International Dark Sky Parks

The Milky Way rises over Ancestral Puebloan ruins at Hovenweep National Monument, USA. Photo by Jacob W. Frank.

The Milky Way rises over Copper Breaks State Park, Texas. Photo by Koustav Sinha.

Watching the Milky Way rise above Big Bend National Park, Texas. Photo by Tyler Nordgren.

The Milky Way arches over Capitol Reef National Park’s iconic Chimney Rock. Photo by Jacob W. Frank.

Hortobágy National Park, Hungary.

Orion Rising above Clatteringshaws Loch in Galloway Forest Park, Scotland. Photo by James Hilder.

The Milky Way over the Racetrack Playa in Death Valley National Park, California. Photo by Dan Duriscoe.

An IDA International Dark Sky Park (IDSP) is a land possessing 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. The land may be publicly owned, or privately owned provided that the landowner(s) consent to the right of permanent, ongoing public access to specific areas included in the IDA designation.

Certified IDA International Dark Sky Parks

Designate an International Dark Sky Park

IDA designates International Dark Sky Places following a rigorous application process requiring applicants to demonstrate robust community support for dark sky protection and document designation-specific program requirements. Learn more and start the process here.

Download the current International Dark Sky Park guidelines

2018 International Dark Sky Park Guidelines

2019 Submission Deadline Dates

24 February 2020 25 May 2020 24 August 2020 30 November 2020

Resources for applicants

For current International Dark Sky Parks

Writing International Dark Sky Park annual reports