Across the country, state parks are wonderful places to immerse oneself in the great outdoors. Whether it’s camping, hiking, climbing, biking, stargazing, or any other countless activities one can think of, the sweeping views of trees, streams, and grass make these experiences all the more enjoyable. But why settle for less when it comes to finding the truly best state park to visit?
Using reviews from Tripadvisor data, Niagara Falls Tickets & Tours has compiled a list of the highest-rated state parks from across the nation, and Humboldt Redwoods State Park in California takes the top spot with an outstanding 4.884 star rating overall. This mammoth park covers a whopping 53,000 acres, nearly twice the size of San Francisco. It lives up to its reputation with towering trees, rushing streams, and occasional pops of dark blue and purple flowers in the underbrush, creating a truly stunning experience for park-goers. It almost feels like stepping into a world out of Narnia, making the exploration of the remaining 3% of the imposing and ancient Redwood forest all the more precious.
The runner-up spot goes to Kachemak Bay State Park in Alaska, just a fraction of a point behind in rating. This colossal park spans an astonishing 400,000 acres (that’s 13 San Franciscos!), and is renowned for its excellent hiking, kayaking, and boating opportunities. Accessible by water taxi, this crystalline state park is home to a wealth of wildlife, including horned and tufted puffins, eagles, and a variety of rare seabirds. Embark on the ambitious journey to this state park and be transported to a land like no other. Well, except for the public-use cabins and guided tours.
The list also includes a plethora of Oregon parks, with Shore Acres State Park and Smith Rock State Park occupying the third and fourth spots respectively. Grayson Highlands State Park in Virginia follows closely, rounding out the top five.
Waimea Canyon State Park in Hawaii, Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park in California, Moro Bay State Park in New Jersey, Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor in New Jersey, Ludington State Park in Michigan, and Beartown State Park in West Virginia make up the rest of the rankings.
If you grow tired of the popular favorites, you can also check out our list of underrated national parks here. These state parks offer unique and unforgettable experiences, waiting to be discovered by adventurous souls. So, lace up your hiking boots, pack your camping gear, and set out on a journey to explore the beauty and wonder of these remarkable state parks across the country. Whether it’s the towering redwoods of California, the vast wilderness of Alaska, or the hidden gems of Oregon, each state park has its own charm and allure, ready to captivate your heart and soul.
