Top 10 Dark Sky Parks in the United States and Canada

The United States and Canada are home to vast expanses of natural areas with sparsely populated regions. These remote and pristine landscapes provide ideal conditions for stargazing, creating numerous Dark Sky Parks across both countries.

In the following we have highlighted the Top 10 Dark Sky Parks in the United States and Canada. Each park offers its own unique blend of natural wonders, cultural significance, and stargazing experiences.

Great Basin National Park, United States

For an immersive stargazing experience, venture into the scenic Great Basin region between the Sierra Nevada and Wasatch Mountains. Located roughly halfway between Las Vegas and Salt Lake City, the Great Basin National Park spans 31,230 hectares (77,180 acres). (...)

Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park, United States

Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park (KPPSP) is a vast 54,000-acre property located in central Florida, roughly 63 miles west of Vero Beach. It is one of the largest designated parks in this area and, since 2016, the first Dark Sky Park recognized by the International Dark Sky Association in Florida. (...)

Craters Of The Moon National Monument, United States

Craters Of The Moon National Monument is located in southern Idaho on the northern edge of the Snake River Plain and has been designated as an International Dark Sky Park since 2017. Spanning approximately 21,618 hectares, this unique park is known for its volcanic formations and extensive lava flows. (...)

Big Bend National Park, United States

Big Bend National Park is a stunning natural gem located in Texas, nestled along the majestic Rio Grande River near the border of Mexico. Encompassing an expansive area of approximately 801,000 acres, this national park is a vast expanse of the Chihuahuan Desert landscape. (...)

Natural Bridges National Monument, United States

Natural Bridges National Monument is a hidden gem nestled in the rugged beauty of the Colorado Plateau, situated in the southeastern part of Utah. With its sparse population, this remote area provides a haven for those seeking the wonders of nature. (...)

Headlands Park, United States

Nestled on the northern tip of Michigan's Lower Peninsula, Headlands Park is a haven for stargazing enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. This picturesque park spans across 243 hectares, offering a pristine environment for visitors to connect with the wonders of the night sky. (...)

Chaco Culture National Historical Park, United States

Nestled in the enchanting landscape of New Mexico, roughly 150 miles northwest of Albuquerque, lies the captivating Chaco Culture National Historical Park. This remarkable park, established in 1907, is not only a treasure trove of archaeological wonders but also a sanctuary for stargazers seeking celestial beauty. (...)

Death Valley National Park, United States

Located approximately 130 miles west of Las Vegas in California, Death Valley National Park is a captivating destination that offers more than just its reputation as the hottest place on earth. While known for its extreme weather conditions and rugged wilderness, the park also holds a special allure for stargazers. (...)

Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, Canada and United States

Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park is a unique and breathtaking destination that spans across an international border, encompassing Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta, Canada, and Glacier National Park in Montana, United States. This remarkable park holds the distinction of being the first International Dark Sky Park that extends across an international boundary. (...)

Quetico Provincial Park, Canada

Quetico Provincial Park is a magnificent wilderness destination nestled on the border of Ontario, Canada, and Minnesota, United States. Encompassing a vast area of approximately 470,000 hectares, this iconic park boasts a landscape characterized by over 2,000 pristine lakes and a diverse array of natural wonders. (...)

Further information

If you are interested in discovering more about Dark Sky Parks, plenty of resources are available to provide further information. The International Dark Sky Association (IDA) provides a list of all Dark Sky Parks worldwide. You can find it here.

Remember, whether you are a seasoned stargazer or a curious beginner, exploring Dark Sky Parks is a rewarding experience. So, grab your stargazing equipment, pack your camping gear, and embark on a journey to discover the wonders of the cosmos in these pristine natural areas.

Written by Marc Mayr Published June 20, 2023