In 2026, state parks are still one of the best ways to get big scenery without turning your trip into a logistics project. Some of these places are perfect for a weekend drive, others feel like a full adventure, but all of them deliver that “how is this not a national park?” moment. I kept this list spread across the USA—canyons, waterfalls, coastlines, deserts, wildlife, and lake views—so you can match a park to your season and travel style. Here are 10 state parks in the USA worth putting on your calendar this year.
Custer State Park, South Dakota
In the Black Hills near Rapid City, Custer State Park feels like classic America—open roads, granite spires, and wildlife everywhere you look. The famous Wildlife Loop Road is your best chance to spot bison, pronghorn, and prairie dogs, especially around sunrise and the last hour of daylight. Driving the Needles Highway is half the fun, with narrow tunnels and rock formations that basically force you to slow down and enjoy it. For 2026, May–September is the easiest weather window, and September–October is a quieter, cooler sweet spot with gorgeous light. (Game, Fish, and Parks)
Dead Horse Point State Park, Utah
Just outside Moab, Utah, Dead Horse Point State Park is the kind of overlook that makes people go quiet without meaning to. The Colorado River bends far below, and the canyon layers look like someone stacked them on purpose. Walk part of the Rim Trail for huge views without a brutal hike, and bring water even if you think you’ll only be there 20 minutes. For 2026, plan for March–May or September–November, because summer heat can turn this into a very fast visit.
READ MORE: The 20 Most Dangerous National Parks in The US
Niagara Falls State Park, New York
In Niagara Falls, New York, you don’t just see the falls—you feel the roar and the mist like it’s part of the experience. Niagara Falls State Park has been welcoming visitors since 1885, and it still feels like an iconic, must-do American stop. The best plan is getting close enough to feel the spray, then walking the river paths for different angles as the light shifts. For 2026, late spring and September usually bring comfortable weather and fewer packed walkways than peak summer.
Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada
About an hour from Las Vegas, Valley of Fire State Park looks like the desert decided to show off—bright red sandstone, rippled rock layers, and landscapes that don’t feel real until you’re standing in them. It became Nevada’s first state park in 1935, and it still delivers that “I can’t believe this is so close to the Strip” surprise. Go early for the best light and the calmest temperatures, because midday sun can be intense. For 2026, November–March is the most comfortable time to explore, while summer is best done at sunrise.
READ MORE: 11 Best Waterfalls in the U.S. You Need to See
Hocking Hills State Park, Ohio
Near Logan, Ohio, Hocking Hills State Park is a total mood shift—cool shaded trails, rocky corridors, caves, and waterfalls that feel like a secret hideout. It’s one of those parks where you’ll stop constantly, not because you’re tired, but because the scenery keeps changing. If you want the peaceful version of this place, arrive early, since weekends can get busy fast. For 2026, April–May brings strong waterfall flow, and October turns the forest into a full fall-color show.
Smith Rock State Park, Oregon
Near Terrebonne, Oregon (close to Bend), Smith Rock State Park is all dramatic cliffs, deep canyon views, and that crisp high-desert air that makes you want to keep walking. It’s famous for rock climbing, but even if you never climb, the hiking views are the real headline. Mornings are best—cooler temps and softer light on the rock spires make everything look sharper. For 2026, May–June and September are the easiest months for comfortable hikes and clear skies.
READ MORE: Most Popular Family Campgrounds in Ohio
Silver Falls State Park, Oregon
Outside Salem, Oregon, Silver Falls State Park is basically waterfall heaven, especially on the Trail of Ten Falls where you can literally walk behind several cascades. The forest feels lush and clean, and the mist makes the whole place look like it’s been lightly filtered—without trying. Wear shoes with good grip because some sections get slick, and expect to stop a lot for photos. For 2026, winter and spring usually bring the strongest waterfall flow, while summer is calmer, warmer, and perfect for an easy day trip.
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, California
On Big Sur, California, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is small but unforgettable—cliffs, coastal fog, and that famous waterfall dropping toward the Pacific Ocean. It’s the kind of place where even a short walk feels like a big moment, especially when the coastline clears and the light hits just right. Big Sur travel can be unpredictable with traffic and occasional road issues, so plan earlier in the day and keep a little flexibility. For 2026, April–June and September–October tend to be the best balance of weather and visibility.
READ MORE: 10 Most Beautiful Lakes to Visit in the U.S.
Tettegouche State Park, Minnesota
On the North Shore of Lake Superior near Silver Bay, Minnesota, Tettegouche State Park feels like the ocean moved inland and brought cliffs with it. The lake can look calm one minute and wild the next, and the shoreline views make every stop feel dramatic without being crowded. Bring a layer—Lake Superior wind has a habit of showing up even on sunny days. For 2026, June–September is the easiest season, and late September is a quieter bonus round with early fall color. (MN DNR)
Cape Henlopen State Park, Delaware
Near Lewes and Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, Cape Henlopen State Park is the easy-win park—beach time, dunes, and trails that feel scenic without demanding a hardcore hike. The bike paths are a highlight, and sunsets here can be unreal when the wind dies down and the sky turns soft. In peak summer, arrive early because parking can become its own mini-adventure. For 2026, late May–June is warm but less crowded, and September is calm, breezy, and perfect for long shoreline walks.
