Due to strong light pollution, San Antonio is not the best place for stargazing. However, it's possible to find quite a few dark spots to gaze up starry skies even in the city. One of them is McAllister Park, located north of downtown. The park was chosen by San Antonio Astronomical Association for meetings and stargazing events that usually take place on Wednesday nights.
If you take the time to drive for about 2 hours, you can reach some of the best areas for stargazing in Texas. The open spaces and beautiful nature preserves of Hill Country are perfect for watching the stars. Make sure to check a weather forecast and moon phases before you go.
In the summer, the chances to see and photograph the Milky Way are higher. In the winter, you can count on longer, darker, and clearer nights, which allows people to observe various phenomena.
Enchanted Rock
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area can be reached from San Antonio in just over 2 hours. It's famous for its pink granite mountain and beautiful scenery. The area is known for low light pollution and amazing stargazing. It also offers camping sites, hiking cave exploration, and rock climbing.
Hill Country State Natural Area
Located within 1 hour drive from San Antonio, The Hill Country State Natural Area is suitable for hiking and picnics during the day and becomes a perfect site for astrophotography at night.
Los Maples State Natural Area
Los Maples State Natural Area is another area known for its dark skies. Scenic hills and canyons on the upper Sabinal River in the Edwards Plateau Region attract both hikers and astronomy enthusiasts gathering in the park for star parties and other events.
Government Canyon State Natural Area
Spanning 12,244 ac (4,937 ha) of rugged hills and canyons, Government Canyon State Natural Area is located just 20 minutes from San Antonio. Government Canyon State Natural Area offers many hiking trails and outdoor activities as well as camping during the night, which can be combined with stargazing.
San Antonio also offers many educational resources that help understand the universe better. Scobee Education Center has a planetarium open to the public on Friday evenings. Meanwhile, the Curtis Vaughan Jr. Observatory hosts First Friday Stargazing and Friday Nights Celestial Lights during the Spring and Fall months.
Practical info
What is the best time of year to go stargazing in San Antonio, TX?
Though suitable for the purpose throughout the year, the best stargazing season in San Antonio is the period from May to August. The probability of clear skies is higher, and the Milky Way is visible during this period primarily. On the other hand, observing the different celestial phenomena such as comets and meteor showers is recommended during the winter season, where the sky is more transparent and the nights are more extended. Show more
Where are the best places for stargazing in San Antonio?
Due to the high level of light pollution, San Antonio does not offer the best stargazing experience. However, a few locations with minimal to no light pollution may aid in stargazing, such as McAllister Park, Government Canyon State Natural Area, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, Hill Country State Natural Area, and Los Maples State Natural Area. It is suggested to explore parks and nature preserves located within two hours drive from San Antonio for better and more ideal stargazing. Show more
When is the Milky Way visible from San Antonio, TX?
San Antonians can view the Milky Way during summer, between the periods of May to August. A higher likelihood of clear skies during this time leads to better visibility. Although observing celestial phenomena like meteor showers and comets is more practical during winter, specifically between December and February. Before stargazing, there is a need to check both the weather and moon phases to avoid any disappointment. Show more
What are some popular hiking spots in San Antonio that also offer great stargazing opportunities?
A few of the well-known hiking trails in San Antonio with fantastic stargazing opportunities are Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, Hill Country State Natural Area, Government Canyon State Natural Area, and Los Maples State Natural Area. Due to their distance from the city, the light pollution is relatively less, allowing for a better experience. One should ensure to pack proper gear and essentials like water and snacks for a comfortable hiking and stargazing trip. Show more
Are there any educational resources in San Antonio that can help with stargazing?
San Antonio provides several educational resources to understand the universe better. San Antonio College's Scobee Education Center is open to the public on Friday evenings. The planetarium here is an excellent source to learn about planets, constellations, and the night sky. For stargazing and engaging with the universe, the Curtis Vaughan Jr. Observatory hosts First Friday Stargazing and Friday Nights Celestial Lights during Spring and Fall months. Show more
