The World's Largest Dark Sky Sanctuary Is An Otherworldly Oregon Escape With High Desert Views

For thousands of years human beings from all over the world have been staring up at the starlit sky and feeling awe-inspired. There's something incomprehensible about a dark night sky that has delighted people since time immemorial. Ancient humans were as fascinated by the sky as modern scientists are today, yet in our modern era around 99% of people in the United States live with light pollution. Artificial light makes enjoying unspoiled views of the cosmos extremely difficult. Thankfully, there are still a few places where you can experience a truly dark sky in the U.S. Oregon Outback International Dark Sky Sanctuary is one such place.

Babylonians studied the movement of the sun, moon, and stars as early as 1800 BCE and ancient Greeks named many of our favorite constellations. Early spiritual beliefs and religions were heavily influenced by the cosmos. Just like our ancestors, many modern stargazers find a sense of peace and inspiration when gazing at the vastness of space. Despite our enduring fascination, many modern-day humans will have a difficult time experiencing a truly dark sky unless they're willing to travel.

Light pollution has made it nearly impossible to see the stars in some places, and it is estimated that nearly a third of Earth's population cannot see the Milky Way because of artificial light. DarkSky International is a nonprofit organization that aims to reduce light pollution and preserve dark skies. The organization certifies Dark Sky Places around the world, and over the past few decades these locations have become popular destinations for nature enthusiasts and amateur astronomers alike. The Oregon Outback International Dark Sky Sanctuary is the largest Dark Sky Sanctuary in the entire world. If you're looking for incredible views of starlit skies over the high desert, this remote destination in the northwestern United States is the perfect place.

There are five different types of Dark Sky Place certifications outlined by DarkSky International. Dark Sky Sanctuaries differ from Dark Sky parks or reserves in that they are located in the most remote places and offer the darkest and most unspoiled views of the night sky. There are only 24 Dark Sky Sanctuaries in the entire world, and the Oregon Outback International Dark Sky Sanctuary is the largest. The sanctuary consists of about 2.5 million acres in southeastern Oregon with plans to expand to 11.4 million acres. It is located in Eastern Lake County and it is currently the largest Dark Sky Sanctuary on the planet. The area is often called the "Oregon Outback" due to its remote location and thin population. 

Visitors can enjoy activities like camping, wildlife viewing, and various astronomy events that occur throughout the year. The high desert landscape offers vast unobstructed views of the stars. It's a paradise for photographers hoping to capture images of the night sky. You can witness the beauty of the Milky Way stretching across the night sky, and it's a prime location to watch for shooting stars or witness astronomical events.

Spending some time at the Oregon Outback International Dark Sky Sanctuary will allow you to observe breathtaking views of the starlit sky, but it may also benefit your mental health and improve your quality of sleep. "For millions of years, the natural cycle of day and night has shaped life on Earth, including human health and well-being," the DarkSky International website states. "With the rise of artificial light at night, our natural rhythms are being disrupted." Research suggests that exposure to light after dark can disrupt hormones that aid in sleep, shift our internal clocks, affect our genes, and may even contribute to chronic diseases.

To experience the beauty of Oregon Outback Dark Sky Sanctuary you will have to be willing to travel off the beaten path on a scenic road trip. Redmond Municipal Airport in Redmond, Oregon, is the closest option if you're flying. Driving from the airport to the sanctuary will take around two hours. Oregon's major commercial airport, Portland International Airport, is about four and a half hours away. From either airport, you'll need to rent a car and drive since the area is remote. A vehicle with four-wheel drive is highly recommended. Expect to spend around $100 per day for a rental vehicle with the appropriate off-road capabilities. Make sure that you have ample fuel and supplies before you reach the sanctuary. It's a good idea to study your route ahead of time and keep a map handy because cell reception may be limited.

There are plenty of places to camp in and around the sanctuary. Bureau of Land Management land, National Forest Service land, and the Summer Lake Wildlife Area all have camping options, and you may even be able to find free camping. If you prefer more traditional accommodations, check out Summer Lake Hot Springs in Paisley, Oregon. There are twelve different cabins and houses, as well as campsites and spots for RVs. During the day you can soak in healing hot springs before heading out to view the stars at night. Rates start around $140 per night.

For the best possible experience, plan your trip around the New Moon. On the New Moon and the days surrounding it, you'll get to enjoy the darkest skies possible and the stars will be the most visible. Summer and early autumn are ideal seasons to visit, but always pack some warmer clothes and gear. The high-desert environment can still be chilly at night during the summertime.