Best Stargazing Spots Near Los Angeles

When thinking of stars in Los Angeles what comes to mind is probably the stars along the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Yet on any given night high above the City of Angels a much bigger celestial show awaits amateur astronomers and astro-curious Los Angeleans.

With mild weather year-round, little chance of rain, and easy accessibility, Southern California is a surprisingly perfect region to connect with the night sky.

True, the urban glow and smog can make it feel impossible to enjoy the night sky. Fear not, just beyond the freeways, tucked into mountains, deserts, and parks, the night sky bursts to life. 

Best Stargazing Spots Near Los Angeles

Joshua Tree National Park ✨

This desert is legendary. Wide open skies stretch forever. Stars glitter like diamonds. Joshua Tree is an International Dark Sky Park, so the Milky Way pops. Camp, hike, or just lay back on the sand. Astro-photographers and families alike will tell you: it’s magic.

Borrego Springs (Anza-Borrego Desert State Park) 🌵

California’s first International Dark Sky Community. The desert empties out, leaving nothing but an unforgettable night sky. You’ll find flat, open landscapes and low light pollution. Borrego Springs is ideal for capturing star pics or teaching kids their first constellations.

Big Bear Lake ⛰️

Up in the mountains at 6,700 feet, the air is crisp and clear. The Big Bear Solar Observatory (bbso.njit.edu) gives you a taste of professional astronomy, while the annual SkyFest (bigbear.com/events/skyfest) draws stargazers from across the state. Maybe it’s not what you’d have thought to be one of the best stargazing spots near Los Angeles, Big Bear is a manageable 2-hour drive away.

Mount Wilson Observatory & Pasadena 🔭

The San Gabriel Mountains hide one of California’s most historic observatories (mtwilson.edu). Combine that with Pasadena’s City of Astronomy events (visitpasadena.com/events/city-of-astronomy), and you’ve got a full-on celestial playground. Don’t miss The Planetary Society (visitpasadena.com/directory/planetary-society), founded by Carl Sagan and friends. Bill Nye keeps the mission alive, championing space exploration and the search for life beyond Earth.

Burbank Sidewalk Astronomers 🌃

These folks live for winter nights – or any night with a clear view of the stars. Free telescope viewings. Family-friendly events. They roam the city, showing the moon, planets, and deep-sky wonders. Keep an eye on the Burbank Sidewalk Astronomers annual schedule for your chance to join the celestial fun. 

Mojave National Preserve 🪐

Remote. Empty. Wide-open desert. Skies blazing with stars, planets and meteors. Cue the mic drop. 🎤 The Mojave is a photographer’s dream and a true dark-sky escape. No lights. No noise. Just the hum of the night and the shimmer of the galaxy above.

Why a Stargazing Tent from Sky View Tents Makes the Experience Better

If you’re going to hit one of the best stargazing spots near Los Angeles, you might as well take along one of our Sky View Tents so you can lie back and watch the cosmos in comfort.

The clear mesh roof gives a full, unobstructed view. You can pop Sky View Tent’s patent-pending internal rainfly if clouds roll in. Dual vestibules provide space for gear. Ventilation keeps the tent fresh.

At Joshua Tree, Borrego, or Big Bear, a stargazing-specific tent keeps you connected to the night sky. You’re warm, cozy, and ready to catch meteors streaking across the galaxy. It’s a whole new level of immersion.

What to Bring & How to Prepare for a Winter Night in SoCal

Even SoCal nights can get cold. Don’t underestimate the mountain air or desert chill.

• Dress in layers: thermal base, insulating mid-layer, windproof shell.

• Accessories: gloves, beanie, hand warmers, warm socks.

• Supplies: hot drinks, snacks, camp chair, padded ground mat.

• Lights: dim red flashlight preserves night vision.

• Etiquette: respect dark-sky zones.

Finding the Best Stargazing Spots Near Los Angeles

Reddit communities like r/Stargazing and r/LosAngeles share real experiences. Find what’s in season, when the moon won’t wash out the stars, and where locals like to gather. Check observatory calendars for telescope nights. Even city-adjacent parks can surprise you with their dark pockets.

Take Your Stargazing Next-Level 🌟🔭

Southern California stargazing isn’t just a myth. Desert flats, mountain peaks, and community astronomy events bring the night sky to life.

Grab your gear. Pack snacks. Set up your Sky View Tent. Watch the cosmos like never before. Lie back, feel the earth beneath you, and trace the Milky Way. The sky isn’t the limit — it’s just the beginning.

For the ultimate adventure, bring a Sky View stargazing tent so you can get the most out of a visit to one of the best stargazing spots near Los Angeles.