While Yellowstone and Yosemite are iconic destinations, there are countless underrated parks across the U.S. that offer breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and unique outdoor experiences. From hidden waterfalls to towering mountains and even vibrant deserts, these 13 state parks and preserves are worth adding to your travel bucket list.
1. Cheaha State Park — Alabama
Located in the Talladega National Forest, Cheaha State Park sits atop Cheaha Mountain, the highest point in Alabama at 2,407 feet above sea level. With stunning views and peaceful trails, it’s the perfect retreat for nature lovers.
2. Katmai National Park — Alaska
Katmai National Park is a land of volcanic activity and incredible wildlife. Known for its large population of brown bears, this Alaskan gem offers visitors unparalleled natural beauty and a true sense of adventure.
3. Petrified Forest National Park — Arizona
Arizona’s Petrified Forest National Park is a desert wonderland filled with fossilized wood that bursts with vivid quartz colors. Though sparse in greenery, the park’s unique landscape feels like a journey back in time.
4. Mount Magazine State Park — Arkansas
Settlers in the 1800s discovered Mount Magazine’s cooler temperatures and built cabins to escape the summer heat. Today, it remains a peaceful getaway for visitors seeking relaxation atop Arkansas’ highest mountain.
5. Mojave National Preserve — California
The Mojave National Preserve in Southern California might appear desolate, but its dramatic cliffs and “hole-in-the-wall” rock formations make it a geological marvel waiting to be explored.
6. Rifle Falls State Park — Colorado
Rifle Falls State Park is home to one of Colorado’s most stunning waterfalls: an 80-foot-tall triple cascade. Visitors can also explore small limestone caves tucked into this serene landscape.
7. Cape Henlopen State Park — Delaware
For beach lovers, Cape Henlopen State Park offers a picture-perfect escape. With sandy shores, excellent swimming spots, and scenic camping areas, it’s a hidden gem along the Delaware coast.
8. Dry Tortugas National Park — Florida
Located 70 miles off the coast of Key West, Dry Tortugas National Park is famous for its crystal-clear waters and exceptional scuba diving. Accessible only by seaplane or boat, it’s a remote paradise worth the effort.
9. Red Top Mountain State Park — Georgia
Nestled around Lake Allatoona, Red Top Mountain State Park was once central to Georgia’s iron mining industry. Today, it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking trails, boating, and lakeside relaxation.
10. Haleakala National Park — Hawaii
On the island of Maui, Haleakala National Park boasts a diverse landscape, from volcanic craters to lush bamboo forests and ocean views. A visit to the iconic Haleakala Crater is a must for any traveler.
11. Bruneau Sand Dunes State Park — Idaho
Bruneau Sand Dunes State Park features North America’s tallest single-structured sand dune, soaring 470 feet high. Beyond the dunes, visitors can enjoy small lakes, providing a tranquil contrast to the sandy terrain.
12. Castle Rock State Park — Illinois
Named after its iconic sandstone bluff, Castle Rock State Park sits along the Rock River. Known for its rugged ravines and unique rock formations, this Illinois park is ideal for explorers and nature photographers alike.
13. McCormick’s Creek State Park — Indiana
As Indiana’s oldest state park, McCormick’s Creek honors the state’s first settler, John McCormick. At its heart lies the beautiful McCormick’s Creek Canyon, a timeless centerpiece for visitors to explore and enjoy.
From towering peaks to serene coastlines and ancient deserts, these underrated parks prove there’s so much more to explore beyond the well-known destinations. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or a deeper connection with nature, these parks offer unforgettable experiences that rival even the most iconic national treasures.
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