CAPITOL REEF AFTER DARK
International Dark Sky Park
The landscape doesn’t disappear when the sun goes down. Look up, slow down, and discover why the night sky is worth protecting.
What is an International Dark Sky Park?
Capitol Reef National Park became an International Dark Sky Park in 2015. The International Dark-Sky Association, now DarkSky International, awarded the park Gold Tier status at designation, recognizing the highest quality night skies under the rating system used at the time.
The designation recognizes more than a good place to see stars. It reflects the park’s work to limit light pollution, improve outdoor lighting, monitor the night sky, and teach visitors and nearby communities how to protect natural darkness.
DarkSky’s current conservation criteria include a Milky Way readily visible to the unaided eye, no nearby artificial lights causing significant glare, and only dim, limited light domes close to the horizon. Clear weather and moonlight still affect what you will see on any given night.
Our commitment to darker nights
At Capitol Reef RV Resort and Glamping, we are dedicated to helping protect the dark skies that make this region special and supporting the continued care behind Capitol Reef National Park’s designation.
We designed our resort with low lighting so the night sky, rather than bright lights, can be part of your stay. Keeping unnecessary light out of the night is a small choice with a lasting purpose: preserving the chance to look up and see the stars.
Help keep the stars in view
Use only what you need
Turn off unnecessary exterior and RV lights when you are done using them. Close curtains or shades to reduce light spilling outdoors.
Give your eyes time
Let your eyes adjust to the dark. A dim red flashlight helps you see your surroundings without disrupting night vision as much as a bright white light.
Plan a quiet night
For more stars, choose a clear night with little moonlight. Check the park’s current stargazing guidance, dress for the weather, and respect other guests enjoying the dark.
Stay for the night sky
Spend the day exploring Capitol Reef, then settle in for a slower evening under the stars.
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