Dark Sky Maps and Stargazing Spots in North Dakota (ND)

Oxbow Overlook, located in the North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, offers stunning views across the Little Missouri River and the rolling hills of western North Dakota. This area is renowned for its diverse terrain, making it a prime location for hiking. Trails range from easy walks to challenging scrambles, with opportunities to spot bison and other wildlife along the way. There are picnic areas equipped with tables, making it a great spot to relax and enjoy the scenery. The park is also designated as a dark sky park, providing excellent stargazing conditions, especially on clear nights. Visitors can expect a peaceful atmosphere and abundant natural beauty.

River Bend Overlook Trail offers stunning views of the Little Missouri River within Theodore Roosevelt National Park's North Unit. This accessible trail provides a short walk to a viewing platform that overlooks the river and its beautiful surroundings. Hikers can also explore additional routes along the clifftops, showcasing remarkable landscapes. With its diverse wildlife, including buffalo, and its location in one of North Dakota's designated dark sky areas, the trail is perfect for stargazing. Visitors will enjoy a unique blend of scenic beauty and outdoor adventure, making it a noteworthy spot for nature lovers and hikers alike.

Wind Canyon Trail offers an easy 0.3-mile loop ideal for visitors to Theodore Roosevelt National Park's South Unit. This short hike takes you up to stunning overlooks of the Little Missouri River and the expansive valley below. The trail features minimal elevation gain, making it accessible for most hikers. Along the route, you might spot prairie dogs and bison in the distance. The area is known for its clear, dark skies, making it a great spot for stargazing after sunset. Whether you're seeking picturesque views or a quick nature break, Wind Canyon Trail is worth a visit.

Lake Sakakawea State Park, located in North Dakota, offers visitors a serene retreat in the state's northwest region. The park features stunning lakeside views and well-maintained trails ideal for hiking and biking. Campers can enjoy spacious sites with full hookups, along with clean amenities. Known for its dark skies, the park provides excellent stargazing opportunities, making it a favorite spot for astronomy enthusiasts. Fishing is popular here, with various species available in the lake's waters. The park also has a swimming beach and a marina, enhancing its recreational offerings. Overall, this park is a peaceful destination for nature lovers and families alike.

Juniper Campground, located within the North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, offers campers a serene experience surrounded by stunning landscapes. The campground features tent and RV sites with essential amenities like picnic tables and fire pits. Nearby, the Little Missouri River enhances the scenery and provides opportunities for canoeing or kayaking. Wildlife, including bison and longhorn cattle, frequently roams the area, adding to the natural appeal. Visitors enjoy hiking trails that start right at the campground, making it an ideal base for exploring the park. With its paved roads and clean facilities, Juniper Campground also serves as a great spot for stargazing under the dark sky.

Elkhorn Ranch is a remarkable historical site nestled in the Badlands of North Dakota. Known for its solitude, visitors often experience a complete disconnection from technology, making it ideal for stargazing. The drive to the ranch includes roughly 20 miles of well-maintained dirt roads, with scenic views that evoke the spirit of Theodore Roosevelt, who once called this place home. While the main cabin is no longer standing, the remaining foundation stones offer a glimpse into its past. The area is also home to diverse wildlife, including eagles and bison, and features a short hiking trail with informative signs about its history. Weather in the region can vary, so be prepared for changing conditions.

Wannagan Campground is a remote retreat located in the northwest corner of North Dakota, offering a peaceful escape for outdoor enthusiasts. Nestled near the scenic Badlands and adjacent to the Maah Daah Hey Trail, the campground provides excellent opportunities for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Accessed via a bumpy gravel road, it ensures a quiet atmosphere, often with few fellow campers. Amenities include potable water and vault toilets, with a self-pay fee of $10 per night. The beautifully clear skies make it an ideal spot for stargazing, frequently revealing impressive displays of shooting stars. Enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility this campground has to offer.

Sheyenne Oaks Campground is located in the serene landscapes of North Dakota. This campground provides essential amenities like pull-through sites with full hookups, restrooms, and hot showers, making it an ideal stop for campers. The park is known for its spacious sites shaded by mature trees, offering a quiet retreat for visitors.

The campground features a well-maintained trail system for horseback riding, extending over 30 miles, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. It's also situated away from city lights, making it a suitable spot for stargazing on clear nights. The area is remote yet accessible, with friendly hosts who enhance the camping experience.