At DarkSky Texas, one of our top missions is to preserve the beauty of the night sky for ourselves and the generations to come. There’s no better way to pass this sense of stewardship to the next generation than through stargazing.
For many, stargazing is a side activity to add quiet time while camping or hiking. For others, it can be the guiding arrow that propels them to explore new places. Today, we are taking a virtual trip across Texas to find the best places to stargaze outside of West Texas.
In addition to reduced light pollution, these places often provide learning opportunities and are surrounded by the beauty of nature.
Why Stargaze? It’s Science, Nature, and Adventure Combined!
Stargazing offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and exploration, making it an enriching hobby for people of all ages as you venture away from city lights and into nature’s darkness. This pursuit provides a refreshing escape from daily routines and connects you intimately with the natural world and the universe at large.
What do you need to get started with stargazing?
To begin stargazing, you’ll need a few essential items and some preparation. First, find a dark location away from city lights, and check the weather forecast for clear skies.
Then, make sure to pack:
· A comfortable chair or blanket
· A pair of binoculars
· A red or deep amber flashlight to help preserve your night vision
· Some snacks and water
Also, consider downloading a stargazing app on your smartphone. This will help you learn how to identify celestial bodies and can help you familiarize yourself with the major constellations.
Another approach would be to look for Public Star Parties run by local groups where you will find experienced folks to help guide your stargazing. Most of the locations listed below hold these events on a regular basis. Be aware that cloudy weather can cause Star Parties to be canceled.
A Baker’s Dozen of Great Spots to Stargaze in Texas (Outside of West Texas)
Ask any serious stargazer in Texas where to go for a great night sky. Almost everyone will tell you to go to the area from Big Bend to Ft Davis. But, if you live in the more populated central or eastern parts of the state, where can you find dark skies without driving so many hours?
DarkSky Texas asked its board members and volunteers to share their favorite non-West Texas spots to stargaze within Texas, and the team did not disappoint! These top places will let you escape the skyglow of the cities and enjoy the beauty of the night skies. With plenty of nearby camping sites – and even boutique lodges – these spots are all the perfect backdrop for a magical stargazing experience.
1. Copper Breaks State Park
A certified International Dark Sky Park, this park is named after the deposits of copper scattered around the lake bed, which provide the water with a unique reflection as the sun goes down.
The Copper Breaks State Park is 12 miles south of Quanah, in Hardeman County. The park comprises approximately 1,800 acres, it has framed itself as a family destination. In addition to barbecue grills and designated picnic areas, it offers approximately 10 miles of hiking trails, horseback riding tours, and two lakes. Sunrises and sunsets are spectacular here.
Copper Breaks offers monthly star parties April through November, as well as other night sky programs throughout the year. Check their Events page for the schedule.
2. Mineola Nature Preserve
Less than 90 miles east of Dallas, and a few minutes away from the nearby town of Mineola is Mineola Nature Preserve. This rural haven encompasses 2,911 acres of woods, lakes, and rivers, all typical of Texas’ Wood Country humid environment. The Preserve offers a wide array of daytime attractions — but it actively seeks to reduce light pollution within its boundaries.
The initiative may have been designed for the benefit of its rare birds and buffalo, but it has turned out to be a hit for local astronomy aficionados. The land now gets very dark after sunset, which has already garnered the attention of the Astronomical Society of East Texas. Thanks to them, the Mineola Nature Preserve now hosts occasional star parties, as well as opportunities for stargazing year-round.
3. Sam Houston State University
Formally opened just a few months ago, this new observatory and planetarium have already earned many accolades among local stargazers — including a few of its rising stars, such as the local astronomer-in-the-making “Stargazer Kaleb”, who described the experience as “inspiring”. This facility is located in the middle of the Brazos Valley, comprising an unusual combination of marshes, river shores, prairies and woodlands.
So what makes this observatory itself so special? This state-of-the-art facility was inaugurated in April 2024, and offers a high-tech telescope at the top of a fully wheelchair-friendly dome. If you’re looking for an inclusive and accessible opportunity to explore the universe above us, contact Mike Prokosch at mwp007@shsu.edu.
4. Caddo Mounds
The Caddo Mounds have long been a gathering point for local history aficionados. Here, in the plains near Alto, we can still see the mounds left by an ancient people who lived on our lands over 1,200 years ago. In addition, the nearby Piney Woods also confer an extra drizzle of adventure and spirituality to this ancestral gem.
The area is dark and pristine, without being remote or inhospitable. In fact, the pre-existing historical tours will keep you engaged during the day.. As a result of queries by budding stargazers, the local Historic Site educators are now also organizing astronomy events. In addition to the learning opportunity, stargazing at Caddo Mounds will allow you to share an experience with those who came long before us — and hopefully, with those who will be here 1,000 years from now.
5. Paul and Jane Meyer Observatory
A public open house takes place on the the third Saturday of each month at the Paul and Jane Meyer Observatory, located at the Turner Research Station between Turnersville and Clifton, about 50 miles west of Waco. The Central Texas Astronomical Society owns and operates the observatory, which has a 24-inch telescope at this beautiful dark sky site. In addition, the astronomical society reaches out with events at schools and public parks in Bell County (Temple and Killeen) and in Waco.
The rural area is stunningly beautiful with plenty to explore in Clifton and other nearby communities. The Bosque County landscape features rolling hills, rivers and lakes and Meridian State Park. It has acquired a reputation as an artistic destination because of its natural beauty.
7. Inks Lake State Park
Renowned for its picturesque scenery, Inks Lake is one of the most prolific fishing spots in the Hill Country. It is technically a reservoir of the Colorado River, located on the border between Burnett and Llano counties.
This spot offers a vast skyline with almost no light pollution. Most properties bordering the lake have adopted the Five Principles for Responsible Outdoor Lighting and are highly committed to preserving the area’s natural beauty. This spot is particularly suited for those with a more adventurous spirit, as it offers a few extra thrills in the area, such as cliff jumping.
7. Westcave Outdoor Preserve
The Westcave Preserve was established in 1976 to protect a place of extraordinary beauty: a 76-acre collection of grottos and upland forests. The park is located in Southwest Travis County, in the middle of the Texas Hill Country. Here, waters and sky take center stage, building a unique microclimate around it.
This park is open by reservation only. In addition to stargazing events, they routinely host hikes, field trips, birdwatching tours, and even meditative walks. They also have strict rules to keep nature as untouched and unblemished as possible: pets and river swimming are both forbidden, and they strongly encourage all visitors to book a guided tour.
8. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
This protected area is named after the Enchanted Rock it surrounds: a 425-foot pink granite batholith that pierces the plains in the Texas Hill Country.
Located just 26 miles south of Llano, the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is extremely popular with families and individuals due to its stunning beauty and easy access. Due to this popularity, be sure to make reservations in advance.
As the sun sets, the rock formations create mesmerizing shadows that bathe the surrounding air with a pink-purple glow. When climbing at night is allowed, the top of the Enchanted Rock provides a natural platform to gaze at the universe without interference. Even from the lower elevations, the stars are delightful at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area.
9. Pedernales Falls State Park
Just over 40 miles west of Austin, between Johnson City and Dripping Springs (the State’s first certified International Dark Sky Community), you can stargaze, camp, hike, mountain bike, picnic, geocache, bird watch and ride horses at Pedernales Falls State Park. Watch the Austin Astronomical Society website for dates when members hold Star Parties at this park and Inks Lake State Park (above).
Through their year-round calendars full of community events, close by Johnson City and Dripping Springs attract diverse visitors, from families looking to teach their young ones more about nature, to birdwatchers and wedding parties. You’ll also find live music lovers and those looking for quality wines in addition to stargazers.
10. The Stephen F. Austin (SFA) Observatory and Planetarium
Just 11 miles north of Nacogdoches, Texas, the SFA Observatory is the largest astronomical facility in Eastern Texas and the second largest in the Central Time Zone. It is officially a part of Stephen F. Austin University, and therefore, it takes its educational mission seriously – while remaining friendly to younger folks, hobbyists, and rugged explorers in the area.
In addition to a modern and superbly kept observation dome, visitors here can rent stargazing equipment, camp, or take a side tour of their wildlife viewing area.
11. Matagorda Island
Head to the coast for this destination: Matagorda Island, an hour north of Corpus Christi. Instead of vast plains and endless deserts, Matagorda Island combines its pristine sky with a large, peaceful shoreline and a unique marshy ecosystem.
Although remote, this island is perfect for anyone who wants to combine rugged camping with self-reflection and peace. Just make sure to bring your provisions!
12. South Padre Island
The best publicly accessible place to view stars in the RGV is to drive north on the beach of South Padre Island. There are Bortle Class 3/rural skies if you drive far enough north and away from the City of South Padre Island. A 4-wheel drive is needed because you will be driving on sand. Beach access is available at Cameron County Beach Accesses number 5 and 6. Check for weather and tides before you go. Dispersed camping is allowed. Some beach accesses closer to town have restrooms, but once you drive north there are no public facilities. There is a fee of $10 to drive on to the beach. Bring cash.
13. Falcon State Park, Roma, Texas
You will find Bortle Class 4 suburban/rural transition skies at Falcon State Park. Camping is allowed in the park, including sites with RV hookups, and there are shower/restroom facilities. The brush country is pleasant to visit in the winter, which is also the best time to stargaze. Day passes for the park are good from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. If you intend to stay past 10 p.m. you will need a campsite reservation. https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/falcon
No matter where you go in the Rio Grande Valley region, consider birdwatching too!
Ready to Start Stargazing?
DarkSky Texas is ready to embark on a cosmic stargazing journey with you. Whether you’re fascinated by distant galaxies or enjoy the tranquility of a star-filled night, these top places to stargaze in Texas can help you get started.
And if you want to take it a step further, help us preserve Texas night skies. Join DarkSky Texas today to donate, become a member, or volunteer for one of our upcoming seminars.
