Dark Skies Project

Dark Skies Project for Michigan Upper Thumb Stargazing and Nightlife

The dark skies project is an effort to reduce light pollution. The advantages of reducing light pollution include an increased number of stars visible at night, reducing the effects of electric lighting on the environment, and improving the well-being, health, and safety of both people and wildlife.

Dark Sky Project

Dark Skies Project in Michigan’s Thumb

Huron County Michigan, represents the tip of the “thumb” of the state. The rural area provides an ideal view of the stars without light pollution found in the big cities. The Dark Skies Project for nightlife in this community can often represent a connection with nature, including unobstructed stargazing presenting sights not seen elsewhere.

Seizing on our unique location at the end of the road the following video was produced as part of a promotional campaign produced by Huron County Economic Development Corporation. They are short and highlight the best aspects of our wonderful area. Worth a look. If you think this is pretty good stuff please Like and Share.

Nightlife & Stargazing in Huron County, MI

Light pollution is the inappropriate use of artificial light at night – it is an environmental pollutant that harms our planet and robs us of the opportunity to experience the wonder of a natural night sky. In some cases, light pollution affects the migratory and breeding behavior of animals and amphibians.

Port Crescent is a Dark Sky Preserve

At the tip of Michigan’s Thumb, Port Crescent State Park is one of six Dark Sky Preserves. The park is fairly protected against light pollution and is an ideal location for stargazing. The park’s designation as a Dark Sky Preserve is another unique element. Visitors can experience this without having to drive further north or to the Upper Peninsula.

A young couple produced this short video on Port Crescent State Park. Those who have tramped around Port Crescent may recognize that iron bridge from the former lumber town that now is home to the park.

Michigan State Parks 100: Port Crescent
  • Midnight on Hurons Dunes – Standing on an ancient Lake Huron sand dune where our cottage sits listening to the surf…
  • Secrets of Michigan’s Albert E. Sleeper State Park – Sleeper State Park was the first state park in the Thumb. It has been a place to visit for over 95 years with an excellent beach and modern campsites. Named for Michigan Governor and local businessman Albert E. Sleeper, the park is one of two state parks in the Upper Thumb. Visitors can watch both sunrises and sunsets on Saginaw Bay. Rest and relax in the shade and seclusion under the tall oaks in the campground Roam the trails of the ancient dune forests.
  • The Dark History of Starved Rock State Park in Illinois and its Link to Michigan – Illinois Starved Rock State Park has been voted the #1 natural attraction in Illinois. The 2,600-acre park has eighteen distinct canyons. Each was carved out of the St. Peter Sandstone by glacial melting and the ever-persistent water action of the Illinois River. The Starved Rock Lodge and Visitor are the trailheads to the rest of the park. This is considered the starting point for guided and self-guided hiking of the various trails and canyons.
  • Port Austin Beach at Bird Creek County Park – This city park host one of the most gentle beaches in the entire Thumb. It’s also an ideal launch area for kayak day-trips. Visit Turnip Rock to the east and Broken Rocks to the west.
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Michael Hardy

Michael Hardy is the owner of Thumbwind Publications LLC. Michael was born in Michigan and grew up near Caseville. In 2009 he started this fun-loving site covering Michigan's Upper Thumb. Since then, he has authored a vast range of content and established a loyal base of 60,000 visitors per month.

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