Many people who have visited Texas say there are huge and bright stars there. And we suppose this point is well taken. You see, Texas has wide-open spaces away from urban areas without city lights. This makes these spots the favorite ones among stargazers. You can enjoy stargazing all year round; however, the best time to go stargazing in Texas is from May to September.
So, we’ve put together a list of the best places for enjoying the night sky in Texas. Pack your bags and head towards the magnificent beauty of the night.
Big Bend National Park
Big Bend National Park is a vast park, including the entire Chisos mountain range. The International Dark-Sky Association named it a gold-tier designation. Big Bend shares this honor with only 13 other parks, scattered all over the world. The International Dark-Sky Association is a non-profit organization that works to protect the night skies. Also, this place is ranked number four on the International Dark-Sky Association’s top seven stargazing spots in the world.
McDonald Observatory
The McDonald Observatory is located near the community of Fort Davis in Jeff Davis County. Being only two hours north of Big Bend National Park, this place features four top-quality telescopes that allow visitors to look deep into the magical night sky. The McDonald Observatory also offers guided tours. We recommend you check its official website in the External Resources below for more detailed information.
Matagorda Island
Untamed and rugged, Matagorda Island is located in the heart of the Gulf Coast. It has no electricity, no concessions, no private motorized vehicles—only the pristine beauty. You can camp there for a night or two and go stargazing anywhere along the beach. But be careful: all these gorgeous stars above the Gulf waters may blow your mind.
Palo Duro Canyon
Palo Duro Canyon is the second-largest canyon in the USA, located near Amarillo and Canyon. The park on its territory hosts regular stargazing parties and full moon hikes. Be ready to see the breathtaking Milky Way along with thousands of other stars.
Brazos Bend State Park
On its territory, Brazos Bend State Park has the George Observatory, which has one of the biggest telescopes in the USA. Regularly available for public use, this 36-inch Gueymard Research Telescope offers stargazers astonishing views of the solar system. For example, visitors can see the rings of Saturn, a total eclipse of the Moon, and even cloud belts on Jupiter.
Practical info
What is the best time to stargaze in Texas, and for how long?
You can stargaze in Texas all year round, but the best time is from May to September when the sky is clear and the weather conditions are most favorable. The ideal stargazing duration depends on personal preferences, but visitors can expect to see a good number of stars as soon as it gets dark. The temperature can still be hot, so be sure to wear appropriate clothing and bring water. Show more
What are some recommended locations for stargazing in Texas?
Texas is renowned for natural beauty, and several locations offer fantastic stargazing views. Some of the best locations include Big Bend National Park, McDonald Observatory, Matagorda Island, Palo Duro Canyon, and Brazos Bend State Park. Visitors can enjoy stunning scenery and get a perfect view of the night sky, creating serene and unforgettable experiences. Show more
What can visitors expect from a visit to McDonald Observatory, and how can one arrange a visit?
McDonald Observatory is an impressive attraction close to Fort Davis, offering visitors a chance to observe the night sky through quality telescopes. Visitors can enjoy guided tours of the four telescopes, gazing into the beautiful night sky and exploring the magical universe. The observatory offers pre-arranged tours and educational programs. Check its official website to find out more and schedule a visit. Show more
Is visiting Matagorda Island possible throughout the year, and are there amenities available?
Matagorda Island is located in the heart of the Gulf Coast and can be reached solely by boat. While the island is open throughout the year, visitors should note that it does not have any electricity, concessions or motorized vehicles. However, visitors can camp on the beach and explore the beauty of the island, including stargazing. Make sure to pack all necessary supplies and camping gear. Show more
What sets Brazos Bend State Park apart from other stargazing spots in Texas?
Brazos Bend State Park is unique and offers a distinct experience compared to other stargazing spots in Texas. The park features the famous George Observatory hosting one of the most extensive telescopes in the country. Visitors can view incredible sights like the Moon, Saturn, Jupiter, and much more. The telescope is regularly available to the public, creating a unique experience for stargazing enthusiasts. Show more
