The United States is renowned for its magnificent array of national parks, spanning diverse landscapes and teeming with wildlife. However, let's spotlight the often-overlooked state parks, which offer just as much beauty and wonder as their larger counterparts. These hidden gems offer something for everyone, from thrilling climbing adventures to tranquil escapes from bustling city life.
We've curated a list of the best state parks to add to your outdoor bucket list, from coastal havens to serene woodlands.
Coastal Wonders
Dreaming of the coast? Some of the most beautiful parks in the U.S. are nestled along the shoreline, offering stunning views of beaches and bluffs in the best beach town in the U.S. Discover a coastal paradise in state parks sprinkled across the country.
1. Camden Hills State Park
Address: 280 Belfast Rd., Camden, ME 04843
Size: 5,710 acres
Admission fee:
- Maine residents (adults): $4
- Non-Maine residents (adults): $6
- Non-Maine resident seniors: $2
Peak season: Late June to early September
Nearby accommodation: Hartstone Inn and Hideaway
While Maine is renowned for iconic national parks like Acadia, Camden Hills State Park offers equally stunning coastal views just two miles north of the charming village of Camden. Easily accessible by car, the park’s 780-foot Mount Battie provides panoramic vistas from its summit tower.
For a more challenging adventure, hike to the top of 1,385-foot Mount Megunticook, where breathtaking views of Penobscot Bay and Acadia National Park unfold.
2. Patrick's Point State Park
Address: 4150 Patricks Point Drive., Trinidad, CA 95570
Size: 640 acres
Admission fee: $10 for vehicle parking
Peak season: Late June to early September
Nearby accommodation: Turtle Rocks Oceanfront Inn
Tucked away along Northern California’s magnificent Redwood Coast, Patrick’s Point State Park packs a lot in a relatively small parcel of land. The park features a re-created Yurok Village, campgrounds, a visitor center and a hiking trail network winding through a lush forest of coastal redwoods, spruce, fir and pine.
Some trails lead down to a beach or along the bluffs while one ascends Wedding Rock, revealing a dramatic view from 100 feet above the crashing surf.
3. Ecola State Park
AAA Team: Stock Image of Ecola State Park
Suggested Alt text: A landscape view of Ecola State Park
Address: Cannon Beach, OR 97110
Size: 1,023 acres
Admission fee: $5 for vehicle parking
Peak season: Late June to early September
Nearby accommodation: Surfsand Resort
Ecola State Park is an Oregon Coast gem renowned for its lush forests, dramatic cliffs and pristine beaches. Its iconic Haystack Rock has made it a star of the silver screen, gracing films like “The Goonies” and “Twilight.” It's a popular stop on Oregon Coast tours starting in Portland.
Explore ancient Sitka spruce forests, spot wildlife like elk and deer or discover hidden treasures in the tide pools. Hike along scenic trails that offer breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged coastline.
4. Amelia Island State Park
Address: Florida A1A, Jacksonville, FL 32226
Size: 200 acres
Admission fee: $2 per person
Peak season: Late June to early September
Nearby accommodation: Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Jacksonville/I-295 South
Amelia Island State Park offers a serene escape on Florida's Atlantic coast. This intimate park is home to sandy beaches perfect for sunbathing or casting a line and salt marshes teeming with wildlife.
Its smaller size creates a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a laid-back and relaxing state park experience. Visitors can also enjoy horseback riding along the shoreline, adding a unique and memorable element to their visit.
5. Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park
Address: Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714
Size: 6,175 acres
Admission fee: None
Peak season: May to October
Nearby accommodation: Hanalei Bay Resort
The Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park is a breathtaking masterpiece of nature, featuring cascading waterfalls and towering sea cliffs. Its dramatic beauty is almost overwhelming, and you'll find yourself constantly reaching for your camera.
This remote park offers opportunities for adventurous hikes and secluded beach exploration. No matter your pace, the Na Pali Coast promises an unforgettable experience.
6. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
Address: 52801 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920
Size: 3,762
Admission fee: $10 for vehicle parking
Peak season: May to September
Nearby accommodation: Ventana Big Sur, an Alila Hotel
Heading to California's Big Sur coast for its picturesque landscapes? Be sure to check out Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. Famous for the iconic McWay Falls, the park boasts rugged cliffs, redwood forests and panoramic ocean views.
With miles of scenic hiking trails and abundant wildlife, it's hard to beat. Whether you seek peaceful tranquility or a connection with nature, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is one of the best state parks in the U.S.
Mountain Retreats
Find your peace amidst the mountains. These state parks are renowned for their towering mountain peaks, scenic landscapes and breathtaking panoramic views.
7. Custer State Park
Address: US-16A & Wildlife Loop Rd., East Custer, SD 57730
Size: 71,000 acres
Admission fee: $20 for vehicle parking
Peak season: Late June to early September
Nearby accommodation: Creekside Lodge
Custer State Park sprawls across 71,000 acres of South Dakota’s scenic Black Hills. Still, despite its photogenic and distinctive peaks, it tends to attract less attention than its two famous neighbors: the Crazy Horse Memorial and Mount Rushmore.
But don’t miss your chance to tour the park’s Needles Highway Scenic Drive, named for the narrow granite spires towering above the treetops. The highway leads to Custer State Park’s most photographed spot, Sylvan Lake, where rock formations form a vertical wall along the shore and are reflected in the lake’s clear water.
8. Letchworth State Park
Address: 1 Letchworth State Park, Castile, NY 14427
Size: 14,427 acres.
Admission fee: $10 for vehicle parking
Peak season: Late May to early October
Nearby accommodation: Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Warsaw
Letchworth State Park, often dubbed the “Grand Canyon of the East,” is a stunning natural wonder in western New York. Carved by the Genesee River, the park is renowned for its breathtaking waterfalls, including the iconic Middle Falls, which cascades 107 feet down a 300-foot-wide span.
With 66 miles of hiking trails, the park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Visit during autumn to witness the forest's vibrant seasonal transformation.
9. Franconia Notch State Park
Address: Flume Gorge, Daniel Webster Hwy, Lincoln, NH 03251
Size: 6,693 acres
Admission fee:
- Adults: $4
- Children (6-11 years old): $2
- Children under 5 and New Hampshire residents over 65: Free
Peak season: Late June to early October
Nearby accommodation: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Lincoln East - White Mountains
Franconia Notch State Park is nestled in the heart of New Hampshire's White Mountains. Explore iconic landmarks like the Flume Gorge, a stunning 800-foot natural chasm and ascend Cannon Mountain for panoramic views.
While summer and early fall are peak seasons, the park transforms into a winter wonderland, offering skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing at Cannon Mountain Ski Area.
10. Chugach State Park
Address: 18620 Seward Hwy, Anchorage, AK 99516
Size: 495,204 acres
Admission fee: None
Peak season: June to August
Nearby accommodation: TownePlace Suites by Marriott Anchorage-Midtown
Discover Alaska's ultimate adventure playground: Chugach State Park. Located just outside Anchorage, this vast wilderness offers endless opportunities for exploration. Hike through lush rainforests, paddle across pristine lakes or challenge yourself with mountain climbing.
Encounter iconic Alaskan wildlife like eagles and moose in their natural habitat. Chugach State Park is a must-visit for any outdoor enthusiast, from thrilling adventures to serene escapes.
11. Hudson Highlands State Park
Address: 3260 NY-9D, Cold Spring, NY 10516
Size: 8,000 acres
Admission fee: None
Peak season: May to October
Nearby accommodation: Cold Spring Hotel & Cafe
Looking for an escape from the bustling city? Hudson Highlands State Park offers a refreshing retreat and is just a short drive from NYC. Perched along the Hudson River, the park is renowned for its towering cliffs, expansive hiking trails and lush greenery.
Choose from easy to moderate trails or challenge yourself with steeper climbs and even rock climbing. Don't miss Breakneck Ridge, famous for its panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and diverse terrain. With its proximity to the city, Hudson Highlands State Park is a perfect natural escape.
12. Minnewaska State Park
Address: 5281 Route 44-55, Kerhonkson, NY 12446
Size: 22,275 acres
Admission fee: $10 for vehicle parking
Peak season: May to October
Nearby accommodation: Minnewaska Lodge
Another top contender for the best state park in New York is Minnewaska State Park. Located in the Hudson Valley, this park offers a more secluded experience, boasting cascading waterfalls, pristine lakes and dramatic cliffs. For a truly unique adventure, visit the Ellenville Fault Ice Caves in the Sam's Point Preserve during winter.
This captivating combination of geological wonder and stunning landscapes is unforgettable. With over 50 miles of trails, Minnewaska State Park is a paradise for photographers, outdoor enthusiasts and rock climbers alike.
Water Escapes
Looking to cool off after a rewarding hike? Below are some top state parks highlighting beautiful bodies of water, from serene lakes to cascading waterfalls. Discover these refreshing aquatic retreats.
13. Devil's Lake State Park
Address: S5975 Park Rd., Baraboo, WI 53913
Size: 9,217 acres
Admission fee: $3 to $16 for vehicle parking
Peak season: Summer (June-August) and Fall (September-October)
Nearby accommodation: Great Wolf Lodge
Within Wisconsin’s Baraboo Hills, Devil’s Lake is nearly surrounded by 500-foot-high quartzite bluffs dotted with unusual rock formations that look like flat-sided boulders stacked on each other.
Elephant Rock, Balanced Rock and Devil’s Doorway are some of these odd geological features, accessible through the park’s extensive system of hiking trails. The views from the bluffs encompass the lake and rolling countryside, which is especially breathtaking in autumn when the foliage bursts into vibrant colors.
14. Wekiwa Springs State Park
Address: 1800 Wekiwa Cir., Apopka, FL 32712
Size: 7,000 acres
Admission fee: $5 for vehicle parking
Peak season: June to August
Nearby accommodation: Hampton Inn and Suites Orlando-North/Altamonte Springs
This Central Florida jewel on the edge of the Orlando metro area is named for the crystal clear springs that flow into the Wekiva River—pure heaven for canoeing and kayaking. Here, you can paddle beneath massive branches of live oaks draped in Spanish moss and glide past half-submerged logs crowded with turtles basking in the sun.
15. Silver Falls State Park
Address: 20024 Silver Falls Hwy SE Sublimity, OR 97385
Size: 9,200 acres
Admission fee: $5 for vehicle parking
Peak season: June to August
Nearby accommodation: DoubleTree by Hilton Salem-Oregon
Silver Falls State Park, often called the “crown jewel” of Oregon's state parks, is a must-visit destination. Hike the iconic Trail of Ten Falls, a 7.2-mile loop showcasing ten breathtaking waterfalls, including the famous South Falls, where you can walk behind the cascading water.
Beyond the falls, the park offers camping, wildlife watching and diverse trails for exploration. Immerse yourself in the lush greenery and pristine beauty of this natural wonderland.
16. Wallace Falls State Park
Address: 14503 Wallace Lake Road, Gold Bar, WA 98251
Size: 1,380 acres
Admission fee: Requires a Discovery Pass
- Annual: $30
- One-day: $10
Peak season: June to August
Nearby accommodation: The Wallace Falls Lodge
Tucked into the Cascade Mountains, Wallace Falls State Park is a lush oasis renowned for its stunning Wallace Falls, one of the Seattle area's most popular waterfall destinations. This three-tiered waterfall plunges an impressive 265 feet, creating a breathtaking spectacle that draws visitors year-round.
The park offers five main trails, each providing unique vistas of Douglas firs, rivers and alpine lakes, with varying levels of difficulty. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll to admire the falls or a challenging hike, Wallace Falls State Park is a hidden gem of the Pacific Northwest.
Diverse Landscapes
The following state parks offer diverse landscapes and views that you should bookmark on your list of U.S. state parks to visit. Whether you're seeking a unique scenic vista or a challenging rock face, these parks have something for everyone.
17. Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park
Address: 431 Main St., Chimney Rock, NC 28720
Size: 8,014 acres
Admission fee:
- Adult (16+): $17
- Youth (5-15): $8
- Children (4 and under): Free
Peak season: June to August
Nearby accommodation: Highland Lake Inn
Offering sweeping vistas of Lake Lure and the North Carolina mountains, the 315-foot column of hard gneiss stone that’s the centerpiece of Chimney Rock State Park has been drawing crowds of sightseers for more than a century.
Hikers can climb to the top via a trail and a series of stairways. Other park hiking trails lead to vantage points overlooking Chimney Rock itself and to 404-foot Hickory Nut Falls, where scenes from the 1992 movie “Last of the Mohicans” were filmed.
18. Starved Rock State Park
Address: Rte. 178 and Rte. 71, Utica, IL 61373
Size: 2,630 acres
Admission fee: $5 for vehicle parking
Peak season: Mid-march to the start of November
Nearby accommodation: Brightwood Inn
Starved Rock State Park is one of Illinois’ most visited natural areas, and it’s easy to see why: Here, 18 canyons were sculpted from tall sandstone bluffs along the Illinois River, and after heavy rain, pretty waterfalls spill down the weathered canyon walls.
Combined with rustling leaves and the twittering of birds, the sound of splashing water is a potent balm sure to reduce stress. More than 13 miles of hiking trails run along the riverbanks, and the bluff tops and thread into the canyons.
19. Smith Rock State Park
Address: 9241 N.E. Crooked River Dr. Terrebonne, OR 97760
Size: 652 acres
Admission fee: $5 for vehicle parking
Peak season: Late spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October)
Nearby accommodation: SCP Redmond Hotel
Smith Rock State Park is a climber's paradise in central Oregon. Renowned as the birthplace of sport climbing, its towering red rock formations offer over 1,800 routes for climbers of all levels.
For those who prefer to stay grounded, the park offers stunning desert landscapes and trails like Misery Ridge, which offers panoramic views of the Cascade Range. While exploring this outdoor enthusiast's dream destination, look for golden eagles, river otters and deer.
20. Lost Dutchman State Park
Address: 6109 N Apache Trail, Apache Junction, AZ 85119
Size: 320 acres
Admission fee:
- Per vehicle (1-4 adults): $10
- Individual/Bicycle: $3
Peak season: January to mid-April
Nearby accommodation: Holiday Inn & Suites
Lost Dutchman State Park is nestled at the base of the mysterious Superstition Mountains, a popular photography destination near Phoenix. Named for the legendary lost gold mine, the park is a desert oasis just 40 miles east of Phoenix.
The park’s stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife and trails for all abilities cater to outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs of all abilities. Immerse yourself in the allure of the Sonoran Desert while exploring this captivating park.
21. Deception Pass State Park
Address: 41229 State Route 20, Oak Harbor, WA 98277
Size: 3,854 acres
Admission fee: Requires a Discovery Pass
- Annual: $30
- One-day: $10
Peak season: Late June to early September
Nearby accommodation: Candlewood Suites-Oak Harbor
Deception Pass State Park is a stunning outlier in Washington's famously rainy landscape. With its rugged cliffs and dramatic shorelines, it's no surprise that this park is the state's most visited.
Visitors can drive or, for the adventurous, walk across the iconic Deception Pass Bridge for breathtaking views of Puget Sound and its surrounding turquoise waters. With over 30 miles of trails, the park offers endless opportunities for hiking and exploring.
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