Camping + Stargazing at Black Mesa State Park

Let’s camp at the very edge of Oklahoma, where the sky actually remembers how dark it’s supposed to be!!! Black Mesa State Park has the darkest skies of any state park in Oklahoma, making it a magnet for astronomers, photographers and anyone who’s ever looked up and thought, “wow.” This weekend is about slowing down, exploring and enjoying big landscapes by day and even bigger skies by night.

Tentative Itinerary (flexible):
Friday:
Arrive, set up camp and settle in. If you’re into night photography or stargazing, we’ll scope out good viewing spots once it gets dark (conditions permitting, of course).

Saturday:
Sleep in as long as your body allows. Late morning, we’ll hike to the top of Black Mesa, about a 3–4 hour round trip, with plenty of time to soak in the views. Click here for details about the hike to the high point (distance/elevation gain). After lunch, for those who want to explore, options include the Three State Marker or a short drive to the Three Sisters rock formations. If you’re feeling ambitious, Capulin National Monument is about two hours away on a slow, scenic drive — perfect for stretching the adventure. Late afternoon is for rest, food and doing absolutely nothing if that’s your preference. Once night falls, we’ll regroup for stargazing under some of the clearest skies around.

Sunday:
Pack up camp and head home, tired in the best way.

Important Notes:
All participants are responsible for their own safety, actions, and equipment. The organizer is not responsible for accidents, injuries or property damage. You must make your own campsite reservations. You can reserve spots here: Black Mesa State Park Camping Reservations

This trip is relaxed, flexible and meant to be fun. Come for the hiking, the stars, the rock formations or just to sit by camp and breathe different air. All are valid.