The top state park in each US state

Feeling discouraged by the high costs of summer travel? You don’t have to venture to an expensive or distant location for the ideal summer getaway. There’s so much to explore right here in the U.S., starting with our state parks.

Over 10,000 state parks span millions of acres across the U.S. With only 423 national parks, you're likely to find a state park close to your home, no matter your location. While we recommend visiting a national park, if you're seeking a budget-friendly summer adventure, state parks often offer a more affordable, less crowded, and wonderfully underrated experience.

With thousands of state parks available, narrowing down the choices can be quite a challenge.

While personal preferences vary, certain places leave a remarkable impact on every visitor. We consulted local residents, outdoor lovers, and frequent travelers in every state to compile TPG’s list of the best state parks across all 50 states.

Discover our top selections of the most stunning natural wonders the U.S. has to offer, highlighting one state park at a time.

Alabama—California

Alabama: DeSoto State Park

Nestled on Lookout Mountain, DeSoto State Park is renowned for DeSoto Falls, where the cascading water has carved a unique small canyon. Visitors can enjoy hiking, cycling, kayaking, swimming, picnicking, rappelling, fishing, and more within the park. DeSoto is a year-round destination, showcasing breathtaking views in the fall as leaves turn vibrant colors and in late spring when wildflowers bloom.

Don’t miss: The one-and-a-half mile Orange Trail, which meanders around the quieter cascades like Lost Falls and Laurel Falls.

Alaska: Denali State Park

Distinct from Denali National Park, Denali State Park covers over 300,000 acres, roughly half the area of Rhode Island. This vast expanse is primarily untouched wilderness, featuring only a few trailheads, two recreational zones, and three campgrounds. Wildlife sightings include elk, moose, marmots, deer, and both brown and black bears. The park is a hiker's dream, but you can also drive through or embark on a guided kayaking adventure.

Highlight: The Tokositna Flats Winter Trail, which can be explored by dog sled in the winter months.

Arizona: Slide Rock State Park

Arizona boasts breathtaking landscapes, and Slide Rock’s smooth red stones and sandstone cliffs in Oak Creek Canyon are perfect for summer hikes and trout fishing in the park's designated stream. You can easily pair your visit to Slide Rock State Park with trips to nearby Sedona (15 minutes away), Flagstaff (40 minutes), or the Grand Canyon (two hours).

Don’t miss: The 80-foot-long Slide Rock Waterslide, where you can glide down the invigoratingly cold waters. The path to the slide is brief and easy, but the park also offers longer trails for those looking for more adventure.

Arkansas: Cane Creek State Park

If you’re eager to experience a variety of landscapes, Cane Creek State Park is your destination. This park is where the Mississippi Delta meets the Coastal Plains, allowing visitors to enjoy both aquatic and terrestrial activities. Renting boats, kayaks, or canoes is ideal for exploring the swampy mangroves of the Delta via water trails. On land, you can bike or hike along some of the state's premier trails.

Highlight: The Cane Creek Lake Trail, which can be traversed on foot or by bike, featuring three stunning suspension bridges throughout the park.

California: Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

This expansive 2,000-acre park showcases California's stunning natural beauty meeting the ocean. Visitors can hike along cliffs, wander through fields of wildflowers, traverse natural marshes, and admire some of the nation’s rarest pine trees: Pinus torreyana. Thanks to the mild climate in southern California, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve (just outside San Diego) is open for exploration year-round.

Highlight: Torrey Pines State Beach, a scenic shoreline framed by dramatic cliffs.

Colorado—Georgia

Colorado: Eldorado Canyon State Park

For serious climbers, Eldorado Canyon State Park is the ultimate destination, featuring sandstone cliffs that reach heights of up to 700 feet. The rocks are rugged and uneven, making it unsuitable for beginners; it’s better suited for seasoned climbers. Other activities include hiking, fishing, horseback riding, hunting (with the appropriate permits), and even cross-country skiing during the winter months.

Don’t miss: The captivating three-mile-long Rattlesnake Gulch Bike Trail, which offers breathtaking views of Eldorado Canyon and the Continental Divide.

Connecticut: Devil's Hopyard State Park

The origins of the perfectly round pothole stones scattered throughout Devil's Hopyard State Park remain a mystery, but local legend suggests that the Devil himself passed through the waterfalls, leaving his mark on the stones. Regardless of the stories, the unique Scotland Schist stones lining the park's 60-foot-high Chapman Falls are truly remarkable. Visitors can climb over various types of pegmatite rock and boulders, while also enjoying fishing, bird watching, camping, and hiking in this natural haven.

Don’t miss: The two-mile-long Orange Loop Trail, which leads to the iconic covered bridge (one of the few historic bridges in the park), offering breathtaking views of the park’s unique landscape.

Delaware: Lums Pond State Park

Surrounding one of Delaware's largest freshwater ponds, Lums Pond State Park is a marsh-like haven celebrated for its variety of dragonfly species. Visitors can hike or stroll around the lake, as well as canoe, paddleboat, or kayak on the pond. The park also features a Treetop Course for ziplining adventures.

Highlight: The Swamp Forest Trail, which is just over six miles long, encircles the pond and guides you through both hardwood forests and swampy wetlands.

Florida: Cayo Costa State Park

Located off the coast of Fort Myers and the Florida Gulf, Cayo Costa State Park is a beautiful barrier island. It can be reached by ferry, boat, or kayak from nearby Pine Island, Captiva Island, or Punta Gorda. The park is renowned for its nine-mile stretch of pristine, white sand beach, making it a perfect spot for active visitors interested in swimming, fishing, snorkeling, or bird-watching.

Don’t miss: The chance to see dolphins, porpoises, manatees, and sea turtles often visible from the shore.

Georgia: Vogel State Park

Experience Georgia's second-oldest state park, Vogel State Park, in the fall to witness the transformation of leaves along the Blue Ridge Mountains from vibrant green to stunning shades of red, gold, and orange. Nestled at the base of Blood Mountain, the park offers a variety of hiking trails, from easy walks to challenging climbs leading to the Appalachian Trail.

Don’t miss: The picturesque 22-acre lake, perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding.

Hawaii—Iowa

Hawaii: Waimea Canyon State Park, Kauai

Revered as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, Waimea Canyon State Park boasts the breathtaking Waimea Canyon, which plunges thousands of feet deep and showcases vividly colored eroded red rocks, cascading waterfalls, and lush foliage. Visitors can hike throughout the park, or take a drive around the canyon, stopping at stunning viewpoints for photos — just be sure to arrive early to beat the fog.

A must-visit: The adventurous Kukui Trail, which descends deep into the canyon and then ascends back up.

Idaho: Thousand Springs State Park

Nestled in an area known as "The Magic Valley" for its enchanting landscapes, Thousand Springs State Park features six unique locations just a short drive apart. Whether it's the waterfall at Box Canyon Springs or birdwatching on Ritter Island, choosing where to begin may be challenging. Unsure? Visit the new 3,400-square-foot Visitor Center at Billingsley Creek for helpful information.

A must-visit: Sections of the legendary original Oregon Trail, accessible via the Kelton Trail.

Illinois: Starved Rock State Park

Located just a few hours south of Chicago's towering skyscrapers, Starved Rock State Park offers an abundance of waterfalls and rugged hiking trails, making it an ideal retreat from the typical Midwest scenery. With paths along the Illinois River, guests can enjoy canoeing, fishing, and even cross-country skiing during winter. For those seeking a park experience without traditional camping, the newly opened Camp Aramoni features luxury tents and half-board meal options.

A must-see: The stunning waterfall at St. Louis Canyon, just a one-and-a-half-mile hike from the Visitors Center — it even creates icicles in the winter.

Indiana: Indiana Dunes State Park

It's important to distinguish Indiana Dunes State Park from the adjacent Indiana Dunes National Park, as the state park boasts several miles of shoreline along the southern edge of Lake Michigan. In addition to summer swimming and playing in the sandy dunes, visitors can hunt, fish, hike, and even enjoy cross-country skiing in this charming, historic park.

A must-see: The breathtaking sunset viewed from the dunes, framed by the Chicago skyline in the distance.

Iowa: Pikes Peak State Park

Spanning over 1,000 acres perfect for hikers and birdwatchers, Pikes Peak State Park is renowned for its birdwatching and summer camping. Guests can marvel at the vibrant foliage in autumn and appreciate the park's bluffs and valleys blanketed in fresh, white snow during winter. Nearby, the Effigy Mounds National Monument features over 200 Native American ceremonial mounds.

A must-see: Pikes Peak itself, a 500-foot-high bluff offering stunning views of the Mississippi and Wisconsin Rivers.

Kansas—Maryland

Kansas: Wilson State Park

Kansas is not as flat as many might assume. While Wilson State Park may lack towering peaks, it features hilly landscapes ideal for cycling, including rocky cliffs around the Wilson Reservoir. For a relaxing walk, visitors can take the easy one-mile Cedar Trail. Fishing and swimming are available in designated areas as well.

A must-see: The impressive 24.5-mile Switchgrass Bike Trail, perfect for cyclists seeking a challenge.

Kentucky: Cumberland Falls State Park

Home to the famous Cumberland Falls, Cumberland Falls State Park is renowned for its impressive 125-foot-wide waterfall — often dubbed the Niagara Falls of the South. The park boasts 17 miles of hiking trails and provides guided horseback riding experiences.

A must-see: The park's Moonbow waterfall is among the few places in the U.S. where visitors can experience this rare phenomenon; a lunar rainbow created by water droplets, visible on nights with a full moon.

Louisiana: Chicot State Park

Chicot State Park encompasses 6,400 acres of lush hills, swamps, and woodlands surrounding Chicot Lake. Anglers can fish for bluegills and largemouth bass from the 400-foot fishing pier, while children can enjoy the water playground. Numerous trails wind through the park's mangroves and forests for hiking and exploration.

A must-see: The forest of magnolia and beech trees located at the Louisiana State Arboretum, which is part of the park.

Maine: Reid State Park

Home to Maine's first state-owned Saltwater Beach, Reid State Park has been a beloved destination since the late 1940s. Featuring both sandy and rocky beaches, the park also includes marshland and a lagoon with tide pools that are perfect for kids to splash around and explore. This area is not only for beach lovers — it’s also popular among birdwatchers and hikers.

A must-see: Hike up to Griffith Head for breathtaking views of nearby islands and stunning sea vistas.

Maryland: Assateague State Park

Maryland's only oceanfront state park, Assateague, is situated on a barrier island nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and Sinepuxent Bay. This two-mile-long island features sandy beaches, along with coves and marshes that visitors can explore via kayak.

A must-see: The park's wild horse herd, which can be observed from a distance. You might also encounter other wildlife, such as deer and waterfowl.

Massachusetts—Missouri

Massachusetts: Walden Pond State Park

Fans of Henry David Thoreau will appreciate Walden Pond State Park, home to the famously tranquil Walden Pond and Walden Woods. This destination is perfect for a peaceful retreat to reflect on life and its significance. Visitors can stroll or hike along the trails surrounding the pond, swim, unwind on the beach, birdwatch, or canoe in its waters.

A must-see: Thoreau admirers can also explore a replica of his house.

Michigan: Tahquamenon Falls State Park

Tahquamenon Falls State Park showcases the iconic Tahquamenon Falls, featuring the Upper Falls, which stands 50 feet tall and spans 200 feet wide, along with the Lower Falls composed of five smaller cascades. The park is open year-round, offering activities such as row boating or hiking to the falls in summer, guided snowshoeing in winter, and scenic walks to enjoy autumn foliage and spring wildflowers.

A must-see: The River Trail, a four-mile hike that passes by the stunning waterfalls.

Minnesota: Gooseberry Falls State Park

Featuring numerous waterfalls, a river gorge, and 20 miles of hiking trails winding through pine, aspen, and cedar forests, Gooseberry Falls State Park offers a refreshing way to experience nature in the summer. In winter, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling provide great opportunities to enjoy Minnesota's abundant snowfall and view the stunning frozen waterfalls.

A must-see: The park's pebbly Agate Beach, perfect for taking in the breathtaking Lake Superior shoreline.

Mississippi: Tishomingo State Park

Travel along the historic Natchez Trace Parkway, a route established in the 1800s, offering breathtaking views through Tishomingo State Park. Nestled at the base of the Appalachian Mountains, the park features remarkable geological formations, including stone-cut ravines and scattered boulders. Visitors can enjoy camping, hiking, canoeing, fishing, and picnicking, although rock climbing requires a permit.

A must-see: The impressive rock formations, moss-covered boulders, and sculpted ravines lining Bear Creek and Haynes Lake.

Missouri: Ha Ha Tonka State Park

Ha Ha Tonka State Park is arguably one of the most picturesque locations in Missouri. Amidst its historic castle ruins, you'll discover 15 miles of trails that navigate through diverse landscapes, including caves, sinkholes, karst ravines, and lakes, perfect for hiking, fishing, boating, picnicking, and camping. Notable features include the expansive Lake of the Ozarks, the azure waters of Ha Ha Tonka Springs, and the stunning Ha Ha Tonka Natural Bridge.

Must see: The Ha Ha Tonka castle — approach with caution, as it is rumored to be haunted.

Montana—New Jersey

Montana: Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park

Among the several states that feature a Lewis and Clark state park, Montana's oldest park, Lewis and Clark Caverns, is notable for its impressive underground limestone formations. Visitors can explore some of the largest caves in the Northwest and enjoy over 40 campsites, along with spots for fishing and hunting.

Must see: The enchanting candle-lit guided cave tours available during the holiday season.

Nebraska: Smith Falls State Park

As Nebraska's newest state park, Smith Falls State Park boasts the tallest waterfall in the state, Smith Falls, which rises over 60 feet. Visitors can admire the falls or enjoy boating along the Niobrara River. For those who prefer land activities, hiking the Jim MacAllister Nature Trail, camping, and fishing are also popular options.

Must see: The park's premier water route, perfect for tubing, canoeing, or kayaking down the river to the Smith Falls Observatory.

Nevada: Valley of Fire State Park

For those seeking to swap casinos for the great outdoors, Valley of Fire State Park in the Mojave Desert is the perfect destination, just a 45-minute drive from the Las Vegas Strip. Here, you can explore nearly 50,000 acres filled with towering sandstone formations, ancient petroglyphs dating back 2,000 years, and petrified trees. Discover more about this captivating landscape at the Visitors Center, or immerse yourself in nature through hiking and camping.

Must see: The park at sunset, where the vibrant hues of dusk illustrate how it earned its name.

New Hampshire: Cathedral Ledge State Park/Echo Lake State Park

Experience two state parks in one visit at Cathedral Ledge and Echo Lake, which are adjacent and often regarded as a single park. Hikers and climbers can ascend to the 700-foot Cathedral Ledge, offering breathtaking views of the White Mountains, with routes available for all skill levels. Alternatively, you can drive up to relish the scenery without the exertion. Enjoy swimming and picnicking at Echo Lake nearby.

Must see: The iconic White Horse Ledge, a massive granite cliff that offers climbers a chance to tackle various routes.

New Jersey: Liberty State Park

Situated just south of Jersey City, this tranquil waterfront park may not be as rustic as others on this list, but it offers breathtaking views of the Hudson River and the New York City skyline, including the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. With extensive walking paths, an outdoor stage, and several picnic areas and playgrounds, Liberty State Park provides a refreshing escape for those wanting greenery close to Manhattan and other urban areas in the tri-state region.

Must see: The historic Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal, a 19th-century train shed featuring original boxcars.

New Mexico—Ohio

New Mexico: City of Rocks State Park

Spanning just one square mile, City of Rocks State Park lives up to its name with a stunning 'city' of towering volcanic stones formed millions of years ago, some reaching heights of up to 40 feet. These massive rocks create pathways that resemble streets amidst the Chihuahua desert. While the rocks are the main draw, the park also provides opportunities for camping, hiking, birdwatching, and stargazing.

Must see: The desert botanical garden, showcasing native southwestern plants like yucca and a variety of cacti.

New York: Watkins Glen State Park

Located in New York's Finger Lakes region, Watkins Glen State Park boasts an impressive 19 waterfalls, along with gorges, campsites, swimming pools, and picnic spots. You can choose to join a guided tour or explore the picturesque park at your own pace.

Must see: The Gorge Trail, which provides access to all 19 waterfalls as well as the Watkins Glen Gorge and Creek — allocate about one to two hours for this journey.

North Carolina: Grandfather Mountain State Park

Grandfather Mountain State Park in western North Carolina offers 12 miles of hiking trails that range from easy walks to challenging climbs and demanding treks across rugged summits.

Must see: No trip to the park is complete without crossing the Mile High Swinging Bridge. Standing at an elevation of 5,305 feet, it's one of the highest pedestrian suspension bridges in America (those with a fear of heights might want to avoid it). The bridge provides breathtaking 360-degree views of North Carolina's wilderness.

North Dakota: Little Missouri State Park

With over 30 miles of trails winding through North Dakota's Badlands, Little Missouri State Park is a hiker's paradise. As one of the state's horse parks, it features 81 corrals for riders and designated trails for horseback riding (note that there is an additional fee for horseback access).

Must see: The park is a haven for birdwatchers. Look out for native species such as bald eagles, black-billed magpies, Cooper's hawks, golden eagles, mountain bluebirds, prairie falcons, and turkey vultures.

Ohio: Hocking Hills

Hocking Hills State Park welcomes visitors all year to experience its breathtaking natural features, including waterfalls, caves, and sandstone gorges. Among its notable landmarks is Old Man's Cave, known for its stunning waterfalls and gorges along Old Man's Creek.

Must see: The Grandma Gatewood Trail, a six-mile pathway that links Old Man's Cave to other significant attractions in the park, such as Cedar Falls and Ash Cave.

Oklahoma—South Carolina

Oklahoma: Black Mesa State Park

The 1,600-acre Black Mesa State Park is located at the edge of Oklahoma's panhandle, where the Rocky Mountains meet the shortgrass prairie. Many visitors come to observe the local wildlife, particularly the adorable prairie dogs, along with golden eagles, mule deer, and antelope.

Must-see: Lake Carl Etling, featuring five miles of shoreline perfect for swimming or enjoying a boat ride.

Oregon: Smith Rock State Park

Recognized as one of Oregon's 7 Wonders, Smith Rock State Park offers approximately 2,000 climbing routes suitable for climbers of all levels, from novice to expert. Even if climbing isn't your thing, you can relish the stunning scenery, which includes jagged basalt peaks, steep tuff ridges, and winding river canyons. Alternatively, consider camping in the park or hiking its popular trails: Summit Trail or Misery Ridge.

Must-see: The Morning Glory Wall, a stunning 350-foot vertical rock formation that offers a variety of climbing routes ranging from moderate to challenging.

Pennsylvania: Kinzua Bridge State Park

Kinzua Bridge State Park features a remarkable landmark: the Kinzua Viaduct, previously known as the Kinzua Bridge. This historic railroad bridge was damaged by a tornado in 2003 and has since become a popular tourist destination and scenic viewpoint. Ideal for a day trip, the park provides opportunities for picnicking, hunting, and hiking through its rugged, wooded terrain, particularly breathtaking in autumn when the foliage transforms.

Must-see: The glass observation platform at the Kinzua Bridge viewpoint delivers thrilling, vertigo-inducing views of the Kinzua Gorge below.

Rhode Island: Colt State Park

Situated on the banks of Narragansett Bay, Colt State Park features nearly 500 acres of lush lawns, alongside hiking trails and paved paths ideal for biking and casual walks. The expansive green spaces provide a perfect backdrop for spontaneous family games of soccer or frisbee, while children can enjoy flying kites. There are also groves and pavilions available for picnicking.

Must-see: The five-mile Colt State Park Loop offers an easy walk with stunning views of the bay.

South Carolina: Jones Gap State Park

At Jones Gap State Park, visitors can experience some of South Carolina's finest trout fishing. Located where the Middle Saluda River meets Coldbranch Spring, the park features a trout pond and an informative fish hatchery exhibit. Beyond fishing, guests can explore over 60 trails across the sprawling 13,000 acres of mountainous terrain and forests, or camp at one of the 16 designated campsites.

Must-see: The park features two stunning waterfalls: Rainbow Falls, accessible via the Rainbow Falls Trail, and Jones Gap Falls, reachable via the Jones Gap Trail.

South Dakota—Vermont

South Dakota: Custer State Park

Covering 71,000 acres of rugged terrain in the Black Hills, Custer State Park offers a variety of activities including nine campgrounds, hiking, biking, climbing, horseback riding, and scenic drives. Additionally, visitors can enjoy various lakes ideal for swimming and stand-up paddleboarding.

Must-see: The diverse wildlife, including approximately 1,500 bison, as well as wild turkeys, coyotes, elk, and mountain goats.

Tennessee: Fall Creek Falls State Park

Discover stunning waterfalls, lush woodlands, and deep gorges at Fall Creek Falls State Park, situated on Tennessee's eastern Cumberland Plateau. Golf enthusiasts can tee off at the 18-hole Falls Creek Golf Course. The park features 56 miles of trails, including two overnight options, and boasts over 200 campsites. Families can enjoy a range of activities, from nature education programs to a Canopy Challenge course with zip lines.

Must-see: The renowned Fall Creek Falls, towering at 256 feet, along with other beautiful waterfalls like Cane Creek Falls, Cane Creek Cascades, and Piney Falls.

Texas: Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Located in the Texas panhandle, Palo Duro Canyon State Park is home to the second-largest canyon in the U.S. Hikers can descend 800 feet into the canyon and explore over 15,000 acres of trails. For those who wish to simply admire the views, numerous scenic overlooks are accessible by car. Bikers can challenge themselves on trails of various difficulty levels. The park also offers camping facilities and horse trails.

Must-see: The six-mile Lighthouse Trail, which meanders around the iconic reddish Lighthouse Rock formation, one of the park's most celebrated geological features.

Utah: Dead Horse State Park

Similar to Arizona's Grand Canyon, the Colorado River winds through Dead Horse Point State Park in Moab, Utah, sculpting stunning reddish cliffs that rise up to 2,000 feet. Visitors can explore the desert plateau or enjoy mountain biking on numerous trails. Dead Horse Point is also designated as an International Dark Sky Park, ideal for stargazing. The park provides yurts for overnight camping as well.

Must-see: Be sure to visit some (or all) of the park's eight scenic overlook points, perfect for capturing breathtaking photos of the stunning landscape.

Vermont: Quechee Gorge State Park

Home to Vermont's deepest gorge, Quechee Gorge State Park features the Ottauquechee River, which can be admired from various elevated viewpoints throughout the park. With 45 campsites and picnic areas, visitors can enjoy fishing, hiking, and swimming. While the park is popular in the summer, it becomes particularly picturesque in the fall as the leaves change colors.

Must-see: The visitor center, which boasts one of the park's finest views of the gorge from an elevated wooden walkway.

Virginia—Wyoming

Virginia: Natural Bridge State Park

Natural Bridge State Park features one of Virginia's historical treasures: the Natural Bridge, a limestone arch towering over 200 feet within a stunning gorge. Visitors can enjoy activities such as fishing, kayaking, and canoeing on Mill Creek Lake, alongside hiking or exploring the Nature Center. The park is also designated as an International Dark Sky Park, allowing overnight guests to experience breathtaking views of the night sky filled with stars.

Must see: Guests can trek to the bridge along the one-mile Cedar Creek Trail, culminating at Lace Falls.

Washington: Wenatchee State Park

The serene charm of Wenatchee State Park lies in its beautiful five-mile Wenatchee Lake and the Wenatchee River. Explore the park's highland forests and mountains through various hiking and biking trails, as well as guided horseback rides, allowing for a deep connection with nature. Year-round camping options are available, including adventurous snow camping for those willing to brave the chilly temperatures.

Must see: The lakefront area — the lagoon is ideal for children, while adults can enjoy a refreshing swim in the deeper lake waters or engage in kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.

West Virginia: Babcock State Park

Spanning over 4,000 acres, Babcock State Park is located along the New River Gorge and features 15 hiking trails. The park includes a 19-acre Boley Lake, perfect for fishing, boating, and canoeing. Visitors can also enjoy biking or hiking along the various scenic trails available.

Must see: The iconic Glade Creek Grist Mill, a replica of Cooper's Mill, commemorates the 500 mills that once thrived in Virginia and serves as a historic highlight of the park.

Wisconsin: Devils Lake State Park

Located just a short drive from Madison, Devils Lake State Park sits on native land featuring effigy mounds significant to the Ho-Chunk cultural heritage. This beautiful park boasts sandy beaches, picnic areas with barbecue grills, and opportunities for swimming or kayaking in tranquil waters. With over 29 hiking trails and 500-foot quartzite bluffs providing stunning park views, it's perfect for both day trips and overnight camping at more than 423 sites.

Must see: The East Bluff Trail, which features remarkable sights like the awe-inspiring Devil's Doorway and the intriguing Elephant Cave.

Wyoming: Hot Springs State Park

For those seeking thermal healing, Hot Springs State Park is a must-visit destination, with thousands of gallons of hot water flowing into the park daily. Guests can enjoy bathing in the mineral-rich water, kept at a soothing 104 degrees, in the complimentary bathhouse. The park also offers over six miles of hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and picnic shelters for a full day of relaxation.

Must-see: The bison herd, which park staff feeds daily at 8:30 a.m. during fall and winter to ensure their health. Visitors can observe the bison feeding from the comfort of their cars.