Nelson Lake Point
Nelson Lake Point is a scenic viewpoint in Arizona with a measured darkness of 90/100 (≈ Bortle 2) — among the very darkest measurable skies in the American Southwest — the Milky Way casts visible shadows on moonless nights. The best month to come is typically May, when about 78% of the night sky is clear.
Tonight's outlook: 59/100. The moon is 7% lit and above the horizon 13% of the night; typical August clear-sky odds here are 58%. Updated daily.
Best time to stargaze at Nelson Lake Point
| Month | Clear night skies | Sky Score (new moon) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 54% | 57/100 |
| February | 61% | 62/100 |
| March | 61% | 62/100 |
| April | 74% | 71/100 |
| May ★ | 78% | 74/100 |
| June | 77% | 74/100 |
| July | 52% | 55/100 |
| August | 58% | 60/100 |
| September | 75% | 72/100 |
| October | 77% | 74/100 |
| November | 71% | 69/100 |
| December | 58% | 60/100 |
Scores assume a moonless night — check the moon before you drive (methodology).
Where to stay near Nelson Lake Point
Each place below is rated for the darkness at its own doorstep — stay dark, and the sky is yours from the parking lot.
- Check availability →
Forest Lakes Lodge
4.7 km away · Forest Lakes · darkness at hotel: 88/100
- Check availability →
Creekside cabins
21.8 km away · darkness at hotel: 88/100
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Best Western Sawmill Inn
22.5 km away · Heber · darkness at hotel: 67/100
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WorldMark Bison Ranch
24.8 km away · darkness at hotel: 71/100
Booking links are affiliate links — disclosure.
Nearby spots in Arizona
- Sierra Ancha Wilderness — 51.1 km · Sky Score 66/100
- Salome Wilderness — 58 km · Sky Score 67/100
- Salt River Canyon Wilderness Area — 70.4 km · Sky Score 65/100
- Fossil Springs Wilderness — 72.8 km · Sky Score 65/100
- West Clear Creek Wilderness — 75.5 km · Sky Score 65/100