Petrified Forest National Park was certified as an International Dark-Sky Park in 2018.

Given its location in a rural area of Arizona, and that roughly half of its territory is designated wilderness, Petrified Forest is increasingly recognized as a valuable reservoir of nighttime darkness.

Even in this relatively remote area, light pollution is a factor. Nearby towns do allow light to seep above the horizon. Communities to the south create a faint glow over the White Mountains.

Many national parks are becoming affected by light pollution. The National Park Service has been working with the International Dark-Sky Association and other institutions to protect this incredible but often-overlooked resource.

Petrified Forest National Park is supported by its member organization, Petrified Forest Museum Association.

Photo credit: Puerco Pueblo Petroglyphs, Night Sky with Stars | NPS Photo by Jacob Holgerson