Sometimes the most memorable trips are right here in our own backyard.
Ranging from coast to coast, the U.S. is home to stunning State Parks for those seeking peace, solitude or adventure – or maybe all three wrapped up in one trip.
No matter if you consider yourself an outdoor enthusiast or not, the sights at these State Parks may leave you speechless.
Vast wildernesses, incredible waterfalls, and majestic mountains are some of the highlights travelers love to experience.
AllTrails compiled a list of the top State Parks in the U.S. based off actual park visitors through photos, reviews and ratings of over 60 million nature lovers.
These are the top 7 State Parks in the U.S. according to the new report:
7) Topanga State Park (California)
Los Angeles is one of the largest urban sprawls in the U.S., but there are still idyllic places in nature to escape crazy city life.
One of the best is Topanga State Park outside the ritzy beach town of Malibu – a haven for Hollywood’s most famous celebrities.
Even with multi-million dollar homes abound, anyone is welcome at nearby Topanga State Park for 36 miles of great hiking spots, awesome ocean views, and the unique opportunity to look down at pretentious celebrities when it’s typically the other way around.
6) Hudson Highland State Park Reserve (New York)
When we hear “New York”, we instantly think of one of the most iconic cities in America.
However, New York is full of natural wonders away from the Big Apple.
Although, the famous Hudson River will lead you to the place that stands out the most.
The Hudson Highland State Park Reserve has over 6,000 acres of seemingly untouched land that will blow your mind.
The scenery surrounding ‘the Hudson’ is breathtaking and makes for an incredible backdrop for the variety of outdoor activities here.
Home to top-rated hiking trails, kayak tours, and fishing, all visitors will find their niche to bide their time in stunning nature, but is primarily known as a fun family getaway.
5) Minnewaska State Park Reserve (New York)
Another gem in New York is the fun-to-say Minnewaska State Park Reserve. Far away from the hustle and bustle of city life, this park offers some of the best views in the state.
The Catskill Mountains are a showstopper. Visiting one of the overlooks is an absolute must before spending your days hiking, biking, swimming, and even skiing.
There is a nature center open to the public, but it’s important to check business hours as they are limited.
4) Olallie State Park (Washington)
There are so many bucket-list destinations across the world to go chasing waterfalls, but the good news is you don’t have to go far.
While some may venture off to places like Iceland, you can leave your passport and home and head to Washington instead.
Olallie State Park offers jaw-dropping views throughout the park, but the highlight of your trip will surely be Twin Falls.
Adventurers will love not only exploring the falls but multiple rock formations to climb, the 20-mile-long Ollie Trail, plus an exhilarating rushing river.
3) Lost Dutchman State Park (Arizona)
The desert may not be everyone’s flavor, especially in summer months, but this place is a beaut! Unfortunately, permits are required for photos to show off to your friends.
Despite the inconvenience, a trip to the Lost Dutchman State Park is worth the adventure just outside the Phoenix suburbs.
Trails are available for all skill levels ranging from flat surfaces all the way to upwards of 4200 feet. Visitors love to camp here taking in the night sky away from city light pollution.
2) Wallace Falls State Park (Washington)
This State Park is a hiker’s paradise with trails ranging from beginners to the most extreme outdoorsman.
Miles of trails will allow you to immerse yourself in some of Washington’s most stunning natural sights, especially the gorgeous Wallace Falls.
The park has awesome overlooks from various angles to take in the falls, as well as beautiful lakes. Rather than a day trip, visitors can opt for first-come-first-serve tents at limited campsites.
1) Silver Falls State Park (Oregon)
The Pacific Northwest has been a big winner on this list. Silver Falls State Park is the best of all. Nature and wildlife lovers will be enthralled with their trip here, where they can view astounding waterfalls, some almost 200 feet high.
Trails are abundant where you can see even more waterfalls on the Trail of Ten Falls, but there are a variety of pathways to hike, bike or even go by horseback elsewhere.
There have been many bear and mountain lion sightings, so it’s important to remain on alert. Parking only costs $5 and park hours are extended spring through fall.
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