Atlantic City.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Atlantic City, NJ. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Atlantic City
- Top Community Pick: Belleplain State Forest - Athletic Field (~21.6 miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 6.0 at North end (State Park)
- Local Experts: South Jersey Astronomy Club
- Verified Observations: 5 distinct spots
If you’re looking to escape the light pollution of Atlantic City, you’re in luck. While enthusiasts often gather at Belleplain State Forest - Athletic Field for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at North end (State Park) provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 6.0. Atmospheric stability in the Atlantic City region is often influenced by local topography, which can help settle the air for high-magnification viewing.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Atlantic City
For the best results in Atlantic City, 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 Atlantic City Observers
Before heading out to Belleplain State Forest - Athletic Field, 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.
New Jersey Guide
Local Top Spots
Community-vetted locations known for clear horizons and accessibility for telescopes and astrophotography.
Belleplain State Forest - Athletic Field
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Jakes Branch County Park
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Island Beach State Park
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Belleplain State Forest
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Batsto Village
" 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.
North end (State Park)
Assateague Island NS
"North end of island looks north direclty to Ocean City"
North end (State Park)
Assateague Island NS
"Site is dominated by singular glare source, a row of lights (harbor lights?) from Ocean City. Causes ground illumination, shadows, substantial scotopic hinderance when lookin gnrth. State Park lights are poor too, also causing some hinderance, but less than the harbor lights. Dry breeze from SW creating good transparency. At end of first set, LM=6.8 at zenith, seeing somewhat unsteady, transparency good. Magnitude 6.6 is easy, 6.8 achieved with seriours effort. Glimpsed Gegenshein with effort and knowing exactly where to look. Bortle Class 4, but substantial glare. M13 is easily averted object at 45 degree altitude. Bright harbor lights were turned off at 12:18 local, just in time for 3rd set to begin. Trees in region are 50% leafed out."
International Dark Sky Parks
Premier locations certified for their exceptional dark sky quality and commitment to light pollution mitigation.
Sky Meadows State Park
Sky Meadows State Park is a 754-hectare site in northern Virginia, U.S., about one hour from the Washington, D.C., metro area. The name ‘Sky Meadows’ comes from…
Rappahannock County Park
The Rappahannock County Park is a 7.3-acre park located centrally in Rappahannock County off Route 211 near the town of Washington, Virginia, mere miles east of…
Local Astronomy Clubs
Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.