📷 Photo by Gower Brown on UnsplashMcDonald Observatory
Fort Davis, TX
Research telescopes on Mount Locke under some of the darkest skies in the continental US. Book the evening star party well ahead and bring warm layers, even in summer.
- Nearest town
- Fort Davis, TX
- Category
- Scenic viewpoints
- GPS
- 30.6717, -104.0223
- Editor's pick
- ★
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
The most pleasant months are usually April–May and September–October. Still fine, with some compromises, in March, June–August and November. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Featured in these trip guides
Nearby
Campsites nearby
- Madera Canyon Dispersed Camping NCampsite6 mi from McDonald Observatory
- Prude RanchMotorhome stopover6 mi from McDonald ObservatoryMotorhomes
- Davis Mountains State ParkCampsite7 mi from McDonald ObservatoryTentsCaravans
- Madera Canyon Dispersed CampingCampsite15 mi from McDonald Observatory
- Park HeadquartersCampsite23 mi from McDonald Observatory
- Balmorhea State ParkCampsite24 mi from McDonald ObservatoryTentsCaravansWaste disposal
All campsites in Texas · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026
FAQs
Where is McDonald Observatory?
McDonald Observatory is in Fort Davis, TX, at GPS 30.6717, -104.0223. It is about 25 mi from Marfa.
Can you camp near McDonald Observatory?
Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is Madera Canyon Dispersed Camping N, about 6 mi away; within 25 mi there are 7 campsites and motorhome stopovers.
Which road trips pass McDonald Observatory?
McDonald Observatory is a stop on these CampingSpirit trip guides: Davis Mountains: forts, stars and a desert spring.
What is there to see near McDonald Observatory?
Places worth a stop nearby: Davis Mountains State Park (7 mi), Fort Davis National Historic Site (9 mi), Marfa Lights Viewing Area (22 mi) and Balmorhea State Park (23 mi).
When is the best time to visit McDonald Observatory?
The most pleasant months are usually April–May and September–October. Still fine, with some compromises, in March, June–August and November. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)