Hidden Gems: Underrated U.S. State Parks That Rival National Parks

By Jeff Lowe • December 7, 2025

Some travelers dream of seeing the most famous national parks in America, from Yosemite’s cliffs to Zion’s red canyons.

But many people don’t realize that some of the country’s best outdoor experiences are waiting quietly in state parks—places with fewer crowds, easier access, and scenery that feels just as spectacular.

This guide highlights underrated U.S. state parks that can easily compete with national parks in beauty, variety, and adventure.

And the best part? You often get more space, more breathing room, and more chances to actually enjoy the landscape without parking-lot shuttles or shoulder-to-shoulder viewpoints.

So if you're planning your next big outdoor getaway and want something surprisingly peaceful—and still incredibly stunning—these state parks might be perfect for you.

Why Consider State Parks Over National Parks?

Once you visit a few national parks during peak season, you start to understand why people are searching for “less crowded nature destinations” and “alternatives to national parks.” Well, state parks often hit that sweet spot. They tend to be cheaper, more flexible with reservations, and far more relaxed overall.

Here’s what travelers usually love:

Lower entrance fees
No timed-entry reservations (in most cases)
Easier parking and shorter lines
Campgrounds that don’t book up instantly
Trails that feel secluded
Facilities that are well-maintained but not overrun

It’s kind of like discovering the scenic backroad while everyone else is stuck in traffic on the main highway.

So let’s get into the good stuff — some of the most underrated state parks in the U.S. that genuinely rival national park landscapes.

1. Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada

A Fiery Alternative to Utah’s National Parks

If you’ve ever wanted the dramatic red-rock landscapes of Arches or Canyonlands without the crowds, Valley of Fire is pure magic. The name gives it away—towering sandstone formations glow bright orange, especially during sunrise and sunset.

This park is perfect for a quick stop from Las Vegas (it’s only about an hour away), but it also works as a complete weekend getaway.

Don’t Miss:

Fire Wave Trail
White Domes Loop
Elephant Rock
Atlatl Rock petroglyphs
Scenic Mouse’s Tank Road (iconic photography spot)

Why it feels like a national park:
The formations here are just as jaw-dropping as those in Utah. And the best part? You can usually find parking, walk the trails at your own pace, and savor the scenery without waiting for someone else to finish their selfie.

Can you imagine having a place like this practically to yourself?

2. Custer State Park, South Dakota

Better Wildlife Viewing Than Many National Parks

If you’re thinking about a trip that includes Mount Rushmore, add Custer State Park to the top of your list. The wildlife alone makes it feel more immersive than some heavily visited national parks.

Picture this: wild bison roaming right across the road, friendly wild burros poking their heads into your car window (yes, it happens), and scenic drives that look straight out of a movie.

Top Things to See and Do:

Needles Highway (incredible granite spires)
Sylvan Lake (great for kayaking and photos)
Wildlife Loop Road
Black Elk Peak (the highest point in the state)

Why it beats the crowds:
You get similar wildlife encounters to Yellowstone, but without the traffic jams. And the granite formations along Needles Highway could easily be mistaken for Yosemite’s more intimate corners.

So, what do you think? Pretty tempting, right?

3. Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Texas

The “Grand Canyon of Texas”

If you love the idea of the Grand Canyon but want more freedom to explore, Palo Duro Canyon State Park is a fantastic substitute. With colorful rock layers, sweeping views, and dramatic formations, it’s truly one of America’s most impressive landscapes.

Highlights:

Lighthouse Trail (the park’s signature formation)
The Big Cave
Horseback riding
Texas outdoor musical performances in summer
Camping inside the canyon

Why travelers love it:
Unlike the Grand Canyon National Park, you can actually explore the canyon floor by car, bike, or foot. Trails are accessible, scenic, and far less congested.

And honestly, the sunsets here are unbelievable—think bright orange skies lighting up the canyon walls.

4. Dead Horse Point State Park, Utah

A Quieter Alternative to Canyonlands

Dead Horse Point feels like a cross between Canyonlands and the Grand Canyon, but with much easier access. The park road ends at a single viewpoint, so everything is simple, stunning, and compact.

Best Viewpoints:

Dead Horse Point Overlook (the big one)
Basin Overlook
Meander Overlook
Pyramid Canyon

Good to Know:
The overlooks here are incredibly photogenic. Some travelers say the views rival those of Canyonlands Island in the Sky, but without the long lines or parking issues.

If you’ve ever wanted that vast, “wow, the world is huge” feeling, this park is a good match.

5. Silver Falls State Park, Oregon

A Waterfall Wonderland Comparable to Olympic National Park

Oregon is known for dreamy forests and misty waterfalls, and Silver Falls State Park is easily one of its best outdoor gems. Many people compare it to the lush rainforests in Olympic National Park—but far more accessible for families.

The famous Trail of Ten Falls takes you past (and behind!) gorgeous waterfalls, each one tucked inside its own mossy canyon.

Must-See Waterfalls:

South Falls (the one you can walk behind)
North Falls
Middle North Falls
Double Falls
Winter Falls

Why it’s underrated:
Even with its beauty, it doesn’t receive the national attention it deserves. And the ability to walk behind multiple waterfalls is something most national parks don’t offer.

Bring a rain jacket—you’re definitely going to get misted.

6. Starved Rock State Park, Illinois

A Midwest Surprise for Canyon and Waterfall Lovers

If the Midwest feels too flat for adventure, Starved Rock State Park will quickly change your mind. You’ll find sandstone canyons, seasonal waterfalls, forest trails, and scenic overlooks along the Illinois River.

Popular Spots:

St. Louis Canyon
Wildcat Canyon
LaSalle Canyon
Lover’s Leap Overlook
French Canyon

Why travelers compare it to bigger parks:
The canyons look surprisingly rugged for the region. After heavy spring rain, dozens of small waterfalls spill over the cliffs. And in winter? Frozen waterfalls create an entirely different landscape.

It’s a perfect option for travelers who want “national park vibes” without a long flight or high fees.

7. Many Glacier’s State Park Neighbors: Lone Pine State Park, Montana

Glacier National Park Without the Frenzy

Glacier National Park is stunning—but entry restrictions, traffic delays, and packed viewpoints can make things stressful. Thankfully, some of the surrounding Montana state parks offer calmer versions of Glacier’s landscapes.

Lone Pine State Park is one of the best, especially if you're staying in or near Kalispell.

What to Expect:

Dense pine forests
Views of the Flathead Valley
Easy-to-moderate trails
Snowshoe routes in winter

Is it a full replacement for Glacier? No. But it’s a gorgeous supplement where you can actually enjoy a quiet hike without worrying about timed-entry permits.

8. Smugglers’ Notch State Park, Vermont

New England Scenery Without the Overcrowded Fall Hotspots

Fall colors in the Northeast are legendary—but also extremely crowded. Smugglers’ Notch is a strong alternative to more famous leaf-peeping destinations like Acadia National Park.

The park sits inside a dramatic mountain pass, surrounded by towering cliffs and dense forest.

Highlights:

Bingham Falls
Sterling Pond Trail
Smugglers' Cave
Scenic Notch Road (seasonal)

Why people love it:
It has that rugged, storybook New England charm without the high-season traffic. It’s gorgeous in fall, but also peaceful and green in summer.

If you want to experience Vermont without the crowds bottlenecking small towns, this is a great choice.

9. Watkins Glen State Park, New York

A Gorge That Looks Like It Belongs in a National Park

Watkins Glen State Park is one of the most beautiful natural experiences in the Northeast. The Gorge Trail winds past more than a dozen waterfalls, all flowing through narrow stone passages that look like something carved by an artist.

It feels like a smaller, more intimate version of popular areas in places like Zion or Shenandoah.

Top Sights Along the Gorge Trail:

Rainbow Falls (iconic photo spot)
Cavern Cascade
Central Cascade
Mile Point Bridge
Spiral Tunnel

Why it’s a national-park-level visit:
The combination of geology, water, and forest is spectacular. And because the gorge is so narrow, you get dramatic scenery every minute you’re on the trail.

Just try walking through Rainbow Falls without taking at least five photos. It’s basically impossible.

10. Franconia Notch State Park, New Hampshire

A Strong Alternative to Rocky Mountain National Park

Some travelers compare parts of Franconia Notch to a smaller-scale Rocky Mountains experience—towering peaks, alpine lakes, and dramatic weather patterns.

Plus, it sits right along the scenic Kancamagus Highway, a major draw for travelers exploring New England.

Don’t Miss:

Flume Gorge
Artists Bluff (stunning viewpoint)
Echo Lake
Franconia Ridge Loop (one of the best hikes in the Northeast)

Why it works as a national park alternative:
The scenery is rugged and wild, but easy to reach. And even in peak season, there’s more breathing room than what you’ll find at major western parks.

Bring layers—the weather here changes fast.

A Few More Underrated State Parks Worth Noting

If you’re building a longer trip or just want even more ideas, here are quick mentions of other gorgeous options:

Goblin Valley State Park, Utah – Hoodoos and bizarre rock formations
Hocking Hills State Park, Ohio – Caves, waterfalls, and mossy gorges
Big Bend Ranch State Park, Texas – Remote desert landscapes and starry skies
Red River Gorge Geological Area (KY State Parks) – Natural arches and rock climbing
Humboldt Redwoods State Park, California – Fewer crowds than Redwood National Park

These spots easily compete with national parks in terms of landscapes and hiking experiences.

Final Thoughts Before You Pack

Choosing state parks instead of national parks doesn’t mean sacrificing beauty. In fact, many of these places offer landscapes just as grand, but with calmer trails and a friendlier travel experience. They’re ideal for road trips, spontaneous weekend getaways, or even bucket-list outdoor adventures that won’t cost a fortune.

So maybe next time you start planning that big trip, consider skipping the national-park traffic jams and heading for one of these underrated gems instead. You might be surprised by how much you enjoy the quiet.