Ute Lake State Park

Sky Score 50/100≈ Bortle 4

Ute Lake State Park is a protected area in New Mexico with a measured darkness of 69/100 (≈ Bortle 4) — a good rural sky: the Milky Way is clearly visible, with some glow on the horizon toward nearby towns. The best month to come is typically September, when about 73% of the night sky is clear.

Tonight's outlook: 46/100. The moon is 7% lit and above the horizon 13% of the night; typical August clear-sky odds here are 59%. Updated daily.

Best time to stargaze at Ute Lake State Park

MonthClear night skiesSky Score (new moon)
January63%48/100
February66%50/100
March64%49/100
April69%52/100
May67%51/100
June63%48/100
July61%48/100
August59%46/100
September73%54/100
October71%53/100
November68%52/100
December65%50/100

Scores assume a moonless night — check the moon before you drive (methodology).

Where to stay near Ute 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