Camp Verde.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Camp Verde, AZ. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Camp Verde
- Top Community Pick: Rezzonico Family Park (~0.4 miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 2 at Anderson Mesa, Ashurst Lake
- Local Experts: Astronomers of Verde Valley
- Verified Observations: 5 distinct spots
If you’re looking to escape the light pollution of Camp Verde, you’re in luck. While enthusiasts often gather at Rezzonico Family Park for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at Anderson Mesa, Ashurst Lake provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 2. The transition between the urban infrastructure of Camp Verde and the more rural stretches of AZ creates several ‘dark sky’ corridors.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Camp Verde
For the best results in Camp Verde, 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 Camp Verde Observers
When visiting Rezzonico Family Park, remember to check if the gates close at sunset or if a night-use permit is required. 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.
Arizona Guide
Local Top Spots
Community-vetted locations known for clear horizons and accessibility for telescopes and astrophotography.
Rezzonico Family Park
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Beaverhead Flats Trailhead
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Red Rock State Park
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Old Town Activity Park
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Del Webb Park
" 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.
Anderson Mesa, Ashurst Lake
Coconino NF
"Sky quality measurements were recorded at Anderson Mesa, Ashurst Lake in Coconino NF on 7/9/2016. The site demonstrated a scientific darkness reading of 21.65 SQM."
NPOI at Anderson Mesa
Lowell Observatory
"Site located just north of NPOI on Anderson Mesa, on 2 track dirt road near the snow fence, south of Prime Lake. Sky perfectly cloudless, low inversion (smoke?) layer observed over Flagstaff, very subtle. Visibility good, about 80 miles, slight haze, dead calm, cool. Zodiacal light in first set overlaps Flagstaff, virtually absent from 3rd set. Zodiacal band not observed, gegenschein lost in Milky Way. Considerable detail in summer Milky Way, two dust lanes observed to Antares. Almost no airglow, sky very dark at zenith. 6.9 ZLM with difficulty, observer's eyes strained, dark adaptation not complete. Flagstaff light dome degrades night vision, must be blocked, illuminates landscape slightly."
International Dark Sky Parks
Premier locations certified for their exceptional dark sky quality and commitment to light pollution mitigation.
Camp Verde, Arizona
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Local Astronomy Clubs
Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.