Oregon Dark Sky Photo Safari 2025

The Oregon Outback, part of the Great Basin of North America, is one of the darkest places in the world. Far from light pollution, you can see the starry sky in all its splendor.

The Milky Way, close enough to touch, rises from the sage steppe and transforms the sky into a sparkling sea of stars.

What also makes the area photographically attractive are several ghost towns and bizarre juniper tree forests, which are ideal as subjects for light painting in this western landscape.

Professional photographer Zack Schnepf leads a small group on a 5-day tour of some of the best places to see and photograph the breathtaking night sky and landscape.

The Oregon Outback International Dark Sky Sanctuary, it covers 2.5 million acres.

US$ 2,275 / per person / shared room

US$ 350 / additional cost for single room

US$ 200 / transportation from Bend, OR with Zack, limited space

US$ 75 / per person / online post-processing

If we can’t find you a room partner, the cost of a single room applies.

4-6 persons
Beginner – Advanced
Self drive

Included

Workshop fee
4 nights accommodation in Motel
Guided by Zack Schnepf

Not included

Meals
Entry fees, because of self drive arrival
Personal expenses
Tips
Transportation

What to bring:
Nights cool down in the High Desert. Bring a jacket or warm sweater
Sturdy tripod
Camera with wide angle lens. Ideally with f.2.8
Fully charged extra batteries, or charger
Fashlight/headlamp with red light

Thursday, July 24
Overnight in Madras, OR.

Arrive late afternoon at the Motel.

Photograph Night Sky with light painting in Grass Valley, Kent and Shaniko Ghost Town.

Friday, July 25
Overnight in Prineville, OR.

Night Sky at Painted Hills and in Mitchell.

Saturday, July 26
Overnight in La Pine, OR.

Astro photography at Fort Rock

Sunday, July 27
Overnight in La Pine, OR.

Astro photography at La Pine State Park or Sparks Lake

Monday, July 28
Check-out of Motel in La Pine and end of Photo Workshop