Cherry Springs State Park Astronomy Observation Field

It's a wonderful place, and definitely worth protecting, but I couldn't help feeling the sky wasn't as dark as I was led to believe it would be. I was really hoping to see the milky way. Honestly I think I saw it, but I'm only 70% sure what I saw was it. The area close to the ground was way brighter than the "inner circle" if you're looking straight up. I also kept getting distracted by the bright headlights from the cars in the parking lot, which was visible from the bench area. I can't fault the park for the visibility of the stars though, they can only do so much.

I love this place. So peaceful clean and safe. Its 15 bucks to stay the night. Has electric for your equipment and the bathroom was so clean. No smells, well stocked, the lights are red inside so hard to see at night. No white light here allowed. Make sure to cover anything with white light. The close the gates as dark comes. So get there early.

Great place to camp out, see more stars, and the Milky Way. Restroom needs updating and cringe-worthy as it is a basic outhouse, no sink, although there is a water faucet outside. The whole restroom looks decent outside but very spartan inside. There is a better, modern restroom in the astronomy field. It has lights, sink, proper toilets, but no shower. Overall, this is a nice campground, but they could make it better.

It was the most horrible sky gazing experience you could imagine. Hundreds of people were there, many of them carrying bright LED flashlights as they traveled to and from the parking area. I am sure they were the same ones that arrived after dark with thier headlights (some even on high beams) blazing full on as they circulated the parking lot looking for a parking spot. We stayed for about 90 mins after dark and then left. I realized it was not going to get any better as the ones leaving early were blending with the ones arriving late. Nearly 25% of the time, I sat there with my eyes shut and covered to try and develop some night vision. It is really hard to watch the stars with your eyes shut.

Great place to view and capture nightscapes, or just view the stars with your telescope. My biggest complaint is the burm they built to shield the field from vehicles leaving the parking lot for the public viewing field is not high enough. Every car leaving flooded the field with white light making capturing and viewing the stars problematic. The only other complaint I have is that there are no signs on the water spouts in the field indicating it is not safe for drinking. There are, however, signs in the main bathroom. Everything else was great. The rangers and field ambassador were very friendly, and the other guests were respectful of everyone else and followed the red light only rule. I can't wait to go back.

It's a wonderful place, and definitely worth protecting, but I couldn't help feeling the sky wasn't as dark as I was led to believe it would be.

WS there on 10/05. Had a lot of fun watching the stars. There is a flat ground where you can take your time and view the stars. Must carry - 1) chair 2) blankets 3) non white lights

Everything I thought it would be after all these years. Beautiful, well-maintained park. Met some good folk up there too.