Oregon Caves isn’t just about underground adventures in the famed “Marble Halls of Oregon.” Now it's also a haven for experiencing the magic of an unspoiled night sky—a rarity in today’s light-polluted world.
Tucked away in the rugged Siskiyou Mountains, Oregon Caves National Monument & Preserve has added a dazzling new accolade to its resume: it’s officially an International Dark Sky Park! This prestigious certification from DarkSky International celebrates the park’s exceptional efforts to protect the natural night sky, making it a beacon for stargazers and conservation enthusiasts alike.
A Growing Dark Sky Movement In Oregon
Oregon is fast becoming a hotspot for dark sky enthusiasts. Our state is already home to the world’s largest International Dark Sky Sanctuary, located in the Oregon outback. The addition of Oregon Caves to this elite club bolsters Oregon's reputation as a premier destination for those seeking cosmic adventures while still keeping their feet on the ground.
The monument’s new certification is part of a global effort to preserve natural darkness. Since the first International Dark Sky Place was named in 2001, the program has grown to include more than 200 locations across six continents, protecting over 160,000 square kilometers of night skies and landscapes.
This new recognition of the Oregon Caves as a dark sky park didn’t come overnight, it’s the result of years of dedication by park staff. Their work involved establishing night sky monitoring programs, reducing light pollution, and crafting partnerships with nearby communities to safeguard the region’s dark skies and historical charm. Now this natural gem is one of just 46 National Park Service sites in the world to earn this honor.
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Why The Night Sky Matters
If you've never heard of Dark Sky International, or dark sky parks before, then you might not be sure why having dark skies is so important. International Dark Sky Parks like this one are critical in reconnecting people with nighttime nature while addressing issues like light pollution.
Light pollution might not seem like a big deal, but it can affect our health as well as wildlife and ecosystems. In light polluted areas, it also keeps us from seeing the splendor of the stars. In a city you'll be lucky to look up at the night sky and see one or two of the brightest stars.
In dark sky areas like the Oregon Caves National Monument, when you look up at the sky you'll not only see millions of twinkling stars shining down on you, but also the arm of the Milky Way galaxy. These moments are why places like Oregon Caves fight to preserve their skies just as much as they do their landscapes.
What Makes Oregon Caves A Special Dark Sky Spot?
By day, Oregon Caves National Monument & Preserve is a 4,500-acre wonderland of marble caves, old-growth forests, and pristine streams, including the underground River Styx, the only subterranean Wild and Scenic River in the U.S. By night, it transforms into a stargazer’s dream. Visitors can marvel at constellations, planets, and even the occasional shooting star, free from the glow of artificial lights.
This certification as a Dark Sky Park adds another layer to the monument’s appeal, complementing its renowned geological marvels and vibrant ecosystems. With minimal light pollution, it’s a unique spot for stargazing, astrophotography, and night hikes, all while learning about the importance of conserving our nocturnal environments.
Pack a telescope and a sense of adventure, because the Oregon Caves National Monument is calling, and now is a great time to go.
