Best Places to Stargaze in Oregon: 2025 Guide
Stepping out into the cool Oregon night air and looking up, a canvas of inky black is scattered with thousands of glittering stars. As an Oregon local, one can attest that our state offers some of the best places for stargazing. So, let’s uncover the top 10 destinations to gaze upon the cosmos, where the starlight is untainted by city lights.
1. Maupin, Wasco County
This small town nestled on the banks of the Deschutes River provides one of the best dark sky spots in Oregon. Maupin is well-loved by star parties and astrophotographers alike. A pro tip: make sure to head out during a new moon phase for the best viewing experience.2. Pine Mountain Observatory
Run by the University of Oregon, the Pine Mountain Observatory near Bend is a haven for astronomy enthusiasts. In clear weather, the observatory offers public stargazing events, making it a perfect place to learn while enjoying the celestial spectacle.
3. Alvord Desert in Southeastern Oregon
One of Oregon’s hidden gems, the Alvord Desert offers a massive dry lake bed that doubles as a mirror to the cosmos. It’s recommended to bundle up, as desert temperatures can drop quickly after sunset.4. The Wallowa Lake State Park
Tucked away in Northeastern Oregon, this state park is a fantastic place for stargazing, with its high altitude and clear, light-pollution free air. It’s also a popular spot for camping, so why not make it a weekend getaway?5. Crater Lake National Park
With its high altitude and utter lack of light pollution, Crater Lake National Park is an incredible spot for stargazing. Just imagine, the stars reflected on the crystal-clear waters of the deepest lake in the U.S!6. Cape Blanco State Park
Located on the Southern Oregon coast near Port Orford, Cape Blanco State Park offers dark skies ideal for stargazing and, if you’re lucky, you might even witness the ethereal beauty of the Northern Lights.7. Fort Stevens State Park, Warrenton
Though it’s close to Astoria’s city lights, Fort Stevens State Park still offers some excellent night-sky viewing opportunities. Be sure to check out the Shipwreck Beach, where the wreck of the Peter Iredale stands against the backdrop of the starry night.8. Broken Top Mountain
Situated in the Three Sisters Wilderness, Broken Top Mountain offers not only a challenging hiking trail but also an excellent stargazing place. It’s a treat for star seekers who don’t mind a bit of adventure.9. Night Sky Tour over Mt. Hood
Book a tour with Oregon Tour Co. for a guided night sky spectacle above Oregon’s highest peak, the iconic Mt. Hood. The combination of high altitudes and clear skies offers an unforgettable stargazing experience.10. John Day Fossil Beds National Monument
This place offers not only a journey back in time with its rich fossil-find but also a spectacular night sky view. The Painted Hills Unit of the monument is especially known for its stargazing potential.Packing your telescope, blankets, and hot chocolate, these spots across Oregon serve as gateways to the cosmos. Whether you’re an astronomy enthusiast or simply someone who finds peace under the open, starry sky, these locations are well worth the exploration. Let Oregon’s starry skies inspire us and remind us of our small, but significant, place in the cosmos. Enjoy the celestial hunt, stargazers!