Virginia State Parks has four parks designated as International Dark Sky Parks by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) - Staunton River, James River, and recently added Natural Bridge and Sky Meadows. An IDA International Dark Sky Park (IDSP) is a park possessing an exceptional or distinguished quality of starry nights and a nocturnal environment that is specifically protected for its scientific, natural, educational, cultural heritage, and/or public enjoyment.
The parks achieved the designation by establishing an outdoor lighting policy that minimized light pollution, outreach to the local community, and hosting and promoting programs for guests to enjoy stargazing.
 | Staunton River State Park (SR) | |
| Staunton River Park staff achieved the designation by establishing an outdoor lighting policy that minimized light pollution, by outreach to the local community, and by hosting and promoting the Staunton River Star Party for guests to enjoy stargazing and camping. Learn More | Designation: July 2015 Location: Scottsburg | |
 | James River State Park (JR) | |
| The designation recognizes the park's commitment to providing visitors with the best opportunities to enjoy the night sky and to protect all natural resources, from dark skies to water, land and wildlife. Learn More | Designation: April 2019 Location: Gladstone | |
 | Natural Bridge State Park (NB) | |
| The Dark Sky designation is a continuation of the park’s effort to bring understanding and awareness to our natural resources in a unique and enjoyable way. The hope is to inspire surrounding communities to make quality outdoor lighting a priority so that Virginia can halt and reverse the decades’ long trend of growing light pollution. Learn More | Designation: April 2021 Location: Natural Bridge | |
 | Sky Meadows State Park (SK) | |
| Sky Meadows' designation process can be traced back decades to astronomy programs started by volunteers who recognized the park's unique resource of dark skies just outside of a growing urban environment. It results from over five years of dedication and community support working together to meet the light pollution mitigation and education requirements necessary for the designation. Learn More | Designation: April 2021 Location: Delaplane | |
Nighttime light pollution is common east of the Mississippi River, and natural nighttime darkness is disappearing, making stargazing more difficult. Dark Sky designation recognizes areas and organizations working to maintain spaces where the public can easily see the stars. The designation marks the beginning of our work in maintaining the dark skies, demonstrating that much of what visitors love about our dark sky parks hinges on resources and factors beyond our boundaries. It is a reminder that the designation's longevity must not be taken for granted. We hope it will inspire others to consider the impact that outdoor lighting choices at home and in their communities make on the conservation and enjoyment of our valued resources.
Dark Sky Events
Information on this page changes occasionally so check back often. COVID-19 procedures will be in place.
Skyline Stargazing: New Moon
04/13/2021, 5 p.m. - 11:45 p.m.
Lyrid Meteor Shower Stargazing
04/21/2021, 8 p.m. - 11 p.m.
False Cape After Dark
04/23/2021, 8 p.m. - 11 p.m.
Skyline Stargazing: Supermoon
04/27/2021, 5 p.m. - 11:45 p.m.
Skyline Stargazing: New Moon
05/11/2021, 5 p.m. - 11:45 p.m.
