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America's Best State Parks: A Diverse Escape

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Friday, January 23rd 2026 at 2:04 GMT by Travel + Leisure
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Exploring Diverse Ecosystems & Activities

Our curated list spans a wide geographical range, providing a snapshot of America's natural beauty. Custer State Park, South Dakota, stands out with its 13 miles of hiking trails and 34 miles of scenic drives, making it perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and road trip lovers. Closer to the East Coast, Watkins Glen State Park, New York, within the Finger Lakes region, lures visitors with its dramatic gorge and 19 breathtaking waterfalls. Ohio's Hocking Hills State Park is a wonderland of caves and cliffs, attracting rock climbers and nature photographers, while Indiana Dunes State Park on Lake Michigan provides a classic beach camping experience.

For those seeking warmer climates, Myakka River State Park, Florida, offers a unique opportunity to canoe or kayak along a picturesque river, immersing yourself in the local wildlife. Further north, Acadia National Park, Maine (though technically a national park, it's commonly conflated with state park experiences) showcases Maine's stunning coastline and provides panoramic views from Cadillac Mountain. Mountain lovers can find solace in Emerald Lake State Park, Colorado, nestled amongst the majestic Rocky Mountains.

Beyond the usual hiking and camping, many parks offer specialized activities. Devil's Lake State Park, Wisconsin, is a haven for rock climbers, while Natural Bridge State Park, Virginia, boasts a stunning natural rock arch perfect for photography. The prevalence of amenities - often including showers, restrooms, picnic tables, and fire rings - makes these parks accessible to a wide range of campers.

A Journey Through History & Serenity

Several parks also offer a rich tapestry of history and cultural significance. Arkansas Post National Memorial tells the story of early settlements, while Belle Isle Park, Michigan, provides a unique urban escape with river views. Others, like Bull Shoals White River State Park, Arkansas, and Cove Lake State Park, Kentucky, offer serene lakeside experiences perfect for fishing and boating.

Expanding Your Outdoor Horizons

Whether you're a seasoned camper or a beginner looking to connect with nature, America's state parks provide a fantastic alternative to the crowded national parks. This list is just a starting point - with 48 states boasting state park systems, countless adventures await. As tourism increases, it's important to remember to practice Leave No Trace principles and respect the natural environment for generations to come. Resources like the National Association of State Park Foundations (NASPF) ([ https://www.naspf.org/ ]) provide further information and support for state park conservation.

Full List of Featured State Parks:

1. Custer State Park, South Dakota
2. Watkins Glen State Park, New York
3. Hocking Hills State Park, Ohio
4. Indiana Dunes State Park, Indiana
5. Myakka River State Park, Florida
6. Acadia National Park, Maine
7. Emerald Lake State Park, Colorado
8. Devil's Lake State Park, Wisconsin
9. Natural Bridge State Park, Virginia
10. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, California
11. Arkansas Post National Memorial, Arkansas
12. Belle Isle Park, Michigan
13. Bull Shoals White River State Park, Arkansas
14. Cape Henlopen State Park, Delaware
15. Chimney Rock State Park, North Carolina
16. Cold Springs State Park, Iowa
17. Conkle's Hollow State Forest, Ohio
18. Cove Lake State Park, Kentucky
19. Cross Timbers State Park, Oklahoma
20. Denali State Park, Alaska
21. Falling Springs State Park, Pennsylvania
22. Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area, Nebraska
23. Montana de Oro State Park, California