Stargaze
Located less than an hour’s drive from Byrdstown is Pickett State Park and Pogue Creek Canyon State Natural Area, named a Silver-tier International Dark Sky Park for their commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the night sky.
To receive this designation, Pickett-Pogue met a stringent criteria set forth by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA), worked in partnership with local communities and governments and performed modifications to facilities including installing night sky-friendly lighting. Pickett-Pogue became the first state park in the Southeast to gain this prestigious recognition, which it received in 2015. Visitors can enjoy sweeping, rich views of the night sky similar to those found in many of the Western states.
Astronomy Field
The astronomy field is located at the Pogue Creek Canyon State Natural Area’s parking lot on Highway 154. The field is located above the gravel parking lot and has electricity. The field is available for the public to use for stargazing year-round. They also have scheduled star parties throughout the year in the field. Please contact the park office for additional information.