Camping for Astrophotography
The clear night sky at campgrounds and astrophotography make for a perfect match.
Image Caption: Astrophotography pairs well with camping.
Camping creates perfect conditions for astrophotography. Combine the clear night sky of a secluded campsite with the specialized lenses and trained eye of an astrophotographer, and there’s a good chance you’ll end up with some world-class photos.
The activity of photographing the night sky is becoming increasingly popular, and the International Dark-Sky Association has an official list of Dark Sky Places with perfect conditions for astrophotography and camping. Dark Sky Places are “land possessing an exceptional or distinguished quality of starry nights,” according to the International Dark-Sky Association.
Below are state-by-state locations deemed Dark Sky Places that offer incredible camping and nighttime views. You may have visited these places before, but experience them again with the starry sky as a feature you might have missed the first time. And consider astrophotography as a new way to share your experiences with others.
Utah, home to several iconic National Parks, also includes incredible Dark Sky Places:
Visit Big Sky country and see what Montana has to offer when it all goes dark. While few in number, these Dark Sky Places are sure to please.
Colorado also offers some incredible spots once you’ve moved away from the interstate and light pollution of its larger towns and cities.
It’s not just in western states where you’ll find great starry night skies. Maine also includes some wonderful Dark Sky Places. But don’t stop there. The eastern side of the U.S. includes plenty of Dark Sky Places.
Camping for astrophotography could be your next inspiration to get outdoors and see things with a new perspective.
