The Best RV Stargazing Destinations in North America
The fun doesn’t have to end at sundown when it comes to RVing. Because RVs take us off the beaten path, they allow us to get breathtaking views of the night sky when visiting remote locations. In fact, multiple RV parks also double as “dark sky” parks, which are parks that have minimal to no light pollution. So, grab your telescope, download a stargazing app, and let us explore 6 of the best stargazing destinations to visit in North America.
6 Stargazing Destinations to Visit on Your Next Adventure
1. Dark Sky RV Campground, Utah
Proclaiming itself as “a new way to RV,” the Dark Sky RV Campground in Kanab, Utah, is a must-stop for all Astro-RVers. Built by RVers for RVers, the 40-acre park is where natural beauty and modern RV amenities meet. With little to no light pollution, visitors can gaze upon some of Utah’s darkest skies, with the Milky Way at peak visibility from spring through fall.
Availability: Open year-round.
Nightly Rates: As of this writing, rates start at around $70 per night, but the longer you stay, the less expensive the nightly rate is.
2. Death Valley National Park, California
Home to the Mojave Desert and endless stretches of dusty roads, Death Valley National Park is an excellent stargazing destination in California. Certified as a dark sky park, Death Valley has all the peak stargazing conditions: dry weather, remote desert, and almost no light pollution. If you’re hoping to visit Death Valley, we recommend staying at the Furnace Creek Campground, as this is the area’s only campground with hook-up sites.
Availability: Open year-round, but reservations are required from October 15th to April 15th.
Nightly Rates: As of this writing, rates with hook-ups start at around $36.
3. Big Bend National Park, Texas
It’s impossible to create a stargazing destination list without including Big Bend National Park. Located in southwest Texas, Big Bend National Park is one of the nation’s least light-polluted areas. With over 800,000 acres of unspoiled land, the park is a scenic mix of desert landscapes and river canyons. When visiting, consider staying at the Rio Grande Village RV Park. Hook-ups aren’t available, but there are communal showers and a fill/dump station.
Availability: Open year-round, but reservations are required.
Nightly Rates: As of this writing, rates start at around $16 a night.
4. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
The Grand Canyon is a perfect example of two birds, one stone. As one of the seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Grand Canyon is an ideal stop for both day and night-time activities. When visiting, soak in all the picturesque views during the day, then turn your eyes towards the sky at night to see the Milky Way. When visiting with your RV, you’ll want to head towards Trailer Village, the only campground site with full hook-ups.
Availability: Some campsites are open year-round, while others close during winter. Trailer Village is open all year.
Nightly Rates: As of this writing, rates start at around $18 but will vary depending on which campground you visit.
5. Cape Hatteras National Seashore, North Carolina
If you find yourself on the East Coast, then be sure to stop by Cape Hatteras National Seashore, located on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Miles from development, this seashore is one of the darkest sites you can visit along the East Coast. When visiting, we recommend staying at the Cape Point Campground near the famous Cape Hatteras Lighthouse.
Availability: 2 out of 4 campgrounds are open year-round.
Nightly Rates: As of this writing, rates start at around $28 for no utility hook-ups.
6. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado
Looking for a diverse landscape that also has beautiful night-sky views? Then you’ll want to visit Great Sand Dunes National Park. Here, the tallest dunes in North America are the centerpiece in a landscape made up of wetlands, grasslands, and snow-capped mountains. Certified as a dark sky park, the area’s dunes blend Earth and sky for a truly mesmerizing experience.
Availability: Most campsites are open year-round.
Nightly Rates: As of this writing, rates start at around $15.
Don’t Forget About RV Insurance
When stargazing, you’ll visit some of the nation’s most remote destinations. So, it’s crucial that you have the proper insurance coverage for your RV. Unfortunately, a standard auto policy doesn’t offer you the same amount of protection that a specialty RV insurance policy does. To get a free RV insurance quote, call (866) 501-7335 to speak with one of our RV Insurance Specialists.