Texarkana.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Texarkana, AR. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Texarkana
- Top Community Pick: Wickes Elementary School (~62.7 miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 4.0 at Buckhorn Parking Lot
- Local Experts: Acorn Jr. Science Club
- Verified Observations: 3 distinct spots
Stargazing in Texarkana is surprisingly rewarding if you know exactly where to set up your tripod. While enthusiasts often gather at Wickes Elementary 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. The transition between the urban infrastructure of Texarkana and the more rural stretches of AR creates several ‘dark sky’ corridors.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Texarkana
Since Texarkana 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 Texarkana Observers
Before heading out to Wickes Elementary School, we recommend arriving during civil twilight to scout the terrain safely. For the best views this location, try to observe targets when they are highest in the sky to minimize atmospheric interference. 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.
Arkansas Guide
Local Top Spots
Community-vetted locations known for clear horizons and accessibility for telescopes and astrophotography.
Wickes Elementary School
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Caddo Hills School District
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Lewisville Public Library
" 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.
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.
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Local Astronomy Clubs
Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.