This Remote Little Town In Texas Is One Of The Darkest Places In The Nation
By Katie Lawrence|Published July 14, 2018
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
You’ve probably never even heard of the tiny town of Quanah, located just a few miles below the Oklahoma border. Most people haven’t, and that’s part of what makes it such an amazing place to visit. The small population and the International Dark Sky Park designation provide unforgettable nighttime views you simply can’t find anywhere else.
Despite living in the 2nd most populated state in the country, we here in Texas are blessed with some of the darkest skies around as well. So grab some marshmallows, a tent, and the whole family and get ready to marvel at the Milky Way band in all its celestial glory.
For nearly 15 years before ever receiving IDA certification, Copper Breaks has been hosting events to celebrate the rare views the park provides. It's also replaced many of its outdoor lights with fixtures that prevent light from shining upward, so as to keep the sky as dark as possible.
In 2014, it was officially designated an International Dark Sky Park and awarded "Gold-tier" status, which is the highest existing honor. The park joins Enchanted Rock, Big Bend Ranch, and the City of Dripping Springs.
Over 50 campsites exist in the park, some with water + electricity, others with water only, and a few that are primitive hike-ins. Laying out under the glittering sky before settling into your tent for the night is an experience you won't be forgetting anytime soon.
Although we're here to talk about nighttime, Copper Breaks is an awesome place to explore during the day as well. You can hike, bike, swim, fish, boat, picnic, and so much more. Click here for more information.