From the star-filled deserts of Southern California to the shores of Lake Tahoe, the Golden State offers remarkable places to experience the night sky. Explore seven California state parks through this interactive visual guide, featuring nighttime photography, stargazing highlights and tips for planning your visit.
California after dark
Seven state parks. A whole universe overhead.
From desert skies to coastal cliffs and Sierra lakes, discover seven California landscapes worth seeing after sunset.
Explore the parksHours and nighttime access vary by park.
Explore the seven parks
Photograph unavailable.
Approximate locations. Select a marker to view a park.
The seven parks
Mount Tamalpais State Park
Marin County, Northern California
Above the bustle of the Bay Area, Mount Tamalpais offers mountain scenery and occasional opportunities to explore the night sky through organized astronomy programs.
The glow of Bay Area city lights is part of this setting.
Why go
Astronomy programming associated with the Mountain Theater and Mount Tamalpais area.
Know before you go
Regular park access generally ends at sunset. Check the schedule and access arrangements for organized astronomy events.
Van Damme State Park
Mendocino Coast
Coastal meadows, forested campsites and the possibility of clear skies make Van Damme a memorable place to spend a night outdoors.
Why go
Camp beneath the stars and look for familiar constellations on clear nights.
Know before you go
Coastal fog can obscure the sky, and campsite availability varies. Check overnight arrangements before visiting.
Emerald Bay State Park
Lake Tahoe
Emerald Bay brings together the dramatic mountain scenery of Lake Tahoe and the beauty of the night sky.
Why go
High-elevation Lake Tahoe scenery, seasonal camping and memorable views after dark where access is permitted.
Know before you go
Eagle Point Campground operates seasonally. Check campground dates and nighttime access restrictions before visiting.
Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park
San Mateo County coast
A historic lighthouse stands against the Pacific Ocean, creating a dramatic setting for nighttime photography.
Why go
The opportunity to experience the lighthouse beneath a star-filled sky through permitted overnight access.
Know before you go
The state park closes to the general public at sunset. The overnight experiences described in the article apply to guests at the adjacent hostel.
Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve
Eastern Sierra
Ancient waters and unusual limestone-like tufa formations make the Mono Basin one of California’s most distinctive landscapes.
Why go
Darker skies in the remote Mono Basin and the remarkable landscape surrounding the lake.
Know before you go
Reserve day-use areas generally close at sunset. Confirm current restrictions and identify lawful nighttime viewing locations on surrounding public lands before visiting.
McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park
Northern California
Far from major cities, the forested landscape around Burney Falls offers a beautiful setting for experiencing the night sky.
Why go
The possibility of viewing stars and the Milky Way under favorable conditions in a remote Northern California setting.
Know before you go
Check campground availability, park hours and current trail restrictions. Do not assume that trails to the falls are open at night.
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
Southern California desert
Vast desert landscapes and exceptionally dark skies create one of California’s most memorable stargazing environments.
Why go
International Dark Sky Park recognition and expansive desert scenery.
Know before you go
Check current access rules, camping restrictions, weather and overnight temperatures before traveling.
Want to explore these destinations in more detail? Read our guide to the best California state parks for stargazing for firsthand recommendations and tips on planning your visit.
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