Stargazing - Night Program

Location of Hayfields State Park in Virginia

Where

Program Location: Park Office
Main Park Address: Hayfields State Park, 524 Hayfields Lane, McDowell, VA 24458.

When

Oct. 9, 2026. 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Plan to attend the October 2026 Highland County Star Party at Hayfields State Park on Friday, October 9th. The “rain date” is Saturday, September 10th.

The public is invited, at no charge, to celebrate Highland County’s unique dark sky resource.

A number of knowledgeable amateur astronomers will be on hand with their telescopes to give attendees a chance to see celestial objects visible in our dark skies. Bring your own telescopes and binoculars too. Dress warmly, wear sturdy shoes, and bring a lawn chair. If you have a red flashlight, bring it; white flashlights are discouraged because they ruin night vision. Red glow sticks will be provided.

Plan to arrive after sundown, but before 7:00 P.M. so you can get oriented to the layout before darkness.

If the weather is not cooperative, a postponement or cancellation will be announced on the event day by 12:00 P.M. on WVLS FM (87.9), the Highland County Stargazer Facebook page, the Highland County Chamber of Commerce website, the Recorder Facebook page and the Hayfields State Park website.

You may direct any questions to Michael Bedwell at 468-2316 or mbedwell6@gmail.com.

Clear Skies!

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: No.
Extra fee: No.
Registration required: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 540-396-4489
Email Address: Hayfields@dcr.virginia.gov