Fenton Lake State Park
Sky Score 63/100≈ Bortle 2
Fenton Lake State Park is a protected area in New Mexico with a measured darkness of 89/100 (≈ 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 September, when about 74% 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 Fenton Lake State Park
| Month | Clear night skies | Sky Score (new moon) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 54% | 56/100 |
| February | 62% | 62/100 |
| March | 61% | 61/100 |
| April | 67% | 65/100 |
| May | 68% | 66/100 |
| June | 67% | 66/100 |
| July | 55% | 57/100 |
| August | 58% | 59/100 |
| September ★ | 74% | 70/100 |
| October | 71% | 68/100 |
| November | 69% | 67/100 |
| December | 60% | 60/100 |
Scores assume a moonless night — check the moon before you drive (methodology).
Where to stay near Fenton Lake State Park
No lodging within 80 km — this is true wilderness. Plan to camp, or base yourself in the nearest gateway town and drive out for the night.
Nearby spots in New Mexico
- Jemez Canyon Overlook — 9.6 km · Sky Score 63/100
- Jemez National Recreation Area — 14.2 km · Sky Score 63/100
- Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument — 36.9 km · Sky Score 57/100
- Bandelier National Monument — 37.6 km · Sky Score 51/100
- Chama River Canyon Wilderness — 51.5 km · Sky Score 65/100