Experience the Night Sky
Whether you prefer a guided stargazing experience or to explore on your own at a remote campsite, there are a variety of ways to enjoy the Greater Big Bend International Dark Sky Reserve.
Ways to Visit
Be Prepared
Want the best stargazing experience? Be sure to check the phase of the moon and weather forecasts.
For the darkest skies, plan to observe when the moon is below the horizon. A new moon phase is ideal because the moon is never visible at night, but you can still get dark time in waning or waxing phases. While a full moon is pretty to look at, it will wash out the sky and hide features such as the Milky Way. You can check the moon phase and more here.
The weather in the Chihuahuan Desert is full of extremes. Summers are not only hot, but rain and clouds are more frequent. At higher elevations, such as in the Davis Mountains or Chisos Mountains, always bring a jacket at night regardless of the time of year. Lower elevations can still be uncomfortably hot on summer nights. Spring and fall are the most pleasant times of year, but be sure to make hotel and event reservations well in advance.
Be Courteous
You can help protect what makes dark places special by following these simple steps at observing sites and campgrounds.
Only use light that is truly necessary. Keep flashlights aimed down at your feet, and dim car headlights when others are present. Turn off lights as soon as you are done using them. If you are using a camera, remember to turn off the flash to avoid disturbing others. Please avoid “light-painting”, as this disturbs the experience for others and wildlife.
Use a red light to preserve your dark adaptation. It can take thirty minutes or more for your eyes to adapt to the darkness, but only moments to lose it if you look at a bright light source. Using a red flashlight and red filters on screens can help save your dark adaptation, so long as they are not too bright.
Leave no trace. Camping under the stars can be a magical experience, but please dispose of waste properly and leave the site as you found it. Never pull a car over on tall grass or start campfires in unapproved locations. Plan to arrive at a campground before dark to avoid disturbing others, and respect quiet hours.