10 State Parks All Travelers Should Experience

Isn’t it nice to close the laptop on a Friday, knowing you have a wilderness adventure ahead of you? Escaping into the forest for a hike or camping beneath the stars is a treat when we need to step outside of our everyday lives for a bit. 

So, we’ve done the digging for you and came up with a list of ten state parks that will knock your socks off. What do ya say? Ready to lace up our boots, fill up our water bottles, secure some trail mix, and make our way into the bounty of nature?

Fall Creek Falls State Park | Tennessee

Did you know Fall Creek is home to one of the tallest waterfalls in the eastern United States? It splashes down from 256 feet in the air. While that fact alone makes it a worthwhile visit, it’s just a paradise for those of us who like to hike. 

With over 50 miles of trails winding through gorges, past waterfalls, and alongside stunning rock formations, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a fairy tale when you’re here. And, if you love wildlife, get ready to wave hello to some white-tailed deer and wild turkeys along the way.

Dead Horse Point State Park | Utah

Don’t let the scary name keep you away. This park has some of the most breathtaking canyon views in the country. In fact, the park’s most impressive overlook hangs 2,000 feet in the air – high above the Colorado River. 

The end result is a panorama that rivals even the Grand Canyon. Sunrises and sunsets are the most magical times to visit Dead Horse. The sky explodes in bright, bold colors – bouncing off the red rock formations in a most delightful way.

Silver Falls State Park | Oregon

Silver Falls is often referred to as the crown jewel of Oregon’s state park system – and for good reason. What you’ll want to find is the famous Trail of Ten Falls; it’s the true definition of a wonderworld. 

Here, you’ll hike past – and behind – some of the most showstopping waterfalls in the Pacific Northwest. One of the highlights of your day will be walking behind the 177-foot South Fall. It crashes down from 177 feet in the air and is a surreal experience you won’t soon forget.

Adirondack Park | New York

This isn’t just a state park. It’s the largest publicly protected area in the lower 48 states. Spanning more than six million acres, Adirondack Park has everything from hiking and kayaking to scenic train rides. It’s also home to adorable little mountain towns like the world-famous Lake Placid, home to the Winter Olympics twice.