In a world where it can be difficult to find pockets of the night sky dark enough to view the celestial wonderment above, there is some reprieve in The Sunshine State. In 2016, Big Cypress National Park in Florida was designated an International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) International Dark Sky Place, which is one of the last protected dark skies in the world. In case you need another reason to visit Florida’s Dark Sky Park, the views are only the beginning.
Big Cypress National Preserve is a giant, 729,000-acre preserve which offers a variety of wildlife viewing, hiking, camping, and more.
Flickr Diana Robinson
During your visit, there will be plenty of places to watch rare birds soaring overhead or alligators calmly napping along the shoreline.
Flickr Judy Gallagher
But one of the premier activities that you can enjoy while you visit this preserve is unobstructed views of the dark night sky.
Google/Dave Jackson
Designated as an International Dark Sky Park in 2016, this place was the first National Park Service Unit east of Colorado to earn the designation.
Flickr TierraLady
With outdoor lighting guidelines that needed to be followed, this area secured the preservation of dark skies for many years to come.
Flickr TierraLady
People gather for various events in this preserve, whether it’s bringing telescopes and setting up for shooting stars, or celestial adventures that only happen every so often.
Flickr TierraLady
The next time you’re looking for a chance to view the stars, the Milky Way, and the moon without any light pollution getting in your way, check out Big Cypress National Preserve.
Flickr TierraLady
Have you ever been to Florida’s Dark Sky Park before? Share with us your experience in the comments section! Or if you’re looking for more information about this Dark Sky Park, including any fees for admission and hours of operation, then check out the Big Cypress National Park website.
Flickr Diana Robinson
Flickr Judy Gallagher
Google/Dave Jackson
Flickr TierraLady
Meanwhile, if you’re looking for other natural gems to check out in the state take this road trip to the best natural wonders in Florida.
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Address: Big Cypress National Preserve, 33100 Tamiami Trail E, Ochopee, FL 34141, USA
