While national parks often steal the spotlight, the United States has countless state parks that offer equally stunning landscapes, rich history, and unique adventures. Here are six underrated state parks worth exploring, each offering a hidden gem of natural beauty and outdoor recreation.
Located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, Custer State Park is a stunning refuge for wildlife lovers and adventurers. Covering more than 71,000 acres, it boasts one of the world’s largest publicly owned bison herds. Visitors can traverse the picturesque Needles Highway, a twisting road with granite spires and tunnels. Hiking options, including the Cathedral Spires Trail, provide breathtaking vistas of the park’s distinctive rock formations. While close to Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park remains a more tranquil choice for those who appreciate nature.
Tucked away in the Ozark Mountains, Devil’s Den State Park is a haven for those seeking tranquility and outdoor fun. The park features stunning limestone bluffs, caves, and serene waterfalls. Lake Devil, a small reservoir, provides opportunities for kayaking and fishing, while the Devil’s Den Trail takes visitors through picturesque terrain filled with hardwood forests and rock crevices. Its rustic Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC)-built cabins and facilities add historical charm to this hidden Arkansas gem.
Ecola State Park, with its stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, showcases Oregon’s wild beauty through its dramatic coastal scenery and dense forests. Located just north of Cannon Beach, the park is ideal for hiking, picnicking, and observing wildlife. Visitors can explore the Crescent Beach Trail, which leads to hidden beaches, while the Tillamook Rock Lighthouse is an intriguing offshore landmark. Ecola State Park maintains a tranquil, secluded atmosphere despite its proximity to busy tourist spots.
While Utah’s national parks receive much acclaim, Dead Horse Point State Park offers equally stunning vistas without the crowds. Perched 2,000 feet above the Colorado River, the park provides sweeping views of canyons, mesas, and the winding river below. Its breathtaking overlooks and hiking trails, like the Intrepid Trail System, make it a favorite for photographers and outdoor enthusiasts. The park’s dramatic scenery is incredibly stunning at sunrise and sunset.
Nestled along Maui’s renowned Road to Hana, Waiʻānapanapa State Park offers a breathtaking experience featuring black sand beaches, lava tubes, and sea caves. This coastal gem showcases the richness of Hawaiian culture and natural splendor, with trails that lead to striking cliffside vistas and historic burial sites. Guests can wander through the volcanic terrain, admire the vibrant juxtaposition of turquoise waters and black sand, or partake in snorkeling in the clear, inviting bays.
Often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” Palo Duro Canyon State Park is a vast and colorful landscape in the Texas Panhandle. The park features striking red rock formations, hoodoos, and miles of hiking and biking trails. The Lighthouse Trail leads to one of the canyon’s most iconic rock formations, offering spectacular views. With opportunities for camping, horseback riding, and stargazing, this park is an adventure-filled escape in an unexpected setting.
From coastal cliffs to desert vistas, these underrated state parks highlight the diversity of the United States’ natural landscapes. For travelers seeking quieter alternatives to crowded national parks, these hidden gems promise unforgettable experiences.
Featured photo by Miguel Ángel Sanz on Unsplash.
