Cosmic Campground International Dark Sky Sanctuary

Shared by @public_lands (Public Lands)

Gila National Forest

Campground · USDA Forest Service · Gila National Forest Fees: No fee for this campground Season: Year round Reservations: No reservations are necessary. First come, first served. All Gila NF camping is subject to the 14-day stay limit. Cosmic Campground International Dark Sky Sanctuary (CCIDSS) is the first International Dark Sky Sanctuary located on National Forest System lands and also in North America. It is also one of only 14 certified IDA Sanctuaries in the world. International Dark Sky Sanctuaries are lands possessing an exceptional or distinguished quality of starry nights. For more information on dark skies, light pollution, or the International Dark Sky Association . The CCIDSS offers a 360-degree, unobstructed view of the night sky for exceptional stargazing opportunities. This site is situated where there nearest significant source of artificial light is more than 40 miles away, and across the state line in Arizona. Night vision is necessary to enjoy the night sky. If you look at white light from either your flashlight or your cell phone you will not be able to enjoy the wonders of the natural night sky… Rules: - No parking on the telescope observation pads. - No campfires on the telescope observation pads. - Use a red filter over your flashlight lens - Try to arrive before dark to minimize light pollution from headlights - Quiet hours are (recommend no generator use) between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. Official page: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/gila/recarea/?recid=82479 Source: USDA Forest Service. Fees and seasons change; check the official page before you go.