Stargazing Near Austin

Mar 26

The starry night sky is considered by many to be the heart of Texan charm. Unfortunately, the bright city lights of Austin make the stars difficult to appreciate. So, for star gazing in Austin you need to travel outside the city to truly appreciate these celestial wonders. Read on to discover 6 great stargazing opportunities, just a short trip from downtown Austin.

Dark Skies Program & Bortle Scale Ratings:

Before deciding on the perfect stargazing spot, you should take into account the levels of light pollution present at each location. Professional organizations are available to help you find the perfect spot. These groups use a scale of measurement known as the Bortle Scale.

Texas Parks & Wildlife Department has partnered with the McDonald Observatory, the International Dark Sky Association (IDA) and local astronomy groups to promote awareness about light pollution with star parties. They also offer guided tours and lectures concerning astronomy and light pollution.

Enchanted Rock

Located about an hour outside the city center, Enchanted Rock is best-known for its hiking and camping grounds. However, it’s also a great place for star gazing Austin, as there’s little artificial light to interfere. The park features an area dedicated to stargazing, where you can learn about astronomy. Please note that this area doubles as a public hunting ground, and is closed to stargazers during the hunting season.

Inks Lake State Park

Also known for its campgrounds and natural trails, Inks Lake is another great place for an evening under the stars. The park is located a little over an hour from the city of Austin. A self-guided three-mile hiking tour is available, as well as guided activities centered around astronomy. Bring your own personal stargazing experiment to make for the ultimate experience.

Lost Maples

Lost Maples is one of the largest forests to be found near Austin, and is known for its beautiful fall foliage. Star gazing near Austin opportunities are available year round here. The park falls at a rating of 3 on the aforementioned Bortle Scale, meaning it is completely free of light pollution. Check out some star maps online before visiting, to help you spot some of the most famous celestial constellations.

Garner State Park

This park requires a longer journey outside the city, but the lack of light pollution and picturesque scenery make it well worth the trip. It will take you around three hours to reach Garner State Park if traveling from Austin. Viewing equipment can be rented onsite.

Blanco State Park

Blanco State Park offers semi-annual educational events available onsite, where visitors can learn about the science behind the skies as they appreciate the sparkling views.

UT Star Parties

The Astronomy department of the University of Texas offer special stargazing parties, dedicated to popularizing the hobby and educating the public on the science behind it. The parties are usually held on Wednesdays, and are free to attend. Additional gatherings are held on Fridays and Saturdays at the Painter Hall Telescope. These events are open to guests of all ages and educational levels. and especially its Astronomy department is organizing Austin star gazing parties at a times when there are interesting astronomic events to observe. The parties are a way to popularize the subject and to learn more about it in the process.