Visit These Beautiful Parks in Every State

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The Most Scenic Parks in Every State You Have To Visit at Least Once (financebuzz.com)

Beyond the Grand Canyon: Uncovering America’s Hidden Gems in State and City Parks

While national parks often steal the spotlight with their iconic vistas, a wealth of equally stunning natural beauty awaits discovery in state and city parks across the United States. Forget the crowds and the hefty entrance fees; it’s time to elevate your travel experiences and explore these local treasures. We’ve compiled a comprehensive list, state by state, highlighting parks that promise breathtaking, once-in-a-lifetime encounters with America’s diverse landscapes.

Alabama: Desoto State Park (Fort Payne)

While Alabama’s Gulf Coast boasts beautiful beaches, venture inland to the mountainous northeast for Desoto State Park. Here, the impressive 104-foot waterfall of the Little River cascades into a canyon often dubbed the “Grand Canyon of the East.”

Alaska: Kachemak Bay State Park (Homer)

Prepare for true Alaskan wilderness at Kachemak Bay State Park, a sprawling 400,000-acre remote paradise. From whale-watching expeditions to backcountry hikes offering glacier views, mountains, and endless forests, this park is an adventurer’s dream.

Arizona: Slide Rock State Park (Sedona)

Slide Rock State Park, a former homestead, offers a picturesque blend of towering red rock cliffs dotted with juniper and desert brush, alongside refreshing riverside activities along Oak Creek.

Arkansas: Petit Jean State Park (Morrilton)

Arkansas’s oldest state park, Petit Jean, is also one of its most beautiful. Enjoy stunning canyon views from one of the park’s 33 cabins overlooking the Arkansas River Valley, or take a day trip to witness the majestic 95-foot Cedar Falls.

California: Crystal Cove State Park (Laguna Beach)

Defying Orange County’s urban reputation, Crystal Cove State Park offers a refreshing escape. Explore backcountry bluffs often shrouded in morning coastal fog, or head to the protected coastline for surfing, camping, or a spectacular sunset.

Colorado: Roxborough State Park (Littleton)

At Roxborough State Park, striking fins of red rock dramatically rise from the surrounding prairie. During winter, a ski trip through the park reveals a stunning contrast between the deep red rock and the Denver area’s renowned snow.

Connecticut: Silver Sands State Park (Milford)

Silver Sands State Park perfectly captures the essence of the Connecticut coast with its half-mile of shoreline, accessible boardwalk, and a sandbar offering prime fishing opportunities. Remember to check tide charts as incoming tides can quickly cover the sandbar!

Delaware: Cape Henlopen (Lewes)

With over six miles of windswept Atlantic coastline and a historic WWII-era observation tower, Cape Henlopen provides a fascinating day out for both history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts. A three-mile boardwalk offers glimpses of the park’s sand dunes and marshy wetlands.

Florida: Highlands Hammock State Park (Sebring)

Central Florida’s Highlands Hammock is home to ancient oak forests and cypress swamps. It’s also one of the last remaining habitats for the elusive Florida panther – keep an eye out for one from the park’s elevated boardwalk or tram system!

Georgia: Cloudland Canyon State Park (Rising Fawn)

Cloudland Canyon is a sizable state park boasting 60 miles of hiking trails, 30 miles of bike paths, and 16 miles of horseback trails. Whichever way you explore, you’ll be rewarded with views of spectacular canyons, serene creeks, and dramatic waterfalls.

Hawaii: Na Pali Coast (Kauai)

Choosing Hawaii’s most scenic state park is a formidable task, but the magnificent Na Pali Coast on Kauai makes a strong case. If you can tackle the challenging 11-mile hike, you’ll discover pristine ocean, sandy beaches, and verdant cliffs adorned with tumbling waterfalls.

Idaho: Thousand Springs State Park (Hagerman)

Located in Idaho’s “Magic Valley,” Thousand Springs State Park offers incredible photo opportunities, including the Malad Gorge where the Malad River plunges into the “Devil’s Washbowl,” and the picturesque Box Canyon Springs Nature Preserve.

Illinois: Matthiessen State Park (North Utica)

Just a few miles from the more popular Starved Rock State Park, Matthiessen State Park deserves equal recognition. Old-growth trees, unique sandstone formations, mineral springs, and salt licks provide fascinating insights into Illinois’ distinctive landscape.

Indiana: Turkey Run State Park (Marshall)

As part of the Indiana Birding Trail, Turkey Run State Park is an excellent location for spotting bluebirds, tanagers, hawks, and turkey vultures. Shaded canyon trails, forest groves, and access to Sugar Creek complete the experience for birdwatchers and other visitors.

Iowa: Pilot Knob State Park (Forest City)

Pilot Knob’s observation tower provides an ideal vantage point to survey Iowa’s vast cornfields. It’s also home to Deadman’s Lake, a four-acre floating sphagnum bog – the only highly acidic mossy bog found in Iowa.

Kansas: Lake Scott State Park (Scott City)

If you only know Kansas for its flat plains, Lake Scott will be a delightful surprise. This state park features not only an excellent fishing lake but also canyons, bluffs, springs, and a wealth of historic sites dating back centuries.

Kentucky: Cumberland Falls State Resort Park (Corbin)

Once you witness the 125-foot waterfall that gives Cumberland Falls Park its name, you’ll understand why it’s called “The Niagara of the South.” It’s also the only place in the Western Hemisphere where you can see a “moonbow” (or lunar rainbow) during a full moon.

Louisiana: Cypremort Point State Park (Cypremort Point)

For fishing, boating, or sailing on the Gulf of Mexico, Cypremort Point State Park is unparalleled. It’s also widely considered the best place to witness a spectacular Louisiana sunset, whether from the park’s beach or from your boat.

Maine: Aroostook State Park (Presque Isle)

Are you a fan of brisk, challenging hikes? Ascend Quaggy Jo Mountain for scenic views of Maine. If lakes are more your style, relax on the shores of Echo Lake, perfect for picnics, barbecues, or simply soaking up the sun.

Maryland: Seneca Creek State Park (Gaithersburg)

This 6,300-acre state park along Seneca Creek encompasses the scenic Clopper Lake. Explore Maryland’s woodlands via 50 miles of hiking trails, beautiful in any season, but especially glorious in the fall.

Massachusetts: Middlesex Fells Reservation (Stoneham)

Remarkably, this 2,500-acre reservation, with over 100 miles of hiking trails, is located just six miles from Boston. From the Skyline Trail, you’ll get a fantastic view of the city, but you can also explore the reservation’s wetlands, woodlands, and ponds.

Michigan: Lake Gogebic State Park (Marenisco)

Even in the “land of many lakes,” Lake Gogebic stands out. Home to the largest inland lake in the Upper Peninsula, the park also places you near cascades like Agate Falls and the river rapids of the Presque Isle River.

Minnesota: Interstate State Park (Taylors Falls)

Interstate State Park is the perfect base for exploring the St. Croix River area. Hike to examine lava flows, glacial deposits, and glacial potholes, or enjoy a canoeing excursion on the river.

Mississippi: Tishomingo State Park (Tishomingo)

Tishomingo State Park serves as your gateway to the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Wildflowers burst forth in stunning displays during spring and summer, amidst mossy boulders, unique rock formations, and unfurling ferns.

Missouri: Ha Ha Tonka State Park (Camdenton)

From the intriguing castle ruins at Ha Ha Tonka State Park, you can take in views of both Ha Ha Tonka Spring and the gorgeous Lake of the Ozarks. On the ground, explore a fascinating natural bridge, various sinkholes, and regional caves.

Montana: Lost Creek State Park (Anaconda)

From a short stroll to a 50-foot waterfall to longer hikes through granite and limestone cliffs, Lost Creek State Park offers a lot to see. If you’re lucky, you might spot distinctive Montana wildlife like golden eagles, bighorn sheep, and mountain goats.

Nebraska: Indian Cave State Park (Shubert)

For a relaxing spot along the Missouri River, Indian Cave State Park is your destination. Enjoy scenic river views from the park’s hills, or hike through ancient hardwood forests.

Nevada: Valley of Fire (Overton)

Valley of Fire showcases the region’s unique red sandstone and tan limestone rock formations. The striated cliffs are beautiful on their own, and the park’s ancient petroglyphs add a touch of historical intrigue.

New Hampshire: Bear Brook State Park (Allenstown)

The largest state park in New Hampshire is also one of its most beautiful. Within the park’s forests, you’ll discover unique bogs and marshlands, and if you need a break from sightseeing, you can even visit the park’s archery range.

New Jersey: Wawayanda State Park (Hewitt)

Whether you seek a quiet swim in a pristine lake or a challenging Appalachian Trail hike with sweeping, scenic vistas as your reward, Wawayanda State Park has it all.

New Mexico: Bottomless Lakes State Park (Roswell)

While the lakes that lend this stunning state park its name aren’t actually bottomless, the park’s eight water-filled sinkholes range from 17 to 90 feet deep – an ideal setting for desert SCUBA diving.

New York: Pelham Bay Park (Bronx)

The Bronx’s municipal Pelham Bay Park is over three times larger than New York City’s famous Central Park. Beyond activities like golfing and horseback riding on bridle trails, the best views are found along its 13 miles of Long Island Sound shoreline.

North Carolina: Jockey’s Ridge State Park (Nags Head)

Home to the East Coast’s tallest sand dunes, Jockey’s Ridge is a must-see for anyone seeking unique sights. The region’s one-of-a-kind ecosystem makes it a fantastic spot for hang gliding – the ultimate way to enjoy truly breathtaking views.

North Dakota: Beaver Lake State Park (Wishek)

At Beaver Lake, enjoy lakeside views before strolling through North Dakota’s iconic prairie landscapes. The park’s five miles of hiking trails wind through forested hills, glacier-carved moraines, and grasslands supporting a diverse bird ecosystem.

Ohio: Maumee Bay State Park (Oregon)

Though located in the city of Oregon, Maumee Bay State Park offers a uniquely Ohioan experience. Along the shores of Lake Erie, this charming state park hosts a network of interconnected lakeside ecosystems: marshland, grassland, meadows, forests, and beaches.

Oklahoma: Black Mesa State Park (Kenton)

At 4,973 feet above sea level, Black Mesa is Oklahoma’s highest point, offering prime views of the surrounding prairie. The vista is even more impressive against the black volcanic rock that gives the mesa its distinctive name.

Oregon: Oswald West State Park (Manzanita)

Just off the Oregon Coast Highway, Oswald West State Park is the perfect place to experience Oregon’s coastal rainforest. 200-foot-tall Sitka spruce trees tower over hikers on the park’s 15 miles of trails, which also offer lovely ocean views.

Pennsylvania: Ricketts Glen State Park (Benton)

With 22 named waterfalls (and many smaller cascades), old-growth forests, and a spectacular display of mountain wildflowers in spring, Ricketts Glen State Park is easily one of Pennsylvania’s most gorgeous areas.

Rhode Island: Mohegan Bluffs (Block Island)

Whether you arrive by bike or ascend the 141-step staircase from the beach, the view from the Mohegan Bluffs is well worth the effort. This Block Island trail leads you 200 feet up for panoramic views of the surrounding Atlantic Ocean.

South Carolina: Caesars Head State Park (Cleveland)

From the distinctive granite overlook that gives Caesars Head State Park its name, visitors can take in views of South Carolina’s pristine forests. You can also hike to seven distinct waterfalls, including the impressive 420-foot Raven Cliff Falls.

South Dakota: Custer State Park (Custer)

Custer State Park is nestled in South Dakota’s distinctive Black Hills. Kayak and paddleboard in the beautiful blue waters of Lake Sylvan, surrounded by the region’s fascinating granite outcroppings. In the fall, visit for the awe-inspiring buffalo roundups.

Tennessee: Rock Island State Park (Rock Island)

Within the 833-acre Rock Island State Park, you’ll find the Caney Fork River Gorge, home to waterfalls, miles of hiking trails, and plenty of swimming opportunities. Great Falls might be the park’s most popular sight.

Texas: Inks Lake State Park (Burnet)

Texas’s diverse landscape offers a range of natural beauty, but Inks Lake State Park stands in a league of its own. With nine miles of trails, the park makes it easy to explore the region’s unique pink granite hills, which offer views of the surrounding Hill Country.

Utah: Escalante Petrified Forest State Park (Escalante)

While most nature enthusiasts flock to Utah’s “Big Five” national parks, don’t overlook this hidden state park gem. Enjoy wandering through ancient lava flows and admiring the gorgeous red rock the area is famous for.

Vermont: Smugglers’ Notch State Park (Stowe)

This narrow mountain pass was once a route for smuggling goods and later a passage for enslaved people seeking freedom. Now, it’s a state park with unique mountain trails flanked by the Green Mountains’ 1,000-foot cliffs.

Virginia: Fairy Stone State Park (Stuart)

Fairy stones – small, oddly shaped rocks found in this part of Virginia – give Fairy Stone State Park its whimsical name. Hike to Little Mountain Falls, kayak on the quiet lake, and glimpse the iconic Blue Ridge Mountains from the Philpott Lake Dam overview.

Washington: Battle Ground Lake State Park (Battle Ground)

At Battle Ground Lake State Park, you’ll enjoy lakeside views of an ancient volcanic lake and the evergreen forests the Cascades are known for.

West Virginia: Coopers Rock State Forest (Bruceton Mills)

Coopers Rock State Forest stands out for its incredible overlooks and ancient sandstone cliffs. Despite its popularity, visitors often report finding solitude on any of the forest’s 50 miles of trails.

Wisconsin: Brunet Island State Park (Cornell)

Brunet Island State Park is located at the convergence of the Fisher and Chippewa rivers. Staying at the park’s campground puts you right alongside the riverbank, providing easy access to multiple lagoons by kayak or canoe.

Wyoming: Hot Springs State Park (Thermopolis)

Hot Springs State Park offers a picturesque alternative to Jackson Hole. Beyond soaking in the hot springs at the park’s free bathhouse, get a unique view of the 100-degree-plus water as it pours into the Bighorn River.

The Bottom Line: Unforgettable Views, Without the Hefty Price Tag

Every state boasts at least one truly unique, breathtakingly gorgeous state park. Whether you’re drawn to wide-open plains, sun-drenched mountain vistas, or sweeping seaside views, an affordable (or even free!)

park is waiting for you. It’s time to skip the crowded, overpriced tourist traps and fully embrace the wonders that nature has to offer right in our backyard.