A Stargazer’s Guide to Lakeside, Arizona

 

Moonrise over the trees from our patio. A perfect place to wind down before the stars come out.

When the sun sets in Lakeside, something magical happens...the stars come out, and they really show off. With our elevation, thinner atmosphere, and relatively low light pollution, the night skies here are often crystal clear.

Stars from the Back Patio
You don’t have to travel far to get a great view. In fact, some of the best stargazing can be done right from our own back patio. On clear nights, you can spot constellations, planets, and even the hazy band of the Milky Way stretching across the sky. It’s one of those quiet, awe-inspiring moments that reminds you just how big (and peaceful) the universe can feel.

Nearby Dark Sky Adventures
If you’re up for a short drive, places like Petrified Forest National Park (a designated International Dark Sky Park) offer even more dramatic views of the cosmos. Pack a blanket, download a stargazing app, and prepare to be amazed. Sunrise Park and the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest also offer excellent stargazing spots if you’re looking for a darker vantage point.

Meteor Showers to Watch For
Two major meteor showers light up Arizona skies every year:

• Perseid Meteor Shower (peaks around mid-August)
  One of the most popular and reliable meteor showers, with up to 100 meteors per hour during its peak.

• Geminid Meteor Shower (peaks around mid-December)
  Known for its bright, slow-moving meteors, this is a favorite among dedicated skywatchers.

Even outside those windows, you can often catch satellites gliding by or an occasional shooting star if you’re patient.

Tips for Your Stargazing Night

• Bring a blanket or camping chairs and let your eyes adjust to the dark

• Turn off outdoor lights for the best visibility

• A red-light flashlight helps you see without ruining your night vision

• Use a stargazing app like SkyView or Star Walk to identify constellations and planets

Slow down. Look up.
Whether you’re here for a weekend or a whole week, we always recommend taking at least one night to unplug and enjoy the skies. The stars here don’t disappoint.

🌌 Ready to see it for yourself?
Book your stay at our lakefront home and enjoy the beauty of Lakeside by day and by night:
👉 StayAtRainbowLake.com