In the summertime, the Milky Way is high above the Northern Hemisphere, and if you plan out your nighttime adventure for a New Moon, you’ll have a good chance of seeing it. All you have to do is track down the darkest skies at the best places to see stars in Iowa! Here are a few of the best places to go stargazing in the Hawkeye State.

1. The Ashton Observatory
Ashton Observatory, 0122100004, Mingo, IA 50168, USA
The Des Moines Astronomical Society
The impressive Ashton Observatory is home to the Des Moines Astronomical Society, and it's open for public nights and events on certain dates throughout the year. It's a great place to learn all about the cosmos and is one of the best places for stargazing in Iowa. You can learn more about the Ashton Observatory on the Des Moines Astrological Society's website.
2. Whiterock Conservancy
Whiterock Conservancy, 1436 IA-141, Coon Rapids, IA 50058, USA
Flickr / mlhauge
The Whiterock Conservancy hosts Night Sky programs in their star field where you'll get to see some of the darkest skies in the state. Its one of the best places to see stars in Iowa. Visit the Whiterock Conservancy website to learn more.

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3. South-Central Iowa
Flickr / Nick Ayers
According to the Dark Sky Finder, south-central Iowa along the Missouri border is where you'll find the darkest skies in the state. Pull over next to a big, open field and you'll be able to see thousands of stars lighting up the night sky. They are some of the darkest sky sites in this part of the state.
4. Preparation Canyon State Park
Preparation Canyon State Park, 340th St, Moorhead, IA 51558, USA
Flickr / Joel Tonyan
The elevations of the Loess Hills offer a stunning view high above most light pollution, and you'll enjoy a broad view of the sky from Preparation Canyon State Park or Loess Hills State Forest. This area is one of the most incredible places in the state for stargazing. Learn more about Preparation Canyon State Park on the Iowa Department of Natural Resources website.
5. Lake Sugema
Lake Sugema, Iowa 52565, USA
Flickr / subarurally
Camp out at Lake Sugema to find some of the darkest skies in Iowa. You'll be able to spot dozens of constellations if you know where to look, so bring a sky map. It's one of the best dark sky sites in the state. Learn more about Lake Sugema on the Iowa Department of Natural Resources website.

Have you visited any of these best places to see stars in Iowa? Track down these great stargazing spots in Iowa for a nighttime adventure like no other! Check out a Milky Way spotting planner and the Dark Sky Finder to plan your trip and know what to look out for. Be sure to bring a sky map, too!

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Stargazing In Iowa

Melissa M. | January 03, 2023

Are there any official night sky parks in Iowa?

There are many dark sky sites in Iowa which include the following seven places:

  • Lowess Hills State Forest
  • Nine Eagles State Park
  • Yellow River State Forest
  • Springbrook State Park
  • Prairie Rose State Park
  • Lake Wapello State Park
  • Moore-Gosch Memorial Park

 

These places are remote enough and far enough away from light pollution for the ultimate stargazing experience.

Are there any accommodations in Iowa to sleep under the stars?

Yes, there is a unique Airbnb in Missouri Valley where one can sleep under the stars in Iowa. Not only does it have two bedrooms, a fully-equipped kitchen, and two floors that can accommodate up to six guests comfortably, but its remote location offers fantastic night sky views. The Grain Bin Getaway is situated on a farm and has a unique dome roof and plenty of windows. Head outside after dark and view the Milky Way like never before. There is even a fire pit to keep guests warm while stargazing.

 

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Explore Iowa

Featured Addresses
Ashton Observatory, 0122100004, Mingo, IA 50168, USA
Whiterock Conservancy, 1436 IA-141, Coon Rapids, IA 50058, USA
Preparation Canyon State Park, 340th St, Moorhead, IA 51558, USA
Lake Sugema, Iowa 52565, USA