Marshall.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Marshall, TX. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Marshall
- Top Community Pick: Blackjack Pavillion, Tyler State Park (~56.8 miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 5.0 at Lance Rosier Unit
- Local Experts: Astronomical Society of East Texas
- Verified Observations: 5 distinct spots
Stargazing in Marshall is surprisingly rewarding if you know exactly where to set up your tripod. While enthusiasts often gather at Blackjack Pavillion, Tyler State Park for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at Lance Rosier Unit provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 5.0. The local landscape of Marshall offers several pockets of darkness that are perfect for deep-sky observation.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Marshall
Since Marshall 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 Marshall Observers
When visiting Blackjack Pavillion, Tyler State Park, remember to check if the gates close at sunset or if a night-use permit is required. A medium-aperture telescope is ideal for resolving the rings of Saturn and bright star clusters this location. 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.
Texas Guide
Local Top Spots
Community-vetted locations known for clear horizons and accessibility for telescopes and astrophotography.
Blackjack Pavillion, Tyler State Park
" {'Come join ASET for a star party under the night sky at the Blackjack Pavilion. "
Park Store
" To see ASET come check us out at the Area behind the Park Store (aka the Silver Canoe).' "
Glaske Science and Engineering Building
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
SFASU Planetarium
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Residential Site - Como, TX
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
NPS Sky Measurements
Instrumented readings from the National Park Service Night Sky Program, providing the most accurate SQM and Bortle classifications.
Lance Rosier Unit
Big Thicket N PRES
"Lots of trees blocking the horizon. Clear sky. There is an oil and gas field at the end of the road. Sky looks brightest towards WSW. The light dome extends all the way to zenith. Milky Way looks faint overhead."
Buckhorn Parking Lot
Chickasaw NRA
"Sky looks hazy during the day. At night, sky right above the horizon looks bright in all direction. Light pollution extends to about 60 degrees above the horizon. Milky Way was still impressive right overhead but becomes invisible at about 20 degrees from the horizon."
International Dark Sky Parks
Premier locations certified for their exceptional dark sky quality and commitment to light pollution mitigation.
Lakewood Village, Texas
On April 26, 1977, Lakewood Village was officially incorporated as The Town of Lakewood Village, Texas. Located in the northern part of the Dallas/Ft.
Liberty Hill, Texas
Known for its limestone hills, oak woodlands, and wide-open skies, Liberty Hill has long cherished its rural roots and starlit nights.
Local Astronomy Clubs
Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.