The Best Oregon Dark Sky Preserves: Stargazing and Milky Way Magic
Ah, Oregon. With its majestic mountains, lush forests, and rugged coastlines, it’s a jewel of the Pacific Northwest. But come nighttime, the beauty doesn’t end with the sunset. A whole new wonder unveils itself in the form of the star-studded sky, a spectacle of nature that rivals mountain vistas any day.1. Pine Mountain Observatory
Nestled in the high desert, east of Bend, Pine Mountain Observatory offers some of the darkest skies in Oregon. Operated by the University of Oregon, it welcomes astronomical enthusiasts to enjoy their big telescopes. Remember, temperatures can drop real fast, so don’t forget to pack extra layers.2. Sunriver Observatory
Just south of Bend, Sunriver Observatory is a public-access observatory that welcomes stargazers.Featuring both solar and night skies, it is open to both day and night observations. You can contemplate the heavens from a comfortable spot near the fire pit.3. Steens Mountain Wilderness
Located in Harney County, Steens Mountain Wilderness is where the big sky meets untamed wilderness. Its remoteness guarantees undisturbed visibility. Pro tip: Drive up to the Kiger Gorge Overlook for an unforgettable stargazing experience.
4. Worthy Garden Club in Bend
Bend’s clear skies are a stargazer’s paradise. The Worthy Garden Club is an observatory that also doubles as a brewery. So, get a pint of craft beer and get ready for a memorable night under the stars.5. Prineville Reservoir State Park
Known for being one of the first Oregon State Parks to be recognized as a Dark Sky Preserve, the state park, located southeast of Prineville, is an amateur astronomer’s wonderland complete with a starlit campground.6. Cottonwood Canyon State Park
Second-largest in Oregon’s state parks, its remote location promises unclouded, unpolluted views of the night sky. Grab a lantern and take a mystical night hike along the Pinnacles trail.7. Fort Stevens State Park
Enjoy a coastline stargazing experience at Fort Stevens State Park near Astoria. Listen to the ocean’s whispers while admiring the serene starry sky. It can get windy, so a sturdy blanket is an essential item here.8. Crater Lake National Park
Nothing compares to the sight of the Milky Way reflected in the calm waters of Craker Lake. Note that due to its high altitude, Crater Lake offers better star visibility compared to lower-lying areas.9. Strawbery Mountain Wilderness
Don’t be fooled by the name, Strawbery Mountain Wilderness isn’t overrun by fruit but by breathtaking mountain views. For the best stargazing spot, head to Strawbery Lake below the summit.10. Maury Mountains
Located in the Ochocos, the Maury Mountains give a panoramic view of the universe overhead. Keep an eye out for the Perseid meteor shower in August. It’s quite a sight from here.In Oregon, the nights usher in a magic of their own. From coastal views to mountain peaks and desert expanses, each dark sky preserve offers a unique window to the cosmos. So next time the sun goes down, behold the beauty of the Great Outdoors, and let Oregon’s night wonders remind you that under the same sky we all share, Oregon truly is a star.