16-minute YouTube Video by Exclamation Destination; includes key locations, activities and park fees.

#10 – Letchwork State Park in New York, “The Grand Canyon of the East”

“The park’s rugged cliffs and numerous trails offer a range of outdoor activities for hikers and nature enthusiasts.”

$10 parking fee per vehicle during summer; off-season is free.

#9 – Emerald Bay State Park on the shores of Lake Tahoe

“This California State Park encompasses approximately 1,533 acres, offering you a diverse and immersive experience in one of the most iconic locations in the Sierra Nevada region.”

Small parking fee.

#8 – Watkins Glen State Park in the Finger Lakes region of New York

It captivates with “stunning landscapes, deep gorges and cascading waterfalls.”

Entrance fee is $10 between May and October; camping is available.

#7 – Smith Rock State Park in central Oregon

“This iconic Park stands as one of Oregon’s Seven Wonders, captivating you with its breathtaking landscapes and thrilling recreational opportunities.” Skygazing is a key feature.

Parking pass is $5, camping is available.

#6 – Dead Horse Point State Park in Utah

“Offers an awe-inspiring vantage point overlooking the majestic Colorado River, providing you with an immersive experience into the heart of Canyon County.”

$20 fee per vehicle, or $10 if you’re on foot.

#5 – Waimea Canyon State Park in Hawaii

“A stunning geological masterpiece” – known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, it offers “a scenic escape into the heart of the islands.”

No fee to access the park.

#4 – Ecola State Park, 80 miles NW of Portland

This park encompasses diverse ecosystems that “seamlessly blend dense tempered rainforests with dramatic Cliff cliffs overlooking the vast Horizon of the Pacific Ocean.” Enjoy the Lewis and Clark Discovery Trail that retraces 14 miles of footsteps and ultimately rewards with incredible views of Tillamook Rock Lighthouse.

Parking is $5 per vehicle.

#3 – Anza-Borrego Desert State Park 90 miles NE of San Diego

This is California’s largest state park. Its unusual landscape “creates a mesmerizing Tableau that captivates all who venture into its depths.”

This park is free.

#2 – Valley of Fire State Park in Nevada – 50 miles NE of Las Vegas

At over 40,000 acres, this is Nevada’s oldest and largest state park. It’s “a distinctive gem within the state’s park system.”

$10 daily fee for out of state vehicles, $8 for Nevada residents. Overnight camping is available.

#1 – Custer State Park in the Black Hills of South Dakota

One of the largest state parks in the country, it features rolling prairies, granite peaks and dense woodlands. It’s located near the Mount Rushmore National Memorial.

$20 entry fee per vehicle gives you access to the park for 1 to 7 days.

#BestStateParks

https://youtu.be/uW4EPUdmxWA?si=xKFtKt75XbfXmWmq