With fewer crowds than national parks and an almost endless variety of landscapes, state parks are undiscovered gems for international tourists.
February 9, 2023 (10:27 CET)
In the United States alone there are more than 2,400 State Parks, each one with a particular and unique attraction, which is why Visit The USA has selected five state parks that would perfectly complement any trip to the other side of the pond in 2023.
Enjoying Nature at Sam Houston Jones – Lake Charles, Louisiana
Sam Houston Jones State Park is one of the most spectacular natural sites in the southern United States; With three mythical hiking trails and dozens of lagoons surrounded by trees that flow into the Calcasieu River, it invites travelers to live new experiences.
This authentic orchard is one of the most unique natural wonders in the entire country; It has 28 hectares of Virginia pines, the oldest existing pine species. But that’s not all, the park is also home to turtles, alligators, otters, and raccoons, plus 200 species of birds, making it one of the best birding spots in all of Louisiana. In addition, the Sam Houston Jones State Park is a reference when it comes to water sports, offering numerous courses on the Calcasieu River and its numerous lagoons. When it comes to accommodation, the offer is as varied as it is adventurous: visitors can spend the night in an old-fashioned campsite, or in more comfortable options such as glamping.
A Light Show in the Valley of Fire – Overton, Nevada
Known worldwide for its 40,000 acres of bright red Aztec sandstone rocks, Valley of Fire State Park is home to ancient petrified trees and petroglyphs over 2,000 years old. Located in the Mojave desert, the park is a true geological paradise, with sandstone formations dating back to the Jurassic period. The oldest and largest in Nevada, this gigantic natural area is located just 50 miles northeast of Las Vegas, making it the perfect day trip for those looking to escape the bustle of city life. Many visitors come to the park to contemplate the natural phenomenon that gives meaning to the name of the Valley: at sunset, the last rays of the sun reflect on the park, creating the impression that it is on fire. A unique natural light show.
A Walk Through America’s Origins at Castle Rocks – Almo, Idaho
Nestled among stone pines on the foothills of the Smokey Mountains in Cassia County, Idaho, made up of rocks dating back 2.5 million years, Castle Rocks State Park is home to historic trail junctions, 20th-century ranches and even remnants of Native American pictographs. The challenging landscapes of Castle Rocks attract thousands of climbers each year who are rewarded with fabulous views along the California National Historic Trail.
For sports enthusiasts the rugged terrain is ideal for year-round mountain biking, as well as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and ice climbing in winter. Castle Rocks is also a perfect place to spend a family day out, go archery with the park rangers, or with a little luck, catch a Chinook salmon or Steelhead trout.
A most colorful camping in Desoto – Fort Payne, Alabama
At the foot of the Appalachian Mountains in northeast Alabama lies Desoto State Park and its component protected forests. The extensive area offers 40 kilometers of hiking trails and is a clear representation of what natural beauty means. In autumn it offers a show of colors at sunset, in spring with its brilliant azaleas it is painted in a pink hue worthy of this time of year, and in summer the vibrant green color of the forests identifies it. Also, just a few minutes’ drive away is the highest waterfall in Alabama, -at 40 meters high- in Little River Canyon. There are daily sightings of black bears feeding in the river, at the foot of the waterfall.
For those who want to close the experience with an adventurous night, they can choose to stay in cozy cabins equipped with kitchen and fireplace or for an unforgettable camping in the middle of the forest. Whatever your choice, all guests gather around the fire pit for a 360º American experience, toasting marshmallows and singing along to country music classics.
The Most Adventurous Experience in Little Missouri – Killdeer, North Dakota
Little Missouri State Park, in western North Dakota, is home to some of the rockiest and most picturesque “Badlands” in the state. The park has more than 45 trails and encourages visitors to ride horses to fully explore them. One of the most popular trails is the Park Loop, a 5-mile route ideal for those looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure, with sweeping views of the Badlands. It is recommended to bring binoculars, since the park also has some very rare fauna: from deer and lynx, to golden eagles. After a day of adventure in the Badlands, there’s nothing like camping under the stars.
