One of the best parts about living in a more rural state is that it’s so much easier to see the stars. In most areas of Nebraska, there isn’t enough light pollution to block out the constellations. Even in our bigger cities, like Omaha, you’re never more than half an hour or so from a great stargazing spot. But if you want to see a truly magical, unfettered view of the stars, you’ve got to really go out into nature. One of the most magical places for stargazing in Nebraska is way out in the middle of nowhere, in the northwest corner of the state.

Toadstool Geologic Park is a pretty stunning place any time of day. It's up near Crawford and Harrison, not too far from the border. It's filled with unusual rock formations (many of which resemble toadstools, hence the name).
Christine Warner/Flickr
You'll find some great trails here. There's a campground and many fossils have been discovered in the park.
But it's at nighttime that Toadstool Geologic Park really shines (no pun intended).
Diana Robinson/Flickr
Since the park is open 24 hours a day, it's a great spot for astronomy lovers to come out and admire the constellations.
Diana Robinson/Flickr

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You can get naked eye views of the Milky Way here.
David Kingham/Flickr
The light from the stars shining down on the rock formations is ethereal. You almost feel like you've been transported to another planet.
Dan Moorehouse/Google Maps
You'll need a clear night to get a truly amazing view, but it's certainly worth all the planning to see sights like this.
Diana Robinson/Flickr

What’s your favorite spot for stargazing in Nebraska? There are so many rural areas far from city lights here, so there’s plenty of places to get out and enjoy the night sky.

For more information about Toadstool Geologic Park, check out the USDA Forest Service page.

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Toadstool Geological Park and Campground, Harrison, NE 69346, USA