If you’re looking for a peaceful destination to get away from the noise and spend your evenings gazing up at a sky full of stars, the desert might be calling your name. There are several stunning deserts across the U.S. that offer peaceful getaways, stunning landscapes, and skies full of stars.
1. Joshua Tree National Park, California
Known for its surreal landscape of twisted Joshua trees and massive boulders, Joshua Tree is a favorite for night-sky enthusiasts. It’s a designated International Dark Sky Park, meaning it’s one of the best places in the country to see the Milky Way with the naked eye. Set up camp, unplug, and prepare to be awed by the stars stretching endlessly above you. There are also several unique Airbnbs for those who prefer the “glamping” experience.
2. Big Bend National Park, Texas
Located along the U.S.–Mexico border, Big Bend is vast, remote, and astonishingly quiet. Its isolation is part of what makes it so magical. There’s very little light pollution here, making the night skies brilliantly clear. By day, hike through desert canyons or float along the Rio Grande; by night, lay back and lose yourself in a sea of stars.
3. Sedona, Arizona
While Sedona is better known for its red rock formations and spiritual energy, it also offers incredible stargazing, especially outside of town limits. Head into the surrounding Coconino National Forest or take part in one of the area’s many incredible guided night sky tours. Choose from tons of unique hiking experiences in the red rocks. Bonus: Sedona is a designated Dark Sky Community, which helps protect the natural nightscape.
4. Death Valley National Park, California/Nevada
Despite its ominous name, Death Valley offers breathtaking beauty and unparalleled solitude. It’s one of the hottest places on Earth, so timing your visit in cooler months is key. At night, the desert cools and the sky explodes with stars. The park’s enormous open spaces and zero light pollution make it feel like you’re on another planet.
5. Canyonlands National Park, Utah
Tucked into southeastern Utah, Canyonlands is vast and rugged, with deep canyons and high desert plateaus. It’s also one of the quietest places in the U.S.—and when the sun sets, the silence only makes the stars seem louder. Photographers and night-sky lovers flock here for clear views of constellations, planets, and the Milky Way.
Whether you’re looking to reflect in solitude or marvel at the wide open sky, these desert destinations offer the space and silence to reconnect with wonder.
