Top 10 Lightning Photography Locations in the U.S.

People always ask where to go to photograph lightning. The truth is, almost anywhere can produce good bolts if you know the season. But some regions deliver more consistent storms, safer access, and those classic wide-open skies.

1. Southern Arizona

Monsoon season runs July through September. The Sonoran Desert’s dry air and dramatic terrain make Tucson, Ajo, and Kitt Peak favorites.

2. New Mexico

The plains east of Albuquerque give huge sky and clean horizons. Afternoon convection is dependable, and roads are straight for easy repositioning.

3. West Texas

From Marfa to Lubbock, you’ll find dryline setups and long-lived supercells. It’s remote, but the structure is unmatched.

4. Colorado Front Range

Late-spring storms roll off the mountains into flat farmland—perfect for layered cloud structure and visible bolts.

5. Florida Gulf Coast

The lightning capital of the U.S. Frequent afternoon sea-breeze storms mean you can practice almost daily, just watch the humidity.

6. Kansas and Oklahoma Plains

Classic chase territory: long roads, big skies, minimal trees. Be mindful of fast-moving systems and respect property lines.

7. Utah and Nevada Desert Ranges

Drier, more isolated storms with surreal light—salt flats, red rock, and distant bolts create cinematic results.

8. Grand Canyon National Park

Permitted photographers can shoot summer monsoon lightning striking the canyon itself—one of the world’s most unique scenes.

9. South Dakota Badlands

Late-summer storms here light up the layered rock formations like a studio backdrop.

10. Great Plains North to Canada

If you want marathon chase days, head north in June and July. Long daylight means more setups per trip.

Wherever you go, always check radar, carry extra batteries, and keep a safe distance. Lightning rewards patience more than proximity.