Cosmos in the Desert Dark Skies Festival Returns to Lahontan State Recreation Area August 16, 2025

SILVER SPRINGS, Nev. – After postponing in April, the Nevada Division of State Parks and Division of Outdoor Recreation is once again inviting the public to experience Lahontan State Recreation Area in a whole new light, under the stars, at the inaugural Cosmos in the Desert Dark Skies Festival! This unique nighttime event takes place on Saturday, August 16, from 8:00 PM to 12:00 AM 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 their best glow attire, to enjoy this special evening in a way that protects the night sky and enhances visibility for all.

Activities Include:

• Telescope Viewing with the Astronomical Society of Nevada and Western Nevada Astronomical Club from 9:00 PM – 12:00 AM
• Astrophotography Demonstration hosted by Richard Carpenter from 9:30 PM – 11:00 PM
• Night Sky Interpretation by Dr. Thomas Herring of Western Nevada College happening at 9:00 PM and again at 11:00 PM
• Night Sky Virtual Reality Experience by Travel Nevada from 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM
• Nocturnal Wildlife Walks with the Nevada Department of Wildlife happening at 8:00 PM and 10:00 PM
• Dark Skies Story Telling by Ben Rupert at 9:00 PM and at 10:00 PM

Booths and Vendors:

• Art in the Dark – Nevada Division of Outdoor Recreation.
• Save Starry Skies License Plates – Friends of Nevada Wilderness.
• Chilaquiles and Friends Food Truck – Offering food and drinks for purchase.
• Nevada State Parks – Water, snacks, 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.

Event Details:

• Location: Lahontan State Recreation Area, Beach 3 (1971 Fir Ave, Silver Springs, NV 89429)
• Date & Time: Saturday, August 16, 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.
• Commemorative SWAG 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

“Lahontan offers some of the best dark skies in northern Nevada, accessible to both urban and rural communities,” said Chelsea Kincheloe, who oversees the Nevada Starry Skies program for the Nevada Division of Outdoor Recreation. “Cosmos in the Desert invites the public to explore and discover a different side of Lahontan, while promoting the preservation of these incredible dark skies that connect us to the universe and protect our natural heritage.”

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