Home / Dark sky places
Certified places we confirmed on the managing agency's own page: 130 parks, towns, reserves and sanctuaries in 28 states, each with the source's own words. 2 are confirmed on another official page instead, and say so.
Type your ZIP code. We rank the places we list that have a distance reference point by straight-line miles from the center of your ZIP code, so driving distance will be longer. Your ZIP code goes into the page address, so it can show up in your browser history, our server logs and Google Analytics.
By type: 90 Dark Sky Parks, 22 Dark Sky Communities, 2 Dark Sky Reserves, 10 Dark Sky Sanctuaries and 6 Urban Night Sky Places. 92 cards show a certification year, where the agency states one. 13 places have no distance reference point and aren't ranked: 8 large areas and 5 others.
DarkSky International's official list blocked our automated reading, so this list may not be complete. For the full list, use DarkSky International's finder. Check the park's own page for hours, fees and night rules before you go.
Night-visit details in the managing agency's own words: Observatory Park, Cherry Springs State Park, Headlands International Dark Sky Park, Joshua Tree National Park and Great Basin National Park.
“Big Park/Village of Oak Creek is an accredited International Dark Sky Community”
Distance reference point: the center of Village of Oak Creek (Big Park) CDP (US Census internal point). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Big Park / Village of Oak Creek
“The National Park Service and the International Dark-Sky Association are pleased to announce Chiricahua National Monument as the 104th International Dark Sky Park”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Chiricahua National Monument in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Chiricahua National Monument
“In 2019 the City of Cottonwood became a designated location of the International Dark-Sky Places Program, as an International Dark Sky Community”
Distance reference point: the center of Cottonwood city (US Census internal point). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Cottonwood
“On October 24, 2001, Flagstaff was recognized as the world's First International Dark Sky City”
Distance reference point: the center of Flagstaff city (US Census internal point). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Flagstaff
“Flagstaff Area National Monuments –Sunset Crater Volcano, Walnut Canyon and Wupatki - have been designated as an International Dark Sky Park by the IDA”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Walnut Canyon National Monument in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Flagstaff Area National Monuments
“Fountain Hills, Arizona has been awarded the rare distinction of being designated an International Dark Sky Community by the International Dark Sky Association (IDA)”
Distance reference point: the center of Fountain Hills town (US Census internal point). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Fountain Hills
“Grand Canyon National Park has received its official International Dark Sky Park certification”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Grand Canyon National Park in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Grand Canyon National Park
“Pipe Spring is encompassed within the Kaibab Paiute Reservation boundaries, which is a certified International Dark Sky Community”
No distance reference point: the agency doesn't publish an address or coordinates we could use, so we don't rank it by distance.
“Join Kartchner Caverns, an International Dark Sky Park, for a star party”
Distance reference point: the center of ZIP code 85602, taken from the address the agency lists, because the Census geocoder could not place the street address; this is an approximate location, not the park itself. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Kartchner Caverns State Park
“As an International Dark Sky Park, Oracle State Park offers exceptional conditions for viewing the wonders of the night sky”
Distance reference point: the address the agency lists. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Oracle State Park
“The National Park Service and DarkSky International are pleased to announce Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument as a Dark Sky Park”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument
“Petrified Forest National Park has been officially designated as an International Dark Sky Park”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Petrified Forest National Park in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Petrified Forest National Park
“The International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) and the National Park Service are pleased to announce Pipe Spring National Monument as an International Dark Sky Park in 2021”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Pipe Spring National Monument in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Pipe Spring National Monument
“the National Park Service and the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) announced that Tonto National Monument has been designated as an International Dark Sky Park”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Tonto National Monument in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Tonto National Monument
“In 2018, Tumacácori earned the distinction of becoming the 100th designated International Dark Sky Park by the International Dark Sky Association”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Tumacácori National Historical Park in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Tumacácori National Historical Park
“The National Park Service today announced the designation of Buffalo National River as an International Dark Sky Park (IDSP).”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Buffalo National River in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Buffalo National River
“California State Parks proudly announces the designation of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park (Anza-Borrego) as an International Dark-Sky Park by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA).”
Distance reference point: the map or directions point on the agency's park page. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
“Borrego Springs is a certified International Dark Sky Community”
Distance reference point: the center of Borrego Springs CDP (US Census internal point). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Borrego Springs
“That dark sky is key to its recent certification as only the third International Dark Sky Park in the U.S. National Park System.”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Death Valley National Park in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Death Valley National Park
“Joshua Tree is a designated International Dark Sky Park by DarkSky International .”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Joshua Tree National Park in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Joshua Tree National Park
“the southern California mountain town of Julian has been accredited by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) as an International Dark Sky Community”
Distance reference point: the center of Julian CDP (US Census internal point). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Julian
“Due to its exceptional night skies and efforts to mitigate light pollution, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park was designated as an International Dark Sky Park in 2015”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
“The Town of Crestone became an internationally recognized Dark Sky Community in 2020”
Distance reference point: the center of Crestone town (US Census internal point). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Crestone
“Curecanti National Recreation Area was certified as an International Dark Sky Park in 2021”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Curecanti National Recreation Area in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Curecanti National Recreation Area
“Dinosaur National Monument and the International Dark Sky Association are pleased to announce the certification of Dinosaur as an International Dark Sky Park”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Dinosaur National Monument in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Dinosaur National Monument
“In 2021, the monument was designated as an International Dark Sky Park by the International Dark-Sky Association”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument
“The Town of Frisco has been certified as an International Dark Sky Community through DarkSky International”
Distance reference point: the center of Frisco town (US Census internal point). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Frisco
“Golden Gate Canyon State Park has achieved Urban Night Sky Place designation from DarkSky International”
Distance reference point: the address the agency lists. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Golden Gate Canyon State Park
“Stay on a moonless night to experience countless stars in this International Dark Sky Park”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
“Certified as an International Dark Sky Park in 2024, the 62,844-acre Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area in west-central Colorado has no artificial light sources within its boundaries”
No distance reference point: this covers a large area, so we don't rank it by distance. The agency's page explains where to go.
“On July 1, 2014, the International Dark-Sky Association certified Hovenweep National Monument as the 17th International Dark Sky Park”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Hovenweep National Monument in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Hovenweep National Monument
“Jackson Lake was designated as a Dark Sky Park by the International DarkSky Association”
Distance reference point: the center of ZIP code 80649, taken from the address the agency lists, because the Census geocoder could not place the street address; this is an approximate location, not the park itself. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Jackson Lake State Park
“In 2021, Mesa Verde National Park was certified as the world's 100th International Dark Sky Park”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Mesa Verde National Park in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Mesa Verde National Park
“The Town of Norwood is proud to have received their certification from the International Dark Sky Association (IDA) in February 2019 as an International Dark Sky Community”
Distance reference point: the center of Norwood town (US Census internal point). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Norwood
“TOP is an International Dark Sky Park”
Distance reference point: the address the agency lists. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Top of the Pines
“In 2016, Big Cypress National Preserve was designated as an International Dark Sky Park.”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Big Cypress National Preserve in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Big Cypress National Preserve
“In June 2023, the City of Groveland became certified as the first International Dark Sky Community in Florida and the Southeastern United States.”
Distance reference point: the center of Groveland city (US Census internal point). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for City of Groveland
“Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park has been designated as an official Dark Sky Park by the International Dark-Sky Association.”
Distance reference point: the address the agency lists. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park
“Okefenokee State Park is also Georgia State Parks’ only International Dark Sky Park”
Distance reference point: park GPS Coordinates (published as "N 30.8269500 | W -082.3621000"). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Okefenokee State Park
“Bruneau Dunes State Park was certified as an International Dark Sky Park by DarkSky International earlier this year.”
Distance reference point: the address the agency lists. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Bruneau Dunes State Park
“The Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve (CIDSR) was certified in December 2017 by the International Dark Sky Association.”
No distance reference point: this covers a large area, so we don't rank it by distance. The agency's page explains where to go.
“City of Rocks National Reserve is proud to announce that it has received full certification as an International Dark Sky Park by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA).”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for City Of Rocks National Reserve in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for City of Rocks National Reserve
“The park's efforts culminated in Craters of the Moon's 2017 designation as an International Dark Sky Park, certified by DarkSky International”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Craters Of The Moon National Monument & Preserve in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve
“Middle Fork River Forest Preserve was designated an International Dark Sky Park in November 2018.”
Distance reference point: the address the agency lists. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Middle Fork River Forest Preserve
“The National Park Service and the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) proudly announce Mammoth Cave National Park as an International Dark-Sky Park.”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Mammoth Cave National Park in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Mammoth Cave National Park
“The AMC Maine Woods International Dark Sky Park is the first and only International Dark Sky Park in New England.”
No distance reference point: this covers a large area, so we don't rank it by distance. The agency's page explains where to go.
“In 2020, Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument was certified as an International Dark Sky Sanctuary by DarkSky International”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument
“Certified by DarkSky International, this site has earned international acclaim for its window into the universe: Beaver Island State Wildlife Research Area International Dark Sky Sanctuary”
No distance reference point: this covers a large area, so we don't rank it by distance. The agency's page explains where to go.
“Dr. Lawless International Dark Sky Park”
Distance reference point: the address the agency lists. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Dr. T.K. Lawless Park
“The Headlands became one of the first 10 International Dark Sky Parks in the world in 2011, a prestigious designation bestowed by the International Dark Sky Association”
Distance reference point: the address the agency lists. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Headlands International Dark Sky Park
“designated by DarkSky International: Headlands Dark Sky Park (Emmet County park) Keweenaw Dark Sky Park (Keweenaw County)”
No distance reference point: the agency doesn't publish an address or coordinates we could use, so we don't rank it by distance.
“Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is a designated International Dark Sky Sanctuary, just the 13th in the world to gain this unique title.”
No distance reference point: this covers a large area, so we don't rank it by distance. The agency's page explains where to go.
“are pleased to announce the certification of Voyageurs National Park as an International Dark Sky Park.”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Voyageurs National Park in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Voyageurs National Park
“In October 2021, Stacy Park was certified an Urban Dark Sky Place by the International Dark Sky Association!”
Distance reference point: the address the agency lists. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Stacy Park
“DarkSky International has certified Thousand Hills State Park in Kirksville as an Urban Night Sky Place.”
Distance reference point: the address the agency lists. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Thousand Hills State Park
“Glacier National Park and its sister park, Waterton Lakes National Park of Canada, have been certified as an International Dark Sky Park by the International Dark Sky Association (IDA).”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Glacier National Park in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Glacier National Park
“Medicine Rocks State Park (Montana's first International Dark Sky Sanctuary)”
Distance reference point: the center of ZIP code 59324, taken from the address the agency lists, because the Census geocoder could not place the street address; this is an approximate location, not the park itself. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Medicine Rocks State Park
“The park has officially been certified as an International Dark Sky Park by the International Dark-Sky Association.”
No distance reference point: the agency doesn't publish an address or coordinates we could use, so we don't rank it by distance.
“Recognized by the International Dark Sky Association as a Gold Tier International Dark Sky Park in 2016”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Great Basin National Park in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Great Basin National Park
“Massacre Rim was certified as an International Dark Sky Sanctuary in 2019”
No distance reference point: this covers a large area, so we don't rank it by distance. The agency's page explains where to go.
“Capulin Volcano National Monument was designated a Gold Tier International Dark Sky Park by the International Dark Sky Association in 2016”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Capulin Volcano National Monument in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Capulin Volcano National Monument
“Chaco Culture National Historical Park is an International Dark Sky Park”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Chaco Culture National Historical Park in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Chaco Culture National Historical Park
“Designated as New Mexico’s first dark sky park in 2010 and holding a Gold-level certification from the International Dark Sky Association”
Distance reference point: the address the agency lists. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Clayton Lake State Park
“Cosmic Campground International Dark Sky Sanctuary (CCIDSS) is the first International Dark Sky Sanctuary located on National Forest System lands and also in North America”
Distance reference point: campground (Getting There, Latitude / Longitude). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Cosmic Campground
“In December 2019, El Morro was certified as an International Dark Sky Park (IDSP) by the International Dark Sky Association”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for El Morro National Monument in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for El Morro National Monument
“The National Park Service and the International Dark Sky Association are pleased to announce Fort Union National Monument as an International Dark Sky Park”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Fort Union National Monument in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Fort Union National Monument
“On September 30, 2016, the new Superintendent of Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument, Tom Betts, proudly announced our new designation as an IDA Dark Sky Park”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument
“As of 2021, Valles Caldera has been declared an official International Dark Sky Park from the International Dark Sky Association”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Valles Caldera National Preserve in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Valles Caldera National Preserve
“The National Park Service (NPS) and the International Dark Sky Association (IDA) proudly announce Cape Lookout National Seashore has been certified as an International Dark Sky Park.”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Cape Lookout National Seashore in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Cape Lookout National Seashore
“We are an International Dark Sky Park , and the grounds are open to the public with 24-hour access to the parking area for stargazing.”
Distance reference point: the center of ZIP code 28714, taken from the address the agency lists, because the Census geocoder could not place the street address; this is an approximate location, not the park itself. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Mayland Earth to Sky Park
“PARI is recognized by DarkSky International (formerly International Dark Sky Association (IDA)), as one of the few Dark Sky Parks in North Carolina.”
Distance reference point: the center of ZIP code 28772, taken from the address the agency lists, because the Census geocoder could not place the street address; this is an approximate location, not the park itself. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute
“Fry Family Park was awarded an Urban Night Sky Place Certification from the International Dark Sky Association”
Distance reference point: the address the agency lists. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Fry Family Park
“Observatory Park has permanent distinction from the International Dark-Sky Association as a Silver Tier Dark Sky Park”
Distance reference point: the address the agency lists. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Observatory Park
“Designated 2024 Category International Dark Sky Community”
Distance reference point: the address the agency lists. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Antelope
“The park’s location, far from major urban light sources, makes it an ideal site for dark sky preservation, earning the park a rare designation as a certified International Dark Sky Park .”
Distance reference point: the map or directions point on the agency's park page. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Cottonwood Canyon State Park
“A 2.5-million-acre area of southern Oregon was certified as an International Dark Sky Sanctuary in March 2024 making it the world’s largest Dark Sky Sanctuary to date.”
No distance reference point: this covers a large area, so we don't rank it by distance. The agency's page explains where to go.
“The stars truly shine brighter here, earning the park a rare designation as a certified International Dark Sky Park .”
Distance reference point: the map or directions point on the agency's park page. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Prineville Reservoir State Park
“During 2008, Cherry Springs State Park attained a Gold Level International Dark Sky Park certification from the International Dark Sky Association.”
Distance reference point: the center of ZIP code 16915, taken from the address the agency lists, because the Census geocoder could not place the street address; this is an approximate location, not the park itself. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Cherry Springs State Park
“Badlands National Park has officially been certified as an International Dark Sky Park by Dark Sky International.”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Badlands National Park in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Badlands National Park
“The National Park Service is pleased to announce that Obed Wild & Scenic River has been designated an International Dark Sky Association (IDA) International Dark Sky Park.”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Obed Wild & Scenic River in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Obed Wild and Scenic River
“The International Dark Sky Association announced that Pickett State Park and Pogue Creek Canyon State Natural Area have been named a Silver-tier International Dark Sky Park.”
Distance reference point: park Geolocation. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Pickett CCC Memorial State Park and Pogue Creek Canyon State Natural Area (Pickett-Pogue International Dark Sky Park)
“The City of Bee Cave became the State's 7th DarkSky Community”
Distance reference point: the center of Bee Cave city (US Census internal point). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Bee Cave
“In 2012, Big Bend National Park was awarded International Dark Sky Park status by the International Dark-Sky Association.”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Big Bend National Park in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Big Bend National Park
“Big Bend Ranch State Park (BBRSP) is the latest Texas State Park to be designated as an International Dark Sky Park by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA).”
Distance reference point: East entrance (Barton Warnock). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Big Bend Ranch State Park
“Black Gap Wildlife Management Area (WMA) has been designated as an International Dark Sky Sanctuary by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA).”
No distance reference point: the agency doesn't publish an address or coordinates we could use, so we don't rank it by distance.
“In 2022, the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) officially designated the City of Blanco as an International Dark Sky Community (IDSC)”
Distance reference point: the center of Blanco city (US Census internal point). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Blanco
“Caprock Canyons State Park and Trailway is the latest Texas State Park to be designated as an International Dark Sky Park by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA).”
Distance reference point: park address location. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Caprock Canyons State Park and Trailway
“The International Dark Sky Association has designated Copper Breaks as an International Dark Sky Park.”
Distance reference point: park address location. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Copper Breaks State Park
“Devils River State Natural Area has been designated an International Dark Sky Sanctuary by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA)”
Distance reference point: Del Norte Unit. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Devils River State Natural Area
“In 2014, Dripping Springs was the first city in Texas to be designated as an International Dark Sky Community, and the sixth one in the world.”
Distance reference point: the center of Dripping Springs city (US Census internal point). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Dripping Springs
“Copper Breaks State Park in the Panhandle Plains and Enchanted Rock State Natural Area in the Hill Country are the first Texas state parks to be designated International Dark Sky Parks”
Distance reference point: park address location. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
“The City of Fredericksburg received its designation as a Dark Sky Community in 2020.”
Distance reference point: the center of Fredericksburg city (US Census internal point). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Fredericksburg
“are pleased to announce the certification of the Greater Big Bend International Dark Sky Reserve.”
No distance reference point: this covers a large area, so we don't rank it by distance. The agency's page explains where to go.
“the International Dark-Sky Association designated the City of Horseshoe Bay a Dark Sky Community.”
Distance reference point: the center of Horseshoe Bay city (US Census internal point). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Horseshoe Bay
“We are proud to be one of the few towns recognized as an International Dark Sky Community”
Distance reference point: the center of Lakewood Village city (US Census internal point). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Lakewood Village
“announce the certification of the LBJ Ranch Unit of Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park as an International Dark Sky Park.”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Lyndon B Johnson National Historical Park in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park (LBJ Ranch Unit)
“South Llano River State Park is an International Dark Sky Park.”
Distance reference point: park address location. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for South Llano River State Park
“The UBarU Camp and Retreat Center is a designated International Dark Sky Park”
Distance reference point: the address the agency lists. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for UBarU Camp and Retreat Center
“The cities of Woodcreek and Wimberley joined together to become the Wimberley Valley International Dark Sky Community in 2018.”
Distance reference point: the center of Wimberley city (US Census internal point). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Wimberley Valley
Also partly in Utah: Dinosaur National Monument and Hovenweep National Monument.
“Antelope Island is a designated International Dark Sky Park”
Distance reference point: the map or directions point on the agency's park page. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Antelope Island State Park
“In 2019 Arches National Park became certified as an official International Dark Sky Park”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Arches National Park in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Arches National Park
“announce Bryce Canyon National Park as an International Dark Sky Park”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Bryce Canyon National Park in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Bryce Canyon National Park
“the International Dark Sky Association designated Canyonlands as a Gold-Tier International Dark Sky Park in 2015”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Canyonlands National Park in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Canyonlands National Park
“Designated an International Dark Sky Park in 2015, Capitol Reef offers many opportunities to experience near-pristine night skies”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Capitol Reef National Park in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Capitol Reef National Park
“Castle Valley is a Dark Sky Community”
Distance reference point: the center of Castle Valley town (US Census internal point). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Castle Valley
“the designation of Cedar Breaks as an International Dark Sky Park”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Cedar Breaks National Monument in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Cedar Breaks National Monument
“Dead Horse Point is a designated International Dark Sky Park”
Distance reference point: the map or directions point on the agency's park page. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Dead Horse Point State Park
“Fremont Indian State Park is a designated International Dark Sky Park”
Distance reference point: the map or directions point on the agency's park page. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Fremont Indian State Park
“Goblin Valley is a designated International Dark Sky Park”
Distance reference point: the map or directions point on the agency's park page. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Goblin Valley State Park
“Goosenecks is a designated International Dark Sky Park”
Distance reference point: the map or directions point on the agency's park page. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Goosenecks State Park
“Jordanelle State Park is a designated International Dark Sky Park”
Distance reference point: the map or directions point on the agency's park page. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Jordanelle State Park
“On March 6, 2007, the International Dark-Sky Association certified Natural Bridges National Monument as the first International Dark Sky Park”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Natural Bridges National Monument in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Natural Bridges National Monument
“The IDA designated North Fork Park as a Dark Sky Park in 2015”
Distance reference point: the center of ZIP code 84310, taken from the address the agency lists, because the Census geocoder could not place the street address; this is an approximate location, not the park itself. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for North Fork Park
“Rainbow Bridge National Monument is an International Dark Sky Sanctuary”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Rainbow Bridge National Monument in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Rainbow Bridge National Monument
“Rockport is a designated International Dark Sky Park”
Distance reference point: the map or directions point on the agency's park page. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Rockport State Park
“Snow Canyon State Park is a designated Urban Night Sky Place”
Distance reference point: the map or directions point on the agency's park page. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Snow Canyon State Park
“In 2023, Springdale became Utah's twenty-third International Dark Sky Place certified by DarkSky International”
Distance reference point: the center of Springdale town (US Census internal point). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Springdale
“Steinaker State Park is a designated International Dark Sky Park”
Distance reference point: the map or directions point on the agency's park page. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Steinaker State Park
“The National Park Service and the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) are pleased to announce the certification of Timpanogos Cave National Monument as an IDA Urban Night Sky Place”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Timpanogos Cave National Monument in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Timpanogos Cave National Monument
“Torrey proudly holds the distinction of being Utah's first International Dark Sky Community, certified by the International Dark-Sky Association in 2018”
Distance reference point: the center of Torrey town (US Census internal point). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Torrey
“The National Park Service and the International Dark Sky Association are pleased to announce Zion National Park as an International Dark Sky Park”
Distance reference point: the location the National Park Service publishes for Zion National Park in its parks data (often near the park's center, not an entrance). It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Zion National Park
“Virginia State Parks has four parks designated as International Dark Sky Parks by DarkSky International - Staunton River, James River, and the recently added Natural Bridge and Sky Meadows.”
Distance reference point: coordinates the agency publishes. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for James River State Park
“Virginia State Parks has four parks designated as International Dark Sky Parks by DarkSky International - Staunton River, James River, and the recently added Natural Bridge and Sky Meadows.”
Distance reference point: coordinates the agency publishes. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Natural Bridge State Park
“The County Park is one of three county parks in the United States designated as a Dark Skies Park by the International Dark-Sky Association.”
No distance reference point: the agency doesn't publish an address or coordinates we could use, so we don't rank it by distance.
“The park is designated as an International Dark Sky Park by DarkSky International.”
Distance reference point: coordinates the agency publishes. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Sky Meadows State Park
“The park was designated as the 25th International Dark Sky Park by DarkSky International in July 2015.”
Distance reference point: coordinates the agency publishes. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Staunton River State Park
“Watoga State Park , Calvin Price State Forest and Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park have been designated official Dark Sky Parks by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA).”
Distance reference point: the center of ZIP code 24986, taken from the address the agency lists, because the Census geocoder could not place the street address; this is an approximate location, not the park itself. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Calvin Price State Forest
“Watoga State Park , Calvin Price State Forest and Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park have been designated official Dark Sky Parks by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA).”
Distance reference point: the center of ZIP code 24946, taken from the address the agency lists, because the Census geocoder could not place the street address; this is an approximate location, not the park itself. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park
“Watoga State Park , Calvin Price State Forest and Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park have been designated official Dark Sky Parks by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA).”
Distance reference point: the center of ZIP code 24954, taken from the address the agency lists, because the Census geocoder could not place the street address; this is an approximate location, not the park itself. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Watoga State Park
“Newport has been designated as a Dark Sky Park from the International Dark-Sky Association”
Distance reference point: the address the agency lists. It's for measuring distance, not for navigation; use the agency's own directions to get there. View reference point on map for Newport State Park
Probably not. DarkSky International's own list blocked our automated reading, so we built this list from the managing agencies' websites instead. Each of the 130 places here is confirmed in an official source's own words: the managing agency's page for all but 2, which are confirmed on another official page and labeled. If a certified place is missing, we couldn't confirm it on an official page yet. DarkSky International's finder is the full official list.
Straight-line miles from the center of your ZIP code (US Census 2024 ZIP code areas) to each place's map pin. Driving distance will be longer. 13 places have no distance reference point (8 large areas and 5 others) and aren't ranked. ZIP codes are matched exactly to the Census list; if yours isn't on it, we say so rather than guess.
Each card says. 46 pins are the park location the National Park Service publishes, 25 are coordinates or a directions point on the agency's own page, 16 are US Census matches on the agency's street address, 10 are the center of the agency address's ZIP code (when the Census couldn't place the street), and 20 are the center of a certified town.