Dark-sky sites, parks and preserves

Bluewater Outdoor Education Centre

This place got its dark sky preserve status back in 2012 from the RASC. The Bluewater Astronomical Society is a non-profit that encourages people to learn about astronomy and enjoy stargazing. They host special public viewing events on select dates at the ES Fox observatory, featuring the club’s impressive Webster 28” Dobsonian reflector telescope.

Location: 3092 Bruce Road 13, Oliphant

Torrance Barrens Dark Sky Preserve

If you’re into photography, this spot is perfect for you.

Spanning over 4,000 acres of protected conservation reserve on crown land, it stays shielded from city lights. The smooth granite surface at the main observation area makes setting up your equipment a breeze, while the open views allow for clear night-sky observations.

Be sure to check the park’s night sky visibility forecast before heading out.

Location: Southwood Road, Gravenhurst

Bruce Peninsula National Park

This stunning national park attracts visitors for its beautiful Georgian Bay views during the day, but when night falls, all eyes turn upwards. There are two designated observing spots; one is near Cyprus Lake facilities and the other is a coastal site southwest of Highway 6 known as Singing Sands.

You can experience amazing night skies while backcountry camping or enjoying a winter yurt trip. Just remember to book reservations and get permits ahead of time.

Location: 469 Cyprus Lake Road, Tobermory

Lake Superior Provincial Park

A newer addition to Ontario’s dark-sky preserve list, Lake Superior received this designation in 2018.

This location sits on the eastern shores of Lake Superior and is far removed from urban light pollution. It’s one of the darkest dark sky preserves globally, making it an ideal place for stargazing and potentially witnessing the Aurora Borealis. The observation area lies on Agawa Bay Campground beach near the Visitor Centre and offers breathtaking views across the lake. Check online for dark sky programming and events in the park.

Location: 96 Broadway Avenue, Wawa

Lennox and Addington Dark Sky Viewing Area

This spot isn’t an official dark sky preserve but ranks among Ontario’s most southern dark sky locations offering an incredible nighttime experience.

Situated off Highway 41 south of Kaladar, there’s parking available along with a concrete pad for your tripod or telescope-plus admission is free! It remains open year-round with laser-guided events focused on astrophotography happening from May through September.

Location: 7980 County Road, Erinsville

Point Pelee National Park

This national park serves as a vital spring and fall migration route for birds and Monarch butterflies but also provides an excellent backdrop for starry nights in Canada’s southernmost region.

A notable point-Point Pelee was recognized by RASC as its first national park back in 2006. Join members from RASC – Windsor Centre for their Dark Sky Nights where you can enjoy magical evenings under stars. Bring along binoculars or try out one of their telescopes available during these events.

Location: 1118 Point Pelee Drive, Leamington

North Frontenac Astronomy Park

Nestled just south of Plevna (about two hours west of Ottawa), North Frontenac boasts Canada’s first municipality designated as a Dark Sky Preserve with its Observation Pad.

The site features a Fred Lossing Telescope along with picnic tables, parking spaces, electrical services and accessible washrooms-a comfortable spot to marvel at celestial wonders. For upcoming public events check out the North Frontenac Amateur Astronomy Club Facebook page.

Location: 5816 Road 506, Plevna

Killarney Provincial Park

Killarney Provincial Park is truly one of Ontario’s gems hugging Georgian Bay’s northern shores. Its highlights include striking white quartzite hills from La Cloche Mountain range alongside lush pine forests and smooth pink granite coastlines.

Killarney holds distinction as Ontario’s first park awarded dark sky preserve status along with being one of just two parks featuring an observatory. Whether camping year-round or booking cozy accommodations like yurts or cabins-it makes a fantastic destination!

Location: 958 ON-637, Killarney

The Dark Sky Preserve at Manitoulin Eco Park

At Manitoulin Eco Park’s Dark Sky Preserve you’ll find an open space that gives you full access to view every part of the night sky-a great place to stargaze! This site was Canada’s first commercial Dark Sky Preserve designated by RASC and continues showcasing exceptional dark skies featuring stars brighter than magnitude 7.5.