Best Places to Stargaze in Oregon: 2025 Guide
Oregon, the gem of the Pacific Northwest, has a bit of everything to please the heart of any outdoors enthusiast. Forests dense enough to get lost in, volcanic peaks that reach for the stars, and rolling prairies that dance with the wind. But when the sun goes down, a different kind of spectacle begins: the night sky, dusted with countless stars and celestial wonders, unfolds in all its majesty. For night sky admirers and all you lovely stargazers out there, let’s dive into some of the best places to stargaze in 2025’s Oregon.1. The Oregon Observatory at Sunriver
The Oregon Observatory in Sunriver isn’t just any old observatory. It boasts over 30 telescopes to marvel at the stars above. They even offer guided night sky tours which are a perfect way to learn while soaking up the beauty of the cosmos. Just remember to check their schedule to make sure you’re visiting on a public viewing night.2. Maupin City Park
Little known Maupin City Park offers stunningly dark skies that compete with Oregon’s best. Nestled on the shores of the Deschutes River, it’s an idyllic location to set up a picnic and stargaze. Bonus point: Pack a thermos of hot chocolate from the local Maupin Market, to enjoy while stargazing.3. Pine Mountain Observatory
East of Bend, Pine Mountain Observatory allows you to not only stargaze but also learn about what you’re seeing. The University of Oregon operates it, and their staff offer informative presentations on clear, moonless weekends during summer. Remember to bring warm clothes, though, as the temperatures can drop significantly after sundown.
4. Devil’s Punch Bowl State Natural Area
Near Otter Rock, the Devil’s Punch Bowl allows an uninterrupted view of the western sky, making it fantastic for catching a glimpse of ocean-set sunsets and starry nights. Time your visit with low-tide for safe access to the punchbowl itself.5. Steens Mountain
Not for the faint-hearted, the adventurous journey to Steens Mountain rewards with incredibly dark skies thanks to its remote location. The Steens Mountain Loop road offers multiple stops to set up your stargazing camp. Make sure to carry spare tire kits, the road is rugged!6. Zumwalt Prairie
Located in northeastern Oregon, the Zumwalt Prairie offers an enchanting combo of grassland beauty and open, starlit skies. You might want to set up camp at Buckhorn Overlook, offering a panoramic view of the prairie beneath the milky way.7. Crater Lake National Park
Iconic Crater Lake is not only home to stunning daytime views but also offers an amazing night sky display. The Crater Lake Lodge and Rim Village provide open, unhindered views of the night sky. Come winter, snowshoeing under the stars around the rim is an unforgettable experience.8. Hells Canyon National Recreation Area
Deeply carved Hells Canyon provides vast, uninterrupted night skies teeming with stars. Make your way to Hells Canyon Overlook for a higher vantage point. Remember, there’s no cell service here, plan ahead!9. Fort Rock State Natural Area
The natural amphitheater of Fort Rock is not to be missed for stargazers. The nighttime echo phenomenon here adds a unique touch to your stargazing experience. Just be cautious of local wildlife.10. Ochoco National Forest
Ochoco National Forest provides ideal stargazing, with clear skies and high elevations. Try setting up at Walton Lake Campground for the night, the lake makes for beautiful reflections of the constellations and star trails.Whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or just beginning to explore the wonders of the cosmos, Oregon’s skies are an expansive canvas of celestial magic just waiting to be admired. So grab that telescope, or just trust your naked eye, pack some layers, and venture into the great Oregon outdoors. After all, we did always say you could reach for the stars in Oregon, it wasn’t merely a metaphor!