Star Party at the Monument

Discover the wonders of the night sky at the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument!

Join Friends of the Desert Mountains and the Astronomical Society of the Desert for a free evening of stargazing beneath some of Southern California’s darkest skies. Volunteer astronomers will guide you through the cosmos, sharing fascinating stories while helping you explore planets, star clusters, nebulae, galaxies, and other celestial wonders through a variety of telescopes.

Whether you’re an experienced stargazer or looking through a telescope for the very first time, this is a wonderful opportunity to experience the Monument after dark and connect with the natural world in a whole new way.

What to Bring

• A chair for comfortable viewing
• Water and weather-appropriate clothing
• A red-light flashlight if you have one (please avoid white flashlights whenever possible to preserve everyone’s night vision)

Important Information

• Children are welcome and encouraged, but must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
• Our volunteer astronomers are happy to help everyone enjoy the telescopes. To keep the equipment properly aligned and provide the best viewing experience for all guests, please allow volunteers to operate and adjust the telescopes.
• This event is wheelchair accessible on asphalt.
• The program is offered weather permitting. Excessive heat, cloud cover, or other unsafe conditions may require cancellation. Please check Friends of the Desert Mountains’ social media channels before leaving home for the latest event updates.

There is no better place to appreciate the beauty of the desert than beneath a sky filled with stars. We hope you’ll join us for an unforgettable evening of discovery in the Monument.

View map/UTM Coordinates for the Visitor Center: 33.67149, -116.40839

For more information contact Friends of the Desert Mountains 760-598-9918 or the Visitor Center at 760-862-9984.

A suggested nonrefundable donation of $10.00 per person is appreciated and encouraged to support our volunteer programs.