cherry Springs State Park is known for its exceptionally dark skies and remote location blocked from major light pollution. Choose from three protected stargazing areas to experience the magic of the Milky Way on the East Coast.
On the West Coast: Death Valley National Park
Deemed the largest Dark Sky National Park in the U.S. and awarded “Gold Tier Status” for the park’s efforts to minimize light pollution, there’s no greater place for stargazing in the great American West. Set up camp in developed campgrounds throughout the park, or find a private one for a more intimate experience in California’s Death Valley.
In the Midwest: Middle Fork Forest Preserve
Another International Dark Sky designee, Middle Fork River Forest Preserve boasts some of the best skies in the Midwest for stargazing. Located in Penfield, Illinois, take advantage of the park’s Dark Sky programs to get the most out of your astronomy trip.
In the South: Big Bend National Park
The second “Gold Tier Status” Dark Sky Park on this list is Big Bend National Park located in southwest Texas. While Death Valley can boast about its size, Big Bend takes home the cake for having the least amount of light pollution out of any other national park in the continental U.S.
What You Should Bring Stargazing
While you really just need your eyes and a clear sky to go stargazing, consider bringing these extras to make the most of your experience:
- Binoculars
- Travel telescope
- Night sky guidebooks or star charts
- A compass
- Warm clothing and extra layers
- Fleece blankets
- Camping chairs
- Red flashlights (no white light!)
- Bug spray
- Glasses or contacts (if applicable)
- Snacks and beverages
Understand What You’re Looking At
Though it’s not a necessary step to enjoy stargazing, understanding what you’re looking at will add a great deal to your experience. There’s something special about recognizing a constellation in the night sky, for example, so use this opportunity to learn about what you see. Plus, it makes it easier to connect with your camping group and discuss everything you’re looking at! If your kids come along, it also serves as a hands-on astronomy lesson.
For those with access to cell service at camp, consider downloading one of the many great stargazing apps to help you navigate the sky. If you don’t have reception or simply want to disconnect on your trip, don’t forget to bring along an astronomy guidebook. If purchasing a published work is outside of your budget, try printing a guide at home and bringing it to camp. Whatever your situation, there are a plethora of phenomenal resources to choose from built to educate and guide novice stargazers.
If you’re looking for a bit more than a normal night sky viewing party, plan your trip around an upcoming astronomy event! Whether it be a routine meteor shower or a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see a famous comet, several celestial events take place every year.
Upcoming Astronomy Events in 2024
- August 12th: The Perseid meteor shower
- September 8th: Saturn at its nearest and largest
- September 18th: Partial lunar eclipse
- September 20th: Neptune at its nearest and largest
- October 12th: Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS passes Earth
- October 20th: The Orionid meteor shower
- December 7th: Jupiter at its nearest and largest
- December 14th: The Geminid meteor shower