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Guide · 18 parks

Best National Parks for Stargazing

Some national parks have the darkest skies left in the country. Plan around a new moon for the best views of the Milky Way.

Haleakalā

Hawaii · Best Jan–May, Sep–Nov

Best: Jan–May, Sep–Nov

Bryce Canyon

Utah · Best May–Jun, Sep–Oct

Best: May–Jun, Sep–Oct

Capitol Reef

Utah · Best Apr–May, Sep–Oct

Best: Apr–May, Sep–Oct

Mesa Verde

Colorado · Best May–Jun, Sep–Oct

Best: May–Jun, Sep–Oct

Joshua Tree

California · Best Feb–Apr, Oct–Nov

Best: Feb–Apr, Oct–Nov

Grand Canyon

Arizona · Best Apr–May, Oct

Best: Apr–May, Oct

Big Bend

Texas · Best Oct–Apr

Best: Oct–Apr

Death Valley

California & Nevada · Best Nov–Mar

Best: Nov–Mar

Canyonlands

Utah · Best Apr–May, Oct

Best: Apr–May, Oct

Voyageurs

Minnesota · Best Jul–Sep

Best: Jul–Sep

Arches

Utah · Best Apr–May, Oct

Best: Apr–May, Oct

When to go

ParkJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Haleakalā
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes
Carlsbad Caverns
Bryce Canyon
Capitol Reef
Black Canyon of the Gunnison
Mesa Verde
Joshua Tree
Grand Canyon
Big Bend
Guadalupe Mountains
Great Sand Dunes
Petrified Forest
Death Valley
Canyonlands
Great Basin
Voyageurs
Arches

More guides

Warm National Parks to Visit in WinterBest National Parks for Fall ColorLeast Crowded National ParksBest National Parks for WildlifeBest National Parks for FamiliesNational Parks with BeachesNational Parks with CavesNational Parks with VolcanoesBest National Parks for HikingThe Most Remote National ParksNational Parks with the Best Scenic DrivesNational Parks to Visit in the SnowSummer National Parks Without the Crowds

Last reviewed October 4, 2026. Ratings are editorial. Rules and road openings change each year, so confirm on the official NPS site before you go.