Bonaparte City Park
Bonaparte City Park is a public park and picnic area located in Van Buren County, Iowa, just 82 miles (131 km) south of Iowa City, Iowa. Please note that while there are no designated stargazing spots, the park is accessible by the public year-round and offers a biking path, walking path, and nearby hiking trails. One EarthSky friend says “I’ve lived a lot of places in the are area, and have yet to find one where you can see the stars quite so clearly as you can in Bonaparte, Iowa! There is very little light pollution from the small town, making it perfect to watch the sky at the park on the Des Moines river!” Camping is not available, however the park is open 24 hours of the day for ample time to stargaze, admire, and wonder at the night sky. For more information, please search online or call the City of Bonaparte at 319-592-3400.