The best dark sky parks in and near Florida (MAPPED)

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You don't have to be seeing stars to see stars. That makes sense, right? Maybe not, but if you want to see some actual stars in all of their bright twinkling glory, you should head to one the best dark sky parks in Florida -- or close to! 

There are few places in and around Florida where you can get away from enough light pollution to actually witness the Milky Way -- but thanks to these few spots, it is possible and a totally otherworldly sight to behold. 

What makes a dark sky park different than any other of the local wilderness parks around you may ask? Well, no one says it better than the International Dark-Sky Association themselves; these parks are  "an exceptional or distinguished quality of starry nights and a nocturnal environment that is specifically protected for its scientific, natural, educational, cultural heritage, and/or public enjoyment."

But, are they really all that? YES! I have been to several dark sky parks through my travels and they are always a miraculous experience for stargazing. Besides seeing the Milky Way, you will undoubtedly catch many glimpses of shooting starts too! While it can be tempting to jump right out there on your next weekend off, I do recommend planning far in advance and going prepared for the elements -- if you recall my previous post here, you will know I learned that valuable lesson the hard way. 

My best tips for enjoying a Florida dark sky park are simple:

• Make sure you take TONS of mosquito repellant/wear protective clothing
• Reserve your primitive camping spot for the winter season (MONTHS in advance)
• Have plenty of gas and supplies with you (food, water, first-aid)

Speaking from my own miserable experience, do not attempt primitive camping during summer! It's way too hot, too wet, and too many bugs! The only plus side of summer camping is that campsites are less booked up (obviously!) so if you do want or can only afford the primitive camp experience, you'll need to book months in advance to ensure you get a spot. Also, because the campsites are often many miles away from civilization, come prepared! The nearest gas station and pizza place will likely be over 20 miles away, and cell service? Forget it!

Suggestions if you want to get the most from your visit:

• Bring a telescope like this one, it's one of the best and cheapest on the market 
• If you want to take photos of the sky, invest in a DSLR (here's a good beginner one, and a good low-light one) and more importantly, a tripod and remote 
• I personally love sleeping under the stars in a tent like this or a similar hammock 
• Bring a red light flashlight as most parks don't allow regular flashlights in dark sky areas

Alright, that's it! Let's get into the best dark sky parks -- the interactive map is located at the bottom of the article. Enjoy!


***If you like this map, consider checking out these maps: Florida's best blue springs (here) and Florida's best sunflower fields (here)***

Kissimmee Prairie Preserve 

Kissimmee Prairie Preserve is a massive prairie located near Lake Okeechobee and is probably the most notable location for dark sky hunting in Florida. This is where I went in the summer of 2020 and would not recommend their primitive camping spots for summer dates; however, I imagine it would be a great place to camp at under the stars in the winter! My entire experience review of the park can be found here. 

You can book your stay here.

Big Cypress National Preserve 

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You might know Big Cypress National Preserve as part of the expansive Everglades -- but due to its remote location it's also a designated dark sky park! While I personally haven't been here myself, I have heard (and seen) great things about the nighttime views here. Plenty of camping spots are available to rent, some of which are only seasonal. Considering that Big Cypress is even more southern than the Prairie, I can only imagine how hot and muggy it gets especially during summer months -- so book your stay accordingly! 

You can book your stay here.

Dry Tortugas National Park

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Even further south you will find Dry Tortugas National Park miles off the Florida Keys. It's no wonder how this tiny island is such a great place for stargazing considering it's relatively far away from mainland. Primitive camping is permitted on only the Garden Key portion of the island, and is only available on a first-come-first-serve basis. You can enjoy camping by getting here through private vessels, the daily commercial ferry, and permitted tour guides.

You can learn more about staying at the park here.

Stephen C Foster State Park

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Alright you Northerners -- this one's for you! Stephen C Foster State Park, located in South Georgia is a hop-skip-and-jump away from Northern Florida, at least more so than any of the other parks on this list. The park is located in the expansive Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge and is also a designated dark sky park. The best part? Sometimes 18" telescopes are offered during camping experiences! 

You can book your stay here.