
# Capture The Milky Way Guide

_WildRove printable guide_

Want to photograph the Milky Way? Use this guide to plan your shoot, prep your gear, and find the darkest skies in America’s national parks.

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## What’s Inside
- Milky Way visibility calendar and tips
- Photography gear checklist
- National parks with excellent dark skies

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## Main Content

### MILKY WAY SEASON
- Visible March through October in the U.S.
- Best time: new moon + clear skies
- Ideal shooting time: ~1 AM to 3 AM (varies by month)

### TOP PARKS FOR NIGHT SKY PHOTOGRAPHY
- [Bryce Canyon](/parks/brca)
- [Great Basin](/parks/grba)
- [Big Bend](/parks/bibe)
- [Joshua Tree](/parks/jotr)

### PHOTO GEAR CHECKLIST
- [ ] DSLR or mirrorless camera
- [ ] Wide-angle lens (f/2.8 or faster)
- [ ] Tripod
- [ ] Extra batteries + SD cards
- [ ] Headlamp with red mode
- [ ] Remote shutter release or intervalometer
- [ ] Star chart app to track constellations

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## Notes
Photo location: ___________________________  
Moon phase: ______________________________  
Settings used: ___________________________

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## Who This Is Great For
- Amateur astrophotographers
- Night sky lovers + astronomy fans
- Visitors to certified Dark Sky Parks

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## WildRove Explorer Tip
Arrive at your location before sunset to scout compositions.  
You can filter parks by night sky rating at [**wildrove.com/parks**](https://wildrove.com/parks).
Check moon phase calendars so your visit aligns with dark skies.


A printable stargazing + photography primer for capturing the Milky Way in national parks.