Cherry Springs State Park Stargazing – What to Know Before You Go
- 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.
- Watch the moon phase.
- 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.
- Become familiar with park facilities and where to observe.
- 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.
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