Escape the city lights at Cherry Springs

• This International Dark Sky park, a four-hour drive from Pittsburgh nestled in the Pennsylvania Wilds, is one of the best stargazing spots in the country with 10,000 stars visible to the naked eye.

Why we like it: It feels truly wild, with coyote yips in the distance and the cosmos on full display.

What to do: Bring a blanket and bundle up under the stars at the park's Night Sky Public Viewing Area.

• Serious stargazers can stay at the Overnight Astronomy Observation Field by registering with the park and paying $25 per night.

Zoom in: White light is generally prohibited, so cover your flashlight with a red filter or invest in a red light flashlight.

• The park's rustic campground starts at around $16 per night.

• There are a few hotels and cabins in the area — book a stay at Olga Farm, a working organic vegetable farm with its own stargazing field, cabins and furnished glamping tents.

Zoom out: Visit Pennsylvania's Grand Canyon 30 miles east in Wellsboro.

If you go: Cherry Springs State Park is at 4639 Cherry Springs Road in Coudersport, Potter County.

• Cost: There are no day-use or entrance fees for Pennsylvania state parks.
• Season: The park is open every day. The campground opens mid-April and closes late October.