The best places to go stargazing in West Virginia: Survey

CLARKSBURG, W.Va. (WBOY) — Whether you love astronomy or need a cheap and romantic date idea, few things can compare to laying back and stargazing, and some of the best spots in the nation to do so are right here in West Virginia.

According to a 2025 survey of 3,000 people, Watoga State Park in Pocahontas County, Spruce Knob in Pendleton County and the Calhoun County Park in Calhoun County are three of the best places for stargazing, with all featuring low light pollution and plenty of space.

Watoga State Park was West Virginia’s first designated International Dark Sky Park. The Ann Bailey Trail overlook and the T.M. Cheek campground are two of the best places to see the night sky, according to the survey.

In Pendleton County, Spruce Knob is the location of the highest point in West Virginia at 4,863 feet. The height, along with the summit observation tower and surrounding clearings make it an ideal location for stargazing.

A little closer to north central West Virginia in Calhoun County, the Calhoun County Park hosts regular Dark Skies events and has open fields, a stargazing cabin and bunkhouse. While it’s not a formal state park, it is a popular spot for informal get togethers and stargazing.

You can view the top location in each state here.