Considering Skipping Yellowstone or Zion? Check Out These Top 5 State Parks Instead!
As travelers across the country grapple with the impact of staffing cuts and closures at popular national parks like Yellowstone and Zion, many are looking for alternative destinations to explore the great outdoors. Fortunately, the United States is home to a plethora of stunning state parks that offer beauty and majesty without the uncertainty of overcrowding and limited services. Here are five state parks worth considering for your next outdoor adventure.
H2: Red Rock State Park, Arizona
Located just a short drive from the bustling city of Sedona, Red Rock State Park offers visitors a serene escape into the stunning red rock formations that the area is known for. With over 5 miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, and interpretive programs, this park is a perfect destination for nature lovers looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Southwest. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, javelina, and a wide array of bird species, making it a great spot for wildlife enthusiasts.
According to the Arizona State Parks website, Red Rock State Park is open year-round and offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, bird watching, and photography. The park also features a visitor center with exhibits on the geology, flora, and fauna of the area, as well as a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs and snacks.
H2: Custer State Park, South Dakota
For those looking to experience the beauty of the Black Hills region without the crowds of nearby national parks, Custer State Park in South Dakota is a hidden gem worth exploring. With over 71,000 acres of rolling hills, granite peaks, and pristine lakes, this park offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The park is also home to a large herd of bison, which can often be seen roaming the grasslands.
According to the South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks website, Custer State Park is open year-round and offers a variety of camping options, from primitive tent sites to fully-equipped cabins. The park also features several scenic drives, including the Needles Highway and the Wildlife Loop Road, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
H2: Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, Michigan
Nestled along the shores of Lake Superior in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts seeking solitude and natural beauty. With over 60,000 acres of old-growth forests, rugged mountains, and pristine lakes, this park offers endless opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. The park is also home to the famous Lake of the Clouds, a stunning overlook that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
According to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website, Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is open year-round and offers a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, and cross-country skiing. The park also features several campgrounds, rustic cabins, and backcountry camping options for visitors looking to immerse themselves in the wilderness.
In conclusion, while popular national parks like Yellowstone and Zion may be facing challenges due to staffing cuts and closures, there are plenty of state parks across the country that offer beauty and majesty without the uncertainty. Whether you’re looking for red rock formations in Arizona, rolling hills in South Dakota, or rugged mountains in Michigan, these state parks provide a perfect alternative for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure. So why not skip the crowds and explore the hidden gems of America’s state parks instead?