Best Places to Stargaze in Oregon: 2025 Guide
With craggy mountains, lush forests, and endless coastal beauty, Oregon guarantees breathtaking visuals by day. As the sun sets, the drama only intensifies. With light pollution minimal in many areas, the state opens up to a world of celestial wonders. Let’s explore the 10 best places where you can feast your eyes on the tapestry of stars in Oregon in this 2025 guide.
1. Maupin
Turquoise waters by day and an array of stars by night define Maupin. Overnight camp at the Deschutes River State Recreation Area which is an International Dark Sky Park. Lay back on the riverbank and see how many constellations you can identify.2. Marys Peak
Pack a picnic and set off to Marys Peak after dusk. The highest point in Oregon’s Coast Range, it’s perfect for both novice and experienced stargazers. Just remember to dress warmly, the coastal winds can get breezy up there!
3. Pine Mountain Observatory
Pine Mountain Observatory near Bend invites stargazing adventurers to its research observatory. Check the weather before you go – clear skies are essential for optimal star sightings. And do bring a flashlight, the trails can get pretty dark after sundown.4. Alvord Desert
The dried-up Alvord Lake bed gives you an unobstructed view of the heavens against the Earth’s rough textures. It’s a fantastic spot for night photography, so don’t forget your gear!5. Cannon Beach
Stargazing at Cannon Beach is a unique experience. An oceanfront setting, iconic Haystack Rock, and skies dotted with diamonds – it’s pure magic. Visit in the summer and you might even catch the Milky Way.6. Boardman Tree Farm
Boardman Tree Farm is famous for its symmetrically perfect poplar trees, but this location in Morrow County, away from city lights, also makes for an ideal stargazing spot. Fall is spectacular there, with the changing colors of the leaves adding to the nighttime view so plan accordingly.7. Fort Stevens State Park
Nestled in the northwest corner of Oregon, Fort Stevens offers a star-filled spectacle along the coast. Plan this trip between August and November to be part of exciting ranger-led stargazing events.8. Rooster Rock State Park
Located in the Columbia Gorge, Rooster Rock State Park is minimal on light pollution and big on enchanting nighttime vistas. Pack insect repellent though; those mosquitoes can be relentless if you’re star watching near the water.9. Crater Lake National Park
If you’re game for snowy starlight viewing, head over to Crater Lake during winter. The high elevation and clear skies provide an epic stargazing experience. However, do check road conditions before you set out.10. Steens Mountain Wilderness
This wilderness area is a remote gem with its high desert setting. ‘Dark Sky Season’ stretches here from May through September, offering a multitude of cosmic visual treats!And there you have it, the top 10 spots to marvel at the cosmos in Oregon in 2025. Remember, preparation is key – looking up into the night sky should be as comfortable as it is awe-inspiring. One last tip: Learning a constellation or two before you set out can make the stargazing experience even more rewarding. So, bundle up, look up and marvel at the universe in the heart of Oregon.