Not everyone knows this, but the Grand Canyon is actually a certified Dark Sky Park! One of the lesser-known campgrounds in the park, Desert View Campground provides stellar views of the cosmos. It’s among the best places to stargaze in Arizona, offering plenty of peace and quiet while you enjoy the scenery.
Built nearly a century ago, the Desert View Watchtower stands guard near the East Entrance to Grand Canyon National Park.
Gary Weathers / Tetra Images Collection / Getty Images Its designer, the world-famous Mary Elizabeth Jane Colter, modeled the structure after the architecture of the ancestral Puebloan people of the Colorado Plateau.
While the Watchtower makes a fascinating addition to any Grand Canyon trip, it doesn’t have to be reduced to a quick afternoon stop.
TripAdvisor/Terri E Few people know this, but you can actually camp out overnight just steps away from the tower. Since the East Entrance is much more lightly trafficked, you’ll practically have the place all to yourself once the sun goes down.
There are a total of 49 campsites - unlike the more popular Grand Canyon campgrounds, which can accommodate hundreds of tourists. Amenities include a fire ring, grill, picnic table, and restroom facilities.
Google/Steve Bailie You’ll enjoy a much more peaceful experience in the intimate setting. Both tents and smaller RVs and travel trailers (30 feet or less in length) are allowed here.
Not everyone is aware that the Grand Canyon is a certified Dark Sky Park, and even fewer people know the Desert View area is one of the best places to stargaze.
Steven Love / EyeEm Collection / Getty Images When night falls, trillions of stars and other celestial bodies glimmer over the Watchtower. The best part is that you can witness the spectacle with the naked eye - no fancy equipment necessary.
The views during the day are pretty incredible, too.
TripAdvisor/RAGOUN A developed scenic overlook known as Desert View Point is located right next to the camping area, and you won’t have to compete with throngs of crowds for a front-row spot.
Desert View Campground is open seasonally between April 15 and October 15.
Cameron MacPhail / Aurora Photos / Aurora Open Collection / Getty Images Reservations must be made either online or by phone, and the nightly rate is $18 ($9 for seniors and those with an Access Pass).
Visit the National Park Service website for more information and/or to make a reservation.
Gary Weathers / Tetra Images Collection / Getty Images
Its designer, the world-famous Mary Elizabeth Jane Colter, modeled the structure after the architecture of the ancestral Puebloan people of the Colorado Plateau.
TripAdvisor/Terri E
Few people know this, but you can actually camp out overnight just steps away from the tower. Since the East Entrance is much more lightly trafficked, you’ll practically have the place all to yourself once the sun goes down.
Google/Steve Bailie
You’ll enjoy a much more peaceful experience in the intimate setting. Both tents and smaller RVs and travel trailers (30 feet or less in length) are allowed here.
Steven Love / EyeEm Collection / Getty Images
When night falls, trillions of stars and other celestial bodies glimmer over the Watchtower. The best part is that you can witness the spectacle with the naked eye - no fancy equipment necessary.
TripAdvisor/RAGOUN
A developed scenic overlook known as Desert View Point is located right next to the camping area, and you won’t have to compete with throngs of crowds for a front-row spot.
Cameron MacPhail / Aurora Photos / Aurora Open Collection / Getty Images
Reservations must be made either online or by phone, and the nightly rate is $18 ($9 for seniors and those with an Access Pass).
Have you ever stayed at the Desert View Campground? If so, do you agree that it’s one of the best places to stargaze in Arizona? Tell us in the comments! Don’t forget to check out our previous article for another Dark Sky Park worth visiting.
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Address: Desert view campground, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023, USA
