Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
Located in the Colorado Desert in San Diego County, the park is a popular destination for many nature and astronomy enthusiasts. It was officially recognized as an International Dark Sky Park in January 2018.
More information about the park and activities is available from the Anza Borrego Foundation and the Anza Borrego Natural History Association.
Borrego Springs
A desert community embedded within Anza Borrego Desert State Park, Borrego Springs, with the support of the Borrego Dark Sky Coalition, was designated an International Dark Sky Community in 2009. Situated on the desert floor, the town is protected from city light by the surrounding mountains and features many fine observing sites.
Julian
The Julian Dark Sky Network is an organization whose mission is to preserve the dark skies of Julian, California, a community that is part of the 1% of the U.S. that can still see the Milky Way. After five years of effort, in May of 2021, Julian was accredited as an International Dark Sky Community, only the second in California.
Fallbrook
The Fallbrook Land Conservancy Dark Sky Committee is dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of Fallbrook’s night skies by reducing light pollution and promoting responsible outdoor lighting practices. As part of an initiative to achieve certification as an International Dark Sky Community, the committee works with local residents, businesses, and organizations to raise awareness about the benefits of dark skies for wildlife, human health, and energy conservation. Through community outreach, advocacy, and events, the committee strives to protect Fallbrook’s rural character and ensure future generations can enjoy a clear view of the stars.
Valley Center
Valley Center residents enjoy a view of the Milky Way. The community follows San Diego County’s more restrictive “Zone A” lighting regulations due to close proximity to Palomar Observatory. Did you know that Valley Center Road was once designated as the ‘Highway to the Stars’? Local astronomers and dark sky enthusiasts host star party events at Hellhole Canyon County Preserve and educational talks and binocular workshops at the Valley Center County Library.
Nightfall Star Party & Imaging Conference
Nightfall is hosted by the Riverside Astronomical Society under the clear autumn skies over Anza Borrego Desert. Established in 1993, the three night event takes place at a desert resort that maintains a red-light-only environment in the hotel and RV park.
San Diego Astronomy Association
SDAA members conduct astronomical outreach and education throughout San Diego County, hosting multiple Star Party events each month including at that club’s dark sky site, Tierra del Sol. See SDAA Public Events Calendar for dates and weather cancellations.
Observatory Campground is located in the Cleveland forest on Palomar mountain, and shares the same night skies as Palomar Observatory, just 2 miles away. The site features the Explore the Stars program, presented by local amateur astronomers, a series of monthly two night star parties in spring, summer, and fall.
