Everyone knows that the National Parks are some of the most breathtaking places to visit in the US, but not many people know about the State Parks. We put together a list of the top ten state park that you NEED to visit!

10. Lime Kiln Point State Park, Washington

    This park, situated off the west coast of San Juan Island could be considered one of the whale watching capitals of the world. A trip to Washington and then a ferry ride out to the island for the day is a popular adventure. Besides whale watching the park also includes hiking, diving, bird watching, and tours of the historic lighthouse. It only comes in at number 10 dues to the inaccessibility by RV but it’s still a great trip!

9. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, California

    Although there is no beach access from this beautiful state park off the coast of California, it features tremendous views, 3,000-foot ridges, towering trees, and an 80-foot waterfall. The park was named after Julia Pfeiffer Burns who was a pioneer woman in the early 20th century. At this park, you can enjoy the wondrous hikes, go camping, and honestly just take in the beautiful scenery around you. 

8. Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada

    This 40,000-acre valley of radiant red rock about an hour away from Las Vegas comes in at number 9 on our list. The state park includes several amenities such as shaded tables, grills and water, and numerous tempting trails. The park has a Visitor Center where exhibits of the geology and ecology are on display. Finally, the park hosts an annual Atlatl Competition where competitors enjoy trying to make ancient spears. Make sure you check out this state park and try to carve the best spear you can!

7. Ludington State Park, Michigan

    Ludington State Park, located between Lake Michigan and Hamlin Lake has several miles of beach and has a total of 360 campsites. The park has 21 miles of hiking trails but if you are looking for something a little different canoeing, fishing, and kayaking are also great options. Upon arrival, you will notice the park’s Big Sable Point Lighthouse, the “face” of the park, and the lighthouse is available for tours from May to October! 

6. Smith Rock State Park, Oregon

    This park located in Central Oregon filled with towers of volcanic ash that present the opportunity for climbers all over the US. This park can be described as a climbing park but it also has hiking and mountain biking trails, as well as beautiful trees and a couple of streams. You may even spot golden eagles, prairie falcons, river otter and beaver in the park, an opportunity you can’t pass up.

5. Adirondack Park, New York

    Adirondack Park is the largest on our list coming in at 6 million acres. The New York State owns 2.6 million while the other 3.4 is privately owned. Located in the Adirondack Region, is the largest publicly protected area in the United States. It is home to more than 100 towns and villages. The park is also home to over 50 species of mammals, including moose, black bears, beavers, and moles.

4. Itasca State Park, Minnesota

    Have you ever wondered where the Mississippi River starts? Well, you’ve found it! Itasca State Park is one of the few parks that have internet access so if you are planning a vacation but still need the phone, then this spot is for you. The park has camping, fishing, hiking, a Visitor Center with educational opportunities, a bird-watching station, and a Lodge with a beautiful restaurant inside.

3. Eldorado Canyon State Park, Colorado

    Located just outside of Boulder, Colorado, Eldorado Canyon is one of the most hidden parks there is, but its popularity is on the rise. “Eldo” offers some of the best rock climbing paths in the US attracting climbers from around the world to come to try to conquer them. But this park isn’t just a climbing park, it includes hiking and mountain biking trails, picnic spots, and even fishing locations. The only downside is that due to its growing popularity, the park fills up on the weekends so get to packing and hit the park during the week.

2. Gulf State Park, Alabama

    This state park is known to be so beautiful that people can’t stop returning so be careful before you visit the beachside park that has a variety of different opportunities for all types of visitors. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed into the brand new Conference Center and Lounge then you have the choice of surfing at the beach, going to the lake, hiking or biking trails, or even just staying in to enjoy the lodge itself. And if none of that appeals to you, there is a Nature Center to learn about the ecology of the park or you can camp outside a fall asleep while looking at the beautiful stars in the sky. If you haven’t figured it out yet, this park has pretty much everything. 

1. Fall Creek Falls State Park, Tennessee

    Our number 1 park, located in Central Tennessee filled with cascades, gorges, waterfalls, streams, used to be a National Park but despite being transferred to a state park, the beauty remains. The largest waterfall comes in at 256 feet high and the park is even named after it. Fall Creek Falls also features more than 200 campsites, 56 miles of trails, and it even appeals to the disabled. The Environmental Education Center at the park educates young students through arts and crafts, movies, campfires, organized games, and even live musical entertainment. Even if you aren’t into any of that, the park has an 18-hole golf course, pool, and tennis courts to appeal to every kind of person!

As you can see, these State Parks are just as magnificent as the National Parks and make for a great time without the overpopulated aspect of the National Parks. If you still haven’t figured out where you want to go yet, try taking our brief, fun quiz to help you make that important decision. Can’t wait to hear from you and finalize your booking with Luxe RV!