Your Guide to Stargazing in the Hocking Hills This Year
Best Time of Year for Stargazing in Hocking Hills
While it’s possible to access clear sky experiences year-round in Hocking Hills, a few times on the calendar offer up a truly exceptional stargazing clarity. Typically, it’s recommended that stargazers set their sights on the nighttime sky during August, September, and October. You’ll want to remember that stargazing when it’s a new moon or a small crescent generally allows for better viewing conditions. While a full moon in the sky is always impressive, it can wash out your view of the surrounding stars.
10+ Places to Enjoy Stargazing
Our Top Recommendation: The John Glenn Astronomy Park
Location: 20531 OH-664 Scenic
Situated in Logan within the parameters of Hocking Hills State Park, this destination is designed for exploring space from a ground-level perspective and by far one of the best places to see the stars in the Hocking Hills. Your experience at this renowned destination includes:
- Count on prime skies for observation
- Access to high-powered telescopes where you can view everything from planets, stars, comets, and nebulae.
The friendly park staff offers:
- Regularly scheduled observation programs throughout the year when you’re looking for some guided assistance.
- Highlight event: Solar System Walks during the day that provide more insight into the mind-bending size of the solar system alongside a guide.
Other Local Recommendations: State Parks & Attractions
Equipment to Bring Along
Before you head out to stargaze in Hocking Hills, it’s always a good idea to get familiar with the constellations overhead using guidebooks.
What to Pack:
- A quality telescope.
- A large mirror on hand for this adventure.
- Backpack.
- Binoculars.
- Camera.
- Chair.
- Compass.
- First-hand kit.
- Flashlight.
- Hiking shoes/boots.