Rock Springs.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Rock Springs, WY. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Rock Springs
- Top Community Pick: local vantage points (~N/A miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 3.0 at Harpers Corner Road
- Local Experts: Star Valley Astronomy Club
- Verified Observations: 0 distinct spots
Stargazing in Rock Springs is surprisingly rewarding if you know exactly where to set up your tripod. While enthusiasts often gather at local vantage points for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at Harpers Corner Road provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 3.0. The transition between the urban infrastructure of Rock Springs and the more rural stretches of WY creates several ‘dark sky’ corridors.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Rock Springs
For the best results in Rock Springs, aim for a ‘New Moon’ window. In these dark-sky conditions, the absence of moonlight allows the Milky Way to cast visible shadows.
Expert Tips for Rock Springs Observers
Before heading out to local vantage points, we recommend arriving during civil twilight to scout the terrain safely. A medium-aperture telescope is ideal for resolving the rings of Saturn and bright star clusters the site. 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.
Wyoming Guide
Local Top Spots
Community-vetted locations known for clear horizons and accessibility for telescopes and astrophotography.
NPS Sky Measurements
Instrumented readings from the National Park Service Night Sky Program, providing the most accurate SQM and Bortle classifications.
Harpers Corner Road
Dinosaur NM
"Clearing clouds through the evening. One bank of clouds to the north was persistant. Smoke visible to the east from Colorado front range fires. Some local haze overhead and to the west. Transparency overall is fair. Seeing is good. Easily visible but some details such as prancing hose not well defined. Dust lanes and great rift are visible. Main lightdome of Thermal, UT is obvious, but not so bright as to hinder dark adaptation in other directions. SQM -21.43"
Group site at Split Mountain
Dinosaur NM
"Horizon blocked. Borlte 3 due to city lights beyond canyon wall."
International Dark Sky Parks
Premier locations certified for their exceptional dark sky quality and commitment to light pollution mitigation.
Diamond Mountain Retreat Center
Located in the remote Chihuahuan high desert, Diamond Mountain Retreat Center offers secluded cottages surrounded by juniper, pine, and manzanita.
Steinaker State Park
Steinaker State Park is located 11 km (7 miles) north of the city of Vernal in Uintah County, Utah, U.S. Named for area ranching pioneer John Steinaker…
Local Astronomy Clubs
Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.