The Oregon OutbackDark Sky Sanctuary
The largest Dark Sky Sanctuary in the world is right here in Lake County — more than 2.5 million acres of skies as dark as they come.
Reading the sky…
Tonight's Sky
Stargazing quality
True darkness begins
—astronomical twilight ends
Sunset
—
Best Milky Way viewing
—
📍 Computed live for Lakeview, Oregon (42.19°N, 120.35°W) · times approximate · darker moon = brighter Milky Way
- 2024
- Year designated
- 2.5M+
- Acres protected
- #1
- Largest on Earth
- 7,000+
- Stars visible by eye
Why It Matters
A sky most people have never seen
More than 80% of North Americans can no longer see the Milky Way from where they live. Light pollution has erased the night sky for generations. Lake County is one of the last places on the continent where the stars still shine the way they always have.
The International Dark-Sky Association designated the Oregon Outback as a Sanctuary in 2024 — its highest, most remote category. For visitors, it means an unforgettable view. For Lake County, it means a whole new reason for the world to come visit.
Bortle Class 1
The darkest skies on the scale — and they're ours
Before You Go
How to experience the dark sky
Plan around the new moon
The darker the moon, the brighter the Milky Way. Check a moon-phase calendar before you go.
Bring a red flashlight
Red light preserves your night vision. Let your eyes adjust for 20–30 minutes for the full effect.
Dress for the high desert
Even summer nights get cold at 4,800 feet. Layers, a blanket, and a thermos go a long way.
Join a guided Star Party
Local astronomers bring telescopes and know exactly where to look. The best way to start.