More than 80 percent of Americans live under skies too bright to see the Milky Way, fueling a growing appreciation for designated dark sky areas. This trend is particularly vibrant in the southern states, where vast open landscapes and mild climates create ideal conditions for stargazing. According to DarkSky International (DSI), the U.S. offers over 60 certified Dark Sky Parks, Reserves, and Communities, drawing thousands of stargazers annually.
The southern half of the US offers an extraordinary array of dark sky sanctuaries, from the striking deserts of New Mexico to the serene lakes of Florida. Sanctuaries are protected areas of land or water with exceptional starry nights offering scientific value, cultural heritage, and public enjoyment. Here are four spots—a tip of the celestial iceberg—to start an escape from winter weather and enjoy evenings filled with star gazing and days of activities in destinations worth visiting (plus a bonus spot if you enjoy winter weather).
St. George Island, Florida
Nestled between Apalachicola Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, St. George Island is not only renowned for its natural beauty but also for its dedication to preserving wildlife, particularly sea turtles. While the island offers a relaxed atmosphere with charming ice cream shops, souvenir stores, and swimwear boutiques, it also stands out for its strict regulations on artificial lighting during sea turtle nesting season. By enforcing dark sky policies, St. George Island ensures a safe environment for these endangered creatures while also creating a serene haven for stargazers and nature enthusiasts alike.
The Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park, a short drive from a luxury waterfront rental property or a rustic campsite, provides breathtaking opportunities to witness a truly dark sky. A volunteer-built observation platform provides a perfect perch for night visitors to see stars and planets.
Gila National Forest, New Mexico
Comprised of over three million acres of diverse landscapes, the Gila National Forest in New Mexico is a haven for nature enthusiasts. This vast expanse features rolling hills, rugged mountains, and serene open ranges, making it an unparalleled retreat into wilderness. As the first designated wilderness area in the world, it includes the Gila Wilderness, a tribute to conservation pioneer Aldo Leopold.
At night, the Gila National Forest transforms into a stargazer's paradise. The Cosmic Campground, recognized as the first Dark Sky Sanctuary in North America, provides a rare opportunity for observing the celestial wonders in an area free of light pollution. Visitors can camp beneath the star-filled sky and marvel at views of constellations, planets, and the Milky Way.
Fredericksburg, Texas
For those traveling to Texas, who may want a little more activity than what can be found at Big Bend National Park, Fredericksburg (a five-hour drive to the east) is a great option. The busy city in Texas Wine Country offers visitors a lot to do during the day. At night, the skies are filled with stars and celestial objects.
The Fredericksburg area now features two International Dark Sky Parks, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area and Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park. Choosing to stay outside the city limits is key if you want to watch the sky until you drift off to sleep. Consider spots like The Vine on Middle Creek, SKYE Texas Hill Country Resort, or the unique Spyglass Treehouse at Onera.
Groveland, Florida
Only 30 miles west of Orlando sits Groveland, Florida. And the town shines by keeping its skies dark. This International Dark Sky Community is dedicated to reducing light pollution, protecting nocturnal ecosystems, and offering breathtaking views of the stars. The town calls on its citizens to promote responsible lighting, raise awareness, and become citizen-scientists to monitor night sky quality. These initiatives ensure the town remains a haven for stargazers in one of Florida’s little-known gems, Lake County.
While visiting, use red-lens flashlights, wear long sleeves for bug protection, and bring a blanket or lawn chair for a comfortable stargazing experience. Groveland is more than a detour from the popular theme parks—it is a celestial escape, reminding us to look up and marvel at the wonders above.
Iceland
Of course, if winter is your thing and you want to get out of the United States for a bit, not much beats Iceland for dark skies viewing. I have even spotted the aurora borealis in the capital city of Reykjavik! Plan to visit Iceland between September and April for the best chances to see the Northern Lights.
Just outside the city, Reykjanes Peninsula offers easy access and excellent viewing conditions from ancient lava fields and coastal viewpoints. The tourist-popular Þingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a favorite for stargazing and northern lights viewing. The park’s remote location ensures minimal light pollution and an unobstructed view of the night sky. On the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, the iconic Kirkjufell Mountain is one of Iceland’s most photographed spots, and the combination of its striking shape and the northern lights makes it a dream for photographers.