San Bernardino.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in San Bernardino, CA. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for San Bernardino
- Top Community Pick: High Desert Astronomical Society (~25.6 miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 8.0 at Sycamore Canyon Park
- Local Experts: San Bernardino Valley Amateur Astronomers
- Verified Observations: 5 distinct spots
If you’re looking to escape the light pollution of San Bernardino, you’re in luck. While enthusiasts often gather at High Desert Astronomical Society for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at Sycamore Canyon Park provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 8.0. The transition between the urban infrastructure of San Bernardino and the more rural stretches of CA creates several ‘dark sky’ corridors.
The Best Times for Stargazing in San Bernardino
In the San Bernardino area, the moon’s phase is less critical than atmospheric ‘seeing’ conditions. Even on moonlit nights, bright planets like Jupiter and Saturn remain excellent targets.
Expert Tips for San Bernardino Observers
Before heading out to High Desert Astronomical Society, 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 here. 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.
California Guide
Local Top Spots
Community-vetted locations known for clear horizons and accessibility for telescopes and astrophotography.
High Desert Astronomical Society
" The High Desert Astronomical Society will be present with telescopes, providing a guided tour of the Moon, planets and other celestial objects for visitors. International Observe the Moon Night is sponsored by NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) mission and the Solar System Exploration Division at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, with many contributors. "
Pioneertown Mountains Preserve
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Veterans Freedom Park
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Garvey Ranch Observatory
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Wildlands Conservancy - Oak Glen
" 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.
Sycamore Canyon Park
City of Riverside, CA
"Glare from sewer plant and Riverside city excessive. Below 60 zenith angle only 1st mag stars visible. At zenith constellations are seen, stars in little dipper missing."
Fifth street Lakeview
Riverside County, CA
"Set up on street, fields, bright glare from facility north."
International Dark Sky Parks
Premier locations certified for their exceptional dark sky quality and commitment to light pollution mitigation.
Joshua Tree National Park
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Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
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Local Astronomy Clubs
Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.