Explore Redmond’s Views and Oregon’s Dark Sky Areas.
Redmond is your basecamp for discovering Central Oregon and the High Desert. But as you look overhead in our peaceful setting, you’ll find there’s another final frontier to explore: space. Revel in the darkness, and with a high-powered telescope, you’ll see the craters of the moon. However, we invite you to look farther. Much farther. Past the Milky Way toward nebulas you’d only read about in textbooks. You’ll settle into viewing and just being in the moment without a care in sight. Staring in awe, lost in so much space, you may momentarily forget where you are. Welcome to the remote side of Central Oregon where millions of luminous stars entertain.
Bright Stars, Big Views
It’s no surprise this special place has earned so many Dark Sky Certifications. Here the High Desert elevation brings you closer to the expansive sky and you’ll find a refreshing lack of light pollution. It’s a welcome change from the LED-lit streets of the city.
Redmond is lucky enough to call this area home. During this time of year we all settle into a slower rhythm and realize there’s a galaxy out there that’s much bigger than all of us. If you’d like to venture out a bit further, point your car in any direction from our basecamp. You’ll discover four prime star viewing locations welcoming you, your family, and your trusty telescope. Or look through one from a nearby observatory and see not just stars, but your kids’ faces lighting up while viewing them.
Your Basecamp for Destinations with Dark Skies
Stone shelter viewpoints set amidst expansive lava fields. Lakeside retreats where the sky goes on forever. Astronomy learning centers that let you explore through mighty telescopes. There are countless ways to see the stars in Central Oregon. Here are a few of our favorite locations.
Prineville International Dark Sky Park – NE of Redmond
About 16 miles south of Prineville, you’ll discover Oregon’s first International Dark-Sky Park. Grab a campsite and stay a while. Or come for an evening and enjoy one of the regular educational programs happening from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Asterisk Observatory at Smith Rock – N of Redmond
During the day, your eyes are focused on the craggy spires of Smith Rock. At night, this is a perfect location for seeing celestial attractions. Here, you’ll find a custom-built structure with a retractable roof that’s run by an astrophysicist who leads intimate stargazing sessions.
Pine Mountain Observatory – SE of Redmond
At the Pine Mountain Observatory chances are good you’ll be bumping elbows with researchers as they discover new galaxies. This working observatory, operated by the University of Oregon, sits at an elevation of 6,300 feet in the Deschutes National Forest. Come get professional-grade viewing conditions away from city lights.
Dee Wright Observatory – W of Redmond
As you stare out at the expansive lava fields in preparation for nightfall, you may think you’ve landed on the moon. As it turns out, NASA felt the same way. This rugged locale served as a lunar mission training ground for astronauts in the 60s.
Learn more about this remarkable area and the human benefits of Dark Sky Regions here. Then grab your telescope and some warm clothes to prepare for an unforgettable experience.
Tips for Stargazing
When it comes to stargazing, a little preparation goes a long way. Here are some things to keep in mind to create a more enjoyable experience.
- Best Time to View: During a new moon on a clear night, typically between June and September.
- Gear to Bring: A flashlight with a red filter to maintain night vision and not disturb others who are viewing the stars.
- Appropriate Clothing: The nights can get cold as temperatures drop rapidly in the high desert so be sure and dress warmly.
- Wear Sturdy Shoes: You’ll often be walking in the dark on uneven terrain so make sure your boots or shoes have plenty of ankle support.
- Get a Permit: A free, printed Stargazing Permit is required for parking at the Prineville Reservoir State Park day-use area after hours.
Before you Head out
A quick stop at some Redmond places will enhance your experience. Here are a few to consider.
Cognitive Surplus: There’s no better place to bring the star gazing memories back with you than at a store dedicated to science. Grab a sketch book with an astronomy theme and journal your discoveries.
Herringbone Books: Here you’ll find a map to stars of the celestial kind. Explore shelves of books dedicated to astronomy and prepare for a night bringing textbook knowledge to real life.
Sweet Oasis: The desert can get cold at night. But not to worry, grab a hot cocoa on Friday or Saturday night before you head out for viewing. That’ll do the trick.
