Wishing upon a star to see a spectacular starry night? You’re in luck! Oregon is home to the world’s largest dark sky sanctuary. It’s located in Lake County in southeastern Oregon. This astronomer’s dream is officially called the Oregon Outback International Dark Sky Sanctuary. The 2.5 million-acre slice of Southern Oregon’s sky received this honor courtesy of DarkSky International, an advocacy group made up of over 2,000 from around the world. The organization aims to “protect the night sky using education, advocacy, retrofits, community science, and more.” The project was spearheaded by Oregon Dark Sky Network.

I haven’t seen it yet but hope to soon. I hear that a great way to experience this fabulous spectacle is to plan a camping trip. You can also stay at a hotel or vacation rental in the area. Another fun way to enjoy this window to the universe is by attending a Star Party where fellow star enthusiasts meet up to view the night sky.

There is something truly magical about a starry sky!
Son Gallery - Wilson Lee/Moment Collection via Getty Imagea
Now, what should we wish for while stargazing?
Sadly, city lights mean urbanites rarely get to see a nighttime view like this one of the sky in Oregon.
Diana Robinson Photography/Moment Collection via Getty Images

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The Dark Sky Sanctuary can be seen from the Oregon Outback Scenic Byway. It's a beautiful place to visit day or night.
Diego Elizalde / 500px/500px Collection via Getty Images
An expansion of the sanctuary is in the works to eventually encompass 11.4 million acres of protected night skies.
DarkSky International
There are over 200 other designated dark sky sanctuaries in 22 countries across the world.

For more information about the Oregon Outback International Dark Sky Sanctuary, visit the Travel Southern Oregon Dark Sky Sanctuary website. You can also find visitor information in Paisley, Oregon. This gorgeous expanse of starry night sky is truly a hidden gem in Oregon. If your visit to Lake County includes a drive, you may want to stock up on car-friendly snacks for the drive there and back or to enjoy while taking in this spectacular sight.

We’d love to know about your experience visiting the Oregon Outback International Dark Sky Sanctuary, so please leave a comment to let us know about your experience. Also, feel free to share your favorite spots to stargaze in Oregon we should check out next.

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Featured Addresses
Oregon Outback International Dark Sky Sanctuary – visitor information, 303 OR-31, Paisley, OR 97636, USA