Top 10 State Parks in the U.S. That Every Traveler Should Visit

The concrete answer to why you should visit U.S. state parks is this: they offer landscapes and experiences every bit as spectacular as national parks, but with fewer crowds, lower entrance fees, and often easier access.

State parks protect waterfalls, canyons, forests, and coastlines that define American scenery, and they give travelers the chance to hike, camp, swim, and explore with more freedom.

Unlike national parks, which tend to attract international attention and mass tourism, state parks remain underrated gems where travelers can enjoy solitude while still experiencing dramatic natural beauty.

1. Letchworth State Park (New York)

Letchworth is often described as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” and with good reason. The Genesee River has carved a 600-foot-deep gorge, surrounded by dense forests that blaze with color in autumn.

Three major waterfalls, Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls, create a dramatic backdrop that rivals anything in the western U.S. Beyond hiking, visitors can experience Letchworth in unique ways, such as taking a hot air balloon ride over the gorge, going whitewater rafting, or exploring the park’s Civilian Conservation Corps history.

Because it spans over 14,000 acres, the park never feels overly crowded despite being one of New York’s most visited state parks.

2. Watkins Glen State Park (New York)

Watkins Glen lies in the Finger Lakes region and is best known for its gorge trail, which winds for less than two miles but manages to pass 19 waterfalls along the way.

Stone bridges, tunnels, and staircases built into the cliffs add an almost fairytale feel, making it one of the most photographed state parks in America. Unlike many parks where the highlight is a single viewpoint, Watkins Glen offers a constant stream of natural spectacles.

Visitors who come in summer can pair a gorge hike with wine tastings in the Finger Lakes, while those who visit in autumn find themselves surrounded by golden foliage reflecting off the waterfalls.

3. Emerald Bay State Park (California)

Located on the western shore of Lake Tahoe, Emerald Bay State Park combines alpine beauty with Caribbean-like water.

The bay’s turquoise hue is framed by rugged mountains and thick forests, making it one of the most photographed spots in California.

Activities here go beyond hiking: travelers can kayak to Fannette Island, snorkel in surprisingly clear water, or tour Vikingsholm, a Scandinavian-inspired mansion built in 1929. In winter, the area transforms into a snow-covered playground for snowshoeing.

Emerald Bay offers the rare chance to combine beach-like relaxation with mountain adventure, all within one park.

4. Dead Horse Point State Park (Utah)

Utah is famous for its red rock landscapes, and Dead Horse Point delivers some of the most breathtaking views in the state.

Perched 2,000 feet above a gooseneck in the Colorado River, the overlook at Dead Horse Point reveals a panorama of mesas and canyons that stretch into Canyonlands National Park.

The park is smaller and easier to explore than its national park neighbors, making it perfect for travelers short on time. Its high elevation also creates some of the best sunrise and sunset views in the Southwest.

Photographers flock here for the dramatic lighting, but hikers and bikers will find equally rewarding trails along the rim.

5. Maquoketa Caves State Park (Iowa)

Maquoketa Caves is a hidden gem in the Midwest that offers an experience unlike any other: dozens of caves, ranging from massive chambers to crawl spaces.

Trails wind through forests and rocky outcrops, linking caves such as Dancehall Cave, which is large enough to walk through.

Families with children love the sense of adventure, while geology enthusiasts appreciate the limestone formations created over thousands of years.

Despite being in farm country, Maquoketa Caves feels rugged and adventurous, a reminder that natural wonders aren’t only found in the mountains or deserts.

6. Custer State Park (South Dakota)

 

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Custer State Park offers a blend of wildlife, scenery, and adventure in the Black Hills. It’s home to over 1,500 bison that roam freely across the prairie, alongside elk, pronghorn, and bighorn sheep. The park’s Needles Highway winds through towering granite spires, while Sylvan Lake offers a tranquil spot for swimming and kayaking.

For families, the annual bison roundup is an unforgettable event, combining Old West tradition with modern wildlife management. Custer also serves as a gateway to nearby attractions like Mount Rushmore, but many visitors find the park itself even more rewarding.

While many people plan state park trips around the Rockies, the Pacific Coast, or New England, it’s worth remembering that these parks can fit beautifully into longer journeys that mix both city and nature.

For example, someone planning a U.S. road trip through the Midwest might combine Custer State Park with city stops and even coastal stays, such as Fort Lauderdale vacation homes.

7. Silver Falls State Park (Oregon)

Known as the “crown jewel” of Oregon’s park system, Silver Falls is a paradise for waterfall enthusiasts.

The Trail of Ten Falls loops through lush forest, taking visitors behind South Falls, where they can walk directly under a curtain of rushing water.

Each waterfall along the trail has its own character, from thin cascades to powerful plunges.

The park’s mossy trails and cool mist make it especially refreshing in summer, while autumn brings striking color contrasts.

Silver Falls combines accessibility with grandeur, offering a rewarding experience for both casual walkers and dedicated hikers.

8. Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park (California)

Jedediah Smith is part of the Redwood National and State Parks system, preserving some of the last remaining old-growth redwoods.

Walking among trees that rise over 300 feet creates a sense of awe that words can barely capture. The park is less crowded than other redwood areas, making it ideal for camping and quiet reflection.

Scenic drives like Howland Hill Road take travelers through dense groves, while trails such as Stout Grove let visitors experience the giants up close.

For anyone who wants to feel the immensity of ancient forests, this park is a must.

9. Waiʻānapanapa State Park (Hawaii)

On Maui’s famous Road to Hana, Waiʻānapanapa stands out with its volcanic coastline and striking black sand beach at Pailoa Bay.

Waves crash against lava cliffs, sea arches, and blowholes, creating an ever-changing spectacle.

Trails along the coast reveal hidden coves and ancient Hawaiian cultural sites, connecting visitors not just to scenery but also to history.

While the water can be rough for swimming, the sunrise here is one of the most memorable in Hawaii.

Waiʻānapanapa shows how state parks preserve not only natural landscapes but also cultural heritage.

10. Ohiopyle State Park (Pennsylvania)

Ohiopyle is one of the largest and most visited state parks in the Northeast, thanks to its waterfalls, whitewater rafting, and family-friendly hiking trails.

The Youghiogheny River runs through the park, creating Class III and IV rapids that draw adventure-seekers.

At the same time, quieter areas like Cucumber Falls and the Great Allegheny Passage bike trail make it equally appealing to families and casual visitors.

Ohiopyle represents the best balance of thrill and relaxation, making it a top choice for travelers exploring the Appalachian region.

Final Thoughts

These ten state parks prove that America’s most spectacular landscapes are not confined to national parks.

From the canyon views of Utah and waterfalls of Oregon to the volcanic coasts of Hawaii and redwood forests of California, state parks offer adventure, solitude, and beauty at a fraction of the cost.

They combine the grandeur of nature with accessibility for travelers of all types. For anyone planning a U.S. journey, putting these parks on your list ensures you experience the very best of what the country has to offer, without the overwhelming crowds that often define the national park system.