Chasing Stars at Black Mesa & The Future of Tinker AFB

Chasing Stars at Black Mesa & The Future of Tinker AFB

Author: Harley Covington and Brett Manzer December 29, 2025 Duration: 35:51

Discover the "Gold Standard" of the Great Plains.

In this episode of the Only in OK Show, Brett and Harley take you to the furthest corner of the Panhandle to celebrate a historic milestone: Black Mesa State Park has officially become Oklahoma's first International Dark Sky Park.

We dive into what it took to achieve this prestigious designation from DarkSky International and why "nocturnal heritage" is the next big thing for Oklahoma tourism. From removing "islands of light" to protecting the biological rhythms of bighorn sheep and mountain lions, we explore why Black Mesa is now a premier global destination for astrotourism.

In this episode, we discuss:

  • The 5-Year Transformation: How the park retrofitted lighting to eliminate light pollution.

  • Where the Rockies Meet the Prairie: The unique geology of the 30-million-year-old black lava rock.

  • The High Point Trail: Navigating the nature preserve and the famous Okie-Tex Star Party.

  • Astrotourism's Economic Impact: How the village of Kenton and the OKC Astronomy Club put Oklahoma on the celestial map.

Stick around after the break: We're heading to Midwest City because Tinker Air Force Base is getting a "Glow Up." Learn about the latest developments and what it means for the community.

Plan your visit:  https://www.travelok.com/state-parks/black-mesa-state-park-nature-preserve

Also discussed:  Chickasha Christmas Lights, Yukon Christmas Lights, Ralphie's Restaurant, Tinker AFB and Midwest City

#OnlyInOK #BlackMesa #DarkSkyPark #Stargazing #OklahomaTravel #ExploreOK #Astrotourism #TinkerAFB #OklahomaStateParks #KeepTheDark


Hosts Harley Covington and Brett Manzer invite you to join them on the Only in Oklahoma Show, a podcast dedicated to uncovering the genuine character of the state. This isn't a typical travel guide; it's a series of conversations and explorations focused on the unique people, local spots, and compelling narratives that collectively define Oklahoma's identity. Each episode moves beyond the stereotypes to reveal why the state is a profoundly underrated destination, even to many who live there. You'll hear from community pillars, creative minds, and keepers of history whose stories are woven into the landscape. The podcast digs into the cultural and societal layers that make a place feel like home, covering everything from hidden roadside attractions and regional cuisine to contemporary issues shaping local towns. It’s an audio tour driven by curiosity and a desire to showcase that Oklahoma is far more than just "OK." Tune in for an authentic and engaging perspective that might just change how you see this part of the country, all delivered by the award-winning team behind the microphone.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 50

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