Dark Sky Events & Programs
Utah State Parks have some of the darkest night skies in North America. An ever-increasing number of our visitors appreciate and seek out the pristine night skies and after-dark programming we offer. Our parks employees want to responsibly manage and enhance this resource.
To keep you all engaged, check out the dark sky programs below!
State Parks Dark Sky Activities & Events
Weather can affect planned events. Please check with the state park directly for more information.
Dead Horse Point State Park
July 24
Star Party: New Moon
The new moon provides astronomers the darkest sky of the month to view the stars! Explore the constellations in our Star Party! Meet at the Visitor Center. Starts at 9:30 PM.
July 26, 2025
Scorpion Hunt
Did you know that scorpions glow under UV light! With the help of a ranger, come find these cool creatures! Meet in front of the visitor center. Starts at 9:30 PM.
Tuesday, July 29
Star Party: Aquarius
During the peak of the delta aquariid meteor shower, peer through a telescope and learn about Aquarius. Meet at the Visitor Center. Starts at 9:30 PM.
Palisade State Park
Scorpion Walk
July 25, 2025-8:30 PM
Join us for a Scorpion Walk at Palisade State Park. We will be meeting at the restroom by the dam at 8:30 PM. Please park down below the dam on the Southwest side. Limited black light flashlights will be available, so please bring one if you already have one!
Sand Hollow State Park
July 31, 2025
Scorpion Hunt
Join a Park Ranger for a nighttime adventure among glowing arachnids. Enjoy a 1/2 mile loop walk starting at our OHV staging area. Please wear closed toed shoes, bring your own UV flashlights if you have them and be ready to be amazed. 9:15 PM – 10:35 PM.
Steinaker State Park
Scorpion Safari
July 25, 2025 – 9:00 PM
Ready to safely get up close to some glow-in-the-dark critters? Join a park ranger to learn about these nocturnal hunters and search for them on a guided walk. Park and meet at the boat ramp parking lot- from the entrance booth, drive straight ahead.