Chama River Canyon Wilderness
Chama River Canyon Wilderness is a protected area in New Mexico with a measured darkness of 92/100 (≈ 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 75% of the night sky is clear.
Tonight's outlook: 62/100. The moon is 7% lit and above the horizon 13% of the night; typical August clear-sky odds here are 60%. Updated daily.
Best time to stargaze at Chama River Canyon Wilderness
| Month | Clear night skies | Sky Score (new moon) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 53% | 57/100 |
| February | 61% | 63/100 |
| March | 60% | 63/100 |
| April | 66% | 67/100 |
| May | 68% | 68/100 |
| June | 68% | 69/100 |
| July | 56% | 60/100 |
| August | 60% | 62/100 |
| September ★ | 75% | 73/100 |
| October | 72% | 71/100 |
| November | 69% | 69/100 |
| December | 59% | 62/100 |
Scores assume a moonless night, check the moon before you drive (methodology).
Where to stay near Chama River Canyon Wilderness
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 →
Abiquiu Inn
34.9 km away · Abiquiu · darkness at hotel: 78/100
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Nearby spots in New Mexico
- Chimney Rock Viewpoint 15.9 km · Sky Score 64/100
- Rio Chama Wilderness Study Area 19.2 km · Sky Score 66/100
- El Vado Lake State Park 32 km · Sky Score 64/100
- Heron Lake State Park 38.5 km · Sky Score 64/100
- Fenton Lake State Park 51.5 km · Sky Score 63/100