Barstow.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Barstow, CA. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Barstow
- Top Community Pick: High Desert Astronomical Society (~26.4 miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 4.0 at Pipeline Road
- Local Experts: High Desert Astronomical Society
- Verified Observations: 5 distinct spots
Stargazing in Barstow is surprisingly rewarding if you know exactly where to set up your tripod. While enthusiasts often gather at High Desert Astronomical Society for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at Pipeline Road provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 4.0. The local landscape of Barstow offers several pockets of darkness that are perfect for deep-sky observation.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Barstow
Since Barstow sits in a transitional light zone, viewing is best during the New Moon or after midnight when some commercial lighting is reduced.
Expert Tips for Barstow Observers
Before heading out to High Desert Astronomical Society, we recommend arriving during civil twilight to scout the terrain safely. For the best views this location, try to observe targets when they are highest in the sky to minimize atmospheric interference. Local enthusiasts often frequent this spot, making it a great place to meet experienced observers. Regardless of your gear, allow 30 minutes for your eyes to fully dark-adapt.
California Guide
Local Top Spots
Community-vetted locations known for clear horizons and accessibility for telescopes and astrophotography.
High Desert Astronomical Society
" The High Desert Astronomical Society will be present with telescopes, providing a guided tour of the Moon, planets and other celestial objects for visitors. International Observe the Moon Night is sponsored by NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) mission and the Solar System Exploration Division at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, with many contributors. "
Pioneertown Mountains Preserve
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Lewis Center for Educational Research Luz Observatory
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Prime Desert Woodland Preserve
" {'free and open to the public, weather permitting.', 'Free and open to the public', 'Free and open to the public, weather permitting.'} "
Prime Desert Woodlands Preserve
" 'This is the Moon Walk only. There will be no telescopes because of the Festival of Lights. "
NPS Sky Measurements
Instrumented readings from the National Park Service Night Sky Program, providing the most accurate SQM and Bortle classifications.
Pipeline Road
San Bernardino County
"Excessive glare from yard light to the north, zenith fairly dark but light domes west through south dominate the sky. SQM 20.94."
El Mirage Lake
BLM Ridgecrest Area
"Dark overhead but exceptionally bright glare from the General Atomics facility. Light domes from Victor Valley, L.A. area, and Palmdale/Lancaster bright and tall. Bob sees 7.1, Dan 6.8, in Taurus north of the Pleiades. Zodiacal light seen to the Pleiades early, lost in Palmdale light near the horizon. Milky Way easy to see from Gemini through Auriga."
International Dark Sky Parks
Premier locations certified for their exceptional dark sky quality and commitment to light pollution mitigation.
Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park is a U.S. national park sprawling over land that straddles the boundary of two deserts: the higher Mojave Desert and lower Colorado…
Death Valley National Park
Death Valley National Park is distant enough from the large cities of the southwest so that much of the night sky above the desert floor is near pristine and…
Local Astronomy Clubs
Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.