Best Places to Stargaze in Oregon: 2025 Guide
Oregon, with its vast wilderness and dark skies, is a paradise for stargazers. With the minimal light pollution, you can glimpse the Milky Way in all its glory or catch a shooting star making its lonely path across the sky. So, grab your telescope and head to one of these favorite local spots for a stellar sky gazing experience.
1. Pine Mountain Observatory
Located 34 miles southeast of Bend, the Pine Mountain Observatory is an astronomer’s dream. Operated by the University of Oregon, it offers remarkable views of the night sky with minimal light pollution. Check their website for open house dates, when experts are available to guide your exploration of the cosmos.2. Maupin City Park
In the heart of the city, Maupin City Park may not seem like a prime stargazing spot, but the dark skies over this Deschutes River town might surprise you! On clear summer nights, expect to see the constellations stretched out across the sky.
3. Alvord Desert
Out in the southeastern corner of Oregon, the Alvord Desert delivers one of the most surreal stargazing experiences. The flat, open space and absence of light pollution provide an inky canvas for the stars. Just make sure you bring plenty of supplies – it’s remote out here!4. Crater Lake National Park
Crater Lake National Park, well known for its deep blue water, also offers stunning night’s skies. Make a camping reservation at the Mazama Campground and enjoy the stars mirrored in the lake’s clear water. Don’t forget your park pass!5. Rooster Rock State Park
Just a short drive from Portland, Rooster Rock State Park is a convenient getaway for city dwellers. Even with some light pollution from the city, the park’s west end often provides excellent viewing of meteor showers.6. Smith Rock State Park
The jagged cliffs of Smith Rock State Park near Terrebonne provide a dramatic backdrop for stargazing. A moonlit hike on the Summit Trail offers some fantastic nighttime vistas. But remember, pack out what you pack in to help preserve its natural beauty.7. Wallowa Lake State Park
Up in Oregon’s northeast corner, Wallowa Lake State Park boasts beautiful mountain views by day and breathtaking starry skies by night. It’s a bit of a trek from the main cities, but the unforgettable stargazing experience is worth the journey.8. Cape Blanco State Park
Oregon’s westernmost point, Cape Blanco State Park offers expansive ocean views and, when conditions are right, unparalleled views of the stars. Stay overnight at the campground to best experience the night sky unfettered by light pollution.9. Lost Lake Resort
Nestled in the Mt. Hood National Forest, Lost Lake Resort offers cabin rentals, campsites, and an incredible view of the mountain under the stars. Just make sure to pack warm clothes as it can get chilly even in summer nights.10. Hell’s Canyon National Recreation Area
Hell’s Canyon, the deepest ravine in North America, is another spot where the grandeur of nature matches the wonder of the night sky. Take a rafting trip along the Snake River for a truly unforgettable stargazing adventure.Being under the vast Oregon night sky, witnessing the unfathomable depths of the cosmos, is a humbling and awe-inspiring experience. So, whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or just appreciate a sky full of stars, remember to look up on those clear, dark nights in Oregon, and let the universe amaze you.