The Nevada Division of State Parks and The Nevada Division of Outdoor Recreation invite the public to experience Lahontan State Recreation Area in a whole new light— under the stars — at the first annual Cosmos in the Desert: Northern Nevada’s Dark Skies Festival. This unique nighttime event takes place on Saturday, April 26, from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. at Beach 3 within Lahontan State Recreation Area.

Set beneath a pristine, light-pollution-free sky, Cosmos in the Desert offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to explore the wonders of the night through guided experiences, stargazing, and family-friendly activities. Attendees are encouraged to bring their sense of curiosity — and red lights — to enjoy this special evening in a way that protects the night sky and enhances visibility for all.

Featured Activities Include:

  • Telescope Viewing with the Astronomical Society of Nevada and Western Nevada Astronomical Club from 8:00PM – 12:00AM
  • Astrophotography Demonstration hosted by Carson City Parks, Recreation & Open Space from 9:30PM – 11:00PM
  • Night Sky Interpretation by Dr. Thomas Herring of Western Nevada College happening at 9:00PM and again at 11:00PM
  • Guided Sunset Kayak Tour starting at 7 PM. 10 kayaks are available or bring your own kayak. Personal Floatation Device (PFD) required.
  • Nocturnal Wildlife Walks with the Nevada Department of Wildlife happening on the hour, every hour.
  • Glow Stick Costume Contest come dressed in glow sticks for a chance to win a prize! Prizes awarded throughout the night.

Booths and Vendors:

  • Art in the Dark – Nevada Division of Outdoor Recreation.
  • Save Starry Skies License Plates – Friends of Nevada Wilderness.
  • Walker Basin Conservancy – Hands-on educational booth.
  • Chilaquiles and Friends Food Truck – Offering food and drinks for purchase.
  • UFO (Unearthly Freeze Dried Obsessions) – Freeze-dried candy treats for purchase.
  • Nevada State Parks – Water, snacks, warming shelter, and red flashlight conversion booth.

To preserve dark-sky conditions, white lights will not be permitted within the event space. A flashlight conversion booth will be available at the event check-in to help attendees switch to red light.

8.5×11 PosterDownload

Event Details:

  • Location: Lahontan State Recreation Area, Beach 3 (1971 Fir Ave, Silver Springs, NV 89429)
  • Date & Time: Saturday, April 26, 2025 | 8:00 PM – 12:00 AM
  • Park Entry Fee: $5 per vehicle (Nevada residents), $10 per vehicle (non-residents). 
  • Camping: Allowed in all designated areas except Beach 3, Day-Use, and Boat Launch zones. No reservation needed. Additional park fees apply.
  • Posters and stickers available while supplies last.

Important Reminders:

  • No dogs or alcohol allowed within the event area
  • Minors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
  • Only red-colored lights permitted near Beach 3

“Cosmos in the Desert is more than just a stargazing event,” said Ashlee Goeddel, Park Supervisor for Lahontan State Recreation Area, “It’s a reimagining of what Lahontan can be — a space for discovery, learning, and connection not just during the day, but after dark as well.”

For more information and the full event lineup, visit parks.nv.gov/events.