Rio Grande Overlook
Rio Grande Overlook is a scenic viewpoint in Texas with a measured darkness of 94/100 (≈ 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 77% of the night sky is clear.
Tonight's outlook: 67/100. The moon is 7% lit and above the horizon 13% of the night; typical August clear-sky odds here are 65%. Updated daily.
Best time to stargaze at Rio Grande Overlook
| Month | Clear night skies | Sky Score (new moon) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 64% | 67/100 |
| February | 61% | 64/100 |
| March | 63% | 66/100 |
| April | 70% | 72/100 |
| May ★ | 77% | 76/100 |
| June | 73% | 74/100 |
| July | 70% | 72/100 |
| August | 65% | 67/100 |
| September | 67% | 69/100 |
| October | 73% | 73/100 |
| November | 67% | 69/100 |
| December | 64% | 67/100 |
Scores assume a moonless night — check the moon before you drive (methodology).
Where to stay near Rio Grande Overlook
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 →
Chisos Mountains Lodge
32.4 km away · Big Bend · darkness at hotel: 94/100
Booking links are affiliate links — disclosure.
Nearby spots in Texas
- LM Peak — 29.3 km · Sky Score 70/100
- Animal Highways — 31.2 km · Sky Score 70/100
- South Rim Viewpoint — 32 km · Sky Score 70/100
- The Window Viewpoint — 35.7 km · Sky Score 70/100
- Big Bend National Park — 35.8 km · Sky Score 70/100