Belvidere East / Exit 170 KOA Journey Recreation

Star Gazing

Stargazing in Midland, South Dakota, can be a great experience due to its relatively low light pollution compared to larger cities. To maximize your chances of seeing shooting stars or meteors at Belvidere East KOA in Midland, consider the following tips:

1. Check the Dark Sky Map: Before heading out to stargaze, it's a good idea to check a Dark Sky Map or Light Pollution Map for the specific area around Midland. This will help you identify the darkest spots with minimal light pollution.
   
2. Meteor Shower Schedules: As mentioned earlier, meteor showers are the best times to see shooting stars. Check the schedule for upcoming meteor showers and plan your trip accordingly. Some popular meteor showers include the Perseids (August) and Geminids (December).
   
3. Local Astronomy Groups: Reach out to local astronomy clubs or groups in the area. They often have members who can provide tips, guidance, and even organize stargazing events or star parties.
   
4. Bring Necessary Equipment: Consider bringing binoculars or a small telescope to enhance your stargazing experience. Even without equipment, you can still enjoy meteor showers and many celestial objects with just your eyes.
   
5. Choose a Dark Location: Find a spot in Midland that's away from city lights, streetlights, and other sources of light pollution. The further you are from artificial light sources, the better your stargazing experience will be.
   
6. Weather Conditions: Keep an eye on the weather forecast. Clear skies are essential for stargazing, so choose a night with minimal cloud cover.
   
7. Patience: Stargazing requires patience. It can take some time for your eyes to adjust to the darkness, and meteor showers can have periods of activity followed by lulls. Be patient and enjoy the quiet moments in between.
   
8. Safety Precautions: Always ensure your safety when stargazing. Let someone know where you're going, and bring essentials like water, warm clothing, insect repellent, and a flashlight with a red filter to preserve your night vision.
   

Midland, South Dakota, with its rural setting, can provide an excellent opportunity for stargazing, especially during meteor showers. Enjoy your stargazing adventure in this beautiful part of the country!

Duck watch

A number of duck species, including the wood duck, call South Dakota home. Birding enthusiasts can find a huge variety of birds in the South Dakota outdoors.

Courtesy of: South Dakota Department of Tourism.

Deer watch

Mule deer are found throughout western South Dakota. They can be distinguished from other deer by their large ears and generally darker grayish hair.

Courtesy of: South Dakota Department of Tourism.

Bird watch

Birders love the variety of species found in South Dakota. With the large flocks found in the eastern migratory flyways and the mixing of western and eastern species in the Black Hills, there's something for everyone.

Courtesy of: South Dakota Department of Tourism.

Pheasant watch

South Dakota's state bird, the ring-necked pheasant, can be found statewide, but are most prevalent in the eastern half of the state.

Courtesy of: South Dakota Department of Tourism.

Prairie chickens watch

Prairie chickens put on an annual mating display each spring throughout South Dakota. The Fort Pierre National Grasslands offers a reservation system for blinds for observing and photographing the colorful pageantry.

Courtesy of: South Dakota Department of Tourism.

Antelope watch

Pronghorn antelope are the fastest animals in North America. They can be found throughout western South Dakota.

Courtesy of: South Dakota Department of Tourism.

Prairie dogs watch

Prairie dogs are small burrowing rodents that populate grassy areas in mainly western South Dakota. They give a shrill "bark" to warn others of approaching danger.

Courtesy of: South Dakota Department of Tourism.