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Kickapoo Valley Dark Sky Park

Dark Sky Parks are locations known for outstanding views of the night sky.

Partnership for Dark Sky Designation:
The Kickapoo Valley Reserve, Wildcat Mountain State Park, and Mississippi Valley Conservancy are excited to announce they are working together to designate the 13,300 acres of KVR, 
Wildcat, and Tunnelville Cliffs as Wisconsin’s second International Dark Sky Park. The International Dark-Sky Association awards this distinction to “land possessing an exceptional 
or distinguished quality of starry nights and a nocturnal environment that is specifically protected for its scientific, natural, educational, cultural heritage, and/or public enjoyment.” The  application process requires a sky quality survey, lighting inventory and management plan, community partners, and education and outreach.

The public land along the Kickapoo River in Vernon County has been known for years for fantastic night sky viewing. We are excited to have them join the nearly 200 designated International Dark Sky Places around the world. 

The Kickapoo Valley Reserve occasionally hosts stargazing workshops. Please consult the KVR calendar for upcoming events, or sign up for the monthly upcoming events email through  kickapoo.reserve@krm.state.wi.us 

  

 

 

 
Stargazers agthered around a telescope at dusk

Suggested Star Gazing Location Maps:  

News Articles on Dark Skies: 


 

The Kickapoo Reserve Management Board acknowledges that the state and federal lands that comprise the Reserve fall within the ancestral homelands of First Nations people including the Hooçak Nation. We recognize the sovereignty of the Hooçak and other First Nations and will work towards a shared future by continuing to create collaborative opportunities to protect and preserve these lands.

Kickapoo Valley Reserve | S3661 State Highway 131 | La Farge, Wisconsin 54639 
Phone: 608-625-2960 | FAX: 608-625-2962
kickapoo.reserve@krm.state.wi.us

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