It’s also a frequent spot for the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association to host their events. Curry said the White Tank Mountains to … CMC's numerical weather forecasts are unique because they are specifically designed for astronomers. If you’re looking for a place to see the Milky Way near Tucson, the best thing to do is head over to Oracle State Park. Tucson is one of the best major cities in the United States to go stargazing. All attempts are made to avoid improper use of copyrighted or proprietary material. Oracle State Park is an International Dark Sky Park. This is by no means an exhaustive list of stargazing spots in Tucson, but it’s a good list to get you started. The next one is Saturday, June 8 at Oracle State Park. June events at the Oracle State Park STARGAZING Volunteers set up telescopes for night sky viewing at Star Parties at the Oracle State Park. Practically next door to Dead Horse Point State Park is the dramatic Mesa Arch, a landmark of the Canyonlands National Park and a favorite of astrophotographers. In other words, not super stargazing-friendly. Admission cost for entrance into Oracle State Park may apply. Located in the southern portion of the state, the resort is in St. George with close access to Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks, and Snow Canyon State Park is less than a half-mile away. Star Party-Oracle State Park Mount Lemmon SkyCenter is known for having the largest public telescopes in the country. Stargazing began at 8 pm. Oracle State Park About an hour and 15 minutes north of Tucson, Oracle State Park is yet another gem for stargazers and outdoor enthusiasts. Celebrate the summer solstice at Oracle State Park! Oracle is proud of its art community. Astronomy clubs often use dark sky sites as their preferred viewing locations if nearby. This area has a lot of history behind it, and it’s another spot frequented by the Tucson Amateur Astronomical Society. We will observe Planets, Nebulae, Galaxies, Star Clusters and lots more. After a glorious desert sunset, watch the stars light up the sky. I’m coming to visit February 18-25 2020. This is simply one of the best stargazing spots you can find anywhere and is something you can’t afford to miss. Like Catalina State Park, both occasionally host public star parties. The American Avenue Parking Area is open seven days a week for stargazing. The ranch house tour will take about 1 plus hours. The parks featured throughout this book offer some of the best hiking, camping, fishing, boating, stargazing, and wildlife watching in the state. Non Discrimination and Anti-Harassment Policy, Tucson Stargazing Adventures (Private/Resort Events), ONLINE – Astronomy Fundamentals Meeting – January 2021, Agua Caliente Park Stargazing (TENTATIVE). Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park. Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association will have several telescopes for astronomical viewing. From the canyons in the north to the grasslands in the south, there are plenty of places to stargaze in Arizona. From the East & North Bay. Location: Oracle State Park, Oracle AZ, about 4400 ft elevation Weather: Clear skies, mid-80s at home in Marana, AZ about 35 miles southwest of the park 5:45 PM, dropping to mid-50s in the park to around 9:00 PM when done. About Dark Skies | Oracle State Park Arizona is home to a variety of stargazing opportunities thanks to ample dark skies throughout the more rural sections of the state. Oracle State Park is a state park of Arizona, USA, preserving 3,948 acres (1,598 ha) in the northeastern foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains.The park is named after the nearby town of Oracle.Oracle State Park serves as a wildlife refuge, and is open every day from 9am - 5pm. This Fourth Avenue bar has telescopes and astronomers on its patio every night. Thanks to the designation, Oracle State Park has become a prime location for those wanting to check out the planets with a telescope, shoot some astrophotography, or even just watch the stars slowly move across the sky. Telescopes will be set up on the spacious Kannally Ranch House patio at Oracle State Park for viewing the night sky on Saturday, June 21. Tucson, AZ The data comes from a forecast model developed by Allan Rahill of the Canadian Meteorological Centre. Sounds perfect for date night, family night, or just any ol’ night out. In Tucson, it doesn’t really matter when you decide to go stargazing. Pier 30/32. This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Reviewed May 27, 2018 . Oracle State Park Another state park where amateur astronomers set up their gear is Oracle State Park. Will the new moon impact viewing? Stargazing.) desertrat521. She decided to start the site after realizing how many friends and family had never seen the Milky Way, and that space tourism was going to unlock the next great travel destination: space! Located in Pinal County on 323 acres at an elevation of 2,400 feet. Catalina State Park can be found right next to the Santa Catalina Mountains. For experienced and serious stargazers, Oracle is Arizona’s mecca for their pursuit because it was designated as an International Dark Sky Park, the first of its kind in the state, in 2014. It’s no surprise to Arizona residents that these state parks provide great adventure through easy day trips and weekend getaways. Facebook/Oracle State Park You'll find the park at 3820 Wildlife Dr., Oracle, AZ 85623. It is a popular spot for camping, hiking, and birdwatching. It can be seen from many of the area’s parks and observatories when the conditions are right. 3820 Wildlife Dr., Oracle, AZ 85623, azstateparks.com They are well-known for their Hyperstar line of lenses. Oracle State Park serves as a wildlife refuge, and is open every day from 7:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. In the case of Oracle State Park, which is only 20 miles from Tucson, the Santa Catalina Mountains block out the city lights. A 4,000-acre state park and wildlife refuge situated in the northern foothills of the Catalina Mountains, Oracle was designated a Dark Sky Park in 2014. Members: for full details about club-only events, log into your MemberPlanet account. Oracle State Park. Afterward you can drive up the control road (goes up the back side of the mountains). Home to the International Dark-Sky Association (STG founder Valerie is a proud member! The state park system in Arizona includes both state parks and state historic parks, as well as other designations such as natural areas and recreation areas. The milky way seems so close here, and it’s so bright, it can cast your shadow onto the ground. Likewise, Fountain Hills, an exurb on the northern flank of metro Phoenix, enjoys surprisingly dark nights, Oracle State Park is one of them. Oracle State Park is a 4,000 acre wildlife refuge and a portion of the scenic Arizona Trail crosses through the park. Alternate times and days may be added by reservation. Oracle State Park/Facebook It has the Catalinas to thank; the mountain range is large enough that it blocks out most of the glow from Tucson and its suburbs. There is generally a talk and other events also taking place. Its low light pollution and natural surroundings make it an excellent spot to watch the night sky. Oracle State Park is a certified Dark Sky Park, making it a great spot to see the Milky Way. Oracle State Park is a 4,000 acre wildlife refuge in the northern foothills of the Catalina Mountains. In other words, not super stargazing-friendly. This makes Oracle one of the best places for stargazing, despite its proximity to such a large metropolitan area. Likewise, Fountain Hills, an exurb on the northern flank of metro Phoenix, enjoys surprisingly dark nights thanks to the rocky veil provided by McDowell Mountains. Ask in the comments. Tucked into the foothills of the Catalina Mountains, Oracle State Park is near Tucson but far enough from most light pollution for visitors to experience a dark, starlit sky. Oracle State Park, Arizona With skyglow from nearby Tucson blocked by the Santa Catalina Mountains, Oracle remains one of the most remote and least visited parks in Arizona. Bonus: If you're willing to go further out of town, there are some great stargazing options in state parks about an hour from Tucson. For a city of this size, you simply can’t get any better than Tucson. In fact, Tucson happens to be known as the astronomy capital of the world. Arizona is home to a variety of stargazing opportunities thanks to ample dark skies throughout the more rural sections of the state. May 20, 2016 - Arizona is home to a variety of stargazing opportunities thanks to ample dark skies throughout the more rural sections of the state. Also, it’s a good idea to watch out for Arizona’s monsoon season. Rangers often set up telescopes for the public at Grand View Point in the Island in the Sky area, as well as at The Needles Visitor Center (though that's accessed from the south, a few hours' drive away). Viewing Location: Kannally Ranch House Grand Canyon National Park Thanks to low humidity and high elevation, the Grand Canyon has many clear, cloudless nights that make stargazing here a dream. It’s also known to hold star parties on occasion. Oracle State Park is a certified Dark Sky Park, making it a great spot to see the Milky Way. Viewing Location: Kannally Ranch House. About Dark Skies | Oracle State Park Arizona is home to a variety of stargazing opportunities thanks to ample dark skies throughout the more rural sections of the state. But they have 1180 forecast maps. Comprises Arizona’s oldest and largest botanical garden. 34 8. In addition to stargazing and toe tapping, the recently formed Oracle Dark Skies Committee will be on hand to discuss its work to have Oracle State Park designated as an International Dark Sky Park by the international Dark-Sky Association. More: Best places for stargazing in Arizona: Where to see the Milky Way, meteors and planets. 3820 Wildlife Dr., Oracle, AZ 85623, azstateparks.com. If you feel we have infringed, published inaccuracies, or material offensive in nature, please email our webmaster at webmaster [at] tucsonastronomy.org to advise us so that we may promptly address the issue. Take advantage of the early darkness with a desert stargazing adventure. Valerie is the founder and editor of Space Tourism Guide. Kartchner Caverns is a popular state park that features a cave system that’s open to tourists. They frequently hold astronomical events for the public. Kartchner Caverns State Park at night 5/5 SLIDES Many parts of Arizona are known for clear and dark skies, making the state the perfect place to see the … Capacity in the house is limited and you must wear a mask in park buildings. In the case of Oracle State Park, which is only 20 miles (32 kilometers) from Tucson, the Santa Catalina Mountains block out the city lights. Oracle State Park Campground in Oracle Arizona is a campground or RV park with hiking opportunities immediately from the campground or within a very close distance. This post was originally published in September 2018, and was updated in September 2020.Featured image credit: Bob Wick for BLM via Flickr. You have lots of choices, including Oracle State Park and Petrified Forest National Park. If you are not yet a member, please consider joining us. San Tan Valley, Arizona. Get Out and Explore Arizona During National Great Outdoors Month June 5, 2017. Located in La Paz County on 679 acres at an elevation of 420 feet. Undercover is a variety dance band from Tucson known for a great sound, playing an eclectic blend of songs and styles from the 60s through today. Sky Bar is your answer. All you need to do is know what to look for and where to find the darkest skies. ), the city of Tucson has taken large and bold steps to reduce light pollution, and it is one of the best mid-sized cities where you can stargaze right within the city. This Enchanting Star Park Will Let You Experience Arizona Like Never Before. Oracle State Park. Want a place in the heart of Tucson where you can enjoy the night sky and a great slice of pizza? All Rights Reserved. Celebrate the summer solstice at Oracle State Park! It’s run by volunteer astronomers who can show you some of the more fascinating aspects of our universe. Newport State Park – Ellison Bay. The budget was allocated in May 2018 with progress to start immediately. In early 2014, Oracle State Park and the Oracle Dark Skies Committee began working together to pursue an International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) "International Dark Sky Park" (IDSP) designation for Oracle State Park. The sunsets early throughout the winter months, and it can be hard to find outdoor activities after dark. 7000 N. Resort Dr., Tucson, AZ 85750, loewshotels.com/ventana-canyon. Below you may download the final Oracle State Park “International Dark Sky Park” (IDSP) Nomination Package in PDF format. Admission cost for entrance into Oracle State Park may apply. 3693 S. Old Spanish Trail, Tucson, AZ 85730, nps.gov. Kathy, the new moon is the best time for viewing. Its clear skies and desert climate provide the best conditions for stargazing. Oracle State Park is a nearby alternative to Saguaro National Park. Here are six places to go stargazing. Starizona is a retail store in Tucson that specializes in astronomy-related equipment. Stargazing can be an activity that is fun for the whole family year-round in Arizona. Pier 30/32 is located just north of the ballpark along the Embarcadero, near ... ADA-accessible parking (for those with state-issued blue hang-tags) is located in the northern part of Lot A and in front of Pier 48. Jennifer Rini. Whether you live in Tucson or are visiting, here are the 12 best spots for stargazing in Tucson where you can see the night sky in all its glory. Do you have other questions about stargazing in Tucson? Frank. Information: Great dark skies just north of Tucson at Oracle State Park. Within an hour of Tucson, you have a wide range of choices for stargazing. Ask ArtTraveler22 about Oracle State Park. One of the most remote, largest and least-visited national parks in the contiguous U.S., Big Bend National Park boasts spectacular night skies.. Oracle State Park Saturdays and Sundays 11:00 a.m. Drop in for a guided tour of the Historic Kannally Ranch House. Equipment: 10" f/10 Meade 2120 SCT operating at f/5 (1270mm) for deep sky, Orion EQ-G Atlas mount, Mallincam … Log in to Reply. Check out their website for events. Alternate times and days may be added by reservation. Newport State Park in Door County is the first and only park in Wisconsin to receive an official “Dark Sky Park” designation from the International Dark-Sky Association. This, along with the many national parks in the area and the work of the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association, makes Tucson one of best places to go if you want to do some serious stargazing. They set up telescopes on their patio every night and have astronomers on hand to answer questions and point out the highlights in the sky. This is one of the least-visited of the Arizona State Parks, making this off-the-beaten-path location perfect for those hoping for night sky solitude. Unfortunately, the state-administered park is a bit coy with its charms – aside from biannual “star parties” (the next one at Oracle is March 5, 2016) and other special events, the park hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. This latest book will be available at state park gift shops throughout Arizona. From observatories to the desert to protected parks, here are some of the spots where the night sky seems to shine most bright near Tucson. Hike Over A Bed Of Volcano Cinders On This Amazing Arizona Trail. The good news is that the Park is open for hikes and star-gazing (see Park Programs and Events). 933 N. Cherry Ave., Tucson, AZ 85719, as.arizona.edu. I've gone out to Saguaro National Park in the past for a star party but I'm not sure how lenient they are for people hanging around after the official park closure time. A couple of areas that I like for stargazing, that are on the other side of ridges from the city lights: just west of the Tucson Mountains, on Mescal Road north of I-10. I would like to experience a dark sky event. This makes Oracle one of the best places for stargazing, despite its proximity to such a large metropolitan area. The skies get nice and dark here, which can lead to some excellent stargazing opportunities. Photo by Michael Weasner. There’s very little light pollution, and you get a wide open view of the sky at night. 6 inal ugget une 2017 GREEN CAVERN LAKE CAVE LADDER PEPPERSAUCE CAMPGROUND Peppersauce Cave was made known to the Information: Great dark skies just north of Tucson at Oracle State Park. Artists and craftspeople conduct studio tours and exhibit throughout town. That said, you’ll probably want to avoid the summer and the winter months just so you won’t have to deal with any extreme temperatures. This park, in particular, is a certified Dark Sky Park, meaning it has some of the darkest skies you can find. 9800 E. Ski Run Road, Mt. An Arizona state park is an area of land in the U.S. state of Arizona preserved by the state for its natural, cultural, or recreational resources. Oracle State Park Saddlebrooke SkyGazers Club will offer telescopes and interpretation of objects in the night sky. It is considered to be the single most diverse collection of astronomical instruments in the northern hemisphere. .. Tucson, AZ. In Stargazing Guide by Valerie StimacSeptember 21, 20203 Comments. We will observe Planets, Nebulae, Galaxies, Star Clusters and lots … It's a prediction of when Oracle State Park, AZ, will have good weather for astronomical observing. Like the other parks on this list, you can find star parties being hosted here on occasion. This makes it one of the best spots in Arizona to see the Milky Way. PHOENIX – June is National Great Outdoors Month, and Arizona State Parks and Trails can show you how to make the most of it. Oracle State Park is a state park of Arizona, USA, preserving 3,948 acres (1,598 ha) in the northeastern foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains.The park is named after the nearby town of Oracle.Oracle State Park serves as a wildlife refuge, and is open every day from 9am - 5pm. Buckskin Mountain State Park. Group campsites and group camping allow for larger gatherings to take place within the campground or RV park. Tours last about 45 minutes and include a ton of interesting information about this historic family and their time in Oracle. This national park is named after the large species of cacti that can be found in the region. To narrow down the best spots for stargazing in a city that’s already great for stargazing, this guide points out some of the notable or interesting opportunities. 42 Reviews #3 of 13 things to do in Oracle. Check hours on park website for seasonal changes. Likewise we try to avoid inaccuracies or material offensive in nature. You mentioned park closures. Great opportunity to look through a wide variety of telescopes. Although you do have to deal with some light pollution, the city has taken steps to keep its skies as dark as possible. 5757 N. Oracle Rd., Tucson, AZ 85704, starizona.com. Oracle State Park Saturdays and Sundays 11:00 a.m. Drop in for a guided tour of the Historic Kannally Ranch House. Mountains also shield dark-sky oases from urban skyglow. Live music bagan at 6 pm. There is extensive hiking, nature, night time star gazing programs, picnic areas, exhibits, a store, and public educational programs. To see the full list on a map, explore below: Add these spots to your list to learn more about the night sky right within Tucson. This list of stargazing spots within two hours of Tucson is short… in part because Phoenix, Arizona is less than two hours away! June events at the Oracle State Park STARGAZING Volunteers set up telescopes for night sky viewing at Star Parties at the Oracle State Park. Oracle State Park, Oracle: See 42 reviews, articles, and 41 photos of Oracle State Park, ranked No.3 on Tripadvisor among 13 attractions in Oracle. Whether you spend a weekend or spend a day, our parks will give you and your family a reason to get out of the house and into an adventure. One of the most remote, largest and least-visited national parks in the contiguous U.S., Big Bend National Park boasts spectacular night skies.. The Remarkable Bridge In Arizona That Everyone Should Visit At Least Once. 1891 I-19 Frontage Rd., Tumacácori, AZ 85640, nps.gov. Here are the internationally-recognized dark-sky parks, reserves, preserves, sanctuaries and other sites in Arizona that are ideal for stargazing. Although the park itself is tiny, its position above a gooseneck in … Oracle Park Parking Lots. Admission to state parks is $7 per vehicle or $3 for an individual or bicycle. In fact, of all national parks in the lower 48 states, this one has the least amount of light pollution. Both Kartchner Caverns and Oracle state parks are International Dark Sky Parks, meaning you'll get great views of stars. Also see all Dark Sky Sites. Oracle State Park is an International Dark Sky Park. There are regular stargazing excursions where guests can use telescopes to see moons, nebulas, and planets and learn general astronomy. This state park doubles as a wildlife refuge and features a wide assortment of animal life. This list of stargazing spots in and near Tucson focuses more on the best places surrounding the city. It’s also a frequent spot for the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association to host their events. The Steward Observatory can be found at the University of Arizona and is the research arm for their Department of Astronomy. Oracle State Park Campground in Oracle Arizona north of Tucson will offer 30 RV sites, 20 cabins and 20 tent sites as part of a $4M make over of the property. Kitt Peak is a major observatory just over 50 miles from Tucson. Stargazing Spots Within One Hour of Tucson, Stargazing Spots Within Two Hours of Tucson, Best Times of Year to Go Stargazing in Tucson. 1601 E. University Blvd., Tucson, AZ 85721, flandrau.org. Outdoors Month June 5, 2017 rangers suggest staking out a spot in the contiguous,... Find outdoor activities after dark viewing at star parties at the Oracle State Park doubles as wildlife... University Blvd., Tucson has less oracle state park stargazing pollution eyeful of the year, Arizona... Amount of light pollution oracle state park stargazing the city event on the Tucson Amateur Astronomy to. The winter s best to call ahead of time just in case the holder! By volunteer astronomers who can show you some of the Mountains ) as possible parties being hosted on! 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