Some of the best road trip stops aren’t in national parks—they’re hiding in state parks across the country. Towering cliffs, untouched beaches, and forests that feel like something out of a storybook—these 17 parks prove that adventure isn’t limited to the big-name destinations.
Perfect for RVers, they offer stunning views, spacious campgrounds, and the kind of peace you just can’t find in a crowded tourist hotspot. So pack up, hit the road, and get ready to discover some of America’s best-kept outdoor secrets.
Yosemite National Park, California
Nestled in the heart of California, this park boasts towering granite cliffs and majestic waterfalls. Opportunities for hiking are endless, with trails ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs.
The view from Glacier Point inspires awe, offering panoramic vistas of the valley below. Wildlife enthusiasts may catch a glimpse of black bears or soaring peregrine falcons.
Don’t miss the chance to explore Mariposa Grove and its ancient sequoias. RV travelers will find both solitude and community at the park’s well-equipped campsites.
With its breathtaking natural beauty, this destination is a true testament to nature’s artistry.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina
Straddling the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, this park is a haven for nature lovers. Known for its diverse plant and animal life, it offers something for everyone.
Scenic drives reveal breathtaking vistas, while hiking trails wind through ancient forests. History buffs can explore preserved log cabins that tell tales of early settlers.
The park’s biodiversity is astounding, making it an ideal spot for birdwatchers. RVers will appreciate the convenient campgrounds nestled amidst nature’s splendor.
Whether you’re there for a weekend or an extended stay, the Great Smoky Mountains never disappoint with their serene beauty.
Zion National Park, Utah
Utah’s crown jewel, Zion National Park, is renowned for its red rock cliffs and stunning vistas. The park’s vibrant colors come alive at sunrise and sunset, painting the landscape with hues of orange and pink.
Adventurers flock to Angel’s Landing for a challenging hike with rewarding views. The Narrows offers a unique experience, where walking through the river is the trail.
RV travelers can find campsites with spectacular views, providing a perfect base for exploration. With its dramatic landscapes and endless opportunities for adventure, Zion is a must-visit for any outdoor enthusiast.
Acadia National Park, Maine
Located on the rugged coast of Maine, Acadia National Park offers a mix of oceanic and mountainous scenery. Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the U.
S. East Coast, provides breathtaking sunrise views.
The park’s carriage roads are perfect for cycling and offer a step back in time. Kayaking along the shoreline reveals hidden coves and abundant marine life.
RVers can enjoy campgrounds set amidst lush forests, creating a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. With its diverse landscapes and rich natural beauty, Acadia is a haven for those seeking both exploration and tranquility.
Olympic National Park, Washington
Encompassing different ecosystems, Olympic National Park is a unique treasure in Washington state. From rugged coastlines to temperate rainforests, the park offers a variety of landscapes to explore.
The Hoh Rain Forest, with its lush greenery, is a must-see, while Hurricane Ridge provides stunning mountain vistas. Beachgoers can enjoy the wild, untouched beaches along the Pacific coast.
RV sites are available, offering a gateway to the park’s diverse beauty. Whether you seek solitude or adventure, Olympic National Park delivers in spades with its natural wonders and serene settings, perfect for any RVer’s itinerary.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
Tucked between Cleveland and Akron, Ohio’s only national park is a hidden gem. The historic Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail offers a glimpse into the past with its scenic route.
Waterfalls like Brandywine Falls provide picturesque spots for photography enthusiasts. Visitors can also explore rolling hills and dense woodlands that attract a variety of wildlife.
RVers will find comfortable sites with proximity to the park’s attractions. Whether cycling, hiking, or simply enjoying a picnic, Cuyahoga Valley provides a refreshing escape from urban life with its peaceful charm and natural beauty.
Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park is famed for its scenic Skyline Drive, offering breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The park’s trails cater to all levels, from easy walks to challenging hikes.
Fall transforms the landscape into a vibrant tapestry of colors, attracting leaf-peepers from far and wide. Wildlife is abundant, with deer and black bears making frequent appearances.
RV travelers will appreciate the park’s well-maintained campgrounds, providing a perfect base for exploration. Whether you’re hiking to a waterfall or simply enjoying the drive, Shenandoah offers a picturesque retreat into nature’s embrace.
Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 300 miles of hiking trails, it offers endless exploration opportunities.
Trail Ridge Road provides awe-inspiring views as it winds through the park’s high elevations. Wildlife is plentiful, with elk and bighorn sheep often spotted.
The park’s diverse ecosystems range from lush valleys to rugged mountain peaks. RVers will find well-equipped campgrounds nestled in breathtaking settings.
Whether you’re climbing peaks or enjoying a peaceful evening by the campfire, Rocky Mountain National Park is a magnificent destination to experience nature’s grandeur.
Everglades National Park, Florida
Florida’s Everglades National Park offers a unique glimpse into a subtropical wilderness. Home to a diverse array of wildlife, including alligators and manatees, it provides endless fascination.
Airboat tours offer an exciting way to navigate the park’s expansive waterways. Birdwatchers will delight in spotting rare species in their natural habitat.
RV sites near the park provide a convenient base for daily adventures. Whether you’re exploring by foot or boat, the Everglades promise an unforgettable experience filled with wonder and discovery, showcasing a side of Florida far removed from its famous beaches and theme parks.
Joshua Tree National Park, California
In Southern California, Joshua Tree National Park is where the Mojave and Colorado deserts meet. Stark landscapes dotted with the park’s iconic Joshua trees create a striking scene.
Rock climbing enthusiasts are drawn to its unique boulder formations, offering challenges for all skill levels. Stargazing here is unmatched, with night skies free of urban light pollution.
RVers can enjoy campsites that provide front-row seats to this desert wonderland. Whether you’re climbing or simply soaking in the serene environment, Joshua Tree captivates with its otherworldly beauty and peaceful isolation, making it a must-visit destination.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
No list is complete without Arizona’s Grand Canyon, a natural wonder that leaves every visitor in awe. Its sheer size and intricate rock formations tell a story millions of years in the making.
Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from numerous vantage points and embark on hikes down into the canyon itself. The Colorado River winds its way through, offering rafting adventures for the daring.
RV travelers will find campgrounds that enhance the experience with modern amenities. Whether you’re photographing sunrise or exploring trails, the Grand Canyon promises an unforgettable journey into Earth’s ancient past.
Redwood National and State Parks, California
Home to the tallest trees on Earth, these parks in Northern California offer a majestic experience. Walking among the ancient redwoods is a humbling experience, connecting visitors with nature’s grandeur.
Trails wind through lush forests and along pristine coastlines. The parks’ diverse ecosystems support a variety of wildlife, from Roosevelt elk to banana slugs.
RV sites nestled in the forests provide a peaceful retreat. Whether you’re hiking, wildlife watching, or simply enjoying the silence of the woods, Redwood National and State Parks offer a magical escape from the everyday, inviting exploration and reflection.
Glacier National Park, Montana
In Montana’s northern reaches, Glacier National Park captivates with its rugged beauty. Known for its dramatic landscapes, the park is a haven for hikers and photographers alike.
Going-to-the-Sun Road offers breathtaking views as it traverses the park. Glacier-fed lakes reflect towering peaks, creating picture-perfect moments.
Wildlife abounds, with grizzly bears and mountain goats frequently spotted. RV campers will find sites that offer a great base to explore the park’s wonders.
Whether you’re capturing the perfect photo or embarking on a challenging hike, Glacier National Park provides an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana/Idaho
Yellowstone, the world’s first national park, is a geothermal wonderland. Known for its geysers, including the iconic Old Faithful, it draws visitors from around the globe.
The park’s diverse landscapes include canyons, rivers, and lush forests. Wildlife such as bison and wolves roam freely, offering unique viewing opportunities.
RVers can choose from numerous campgrounds, ensuring proximity to the park’s many attractions. Whether marveling at geysers or exploring trails, Yellowstone provides a thrilling journey into the heart of nature’s power.
This park is a testament to the wonders of the natural world, offering endless inspiration.
Denali National Park, Alaska
Alaska’s Denali National Park offers a wilderness experience like no other. Dominated by North America’s tallest peak, the park is a paradise for adventure seekers.
Wildlife is abundant, with grizzlies, caribou, and moose roaming the landscape. Scenic bus tours provide access to the park’s interior, showcasing its stunning beauty.
RV camping is available just outside the park, offering a convenient base for exploration. Whether you’re hiking, wildlife watching, or simply soaking in the majestic views, Denali provides an unparalleled experience, immersing visitors in the wild beauty of Alaska’s untamed frontier.
Arches National Park, Utah
Utah’s Arches National Park is home to over 2,000 natural stone arches, offering a unique and captivating landscape. Delicate Arch, the park’s most famous feature, is a must-see, especially at sunset.
The park’s trails lead to stunning viewpoints and hidden gems. Photographers flock here to capture the intricate rock formations against a backdrop of blue skies.
RVers will find campgrounds that allow easy access to the park’s wonders. Whether exploring on foot or enjoying the view from a peaceful perch, Arches offers a glimpse into the artistry of nature, where every visit unveils new marvels.
Badlands National Park, South Dakota
South Dakota’s Badlands National Park is a striking landscape of eroded buttes and pinnacles. Its rugged beauty is both harsh and mesmerizing, drawing those who seek adventure off the beaten path.
The Fossil Exhibit Trail offers a glimpse into the park’s ancient past, showcasing fossils from a bygone era. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot bison and bighorn sheep roaming the terrain.
RV travelers can camp nearby, providing a front-row seat to the park’s stunning vistas. Whether you’re photographing the dramatic scenery or trekking across the rugged terrain, the Badlands promise an unforgettable adventure.