North Dakota Is Home To One Of The Best Dark Sky Reserves In The World
Tori Jane
Author
North Dakota is kind of like the final frontier of the United States. Some folks like to give that title to Alaska, but let’s be real here: there are a lot more people visiting Alaska every year than there are visiting North Dakota. We feel like that is some kind of terrible injustice; this state is a wonderland, especially for the lovers of nature and the great outdoors. For example, if you’re a fan of stargazing, have we got some good news for you: there isn’t just one dark sky park in North Dakota. Nope, there are seven – and today, we’re going to check out one of our favorites for some of the best stargazing in ND!
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If you plan to do any stargazing in North Dakota, take a look at this fascinating 360-degree view of the North Dakota sky in this interactive video from the State Historical Society of North Dakota:
To learn more, be sure to check out the official North Dakota Parks and Rec website for all the details you’ll need to book a yurt or plan your trip.
If you’re like us and can’t get enough of our dark, beautiful nights, check out this article about the best place for witnessing the northern lights in North Dakota. Alternatively, you can visit the largest dark sky park in North Dakota for some of the best stargazing in ND!
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Go Stargazing In North Dakota
What is the closest dark sky park near me in North Dakota?
North Dakota has some of the most open and amazing night skies because there is so little light pollution. For that reason, there are a number of designated dark sky areas we can enjoy. Here are a few dark sky parks that might be near you in North Dakota:
- Crow Flies High State Recreation Area: This designated dark sky area is a small hidden gem where you can experience the night sky like it was meant to be experienced. Head to Crow Flies High Butte overlooking Lake Sakakawea for one of the best spots.
- Beaver Lake State Park: This state park is rated as a two on the Bortle Scale (the lower the number the better), which means it is one of the darkest places on Earth. That's why it is a fantastic spot for catching rare celestial events.
- Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area: This outdoor recreation area is a popular spot for ATV trails, kayaking, and mountain biking. With 2,800 acres to explore, there is plenty of land to enjoy. But the night sky is just as enjoyable when the sun goes down and the stars come out.
- Theodore Roosevelt National Park: If you enjoy stargazing, you'll love this national park - especially in late summer when the Dakota Nights Astronomy Festival takes place in Medora, ND. Not only is it a wonderful festival devoted to our love of the heavens, but there are fun activities during the day too.
While there are seven designated dark sky areas in North Dakota, pretty much any state park will give you incredible views of the night sky. Here are ten of our favorite North Dakota state parks where you can experience the wonders of our universe. One of the best ways to enjoy our state parks is by renting an RV and taking a road trip.