Emily Hart
- I've traveled to all 50 states and love exploring the country's lesser-known state parks.
- Letchworth State Park in New York and Matthiessen State Park in Illinois have gorgeous waterfalls.
- Utah's Kodachrome Basin State Park feels like stepping into another world.
The US national parks are incredible, and I understand why so many people flock to these iconic landscapes to see some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country.
However, after traveling solo to all 63 US national parks and all 50 states, I've discovered that some of the most stunning and underrated places aren't part of the national park system — they're state parks.
These hidden gems offer the same beauty, adventure, and solitude, often without the crowds, reservations, or permit hassles that come with national park visits. Here are some of my favorites.
Emily Hart
Despite being Wisconsin's most-visited state park, I find that many people I talk to don't know about Devil's Lake in Baraboo. However, it's my favorite of Wisconsin's 50 state parks.
In my opinion, the park's East and West Bluff trails offer some of the best panoramic views in the Midwest. Additionally, the massive rock formations — like Balanced Rock and Devil's Doorway — make it a favorite for hikers and rock climbers alike.
Beyond the cliffs, the park offers kayaking, swimming, and peaceful lakeside picnic areas, making it a perfect year-round destination.
Emily Hart
West Virginia is another one of my favorite states for outdoor recreation. Its state park system is full of gems, but I always recommend visiting Coopers Rock State Forest.
I love hiking in this park or simply enjoying a sunset at Coopers Rock Overlook, which offers a panoramic view of the Cheat River Gorge.
The park also has many unique rock formations scattered throughout the forest along the miles of scenic trails.
Jim Vallee/Shutterstock
Often nicknamed the "Grand Canyon of the East," Letchworth State Park is a natural wonder where the Genesee River carves through a deep gorge, creating three stunning waterfalls framed by towering cliffs.
With 66 miles of hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, Letchworth is a paradise for nature lovers.
The park is especially magical in the fall, with its vibrant autumn foliage, making it one of the most spectacular leaf-peeping destinations in the Northeast.
Emily Hart
When visiting Utah, many travelers aim to see one (or all) of the state's "Mighty Five" national parks. However, Utah is also home to 46 state parks — my favorite being Kodachrome Basin.
Just over 20 miles from Bryce Canyon National Park, Kodachrome Basin feels like stepping into another world entirely.
The less-crowded landscape is a stunning mix of red, orange, and yellow hues, and striking "sand pipes" — tall, thin spires of rock that the park is known for.
Hike, camp, or drive through the rock formations of this hidden gem park for a peaceful adventure.
Joseph Hendrickson/Shutterstock
Matthiessen State Park is a hidden gem known for its dramatic canyons, cascading waterfalls, and towering forests, creating a stunning, almost magical landscape.
With peaceful trails and fewer crowds than nearby Starved Rock State Park, Matthiessen is a must-visit for nature lovers in the Midwest. I especially love visiting in the fall to enjoy the changing foliage.
Emily Hart
With four major national parks and over 40 state parks, Colorado is known for outdoor recreation. However, I've found that, outside of the locals, many people don't know about one of my favorite places to visit — Eldorado Canyon State Park.
Just 9 miles outside Boulder, the park is known for its dramatic canyon views, rock climbing, and scenic hiking trails. Its towering golden sandstone cliffs make it one of the top climbing destinations in the US, with over 500 routes.
Visitors can also choose to cross-country ski or snowshoe in the winter months.
This story was originally published on May 5, 2025, and most recently updated on October 13, 2026.