Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m., now through April 30. Learn more.

Urban Astronomy at Widewater State park

Location of Widewater State Park in Virginia

Where

Widewater State Park, 101 Widewater State Park Road, Stafford, VA 22554.
Boat Launch

When

March 28, 2025. 7:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

"The sky is the ultimate art gallery just above us." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

With the use of the Celestron automated telescope, view the astral bodies up close and learn about the history of the stars. You will also learn how to capture night sky photos with a smartphone by adjusting the settings to get the most stars, colors, and views. You are encouraged to bring your own telescope, binoculars, and chairs to be comfortable while participating.

This program will take place at the Potomac Boat Launch and requires pre-registration here. Your vehicle must be inside the Boat Launch gate before the park closes, so please arrive 15 minutes early to park your car and get oriented with the viewing area. In the event you need to leave the program early, the Boat Launch gate will automatically open when approached from the inside, allowing you to leave the area without ranger assistance.

The Potomac Boat Launch entrance is on the left hand side of Brent Point Rd, just after the curve across the railroad tracks. There will be an automatic gate and a sign that says "Potomac Boat Launch."

Dress for the weather! The sun will be down and we are next to the water, so it will be cooler. 

Long exposure photo of the night sky at Widewater State Park boat launch using an iPhone 11. An accidental capture of a shooting star (possibly two!) with the Half Moon.

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: No.
Registration required: Yes.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 540-288-1400
Email Address: widewater@dcr.virginia.gov

Event types

Astronomy/Stargazing | Kids/Family | Outdoor/Nature/Natural History

Additional dates

Homeschool: Urban Astronomy - March 27, 2025. 7:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Urban Astronomy at Widewater State park - April 27, 2025. 8:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Homeschool: Urban Astronomy - April 29, 2025. 8:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

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