Cherry Springs State Park

Cherry Springs State Park is a small state park in north-central Pennsylvania known nationally for the quality of its night skies and as a destination for stargazing. The park’s darkness makes it one of the most important urban-edge astronomy sites on the eastern United States.

The park features an open, well-maintained astronomy field and viewing areas where visitors set up telescopes and cameras to observe stars, planets and the Milky Way. Regular star parties and informal observing sessions are held, attracting amateur astronomers and visitors from across the region.

Recognized over the late 20th and early 21st centuries for its very low light pollution, the park has hosted organized astronomy events and partnerships with astronomy groups that promote public observing and education. Conservation of dark skies has become a central management objective.

Cherry Springs lies in Potter County in north-central Pennsylvania, in a rural, forested plateau area away from major metropolitan light sources. The nearest small towns provide basic services, while larger cities are a substantial drive away.

• Dark sky status: Designated for its exceptionally dark night skies on the U.S. eastern seaboard and widely used by amateur astronomers and astronomy clubs.
• Practical advice: Park facilities are basic and the site is remote, so visitors should bring warm clothing and supplies for night viewing.

What to See #

• Astronomy field: An open, vehicle-accessible astronomy field used for observing with minimal light interference and frequently used for star parties and public stargazing events.