The air is cool, the high deserts are almost completely quiet, and the Milky Way stretches out to glow over the sky above. From the jagged silhouettes of Smith Rock to the sisterly air-filling Juniper, this is one of the last places where we can see the stars as our ancestors once did: wild, brilliant, unfiltered.
The sister, a small western style town in central Oregon, has recently been recognized as an international dark sky community, joining elite groups in other nearby areas, putting Oregon on Stargazers maps everywhere. In a modern world where 80% of the population can no longer see the Milky Way, dark sky communities are unusual and special spaces.
According to Darksky International Dark Sky Certified It is a designation awarded by the International Dark Sky Association to communities, parks, and locations that protect and store the night sky by reducing light pollution. These accredited areas are committed to responsible outdoor lighting, public education and long-term efforts to maintain a dark environment in nature. Since its origins in 2001, Dark Sky has accredited over 200 locations across 22 countries and six continents.
Central Oregon is special because it has three dark sky accreditation locations, not only with the latest recognition of the sisters, but also with three dark sky accreditation locations: Sunriver, Antelope and Princeville Reservoir State Park. Central Oregon is also adjacent to the Oregon Outback, the largest dark sky sanctuary in the United States.
Why is it important to recognize a dark sky?
International Dark Sky Association (IDA) is dedicated to protecting the night sky for current and future generations. Their mission is to “fight light pollution through education, advocacy and promotion of responsible outdoor lighting, helping people and wildlife experience the natural nighttime environment.”
Many factors contribute to light pollution, including street lights, advertising, landscaping, indoor lighting, and factory lighting. Light pollution is very serious in densely populated areas 99% of the population I can’t look up at the natural sky of the United States and Europe.
The effects of light pollution go beyond obstructing the starry sky. Unnatural light can affect wildlife, human health and the environment. Protecting spaces that follow standards and practices that promote the responsible use of artificial lighting is essential to maintaining the sky for humans and nature.
Why central Oregon?
Most North America is so developed and has an increasing population that it is impossible to see the stars. However, light pollution here is minimal thanks to the high desert climate, high topography and low population density in central Oregon. On cloudless nights, it is not uncommon to find constellations in the Milky Way and the Northern Hemisphere.
Central Oregon communities such as Sunriver, Sisters and Antelope have implemented strict outdoor lighting ordinances to limit artificial glow.
Observatory, resort and tour operators throughout the region offer nighttime experiences, from snowshoes under snowshoes to telescope sessions at local breweries. Accepting these dark, sky regions illustrate both conservation and adventure, which are truly core parts of central Oregon’s identity.
“Our dark skies are truly one of many treasures in our area and we are excited that our sisters and Antelope have joined our state’s growing list of regions to receive this recognition.” “These designations demonstrate the community’s commitment to maintaining the natural beauty of central Oregon, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to experience the night sky that was intended to be clear, dark and full of wonder.”
A place to enjoy the dark sky in Central Oregon
Sisters
The sisters have an art gallery, incredible coffee, mountain views and a charming downtown with the most clear and dark skies in the state. The town does not have an observatory, but the wide open scenery outside of the city’s restrictions allow for easy setting up the telescope and viewing the stars.
During the day, head towards the Mackenzie Pass Santiam Pass Scenic Byway or hike the Peterson Ridge Trail System for panoramic views of the mountain range.
Sunriver
Located south of Bend, Sunriver became Oregon’s first certified dark sky place in 2020. It is home to the Sunriver Nature Center and Observatory, one of the nation’s largest publicly accessible observatory. With 30 telescopes and frequent public star parties, it’s a favorite for amateur astronomers. The retractable roof and diverse telescopes make this observatory you won’t want to miss. I ask them to show me their met stone samples. It is not every day that we hold a mass of iron that has fallen from space.
However, Sunriver is not just for the starry sky. Sunriver Resort is like that Incredible destination Provided by Pool, spa services, tasty restaurant, amazing views. In the afternoon you can paddle through the Deschutes River or ride your bike along the resort’s 40-mile paved trails that pass through forests, meadows and lava streams. Golfers also find first-class courses. The family loves the interactive exhibits at the Oregon Observatory.
Smith Rock State Park
Towering above the curved river, Smith Rock State Park is best known for its world-class rock climbing, but is also attracting attention as a stargaze hotspot. The park’s low light pollution and dramatic basalt cliffs, although not officially certified, provide an unforgettable night skiing backdrop.
Spend the day on top of a rock along the Misery Ridge Trail, have a picnic along the river, or see the monkeys of climbers. The nearby Asteric Observatory, part of the Smith Rock spot, offers guided night tours.
Antelope
Antelope is a small community that was certified by the Dark Sky Community in 2024. Most tourists don’t have antelope on their radar, but the lack of artificial lighting makes it one of the state’s most pristine night sky environments. There are many scenic drives through the high desert. Alternatively, you can explore nearby ghost towns like Shanico.
Princeville
Prineville Reservoir State Park concludes the certified quartet. This is Oregon’s first international dark sky park and is one of the best spots to watch the stars under truly unobstructed sky.
From Memorial Day to Labor Day, weekends you can camp in the park and take part in one of the Ranger-led star parties where local experts lead a 90-minute session on the space and constellations.
Off the water, hiking, wildlife viewing is popular, and the trail offers views of the surrounding canyons. A short drive away, Prineville features access to local breweries, coffee shops and scenic Ochoco National Forest.
Dark Sky Week
Dark Sky Week is celebrated every year and will be held from April 21st to 28th this year. Oregon has many activities to celebrate not only this week but throughout the year.
You can find more details at Dark Sky Oregon.
This summer, skip the theme park and reconnect with central Oregon’s nature and sky. Just nearly three hours from Portland, with regional airports welcoming flights from eight major markets, Central Oregon is an easy destination no matter where you start your journey.
