Del Rio.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Del Rio, TX. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Del Rio
- Top Community Pick: Devil’s River State Natural Area (TPWD) (~1.5 miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 1 at Gas Pad
- Local Experts: Mason Star Gazers
- Verified Observations: 5 distinct spots
If you’re looking to escape the light pollution of Del Rio, you’re in luck. While enthusiasts often gather at Devil’s River State Natural Area (TPWD) for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at Gas Pad provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 1. The local landscape of Del Rio offers several pockets of darkness that are perfect for deep-sky observation.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Del Rio
For the best results in Del Rio, 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 Del Rio Observers
Before heading out to Devil’s River State Natural Area (TPWD), 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 this location. 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.
Devil's River State Natural Area (TPWD)
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Bar X Ranch
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Kickapoo Caverns State Park
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Devil's Sinkhole State Park
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Garner State 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.
Gas Pad
Devils River State NA
"Sky quality measurements were recorded at Gas Pad in Devils River State NA on 9/1/2018. The site demonstrated a scientific darkness reading of 21.96 SQM."
Campsite 14
Black Gap Wildlife Mgmt Area
"Sky quality measurements were recorded at Campsite 14 in Black Gap Wildlife Mgmt Area on 3/2/2021. The site demonstrated a scientific darkness reading of 21.73 SQM."
International Dark Sky Parks
Premier locations certified for their exceptional dark sky quality and commitment to light pollution mitigation.
Devils River State Natural Area — Del Norte Unit
Named for the whitewater Devils River that runs through it, the Devils River State Natural Area — Del Norte was once part of a large working ranch…
South Llano River State Park
South Llano River State Park is situated on approximately 1,050 hectares (2,600 acres) of land on the Edwards Plateau just east of the eponymous South Llano…
Local Astronomy Clubs
Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.