America spends about $3 billion a year on “bad” lighting.
It shines down on our grocery stores, our city streets and our back porches, but it also expands upward and outward, brightening up a once-dark night sky.
Located in the heart of Wadi Rum Protected Area, the ecolodge Milky Way provides comfort and a magnificent view over the desert. Our accommodation consists in private Bedouin tents that can accommodate one to six people. Each tent is equipped with beds, mattresses, pillows, bed linen and comfortable duvets. Spending a night or two in the Teva Milky Way Camp will leave you feeling refreshed, renewed and in awe of nature's beauty. Not only is the Teva Milky Way.
The cheaper this lighting gets, the more of it people use – and that’s how we’ve arrived at a pretty damning side effect of all this light pollution: We can’t see the stars anymore.
That’s where the International Dark Sky Association (IDA) comes in. They’re working to preserve our disappearing night sky by studying and helping to reform the ways we use light in our cities.
Sadly, 99% of the population in the continental U.S. still lives in places considered polluted by light, meaning most of us can’t even see the massive spiral galaxy we call home: the Milky Way.
More than 100,000 light years in diameter, with more than 100 billion stars and at least as many planets, the Milky Way is arguably the most impressive feature of the night sky that you can see with the naked eye.
But actually seeing it these days? Well, that requires a little more effort than simply craning your neck.
First, you’ll need an app that shows you the moon phases of the calendar.
Then you’ll need a clear night sky with little to no fog or humidity. Most importantly, you’ll need to find a viewing location that’s completely void of light pollution – no easy task if you live near a major metropolitan area.
That’s why the IDA has compiled a list of International Dark Sky Places – regions protected by staff and volunteers who are committed to making them some of the “darkest and most pristine skies in the world.”
Here are seven spots where you can outsmart light pollution and catch a glimpse of our galaxy.
Mayland Community College Blue Ridge Observatory and Star Park, North Carolina
Though small (6 acres of land in the Blue Ridge Mountains), this spot in western North Carolina is recognized by the IDA as the first Dark Sky Park in the southeastern U.S.
Natural Bridges Monument, Utah
During the day, you can marvel at three towering natural bridge formations at this national monument, but save your real oohs and aahs for the dark, when you can peer through them into some of the darkest skies in the country. (This was the first certified Dark Sky Park.)
It’s possible to see up to 15,000 stars throughout the night; in contrast, you can see fewer than 500 in most cities.
Death Valley National Park, California
Hottest, driest, lowest – and darkest. Death Valley is known as a “land of extremes,” so it’s no wonder its skies live up to the hype. When you’re done diving Devils Hole or mountain biking some of the hundreds of miles of bike trails, grab a blanket and catch the park’s true highlight: some of the darkest skies in the country.
Cherry Springs State Park, Pennsylvania
Heralded by hundreds of eager astronomers for its dark skies, this rugged 82-acre state park is surrounded by the 262,000-acre Susquehannock State Forest.
Stop by the Night Sky Viewing Area, complete with a backlit summer sky map. Just be warned: No white light is permitted in this area of the park, so come prepared with a red light.
Big Bend National Park, Texas
They say everything is bigger in Texas, and it’s hard to argue with the sentiment when you catch a glimpse of the expansive night sky from one of the most celebrated places in North America for stargazing.
Big Bend boasts the least light pollution of any national park in the Lower 48.
Goldendale Observatory, Washington
This 5-acre educational facility sits atop 2,100 feet of elevation just north of downtown Goldendale and plays host to one of the nation’s largest public telescopes.
The telescope was built by four amateur astronomers (only one with a college degree) up in Vancouver, but it was transferred to Washington in the ’70s after a Goldendale café owner introduced the astronomers to the town’s mayor.
Chaco Culture National Historical Park, New Mexico
Look up into the same night sky that ancient Chacoan civilizations gazed up to at this national park. Chaco is the fourth unit in the national park system to earn the International Dark Sky Park distinction, and at the gold-tier level, which means it not only looks dark now, but, thanks to measures like improved outdoor lighting, it will stay that way for years to come.
Camping Information at These Locations
Recommended Products to Bring With You
In addition to camping gear, it would be wise to bring a telescope, binoculars and red light with you …
Petzl e+LITE Headlamp
As mentioned above, some dark sky parks do not allow white lights. This $30 headlamp is waterproof, compact and includes a red light setting – making it perfect for every setting. Head to REI to purchase and get more information.
Celestron National Park Foundation 60mm TravelScope
If you are going on a trip to view the Milky Way, why not view it from up close? In addition to this telescope’s smooth and easy pointing features, it has a tool-less setup, comes with a backpack and supports the National Park Service with every purchase. Head to REI to purchase this telescope for only $80.
Celestron SkyMaster 15×70 Binoculars
These binoculars are specified for astronomical (or terrestrial) viewing. At only $70, these binoculars are your best bang for your buck option as they come with a plethora of features that will not disappoint. They too can be purchased at REI.
This is a Preferred Partner property. It's committed to giving guests a positive experience with its excellent service and great value. This property might pay Booking.com a little more to be in this Program.Airport shuttle. Airport shuttle available at an additional charge. You can request this in the next step.
Wadi Rum Protected Area, 77110 Wadi Rum, Jordan–Excellent location – show map
Lock in a great price for Milky Way Bedouin Camp – rated 9 by recent guests!
to get started.
Lock in a great price for Milky Way Bedouin Camp – rated 9 by recent guests!
to get started.
The camp was located in a spot that was located to some of the top sights, which we saw via jeep tour. The host was kind and very accommodating and the dinner was delicious. One of the best parts was watching the sun set and star gazing in the evening. It was also nice to be further away from town in order to appreciate the solitude of Wadi Rum.
Nedim,United States of America
This is a cute basic Wadi Rum camp, small, clean, good food, good amenities. It's in a nice quiet spot against a mountain. The tents are comfortable and clean. There is a small terrace where you can light a fire and watch the starts. The staff is friendly and they made sure we were comfortable and well taken care of. They arranged a jeep tour for us and transportation out of Wadi Rum. I definitely recommend!
Lina_79,United States of America
We had the BEST time - the staff were amazing and friendly and went above and beyond to make our experience special. We didn't realize that we would be off in the middle of the desert- it was WAY cooler than we expected and the facilities were very clean and nice- who knew that you could have a nice shower in the middl of the desert. Wonderful spot and will definitely return!
Sara,Nepal
The location was stunning, the facilities are very satisfactory, considering you are in a desert camp. The hospitality and dining experience was excellent.
Denis,Ireland
A night’s stay here is really a unique experience. Sleeping in the tent, stargazing and just taking in the view is great. Nice drinking mint tea round the fire in the central tent.
Alison,Italy
The food was amazing. The staff we extremely friendly, helpful and approachable. The facilitators were also amazing and extremely highly functioning. My most comfortable stay in Jordan by far.
Bella,Canada
The view and environment was breathtaking. The tent camp was comfortable. The dining place had a nice inside fire place. The staff was helpful and friendly.
Thierry,United Arab Emirates
Amazing view, the hotel’s name is 100% accurate, staff is really nice. Perfect place to disconnect for one day.
Wazata,Belgium
wonderful location very nice staff excellent dinner
Wanderlust,Switzerland
I loved the tent very clean and comfortable. The delicious dinner prepared in a traditional way, everything was so well organized my friend and I we enjoyed the camping and the views of the desert in Wadirum. It was an excellent experience and all the staff were incredibly nice and friendly, taking care of all the guests.
Hilina,United Arab Emirates
Excellent location!
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Milky Way Bedouin Camp
55 reviews
9.8
What guests loved the most:
NedimUnited States of America
SaraNepal
AlisonItaly
ThierryUnited Arab Emirates
WanderlustSwitzerland
One of our top picks in Wadi Rum.Milky Way is inside Wadi Rum protected area and 4.3 mi far from Wadi Rum's village.
Milky Way Ecolodge also includes a barbecue. Guests can enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant. The property also offers packed lunches.
Guests can enjoy various activities in the surroundings, including horse riding and hiking. The nearest airport is King Hussein International Airport, 26 mi from the property.
Couples in particular like the location – they rated it 9.8 for a two-person trip.
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Brilliant!
Most Popular Facilities
Family rooms
Restaurant
Good for couples – they rated the facilities 8.2 for two-person stays.
Guests love...
낍Top Location: Highly rated by recent guests (9.8)
Continental, Halal, Buffet
Saved to 111 lists
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Restaurants & Markets *
6 km
Closest Airports *
41.5 km
47.3 km
All distances are measured in straight lines. Actual travel distances may vary.
What Travelers Love About This Location
“The location was stunning, the facilities are very satisfactory, considering you are in a desert camp. The hospitality and dining experience was excellent.”
DenisIreland
“A night’s stay here is really a unique experience. Sleeping in the tent, stargazing and just taking in the view is great. Nice drinking mint tea round the fire ...”
AlisonItaly
“wonderful location very nice staff excellent dinner”
WanderlustSwitzerland
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Brilliant!
Milky way Kitchen
Food:Middle Eastern,Local,Grill/BBQ
Menu:Buffet & À La Carte
Why book with us?
Manage your bookings online
The staff speaks English
Booking is safe
One of our top picks in Wadi Rum
Facilities of Milky Way Bedouin CampGreat facilities! Review score, 8.6
Most Popular Facilities
Family rooms
Restaurant
Outdoors
Outdoor fireplace
Picnic area
Sun deck
BBQ facilitiesAdditional charge
Terrace
Pets
Free!Pets are allowed on request. No extra charges.
Activities
Evening entertainmentAdditional charge
Horseback ridingAdditional charge
HikingAdditional charge
Playground
Food & Drink
Chocolate/Cookies
Bottle of water
Special diet meals (on request)
Restaurant
Parking
Free!Free public parking is available at a location nearby (reservation is not needed).
Transportation
Airport drop-offAdditional charge
Airport pickupAdditional charge
Services
Shuttle service
Daily housekeeping
Shared lounge/TV area
Airport shuttle (additional charge)
Shuttle service (free)
Tour desk
24-hour front desk
General
Designated smoking area
Family rooms
Non-smoking rooms
Languages Spoken
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House RulesMilky Way Bedouin Camp takes special requests – add in the next step!
Check-out
5:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Cancellation/ prepayment
Cancellation and prepayment policies vary according to accommodations type.Please enter the dates of your stay and check what conditions apply to your preferred room.
Children & Beds
0 - 3 years
Can use a crib or an existing bed
FREE
4 - 5 years
Can use an existing bed
FREE
The maximum number of cribs and children allowed in existing beds depends on the room you pick. Double-check the maximum capacity for the room you selected.
No extra beds are available
Pets
Free!Pets are allowed on request. No extra charges.
Cash only
This property only accepts cash payments.
Please note that breakfast is included in the room rate.
Please inform Milky Way Bedouin Camp of your expected arrival time in advance. You can use the Special Requests box when booking, or contact the property directly using the contact details in your confirmation.
100% verified reviews ·Real guests. Real stays. Real opinions.
9.0Wonderful55 reviews
Staff9.4
Facilities8.6
Cleanliness8.5
Comfort8.8
Value for money8.7
Location9.8
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Saved to 111 lists
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