Stargazing – the simple act of looking at the stars – is perhaps the ultimate social-distancing experience, a chance to reconnect with nature and the world without having to leave your yard, balcony, porch, or sidewalk.

The majority of stars that can be seen without a telescope are individual stars inside our galaxy. Once you familiarize yourself with the basics and begin to discover which planets, stars, and constellations are which, a telescope will provide the clearest, best look at the stars and planets in our galaxy, as well as those in other galaxies, too.

1. DEATH VALLEY NATIONAL PARK
   
   The best place to stargaze in Death Valley is literally anywhere you like. Watching the twinkling skies here is a national park experience worth adding to your bucket list. The hottest, driest, and lowest of all national parks in the country is one of the best places to see the Milky Way in California—it surrounds you by absolute darkness and solitude with the stars.



2. YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK
   
   Unobstructed clear views of the sky are crucial for top-notch stargazing, and Yosemite National Park offers exactly that. Whether you decide to book a luxurious glamping retreat or sign up for a specialized stargazing tour, Yosemite won’t disappoint as one of the best places to stargaze in California.



3. ALABAMA HILLS
   
   Alabama Hills may not be a well-known getaway spot, but it’s still an incredible place to go stargazing in California. This scenic destination has very low light pollution—you might even catch a glimpse of the Andromeda and Triangulum galaxies on a clear night.



4. KELSO DUNE FIELD
   
   The incredible Kelso Dunes is one of the most photographed spots in the Mojave Desert for good reason. As one of the best places to see stars in Southern California, the eolian sand deposit field offers you a first-class seat to the night sky. Just beware of the scorpions that creep out during hot summer nights.



5. ANZA-BORREGO DESERT STATE PARK
   
   Anza-Borrego Desert State Park’s expansive landscape boasts brilliant and crystal clear night skies. Go from November through April to take part in the monthly moon and star watching programs at one of the best places for stargazing in California.