Entry No. 80 — the Oklahoma City file — filed under: after-dark

Cheddar Ranch Observatory (OKC Astronomy Club)

The Oklahoma City Astronomy Club's own dark-sky observatory sits on a remote ranch in Blaine County, well clear of the metro's light dome. It houses a 14-inch and a 30-inch reflector, the latter billed as the largest public-access telescope in the state. The club runs members-and-guests observing nights and open houses out here, where you queue up to put your eye on planets, nebulae and clusters under genuinely black skies. Visitors need to arrange access ahead of time rather than just showing up.

The move: Drive out for a club open-house night and take turns peering through the 30-inch at Saturn's rings and a smattering of deep-sky objects while volunteers point out constellations overhead.

📍 Before you go Public/guest access requires prior arrangement with the club; check the schedule and weather before driving the ~70 miles NW.

• 📍 Watonga (Blaine County)
• 💸 $
• ⚡ Low-key
• 🌗 Outdoors

Where: E0870 Rd, Watonga, OK 73772

Hours: Added 2026-06-23 — confirm current hours before you go.

⚠ Seasonal or scheduled — always check before you go.

Plan a visit & invite your people →

Proof: source 1 · source 2 · source 3 · source 4

last checked: 2026-06-23