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Cherry Springs State Park Stargazing – What to Know Before You Go

October 4, 2018

Stargazing at Cherry Springs is a stellar experience; but don’t forget there are many daytime activities to enjoy before the nighttime show. Be sure to plan your trip to include other great area attractions and experiences.
Lodging is limited near Cherry Springs State Park – be sure to consult our places to stay page before you arrive and make your lodging reservations.
Shuttle service to the park is available with reservations.
Guided night sky tours are available with reservations.
Plan ahead
- Watch the moon phase.
  - Visit during last quarter or new moon timeframes to see the true dark skies and the milky way.
  - Observing the moon when it’s near first quarter is great for novice telescope owners.
  - While the full moon limits the experience for some, it is still amazing to witness.
- Book your stay early, especially on popular weekends near the new moon or special events.
- Bring an old-fashioned map in addition to your navigation system.
- Services are limited near the park.
  - Towns nearby offer fuel, food and lodging.
Dress for the weather
- It’s always colder on top of the hill at the park with the clearest nights usually being the coldest
- An extra layer is great, but so is a blanket and maybe even a camp chair (there is limited seating)
- Even in the summer, pants and a sweatshirt are usually needed later in the evening.
Bring only a dim red light to allow your eyes to adapt
- Avoid full-sized flashlights or even smart phone flashlights.
- Adapt smaller flashlights with red cellophane available at the park welcome kiosk.
- Smart phones should also be adapted with red cellophane.
  - Use the lock screen as your light when it’s dark.
Check the forecast
- Even clouds will prevent observing, so check specialized observing forecasts such as the Clear Sky Chart (below).
Arrive before dark
- Become familiar with park facilities and where to observe.
  - Use headlights when driving at all times after dark in the parking area. Safety first.
Set up for stargazing in the Night Sky Public Viewing Area (grassy field beyond earthen berms)
- For safety and a better experience, avoid observing in the parking areas.
- A special overnight area is also available for those with a telescope and staying overnight.
  - Find out more about this option prior to visiting on the park webpage.
Enhance your visit with a guided telescope tour or other programs
- Many programs fill in advance or require registration.
- Scheduled programs will be cancelled in the event of rain or thunder.
- Programs will be shortened or adapted on cloudy nights.