There’s something magical about looking up at a night sky filled with twinkling stars, especially when you’re away from city lights on a camping trip. Stargazing is a rewarding and accessible activity that allows you to connect with nature and marvel at the universe’s beauty. If you’re new to stargazing, this beginner’s guide will help you make the most of your experience.
1. Choose the Right Location
The best stargazing spots are far from city lights, which cause light pollution and make it harder to see stars. Campgrounds in remote locations, national parks, and dark-sky preserves are ideal.
Best Spacious Skies Campgrounds for Stargazing
Spacious Skies Balsam Woods, Abbott, Maine. Although its location is woodsy – it is named for the fragrant balsam-coated trees and shrubs that comprise the lush forests of Central Maine – the campground is situated near an International Dark Sky Park, and there are several places throughout the campground with prime night sky viewing, including occasional views of the ribbons of color of the aurora borealis. The campground’s management team of astronomy buffs often partner with local astronomers to offer star-themed guest programs.
Spacious Skies Woodland Hills, Austerlitz, N.Y. Tucked away among the Taconic and Berkshire Mountain ranges, the best place to see the amazing spirals of the Milky Way is from the campground’s Cosmic Canine Commons, a heavenly enclosed space for four-legged guests. Local astronomers help guests identify constellations and other nighttime phenomena.
Spacious Skies Walnut Grove, Alfred, Maine. Situated near the tiny town of Alfred and with easy access to the Maine shoreline, this quiet campground features several places with unimpeded views of the night skies including its Cosmic Canine Campgrounds. On especially clear nights, guests set up blankets, sip beverages and enjoy the starry nights while their pups romp in the park.
Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views, Luray, Va. With easy access to Shenandoah National Park, many guests head to pullouts and parking lots along the park’s famous Skyline Drive for clear nighttime views. There are also several places throughout the campground with unimpeded views, including the yurt area and central sport court area with volleyball courts and a jumping pillow. Spacious Skies French Pond, Henniker, N.H. This campground in Southern New Hampshire features RV sites situated around the pristine water of French Pond, and lucky campers can not only observe starry skies but sometimes see bonus stars in the reflections in the water.
Spacious Skies Hidden Creek, Marion, N.C. Situated near the Blue Ridge Mountains, campers here have expansive sky views from the shores of the campground’s massive Hidden Creek Lake.
Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks, North Hudson, N.Y. This Upstate New York campground is situated right on the Schroon River, and campers here can find clear night skies from anywhere along the shoreline.
Spacious Skies Seven Maples, Hancock, N.H. Located on what was once a sprawling family farm, this picturesque campground’s best nighttime viewing is from the campground’s fishing pond.
Spacious Skies Bear Den, Spruce Pine, N.C. Situated near the Blue Ridge Mountains where light pollution is minimal, this is an especially compelling spot for stargazing. Some of the best places nearby to enjoy the night sky include the campground itself, the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway, the Bear Den and Chestoa View Overlooks, the historic Orchard at Altapass, the Linville Gorge Wilderness and Mayland Earth to Sky Park & Bare Dark Sky Observatory.
Spacious Skies Belle Ridge, Monterey, Tenn. Situated on more than 100 acres with open fields, cliffs and ridge views, the campground’s clifftop overlooks provide wide, unobstructed views of the night sky. Nearby options include Bee Rock Overlook, the Highland Rim & Standing Stone State Park and Cummins Falls State Park.
2. Check the Weather and Moon Phase
A clear sky is essential for good stargazing. Before your trip, check the weather forecast to ensure minimal cloud cover. The phase of the moon also affects visibility; a new moon or crescent moon provides darker skies, making fainter stars and celestial objects easier to see.
3. Bring the Right Gear
While stargazing doesn’t require fancy equipment, a few essentials can enhance the experience:
- Blankets or reclining chairs – Lying down comfortably helps you take in the full sky.
- Red flashlight – Preserves night vision while allowing you to see maps or equipment.
- Star maps or apps – Apps like SkyView or Stellarium can help identify constellations and planets.
- Binoculars or a telescope – Not necessary for beginners but can help you see details on the moon and planets.
4. Learn the Basics
Familiarize yourself with a few major constellations before heading out. Orion, the Big Dipper, and Cassiopeia are great starting points. A stargazing app can guide you in real-time as you explore the night sky.
5. Allow Your Eyes to Adjust
It takes about 20–30 minutes for your eyes to fully adjust to the darkness. Avoid looking at bright lights (like phone screens) during this time so you can see more stars.
6. Look for Special Events
Check for meteor showers, eclipses, or planetary alignments that might be happening during your trip. Events like the Perseid meteor shower in August or the Geminids in December can make stargazing even more exciting.
7. Respect Nature and Fellow Campers
Keep noise levels down and use dim lights to avoid disturbing others. If you bring snacks or drinks, pack out any trash to leave the area as pristine as you found it.
Final Thoughts
Stargazing while camping is a peaceful and awe-inspiring experience that anyone can enjoy. With just a little preparation, you’ll be able to appreciate the wonders of the night sky and create unforgettable memories under the stars. So grab your gear, book your stay, head to a dark sky, and take a moment to look up—you never know what celestial sights you might discover!