Prineville International Dark Sky Park

In 2021, Prineville Reservoir State Park was named a certified Dark Sky Park by the nonprofit organization DarkSky International—becoming the first park in Oregon and only the second place anywhere in the state to receive such a designation.

The designation reflected the park’s commitment to limiting artificial light after dark, as well as its remote location (nearly 16 miles south of Prineville and about 30 miles northeast of Bend). That combination of factors means that the night sky over Prineville Reservoir is remarkably clear and free of what’s known as light pollution—any light created by building, streetlights, or headlights that might otherwise wash out the sky.

As a result, visitors enjoy idyllic conditions for viewing planets, moons, meteor showers, and other cosmic wonders. They can do so with their own two eyes from the park’s designated day-use area near the shores of Prineville Reservoir—or as part of ranger-led programs that are offered occasionally between late spring and early fall. These ranger-led events might include constellation tours (offered with the help of a laser pen), educational talks with guest speakers, and stargazing sessions that let visitors peer through telescopes.

If you’re stargazing at Prineville Reservoir State Park but aren’t camping on-site, you’re asked to print, fill out, and display a Stargazing Permit on your vehicle’s dashboard; the permit is available on the park’s website. And please consider bringing a red light, specially designed for stargazing, rather than a typical flashlight.