Did you know Arizona has some of the darkest skies in the country? That’s right, and while organizations like the International Dark Sky Association has designated select areas around the state as dark sky places and communities, all the proof you need is to look up after the sun sets. Travel about an hour or less outside of our major cities and you’ll see the sky twinkling and perhaps even the Milky Way on an especially clear, dark night.
One of these places to visit is actually just an hour’s drive from Arizona’s second-largest city, Tucson.
Welcome to Oracle State Park!
Arizona State Parks/Facebook Primarily a wildlife refuge, the park sits in the northern foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains, hidden away from the city lights.
In 2014, it was designated an International Dark Sky Place.
Oracle State Park/Facebook It has the Catalinas to thank; the mountain range is large enough that it blocks out most of the glow from Tucson and its suburbs.
Thanks to the designation, Oracle State Park has become a prime location for those wanting to check out the planets with a telescope, shoot some astrophotography, or even just watch the stars slowly move across the sky.
Arizona State Parks/Facebook
The park hosts “star parties” as well as moon viewings several times per year that allow you to see the stars, planets, and moon through some hefty telescopes.
Arizona State Parks/Facebook If you can’t make it to one of the hosted night events, don’t worry! You can bring your own telescope and head to the American Avenue trailhead to access the area after hours.
The park also hosts other night-related events, like a campout experience and educational workshops about night creatures.
Arizona State Parks/Facebook
If you prefer your activities to occur with a little more light, the park also has some spectacular trails, areas to view wildlife, and a chance to tour a historic ranch.
Arizona State Parks/Facebook
So, are you ready for one epic night adventure? Where else do you like to watch the night sky?
Oracle State Park/Facebook
Oracle State Park is located just outside Oracle in the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains. You can find its location on this Google Maps link and details on the Arizona State Parks website.
Arizona State Parks/Facebook
Primarily a wildlife refuge, the park sits in the northern foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains, hidden away from the city lights.
Oracle State Park/Facebook
It has the Catalinas to thank; the mountain range is large enough that it blocks out most of the glow from Tucson and its suburbs.
If you can’t make it to one of the hosted night events, don’t worry! You can bring your own telescope and head to the American Avenue trailhead to access the area after hours.
Want to enjoy the night sky in other areas of the state? We have four cities and several other parks with International Dark Sky designations! Read more in These 4 Arizona Cities Have Some Of The Darkest Skies In The Country.
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