After traveling to all 50 states, I think these 6 state parks are some of the country's most incredible hidden gems

After visiting all 50 states, I think Letchworth, Matthiessen, and Kodachrome Basin are some of the best lesser-known US state parks.

May 5, 2025 - 15:08

After traveling to all 50 states, I think these 6 state parks are some of the country's most incredible hidden gems

Emily stands in front of a lake with a mountain covered in fall-colored trees in the background. — In my opinion, Devil's Lake State Park in Wisconsin is one of the best lesser-known US state parks.
Emily Hart

I've traveled to all 50 states and love exploring the country's lesser-known state parks.
Letchworth State Park in New York and Matthiessen State Park in Illinois have gorgeous waterfalls.
Utah's Kodachrome Basin State Park feels like stepping into another world.

National parks have never been more popular, with record-breaking visitation in 2024. I understand why so many people flock to these iconic landscapes to see some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country.

However, after traveling solo to all 63 US national parks and all 50 states, I've discovered that some of the most stunning and underrated places aren't part of the national park system — they're state parks.

These hidden gems offer the same beauty, adventure, and solitude, often without the crowds, reservations, or permit hassles that come with national park visits. Here are some of my favorites.

Devil's Lake State Park in Wisconsin has something for everyone.

Emily sits on rocks near a lake, with fall foliage in the background. — Devil's Lake is my favorite Wisconsin state park.
Emily Hart

Despite being Wisconsin's most-visited state park, I find that many people I talk to don't know about Devil's Lake in Baraboo. However, it's my favorite of Wisconsin's 50 state parks.

In my opinion, the park's East and West Bluff trails offer some of the best panoramic views in the Midwest. Additionally, the massive rock formations — like Balanced Rock and Devil's Doorway — make it a favorite for hikers and rock climbers alike.

Beyond the cliffs, the park offers kayaking, swimming, and peaceful lakeside picnic areas, making it a perfect year-round destination.

Letchworth State Park in New York is home to stunning waterfalls.

A curved bridge over trees and a waterfall. — Letchworth State Park is often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of the East."
Jim Vallee/Shutterstock

Often nicknamed the "Grand Canyon of the East," Letchworth State Park is a natural wonder where the Genesee River carves through a deep gorge, creating three stunning waterfalls framed by towering cliffs.

With 66 miles of hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, Letchworth is a paradise for nature lovers.

The park is especially magical in the fall, with its vibrant autumn foliage, making it one of the most spectacular leaf-peeping destinations in the Northeast.

Coopers Rock State Forest in West Virginia is the perfect place to watch the sunset.

Emily stands at an overlook near a river and tree-covered mountains at sunset. — Coopers Rock State Forest offers gorgeous views.
Emily Hart

West Virginia is another one of my favorite states for outdoor recreation. Its state park system is full of gems, but I always recommend visiting Coopers Rock State Forest.

I love hiking in this park or simply enjoying a sunset at Coopers Rock Overlook, which offers a panoramic view of the Cheat River Gorge.

The park also has many unique rock formations scattered throughout the forest along the miles of scenic trails.

Matthiessen State Park in Illinois feels magical.

A waterfall in a canyon covered in moss. — Matthiessen State Park has gorgeous cascading waterfalls.
Joseph Hendrickson/Shutterstock

Matthiessen State Park is a hidden gem known for its dramatic canyons, cascading waterfalls, and towering forests, creating a stunning, almost magical landscape.

With peaceful trails and fewer crowds than nearby Starved Rock State Park, Matthiessen is a must-visit for nature lovers in the Midwest. I especially love visiting in the fall to enjoy the changing foliage.

Visiting Utah's Kodachrome Basin State Park feels like stepping into another world.

Emily stands next to a tall, thin red rock formation. — Kodachrome Basin State Park is known for its tall, thin rock formations.
Emily Hart

When visiting Utah, many travelers aim to see one (or all) of the state's "Mighty Five" national parks. However, Utah is also home to 46 state parks — my favorite being Kodachrome Basin.

Just over 20 miles from Bryce Canyon National Park, Kodachrome Basin feels like stepping into another world entirely.

The less-crowded landscape is a stunning mix of red, orange, and yellow hues, and striking "sand pipes" — tall, thin spires of rock that the park is known for.

Hike, camp, or drive through the rock formations of this hidden gem park for a peaceful adventure.

Eldorado Canyon is one of my favorite state parks in Colorado.

Emily stands at an overlook and looks out at a stream that runs between rocks and trees. — Eldorado Canyon is one of the top rock climbing destinations in the country.
Emily Hart

With four major national parks and over 40 state parks, Colorado is known for outdoor recreation. However, I've found that, outside of the locals, many people don't know about one of my favorite places to visit — Eldorado Canyon State Park.

Just 9 miles outside Boulder, the park is known for its dramatic canyon views, rock climbing, and scenic hiking trails. Its towering golden sandstone cliffs make it one of the top climbing destinations in the US, with over 500 routes.

Visitors can also choose to cross-country ski or snowshoe in the winter months.

Read the original article on Business Insider