Stonelick Star Gazes

Free Events At Stonelick State Park

Ohio's Stonelick State Park hosts regular Cincinnati Observatory's viewing events. The park is situated far enough from light polluted suburbs to allow dark skies, yet close enough to the Cincinnati Metro area to attract hundreds of interested star gazers throughout the year. On Saturdays, near the New Moon, members of our Friends of the Observatory (FOTO) amateur astronomers group set up a variety of telescopes inviting the public to view the wonders of the night sky.

The events are free and open to the public.  No reservations or telescope required.

This is a great opportunity to view planets, galaxies, nebulae, star clusters and stars. It is also a good chance to see many different types of telescopes in action, ask questions and become involved in the fascinating world of astronomy. FOTO members and the other amateur astronomers at Stonelick are more than willing to have you look through their telescopes as well as help you with your personal telescope.

Free stargazes at Stonelick State Park are held only if the skies are clear.  Updates are posted on the Stonelick Star Gazers Facebook Page The general rule is, if you can't see stars in your sky, it is canceled, but if you can see stars on Stonelick nights, then it is on!

To help preserve night vision, please do not use flashlights or phones around the telescopes.  Red lights only, please.

For more information, email stonelickstargazer@gmail.com or call the Observatory at 513-321-5186.

Upcoming Public Nights in 2024

Beginning right after sunset

• August 31
• September 7
• September 28
• October 5
• October 26 November 2
• November 23
• November 30
• December 28 

Please check Stonelick Stargazers Facebook page for cancellations. Weather impacts viewing.

Click Here for a Downloadable Info Sheet With All the Upcoming Dates

Directions from Cincinnati

Take Columbia Parkway (US 50) east through Milford.
Turn left on SR-131 and go past Pleasant Hill, Buckwheat, and SR-132.
Turn left on to SR-727 (about 2 miles past 132) toward Stonelick Lake State Park.
Turn right at the Park entrance and follow signs toward the Beach

Turn left toward the Beach Parking Lot

Click Here For Driving Directions

Where: We now set up in the main parking lot at the end of the road to the swimming beach.

When: We set up around dusk. There are picnic areas, the lake and swim beach to enjoy if you'd like to arrive early and enjoy all the park has to offer. www.dnr.state.oh.us/

Weather: All Stargazes are Weather Dependent.

For more information call the Observatory 513 321-5186
Updates are posted on the Stonelick Star Gazers Facebook Page

PLEASE WATCH OUT FOR DEER

Coordinates For Stonelick Parking Lot:
39.2189 North Latitude  - 84.0768 West Longitude