Top dark sky places
Dark Sky PlaceBig Bend National Park
Dark Sky PlaceDripping Springs
Dark Sky PlaceHorseshoe Bay
Dark Sky PlaceEnchanted Rock State Natural Area
Dark Sky PlaceBig Bend Ranch State Park
Dark Sky PlaceCopper Breaks State Park
Dark Sky PlaceDevils River State Natural Area
Dark Sky PlaceSouth Llano River State Park
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How to photograph dark sky places
Certified dark sky places offer protected night skies — plan around the new moon and the Milky Way core season.
- Use the Milky Way table to find months and hours when the core is above the horizon.
- Use red light only and keep it pointed down to protect others' night vision.
- Set focus on a bright star with live-view magnification, then tape the focus ring.
- Use the NPF rule below to choose the longest exposure before stars trail.
- Many parks host star parties and night programs during summer.
Season: Milky Way core season runs roughly March to October; winter offers long nights and bright winter constellations.