21 Everyday Places You'd Never Guess Were Used for Dark Movie Scenes

4. Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park, California, USA (Various Sci-Fi/Westerns)

These dramatic, tilted sandstone formations north of Los Angeles are instantly recognizable, having appeared in countless films and TV shows, often as alien landscapes (Star Trek) or rugged Western terrain. While not always used for "dark" scenes, their stark, unique geology frequently serves as a backdrop for desolation, danger, or otherworldly struggles. Think Captain Kirk battling the Gorn, or scenes depicting harsh, unforgiving frontiers. This popular hiking spot constantly morphs on screen into places far more menacing or isolated than a sunny California park.