Leon Valley.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Leon Valley, TX. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Leon Valley
- Top Community Pick: Raymond Rimkus Park (~0.3 miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 5.0 at Rancho de Las Cabras
- Local Experts: San Antonio Astronomical Association
- Verified Observations: 5 distinct spots
Stargazing in Leon Valley is surprisingly rewarding if you know exactly where to set up your tripod. While enthusiasts often gather at Raymond Rimkus Park for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at Rancho de Las Cabras provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 5.0. The local landscape of Leon Valley offers several pockets of darkness that are perfect for deep-sky observation.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Leon Valley
Since Leon Valley 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 Leon Valley Observers
When visiting Raymond Rimkus Park, remember to check if the gates close at sunset or if a night-use permit is required. Binoculars are a favorite for regulars at this spot 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.
Raymond Rimkus Park
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Guadalupe River State Park
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Guadalupe River State Park
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Hardberger Park
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Medina River Natural Area
" 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.
Rancho de Las Cabras
San Antonio Missions NHP
"Sky near the horizon looks bright all the way around. The biggest and brightest light dome comes from the northwest. The light dome extends all the way to zenith. Red flashing lights to the northeast. Milky Way looks faint overhead and is invisible below 45 degrees in altitude."
LBJ Ranch Dales Trap
Lyndon Johnson NHP
"Sky quality measurements were recorded at LBJ Ranch Dales Trap in Lyndon Johnson NHP on 4/1/2005. The site demonstrated a scientific darkness reading of 21.31 SQM."
International Dark Sky Parks
Premier locations certified for their exceptional dark sky quality and commitment to light pollution mitigation.
Wimberley Valley, Texas
The cities of Wimberley and Woodcreek (collectively known as “Wimberley Valley”), are neighboring incorporated municipalities in Hays County, Texas, U.S.
Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park
The LBJ Ranch District at Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park is located 60 miles northwest of San Antonio, Texas just off Texas State Highway 290 along…
Local Astronomy Clubs
Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.