Florida’s Dark Winter Skies Explode With Beauty at This National Park

Stargazing in Florida is likely something that doesn’t cross your mind much. As the state grows and takes on more and more residents, the cities just keep getting bigger. With an influx of people, you will have a lot more light and it might feel like there is nowhere in the state where you can go to escape it. However, there is one place that is protected and will not be affected by light pollution: Everglades National Park. The Everglades are a wild and vast part of the state and if you dare to venture into the depths at night you will experience a phenomenal celestial show.

I remember sitting on the beach and seeing the stars over the Gulf of Mexico and it stuck me in that moment. As pretty as it was, it felt like ages since I had seen a fully starry night sky. What I saw that night was nothing like what you can experience if you brave the depths of the Everglades wilderness at night. You don’t have to settle for a subpar star show but it will take a bit more effort. However, the reward is more than worth it. 

Traveling in the dark feels a bit more adventurous and amidst the wild of the Everglades. Venture into the depth because the further in you go the further away from city lights you’ll be. I do recommend soaking in the sunset before you settle into your spot for the night. Witnessing the sun wane behind the river of grass is breathtaking but it is only the beginning.

Pick a night when there will be a new moon to ensure the sky will be even darker and you are in for a phenomenal night. One particular location that is great for stargazing is on the southern end of the Everglades in the Flamingo Campgrounds. With a camping site secured you won’t be in a hurry to enjoy the stars. 

On a good night, you will even be able to see the Milky Way!

While stargazing in Florida, it can be helpful to have a good headlamp. This is one I use for emergencies and it has been very helpful to me when I get back late to my campsite and I still need to make dinner. The Everglades are truly an incredible place and teeming with many surprises if you know where to look. So next time you want to see an incredible night sky, make sure you head into the park.