By Paige Kocourek
Photo by Jesse Thornton.
As our world continues to expand its urban developments to fit the needs of an ever-growing population, it is taking a toll on our skies due to a lesser-recognized type of pollution: light pollution. Artificial light leaves millions worldwide with starless skies. The unnatural brightening of the night sky causes a myriad of negative effects, like the disruption of both the natural ecosystem and humans’ innate circadian rhythm, for example.
In an effort to reduce and protect the night sky from light pollution, the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) leads the way in combating light pollution around the world. The association not only works to promote responsible lighting but also educates and provides tools and resources to help reduce light pollution globally. One of the IDA’s programs, International Dark Sky Places (IDSPs), encourages communities and parks to preserve natural lighting. There are currently 195 IDSPs in the world, and the combined 19,869 acres of Watoga State Park, Calvin Price State Forest and Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park in West Virginia became one of them.
Rural in nature, West Virginia experiences less light pollution compared to most places in the eastern U.S., making for a plethora of dark skies throughout the state. In 2021, the IDA awarded Watoga State Park, Calvin Price State Forest and
Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park with the International Dark Sky Park accolade. To receive this designation, according to the IDA, the honored park must qualify by possessing an exceptional quality of starry nights along with providing dark sky programs to educate visitors. Watoga State Park officially handles the programming for all three areas, which reside in Pocahontas County.
“Being that Watoga State Park is the largest state park in West Virginia and located in one of the darkest regions on the East Coast, it just seemed logical to preserve and promote our amazing dark skies,” says Jody Spencer, superintendent at Watoga State Park. “Any park could work to eliminate light pollution—and they should—but having the IDA designation meant we could spread the word and reach thousands of new visitors. We provide several opportunities each year to attend an organized star party or night sky viewing program. Experts bring telescopes and their vast knowledge to share with the public for these events. We also provide several nature programs each summer geared toward nocturnal wildlife such as fireflies, owls and nocturnal insects.”
Visitors seeking a truly incredible experience will feel as if they are almost in heaven beneath a sky full of stars at Watoga State Park.
Stellar Stargazing Spots in West Virginia
While Watoga State Park, Calvin Price State Forest and Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park lead the way in dark skies, being the first International Dark Sky Parks in West Virginia, many other Mountain State sites offer impressive stargazing opportunities.
By day, Tucker County’s Blackwater Falls State Park is an epicenter for waterfall lovers and hikers alike—with a 57-foot cascade and 20 miles of hiking trails—and by night, the brilliant escape allows for optimal views of the Milky Way and stars.
Lost River State Park in Hardy County is a remote getaway for constellation seekers to experience the beauty of the night sky with minimal light pollution. The park is quaint and secluded, leaving visitors rejuvenated after their time immersed in nature.
Seneca State Forest in Pocahontas County not only offers opportunities for exciting outdoor activities, but it also offers unobstructed views for those looking for a top-notch stargazing escapade.
