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.
Antelope Island State Park
OAS Public Star Party
September 27
5:00PM White Rock Bay Event Area
Join volunteers from Ogden Astronomical Society for an evening of gazing into the cosmos. Starting at 6:00 we’ll begin by viewing our star, the sun; safely through filtered telescopes. Once the sun sets, equipment will be switched out for dark sky viewing of planets, nebulae, star clusters, and even far-away galaxies. Telescopes will be provided. There is no fee for this event. Regular park entry fees apply. Contact tackley@utah.gov with any questions.
Park Impacts: Road closures and changes in traffic patterns beginning at 4:00pm in the area around White Rock Bay. Follow signs to event parking.
Dead Horse Point State Park
Star Party: Dragon Slayer
September 18th – 8:00 PM
High in the dark western skies, a dragon guards a golden treasure. Navigate its celestial den in this Ranger-led telescope adventure! Meet at the Mountain Bike Lot.
Bat Blitz
September 20th – 6:30 PM
Come learn all about our favorite flying mammal, the bat! Meet in front of the Visitor Center.
Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum
Star Party
September 19th, 2025 – 8:00 PM
Join Bears Ears Partnership for an evening of gazing into the cosmos. We’ll be viewing our galaxy’s celestial wonders through a telescope. Get ready for a night to remember as we get a closer look at nearby planets, nebulae, star clusters, and even far-away galaxies. Telescopes will be provided. Please bring red light flashlights or headlamps if you have them. Chairs, blankets, and layers are recommended for comfort during changing temperature conditions. This event is free and open to the public.
Goblin Valley State Park
Star Party!
September 21, 2025 – 9:00 PM
Join rangers at the Observation Point to learn about the constellations and stars and view the moon and space objects through park telescopes.
Scorpion Hunt!
September 26, 2025 – 9:00 PM
Join rangers at the Observation Point to learn about these fascinating arachnids and then go on a short hike to find them with blacklights!
Rockport State Park
Star Party
September 20, 2025 – 9:00 PM
Come join us for a Star Party hosted by University of Utah Physics and Astronomy. Highland Day Use Area.
Sand Hollow State Park
Scorpion Hunt
September 20, 2025 – 8:30PM – 9:30PM
Join a Park Ranger for a nighttime adventure among glowing arachnids. Enjoy a ¼ 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. UV Lights are provided.
Stars Among The Sands
September 27, 2025 – 9PM-10:30PM
Join a Park Ranger for an evening on the beach looking up at the stars. Bring blankets or chairs to truly enjoy the program. Learn about the stars, constellations, and possibly get a deeper look into deep space.
Utahraptor State Park
Pollinators of the Night Sky
September 17, 2025 – 8:00 PM
Join us as we shine a light on the mysterious and magical world of bats and moths. This family-friendly event invites you to experience the park after sunset and get an up-close look at some of Utah’s nocturnal pollinators! Meet at the Utahraptor State Park Visitor Center, (38.70134, -109.69764).
New Moon Star Party
September 25, 2025 – 8:30 PM
Join us as we view different stars in the night sky through our telescope! Meet at the Historic Site, located at (38.711910, -109.700358)