Best Places to Stargaze in Oregon: 2025 Guide
Ah, stargazing, the timeless hobby of dreamers and explorers alike. Something about staring into the vast cosmos up above feels as though you’re tapping into a well of deep wisdom and perhaps even some secrets of the universe’s origin. Luckily for Oregonians, our state is a utopia for stargazing. From the boundaries of a remote desert to a small town nestled amidst towering pines, here are ten of the absolute best spots in Oregon to sit back and count stars.
1. Pine Mountain Observatory
Perched atop the remote high desert of Central Oregon, the Pine Mountain Observatory welcomes star gazers for out-of-this-world nights. Get ready to be impressed by the deep starry skies, free of city lights. Don’t forget to check their events calendar. “Star Parties,” hosted by University of Oregon’s staff, are a celestial celebration you don’t want to miss!2. Rooster Rock State Park
Just a few miles east of Portland, the Rooster Rock State Park gives stargazers the chance to slip beyond the city lights without going too far off the beaten path. The West end of the park, in particular, is popular for viewing events such as meteor showers, but show up early – it can get busy on big celestial event nights.
3. Crater Lake National Park
The Crater Lake National Park offers not only an enchanting view of the deepest lake in America but also one of the darkest skies in the entire state. Plan your visit during a new moon and stay overnight. Once the moon sets, your eyes will feast upon a sea of diamond-like stars shining their light across the ages.4. Alvord Desert
Step onto the playa of the Alvord Desert, you’ll feel like you’ve teleported into another world, one that’s tailor made for eager stargazers. It’s undeniably remote, which means little to no light pollution disturbing your cosmic vista. Might we suggest booking a soak at Alvord Hot Springs? Gazing at stars whilst nestled in a warm, natural spring is a treat unto itself.5. Smith Rock State Park
Smith Rock State Park is a favorite among climbers, hikers and, you guessed it, stargazers. The towering cliffs create an extraordinary frame for a moonlit night, with the Milky Way often burning bright overhead. Tip: Try camping in one of the Park’s walk-in tent sites for an overnight stargazing experience.6. Wallowa Lake State Park
Set against the magnificent backdrop of the Wallowa Mountains in the northeastern corner of Oregon, a visit to Wallowa Lake State Park is like stepping into a page of a nature photographer’s dream book. Park yourself on the lake’s shores for an evening of memorable stargazing, especially during the Perseids meteor showers in August.7. Ochoco National Forest
The remote expanse of Ochoco National Forest is another celestial theater in which Oregonians can enjoy the cosmos almost untouched by human influence. Stay at one of the forest’s several campground sites for a stargazing camping trip like no other!8. Cape Perpetua Scenic Area
For coastal stargazing near Yachats, Cape Perpetua Scenic Area is the place to be. The contrast of the stars against the backdrop of the moody Pacific Ocean adds a unique dimension to the stargazing experience.9. Steens Mountain Wilderness
Ranging over 170,000 acres, Steens Mountain Wilderness is perhaps the most remote location on this list. Here, it is truly you, the arid landscape, and the star-studded sky. The high altitude and dark skies make this an unforgettable stargazing sanctuary.10. Sisters Wilderness
Last but not least, Sisters Wilderness offers an unbeatable combination of sparkling stars and soothing wilderness. With multiple campsites and bountiful hiking trails, you can spend a heavenly day exploring and then unwind under a spectacular array of stars.There you have it, a local’s curated list of the crème de la crème of Oregon’s stargazing destinations. So, grab your stargazing buddy, pack those binoculars, and venture out into the beautiful Oregon night. Here’s to crisp night air, crackling fires, and the majesty of our twinkling cosmos. Enjoy, my fellow star chasers! May your night skies be clear and your heart be full of adventures.