I'm looking to do some camping out of season in a Dark sky area for star gazing, can anyone recommend and sites that are open out of season, preferably at a decent altitude?
Thanks
Mike
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Plenty in Galloway where there’s UK’s first Dark Sky Park. But a campsite at a “decent altitude” (whatever that is)? None that I can think of.
However, if you’re walking or cycling with a tent, the access legislation would allow responsible camping at the top of The Merrick (not quite a Munro) or any other hill in the area.
Drumroamin campsite is wide and open, good dark skies - not high up, but sky views are impressive. Don't know when they open in spring but they're open until end of October. https://www.ukcampsite.co.uk/sites/details.asp?revid=6108
------------- Always edited for sloppy typing - when I spot it!
I agree totally. Stargazing clubs come to a particular car park in Galloway because it’s readily accessible & gives panoramic views; it’s at the sea shore.
It would help if the OP could add a bit of detail to the need for decent height. They could pitch up at a number of lower sites in Dumfries & Galloway & climb the Merrick. (D&G has policies for no street lighting outside towns, so there’s almost no light pollution.) Or camp at the south end of Arran & climb Goat Fell.
Quote: Originally posted by Hedgehugger on 31/7/2023
Drumroamin campsite is wide and open, good dark skies - not high up, but sky views are impressive. Don't know when they open in spring but they're open until end of October. ]
Lovely site and I can confirm it's brilliant for stargazing. I don't know if it's still the case but they used to have a night sky event there in late October.
When I was there there was a meteor shower and a lightning storm way in the distance so it was pretty spectacular.
Don't forget to leave a review of the campsites you have visited this year or last!
Quote: Originally posted by Speaker12 on 01/8/2023
Quote: Originally posted by Hedgehugger on 31/7/2023
Drumroamin campsite is wide and open, good dark skies - not high up, but sky views are impressive. Don't know when they open in spring but they're open until end of October. ]
Lovely site and I can confirm it's brilliant for stargazing. I don't know if it's still the case but they used to have a night sky event there in late October.
Indeed. The big lay-by that I mentioned is on the opposite side of the Firth to Drumroamin (yes, cracking site) at the shore near the Castle Cary caravan park; it’s off the road & screened from the vehicle lights by trees, looking west. It’s used by astronomy clubs because it’s accessible by a number of cars or a coach.
A day of all things motorhome and campervan. The show is held both in the main indoor arena and across the grounds. Catering, hot drinks and food options are available. Easy access to the site and free parking included. Win one of five pairs of day tickets
Topic: Dark sky camping
via mobile 30/7/2023 at 6:41pm
