Camping under the stars—there’s nothing quite like it. Spending a few nights completely isolated from civilization allows you to reconnect with a more primal side of human nature, go back to just the basic amenities if only for a while, and, of course—gaze at the wondrous night sky lit up by hundreds of glistening stars. Today, we present you with our top picks for the best campground for stargazing and astrophotography that will enchant you, move you, and reinforce your love for starlit nights.
What Makes Camping Under the Stars So Magical
Your typical trip into the wild already includes plenty of natural sightseeing and wonder—but what if you were to take that and turn it up to eleven?
Imagine a trip where the beauty of nature doesn’t just take center stage but instead eclipses everything else, enveloping you in a deep silence pierced only by the sound of crickets and other nocturnal wildlife. As you take in the atmosphere around you, realizing you’re just a speck on the universe’s tapestry, nothing else seems to matter but the present moment and relishing in its beautiful simplicity.
That’s precisely what camping under the stars is like. It’s filled with attempts to comprehend the majesty of the stars mixed with the notion that, actually, billions of humans have thought the same thoughts before you, and billions of them will do so after you. As the vastness of the Milky Way sprawls out above you, gazing at it feels both timeless and humbling. It’s a rare opportunity to step away from the hustle of daily life and lose yourself in the infinite beauty of the night sky.
Best Places for Astrophotography and Stargazing
Feeling inspired to go stargazing yet? Hopefully, after our heartfelt ode to its magic, you’re ready to pack up your telescope and go. But hold on to your horses—it’s always worth doing some research beforehand to make sure the spot you choose is free from light pollution and excessive foot traffic, and offers incredible views.
Below, you’ll find our recommendations for dark sky camping sites—trust us, when you head to these spots, chills and dropped jaws are a guarantee:
Spruce Knob, West Virginia
Spruce Knob is the highest peak in West Virginia, offering stunning vistas and some of the darkest skies in the eastern U.S. This remote location is completely free from light pollution due to its high elevation, making it an amazing spot for camping under the stars. Head to the nearby Spruce Knob Lake Campground to establish your cozy camp base.
If you’re coming to Spruce Knob from far away, it’s worth noting that while the mountain itself isn’t part of the Appalachian Trail proper, it’s just a stone’s throw away. We recommend checking out our guide on the Best Appalachian Trail Campsites if you’d like to take a detour after you’ve finished stargazing!
Chaco Culture National Historical Park, New Mexico
This unbelievably gorgeous area has been designated an International Dark Sky Park. Visitors from all over gather here to gaze at the skies at night, and for great reason—the views are simply breathtaking. The site also offers a very unique setting with ancient ruins serving as a unique backdrop for nighttime observation.
Cherry Springs State Park, Pennsylvania
Nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania, Cherry Springs State Park is renowned for its exceptionally dark skies. The park’s signature spot for stargazing—Astronomy Field—provides 360-degree unobstructed views for unparalleled observations of stars and other celestial phenomena.
Brasstown Bald, Georgia
Often referred to as Georgia’s darkest sky, Brasstown Bald offers incredible opportunities to explore the night sky and the magic of deep space. The best part—you don’t even need your own telescope. There are locally hosted events organized in partnership with the Atlanta Astronomy Club, where expert astronomers will guide you through this magical opportunity to experience our universe like you never have before.
Great Basin National Park, Nevada
This National Park is celebrated for its pristine night skies with minimal light pollution. It’s located remotely enough to offer a completely unobstructed view of star constellations, planets, meteor showers, and even the faraway Andromeda Galaxy. For this reason alone, this location certainly ranks among the best places for astrophotography, as you’ll get plenty of opportunities for some magnificent shots. Wheeler Peak Campground, situated at a high elevation, is ideal for stargazing enthusiasts seeking a serene, dark environment.
Tips & Gear Recommendations for Stargazers
Back to candid reality—we don’t want you getting carried away! For an unforgettable stargazing experience, pack essentials like a sturdy tripod for your camera, a red-light flashlight (to preserve night vision), and warm layers for chilly nights.
Remember to follow Leave No Trace guidelines and other sustainable hiking practices to minimize waste. After all, everyone deserves to bask in the glory of the night sky without tripping over litter.
The Takeaway
Camping under the stars is magical, that much is sure. Should you choose to visit any of the locations we shared with you today, you’re certainly bound to have an incredible time. Just be sure to respect others who came there for the same reason and want to have a relaxing time at one of these cherished dark sky camping sites.
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