Uncommon Overnighters: Blast Off to These Stellar Stargazing Sites
Calling all stargazers: Nevada is home to some of the darkest skies on the planet. Seemingly light-years away from the bright lights of civilization, many of these remote havens are also home to comfortable accommodations that let you focus less on the “how” of your journey and more on the “why.”
If stargazing is on your horizon, don’t hesitate to book a weekend at one of these stellar Uncommon Overnighters. After all, there’s a whole galaxy to explore out there.
Gaze at these perfectly placed places to stay for star lovers
Tarantula Ranch
Get ready to get your glamp on at Tarantula Ranch Vineyard, located just minutes from Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge and Death Valley National Park.
This is true dark sky country, but that doesn’t mean you’ll be roughing it. In addition to hot showers, an outdoor kitchen, and a strong Wi-Fi signal, you’ll have your pick among reservable RV and camping spaces that overlook the vineyard. If the name of the resort makes you want to get a bit more above ground, feel free to rent out their comfortable travel trailers or a space in the vineyard’s bottling room.
Once settled, use Tarantula Ranch as your basecamp for adventure. You’re not far from one of Nevada’s tallest mountain peaks and one of the lowest, hottest, and driest place in North America. If you’re planning on staying in, that’s fine too. Grab yourself a bottle of Mojave-grown wine and get comfortable for a stunning night underneath the Milky Way.
Rockin’ TD Ranch
There are many areas of Nevada known for their utter remoteness and off-the-grid appeal. Northwestern Nevada is queen of this category, with miles and miles of nothing but gorgeous scenery. Just 10 miles from the California border and less than an hour to Oregon’s state line, the town of Vya is often called a ghost town—and short of a very small number of residents, it is. So, if you’re ready to hit the eject button and kick back in one of the Silver State’s most remote experiences, Rockin’ TD Ranch is for you.
A cozy, two-bedroom, two-bath guest house is outfitted with large windows that overlook Long Valley, along with a big, beautiful front porch to take it all in. The property also offers the Rockin’ TD Ranch Bunkhouse, which welcomes folks who travel with pets. Two sets of bunkbeds, a full kitchen, and single bathroom make this upscale bunkhouse a great family option, too.
Rockin’ TD Ranch is near Massacre Rim Wilderness Study Area, a designated Dark Sky Sanctuary where you can see your shadow by the light of the Milky Way. One night here, and you’ll see why the idea of getting away to nowhere has never been so bright.
Old Yella Dog Ranch and Cattle Company
The Old Yella Dog Ranch is just a stone’s throw from Rockin’ TD Ranch in Vya, and has RV hookups, dry camping sites, and a fully furnished cabin to rent.
The cabin has three bedrooms and can sleep six, so it’s perfect for traveling with your tribe. There’s no cell service, but if you can’t find enough to keep you busy…well you aren’t trying hard enough, but Wi-Fi is available. Horses and dogs are welcome, and while a trip to Massacre Rim is recommended, just sitting the porch will also reveal a galaxy of stars, just for you.
Nevada Northern Railway
You can’t currently overnight at Ely’s Nevada Northern Railway (NNRY), but their star-centric train rides are too cool to leave off the list.
NNRY’s Star Train lets viewers behold the night sky while riding behind a vintage diesel locomotive. Accompanied by “Dark” Rangers from Great Basin National Park, this train ride will deliver a seriously cool experience. It’s so cool, in fact, that it sells out a year in advance, so make your plans extra early to take part. The Sunset, Stars & Champagne Train also delivers opportunities to see stars, constellations, planets, and even galaxies with the naked eye. Bed down in a variety of hotels in Ely after you disembark.
