Dark Sky Parks in Michigan
Lauren Coin
| 3 min read
Are you looking for an outdoor adventure under the night sky? Michigan is home to numerous dark sky parks perfect for stargazing and viewing the northern lights.
There are six protected dark sky preserves throughout the state, as well as four international dark sky parks and sanctuaries. These specially-designated areas are open 24 hours a day year-round.
Dark sky state parks
Lake Hudson Recreation Area
This recreation area became Michigan’s first dark sky preserve in 1993. Located near the Ohio border in Lenawee County, the Lake Hudson Recreation Area offers visitors stellar night sky views. The preserve provides a low light area and utilizes lighting fixtures that minimize light pollution.
The Lake Hudson Recreation Area features a semi-modern campground, picnic area, boat launch and beach. The picnic and beach parking areas are a few of the recommended areas for stargazing as they’re typically not as busy.
Location: 5505 Morey Highway, Clayton
Negwegon State Park
Negwegon State Park spans 4,000 acres and features eight miles of Lake Huron lakeshore. This rustic, undeveloped park in Alcona County is perfect for visitors looking to immerse themselves in the quiet beauty of Michigan’s night sky.
Location: Negwegon State Park Rd, Black River
Port Cresent State Park
This state park sits at the tip of Michigan’s thumb just outside Port Austin and features three miles of sandy Lake Huron shoreline. Port Cresent State Park is a great spot for stargazers looking to spend the night, as the park boasts a modern campground and unique lodging options, such as geodesic domes and cottages.
Be sure to stop by the best viewing location, which is a designated platform near Parking Lot D.
Location: 1775 Port Austin Road, Port Austin
Rockport Recreation Area
The Rockport Recreation Area is located in northeast Michigan and stretches across the Lake Huron coast. This recreation area is rich in history and outdoor adventure, as it was once a limestone quarry. Visitors can explore limestone formations, search for fossils and enjoy a quiet night under the stars.
Location: Rockport Recreation Area, Alpena
Thompson’s Harbor State Park
Thompson’s Harbor State Park is a prime spot for stargazing in northern Michigan. This state park, along with Negwegon and Rockport, is located near Alpena, a city that has light pollution readings among the lowest in the Great Lakes region.
This lack of artificial light pollution makes the cosmos appear clearly. If you’re lucky, you may even witness a show of the aurora borealis.
While you’re there, consider exploring the park’s six miles of trails or staying overnight in one of the two rustic cabins.
Wilderness State Park
Wilderness State Park is a must-see destination for visitors looking to enjoy the night sky over the Lake Michigan shoreline. Located 11 miles west of Mackinaw City, this state park boasts picturesque waterfront views and unique perspectives of the Waugoshance Lighthouse, the Straits of Mackinac and Mackinac Bridge.
Wilderness State Park features multiple campgrounds and more than 20 miles of hiking trails for continued outdoor exploration.
Location: 903 Wilderness Park Dr., Carp Lake
International dark sky parks
Four areas in Michigan have been designated by DarkSky International as official dark sky parks, recognizing their commitment to preserving natural night skies. Be sure to check out each park’s unique qualities:
- Headlands Dark Sky Park
- Keweenaw Dark Sky Park
- Dr. T.K. Lawless Park
- Beaver Island State Wildlife Research Area International Dark Sky Sanctuary
Photo credit: Getty Images
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