Twenty-six captivating park attractions nestled within southern states
Revised South's Best State Parks for Every Kind of Adventurer
Welcome, nature enthusiasts! The South's state parks are some of the most incredible playgrounds Mother Nature has to offer. Whether you're planning a solo trek or looking for a family-friendly escape, these four-season parks deliver an unforgettable experience just for you. Here are 26 bucket-list-worthy state parks across the South, tailored to various interests.
1. Cape Henlopen State Park: History Meets the Beach, Delaware
Delight in the rich history and serene beaches of Cape Henlppen State Park, where a visit to Fort Miles Museum offers a glimpse into U.S. defenses during World War II and the Cold War. After soaking up history, make a splash at the family-friendly beach, complete with showers, changing rooms, and refreshments. The park boasts hiking trails, biking, horseback riding, and a disc golf course that overlooks lighthouses.
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2. Ichetucknee Springs State Park: Underwater Exploration and Relaxing River Floats, Florida
Discover the beauty of Florida's Blue Hole Spring for expert scuba divers, or go for a leisurely tubing adventure along the Ichetucknee River. The clear waters meander through wetlands, shaded hammocks, and some of the most beautiful native wildlife in the region.
Plan your visit to Ichetucknee Springs State Park
3. Huntington Beach State Park: Birdwatching Paradise and Atalaya Castle, South Carolina
Home to more than 300 bird species, Huntington Beach State Park offers a tranquil oasis for birdwatchers and Surf anglers. Don't miss the palatial Atalaya Castle, a historic landmark that offers docent-led tours and showcases early 20th-century architecture.
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4. Big Bend Ranch State Park: A Texas-sized Adventure, Texas
With awe-inspiring views, a wide array of challenging trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, and the optimal stargazing opportunities as an International Dark Sky Park, Big Bend Ranch State Park is a must-visit for multi-day adventures. Its roads and even its airstrip make exploring this vast park accessible by car, bike, or plane.
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5. Cloudland Canyon State Park: Stunning Waterfalls and Scenic Trails, Georgia
Located on the edge of Lookout Mountain, Cloudland Canyon State Park offers a myriad of viewing options, from the Overlook Trail to the Waterfalls Trail. Visitors can also enjoy mountain biking, horseback riding, and a disc golf course. The park offers various lodging options, including cottages and yurts.
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6. Amicalola Falls State Park: Appalachian Trail and Zip Line Adventures, Georgia
Situated at the start of the Appalachian Trail, this park also offers exciting Zip Line Canopy Tours and a 3D archery course. Don't miss Amicalola Falls, one of the highest cascading waterfalls east of the Mississippi River.
Plan your adventure at Amicalola Falls State Park
7. Chicot State Park: Fishing and Family-Friendly Fun, Louisiana
With a crystal-clear lake filled with largemouth bass, bluegill, and more, Chicot State Park offers an idyllic setting for fishing. Visit the Louisiana State Arboretum, which features native flora and a variety of trees, or spend the day at the splash pad with the kids.
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8. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park: Florida's Underwater Treasures, Florida
Established in 1960 as the first undersea park in the U.S., this park offers stunning views of coral reefs and diverse marine life through snorkeling and scuba diving lessons and tours. Explore the Amazon River of the East Coast via glass-bottomed boat rides or canoeing and paddleboarding trails.
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9. Blackwater Falls State Park: Breathtaking Waterfalls and Trail Adventures, West Virginia
Discover the natural beauty and diverse wildlife of Blackwater Falls State Park, which offers hiking trails, snow-shoeing, and cross-country skiing in the winter, and stunning waterfall views in the summer. The park is also home to the Bear Creek Trail, a 6-mile canoe float trip offering stunning perspectives on the park's scenery.
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10. Fall Creek Falls State Park: Hiking, Scenic Views, and Wildlife Encounters, Tennessee
In addition to Fall Creek Falls' impressive 256-feet height, the park also offers an 18-hole golf course, multiple hiking trails, and opportunities for fishing, swimming, and paddleboarding. For a unique experience, join the Sewanee Natural Bridge hike and marvel at the sandstone arch above Lost Cove, a massive sinkhole.
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11. South Cumberland State Park: Hiking, Climbing, and Wildlife Viewing, Tennessee
This sprawling escape spans three counties and offers 20 miles of trails, multiple waterfalls, and a variety of ecosystems to explore. Adventurers can enjoy rock climbing at the many cliffs, while birdwatchers can spot more than 400 species of wildlife.
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12. Tishomingo State Park: Cave Exploration and Rock Climbing, Mississippi
Tishomingo State Park showcases the Appalachian foothills' unique sandstone cliffs and caves, making it a paradise for climbers. Paddle the Bear Creek Trail or take a leisurely stroll across the historic swinging bridge.
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13. Gulf State Park: Beaches, Lakes, and Paddleboarding, Alabama
With more than 3 miles of white-sand beaches, three lakes, and over 25 miles of trails, Gulf State Park is the ideal playground for outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers opportunities for fishing, paddleboarding, and bird-watching, while the visitors center provides opportunities to see native flora and fauna.
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14. Fontainebleau State Park: Canoeing, Climbing, and Inclusive Play, Louisiana
Offering a range of activities, this park showcases the ruins of a 19th-century sugar mill and provides opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and climbing the sandstone cliffs. The park is also home to a unique playground designed with ramps and inclusive swing seating to accommodate all visitors.
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15. Ha Ha Tonka State Park: Castles, Hiking, and Wildlife Viewing, Missouri
Take a stroll along the ruins of a 19th-century castle, hike through rugged rock formations and caves, and marvel at cascading streams and scenic overlooks at Ha Ha Tonka State Park.
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16. Tallulah Gorge State Park: Hiking, Suspension Bridges, and Waterfall Views, Georgia
Explore the breathtaking Tallulah Gorge, a 2-mile-long, 1,000-foot-deep canyon that showcases a series of waterfalls. Permits are available for hiking into the canyon, or visitors can admire the beauty of the gorge from the suspension bridge and various overlooks.
17. Cheaha State Park: Alabama's Tallest Mountain, Grander Views, and Lodging, Alabama
Take in the beauty of Alabama's highest peak and scenic vistas from the 80-foot-high observation tower at Cheaha State Park. Overnight guests can choose from cozy CCC stone cabins or more modern A-frame chalets and glamping tents.
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18. Petit Jean State Park: Hiking, Waterfalls, and Historical Ruins, Arkansas
This park, named for a legendary French woman, offers numerous hiking trails that wind through ancient rock formations, showcase waterfalls, and provide beautiful vistas. Don't miss the remnants of a 19th-century sugar mill.
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19. Hanging Rock State Park: Rock Formations, Caves, and Waterfall Views, North Carolina
Named for the dramatic rock formations that continue to captivate visitors, Hanging Rock State Park offers stunning waterfall views, opportunities for fishing, and even caves. Climbers will delight in the parks' many cliffs.
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20. T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park: Seclusion, Beaches, and Paddleboarding, Florida
With nearly 10 miles of white-sand beaches and crystal-clear water, this Florida park offers a serene escape for swimming, boating, and paddleboarding. The park also features opportunities for fishing and exploring the entire "Forgotten Coast."
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21. Beavers Bend State Park: Oklahoma's Lakes, Mountain Fork River, and Hiking Trails, Oklahoma
Featuring numerous lakes, the Mountain Fork River, and a variety of hiking trails, Beavers Bend State Park offers a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. The park also features a 18-hole golf course, horseback riding trails, and birdwatching opportunities.
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22. Hunting Island State Park: Picturesque Beaches, Loggerhead Turtles, and Fishing, South Carolina
Situated near the charming town of Beaufort, Hunting Island State Park offers stunning beaches, opportunities for birdwatching, fishing, and exploring the many waterways surrounding the island. The park is also home to loggerhead turtles, which nest along the beach during the summer months.
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23. Natural Bridge State Resort Park: Sandstone Arch, Pioneer Cabin, and Appalachian Clogging, Kentucky
Admire the majestic sandstone arch at Natural Bridge State Park and delve into the park's rich Appalachian history by visiting the pioneer cabin. Don't forget to check out Hoedown Island for a taste of traditional clogging.
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24. Oak Mountain State Park: Hiking, Mountain Biking, and Beach Relaxation, Alabama
With over 100 miles of trails, Oak Mountain State Park showcases stunning overlooks at King's Chair and the cascading Peavine Falls. The park also offers a variety of recreational activities, including mountain biking, horseback riding, golfing, and beach relaxation.
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25. Cumberland Falls State Resort Park: Moonbow Magic and Scenic Views, Kentucky
Witness the breathtaking Cumberland Falls, affectionately known as the "Niagara of the South," and marvel at its unique moonbow that appears during clear moonlit nights. During the day, explore the park's numerous hiking trails, horseback riding, and fishing opportunities. Overnight guests can enjoy the rustic charm of DuPont Lodge.
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26. Grayson Highlands State Park: Horseback Riding, Climbing, and Wild Ponies, Virginia
Home to wild ponies, Grayson Highlands State Park offers breathtaking scenic views, challenging hiking trails, and opportunities for rock climbing. Equestrians will be delighted by the park's network of horseback riding trails.
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Now that you've perused this diverse selection of state parks, it's time to pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable adventure in the South. Enjoy the great outdoors, experience the natural beauty of these parks, and make memories that will last a lifetime. The South's state parks await your discovery!
- For those seeking a combination of activities, Southern Living's list of spring travel ideas includes a visit to Ichetucknee Springs State Park in Florida, which offers underwater exploration, relaxing river floats, and hiking opportunities along scenic trails.
- If you're interested in outdoor recreation and culture, Cloudland Canyon State Park in Georgia is a must-visit destination. This park boasts stunning waterfalls, scenic trails for hiking, mountain biking, and strolling, as well as unique lodging options such as cottages and yurts.
- Those seeking a secluded getaway should consider Gravelly Lake Campground within the Big Bend Ranch State Park in Texas. Offering breathtaking outlooks, a variety of challenging trails for hiking and biking, and optimal stargazing opportunities, it's an ideal spot for multi-day adventures in a vast and peaceful setting.
- For fans of outdoor activities and entertainment, Amicalola Falls State Park in Georgia is a remarkable destination. Known for its impressive cascading waterfalls, it offers opportunities for Zip Line Canopy Tours, 3D archery courses, and hiking along the Appalachian Trail.
- designed for families, the 24363 campground within South Cumberland State Park in Tennessee provides basic amenities and easy access to the park's many hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and diverse wildlife viewing opportunities.
