Fredericksburg
Rural sky, where the Milky Way shows complex structure.
Certified as an International Dark Sky Community in 2020. Bortle 3. The Hill Country wine capital of Texas and one of the most visited small towns in the state, sitting at the center of a remarkable concentration of dark sky certified places: Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is 18 miles north, LBJ National Historical Park is nearby, and dozens of wineries and ranches operate in the surrounding countryside. The town itself operates under a lighting ordinance that keeps the sky noticeably darker than comparable Texas towns. A natural hub for Hill Country dark sky road trips, with abundant accommodation and restaurants.
What's here
On the map
What to bring
Our picks for a good night under the stars.
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Nearby in USA
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
California's largest state park. Silver Tier desert darkness.
Arches National Park
Gold Tier certified: sandstone arches make iconic Milky Way foregrounds.
Big Bend National Park
The darkest national park in the lower 48 and the first certified dark sky park in Texas.