State Parks USA

Discover the State Parks of the United States

When you think of nature in the United States, you probably picture the famous national parks such as Zion, Yosemite and Yellowstone. But alongside these iconic places, every state also has its own state parks often just as impressive, more affordable, and far less crowded. For many travelers, they even turn out to be the biggest surprises of their trip.

What is the difference between a national park and a state park?

A national park is managed by the federal government and has a protected status because of its exceptional nature, history or geology think vast canyons, towering mountain ranges and world-famous hiking routes.
A state park is managed by the state itself. These parks are often smaller and more varied, with lakes, forests, viewpoints and unique rock formations that you may not find in a national park. They have a more relaxed atmosphere and are perfect for escaping the crowds.

Which park fits your trip?
Every traveler experiences it differently, which means each park can be the perfect match in its own way. Will you choose a national park, or does a state park suit your trip better?
National parks are ideal if you’re visiting the United States for the first time or want to see those iconic highlights that appear on every bucket list. They are large, well-organized and offer extensive facilities, allowing you to discover a lot in just one day.
State parks, on the other hand, are perfect for travelers who want more peace and quiet or are on a road trip and wish to add extra stops without ending up in the big crowds. They feel more local, less touristy and give you the space to hike, photograph or spot wildlife at your own pace. They are also significantly cheaper, making them extra appealing if you want to visit several parks without letting the costs rise too quickly.

Three state parks you don’t want to miss

1. Valley of Fire State Park – Nevada
Valley of Fire is the oldest and one of the most colorful state parks in Nevada. Its bright red rocks, formed from sandstone more than 150 million years old, give the landscape a fiery glow. The Fire Wave and White Domes let you explore the most beautiful parts of the park in a short amount of time, making this a perfect stop when traveling to or from Las Vegas. The park is compact, easy to reach with an RV and very accessible, and it immediately feels like a place that surprises you in the best way.

2. Custer State Park – South Dakota
Custer State Park is one of the largest state parks in the United States and is famous for the massive bison herds that roam freely through the area. The wide grasslands, rolling hills and rugged rock formations give the park a distinct character, and no two routes feel the same. Along the way you’ll often spot wildlife and reach viewpoints that offer wonderful views of the Great Plains. Thanks to its location near several well-known attractions, Custer State Park feels like a natural and surprisingly enjoyable addition to any trip through South Dakota.

3. Dead Horse Point State Park – Utah
Dead Horse Point is a place you won’t grow tired of quickly, with views that impress even without long hikes. From the plateau you look out over the winding Colorado River and deep canyons stretching for miles. The park is small and easy to navigate, which is exactly part of its charm. Located between Arches and Canyonlands, it makes for an ideal extra stop, and many visitors consider its panoramic viewpoint an unexpected favorite during their Utah adventure.

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