Bonham.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Bonham, TX. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Bonham
- Top Community Pick: Sloan Creek Intermediate School (~39.5 miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 4.0 at Buckhorn Parking Lot
- Local Experts: Texas Astronomical Society of Dallas
- Verified Observations: 5 distinct spots
Searching for a clear window into the cosmos near Bonham, TX? While enthusiasts often gather at Sloan Creek Intermediate School for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at Buckhorn Parking Lot provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 4.0. Atmospheric stability in the Bonham region is often influenced by local topography, which can help settle the air for high-magnification viewing.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Bonham
Since Bonham 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 Bonham Observers
Before heading out to Sloan Creek Intermediate School, we recommend arriving during civil twilight to scout the terrain safely. Binoculars are a favorite for regulars this location for sweeping views of the Moon’s craters and larger constellations. 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.
Sloan Creek Intermediate School
" Feel free to bring your own blankets, lawn chairs, binoculars, telescopes, refreshments and dress for the expected temperatures. TAS Volunteers will conduct an introductory tour of the night sky and a variety of telescopes and Astrophotography rigs will be setup for the general public to observe a selection of lunar, planetary, and deep sky objects using these instruments. "
Lovejoy ISD Sloan Creek Intermediate School
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Andrew Brown Park East
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Bob Jones Nature Center and Preserve
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Bird's Fort Trail Park
" {'The expected number of visitors can be hard to gauge. "
NPS Sky Measurements
Instrumented readings from the National Park Service Night Sky Program, providing the most accurate SQM and Bortle classifications.
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."
Veterans Lake
Chickasaw NRA
"Clear sky. The area right above the horizon appears bright from all the directions. Milky Way is impressive overhead but lasks the details of the bright/dark structure. Light dome extends up to about 60 degrees above 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.
Copper Breaks State Park
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Local Astronomy Clubs
Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.