California is home to some of the most spectacular stargazing locations in the country, with its vast desert landscapes, high elevations, and protected dark sky areas. Whether you’re in the rugged wilderness of Joshua Tree National Park, the depths of Death Valley, or the towering peaks of Sequoia National Park, the Golden State offers endless opportunities to witness the brilliance of the night sky. From dedicated dark sky parks to remote coastal escapes, here are the 10 best spots for stargazing in California that will leave you in awe.
1. Hidden Valley – Joshua Tree National Park
Surrounded by towering rock formations, Hidden Valley offers one of the darkest and most secluded spots for stargazing. The rocks help block residual light pollution, allowing for exceptionally crisp views of the Milky Way, planets, and shooting stars. The open valley provides plenty of space to set up telescopes or lay back and watch the cosmos unfold. Its natural barriers make it one of the best places in the park for a quiet, uninterrupted stargazing experience. If you don’t have the equipment or want to take your stargazing experience to the next level you can book a guided tour in Joshua Tree National Park. There are companies such as Joshua Tree Lizard that offer stargazing tours.
2. Badwater Basin – Death Valley National Park
Sitting at 282 feet below sea level, Badwater Basin in Death Valley offers one of the darkest skies in the United States. With zero artificial light for miles, this vast salt flat becomes a mirror reflecting the brilliance of the night sky. Whether you’re observing deep-space objects through a telescope or simply watching for meteor showers, this remote location guarantees an unforgettable stargazing experience. The isolation and extreme darkness make it ideal for those wanting to see the Milky Way in all its glory.
3. Keys View – Joshua Tree National Park
Perched at 5,185 feet, Keys View provides one of the most panoramic stargazing locations in California. The high elevation reduces atmospheric distortion, making celestial objects appear sharper and clearer. On a moonless night, visitors can see the Andromeda Galaxy, distant nebulae, and the dazzling band of the Milky Way stretching across the sky. Its high elevation makes it one of the clearest viewing points in Joshua Tree.
4. Moro Rock – Sequoia National Park
For those looking to pair giant sequoia trees with a star-filled sky, Moro Rock is a perfect choice. Located at over 6,700 feet in elevation, this massive granite dome provides breathtaking 360-degree views, making it an incredible spot to witness meteor showers and constellations. The minimal light pollution in Sequoia National Park ensures a crystal-clear celestial display. The combination of high elevation and minimal obstruction makes it one of the best places in California to enjoy a night under the stars.
5. Ryan Mountain Trailhead – Joshua Tree National Park
While the Ryan Mountain Trail itself is a moderate-to-strenuous hike, the trailhead parking lot is an excellent location for night sky observation. Its elevated location allows for a 360-degree view of the cosmos, and the surrounding rock formations provide a surreal setting for astrophotography. This location is great for those who want an elevated vantage point without having to hike deep into the park.
6. Cholla Cactus Garden – Joshua Tree National Park
This unique cactus-filled landscape offers a surreal setting for stargazing. The Cholla Cactus Garden is located away from busy campgrounds and main roads, providing minimal light interference. During a new moon, the sky becomes an infinite expanse of stars, and the silhouette of the cholla cacti against the cosmos makes for stunning night photography. The contrast between the rugged cacti and the brilliant night sky makes this location unlike any other in the park.
7. Pfeiffer Beach – Big Sur
If you prefer coastal stargazing, Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur is a top choice. The remote location keeps light pollution low, and the sound of the crashing waves adds to the mesmerizing experience. On clear nights, the Milky Way appears to rise straight from the Pacific Ocean, creating an unforgettable celestial display. The rocky coastline and natural archways make this a photographer’s dream, blending the beauty of the ocean with the grandeur of the night sky.
8. Cap Rock – Joshua Tree National Park
Tucked away near the main road, Cap Rock is an underrated yet fantastic location for stargazing. The unique rock formations create an almost alien-like foreground, making it an ideal spot for long-exposure photography. With minimal crowds and easy accessibility, Cap Rock is perfect for those looking for a peaceful stargazing experience. The area’s rock formations help create interesting compositions for astrophotographers, and its proximity to the main road makes it a convenient choice for a quick stargazing stop.
9. Lassen Volcanic National Park – Bumpass Hell Parking Area
For those who want a high-elevation stargazing adventure, Lassen Volcanic National Park is a fantastic choice. The Bumpass Hell parking area offers some of the clearest night skies in Northern California. This park is a hidden gem for astronomy enthusiasts, with very little light pollution and dramatic volcanic landscapes that add to the beauty of the night sky. The thermal activity in the park adds a unique element to the experience, with steam vents and bubbling pools creating an otherworldly ambiance under the stars.
10. Pinto Basin – Joshua Tree National Park
For those who want the darkest skies in Joshua Tree, Pinto Basin is the ultimate stargazing location. This remote area is far from any artificial light sources, making it one of the best spots in California for deep-space observation. On a moonless night, the Andromeda Galaxy and distant nebulae become clearly visible to the naked eye. The isolation and lack of human activity make it a prime location for astrophotographers and serious stargazers alike.
California offers some of the most incredible stargazing experiences in the country, with Joshua Tree National Park standing out as one of the best locations for stargazing tours. With dark skies, high elevations, and stunning landscapes, it provides an ideal setting for both casual stargazers and professional astronomers. But whether you’re exploring the vast desert of Death Valley, the towering peaks of Sequoia, or the coastal beauty of Big Sur, California’s night skies never fail to impress.