1. Cherry Springs State Park – Pennsylvania Located in a designated Dark Sky Park, Cherry Springs is widely regarded as the best place on the East Coast to stargaze. Clear skies and low light pollution make this a bucket-list destination. Bonus Tip: Visit during a new moon or meteor shower weekend for the ultimate stargazing experience.
2. Big Bend National Park – Texas This remote park near the Mexican border offers a vast, quiet desert landscape with zero light pollution. You’ll feel like you're camping on another planet—complete with a sky full of stars. Tent Pick: Lightweight desert tents with good ventilation and UV resistance work best here.
3. Great Basin National Park – Nevada Hidden away in eastern Nevada, this park hosts annual astronomy festivals and has some of the darkest skies in the continental U.S. Camping Hack: Use red lights instead of white ones to preserve night vision while stargazing.
4. Bryce Canyon National Park – Utah Bryce is known for its “Dark Ranger” programs and dramatic rock formations that make for a surreal stargazing backdrop. Expect guided night hikes and telescope programs from rangers.
5. Glacier National Park – Montana Though known for its alpine views and wildlife, Glacier also has pristine skies ideal for seeing the Milky Way. The elevated terrain enhances your view of the stars. If you're looking to combine epic camping with out-of-this-world stargazing, these five campsites should be on your radar. Pack your best gear from TheTentStore.com, and don’t forget your camera—these skies are unforgettable.