6 Best State Parks to Visit
Unmissable Locations for Nature Lovers
Thousands of stunning state parks across the nation are just waiting to be explored by travelers ready to get lost with a visit to one of these treasured lands. While there are too many stunning places across the states to list, here are a few favorite locations from EASTside Magazine’s travel editors.
Larrabee State Park
In the northern reaches of the Pacific Northwest lies Washington State’s first state park. Since 1915, Larrabee State Park has beckoned visitors around the picturesque turns of Chuckanut Drive to explore the Samish Bay at Clayton Beach and watch the saturated sunsets that stream across the sandstone rock formations lining the saltwater coastline. For hikers, a number of paths meander through the lush canopy of the Douglas fir forests up to Fragrance and Lost lakes. by Jessi Devenyns
parks.wa.gov/536/Larrabee | 245 Chuckanut Dr., Bellingham, WA 98229
Vogel State Park
lf Georgia is not on your mind, it will be after a visit to the northern Georgia mountains. Stroll the family-friendly trails along the peaceful lake that lead through lush forests and scenic overlooks to finally come upon the park’s crown jewel: Trahlyta Falls. Bask in stunning waterfall views while learning about the local Cherokee woman, Trahlyta, for whom the falls are named. by Jerod Morales
gastateparks.org/vogel | 405 Vogel State Park Rd., Blairsville, GA
Grayton Beach State Park
Experience the beauty of rare coastal dune lakes that only occur in a handful of spots around the world, and the Florida panhandle is lucky to have them. Park visitors can enjoy this rare phenomenon of shallow, freshwater bodies just within feet of a salty ocean on a SUP or kayak, or hit the snowy white beaches instead. by Tanya White
floridastateparks.org/graytonbeach | 357 Main Park Rd., Santa Rosa Beach, FL
Valley of Fire State Park
Under the bursting Nevada sun lies an experience like none other. The rust-colored hills, purple peaks, and maroon rocks lay perfectly juxtaposed against baby blue skies, making a trip to this state park feel like a visit to another world. The panoramic desert views are easy on the eyes, while its orange vistas and cream-colored slot canyons make for sensorial, yet simple, hikes for visitors of any age. by Ashley Bowling
parks.nv.gov/parks/valley-of-fire | Moapa Valley, NV (45mi from Las Vegas)
Chimney Rock State Park
On the edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina, travelers find respite at Chimney Rock State Park. Offering cute shops, a local restaurant, 75-mile panoramic views of Hickory Nut Gorge, a 400-foot waterfall, animal encounters, yoga with a view, and in true Appalachian style, visitors will also find a gentleman named John playing music and telling stories near the gift shop. by Joanna Fuller
chimneyrockpark.com | 431 Main St., Chimney Rock, NC (25mi from Asheville)
Ecola State Park
Situated in Oregon’s northwestern-most corner, this park offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The drive into the park, via a rainforest full of towering Sitka spruces that allow for the occasional sun beams to peak through their canopies, is an experience of its own. A hazy coast emerges with numerous rock formations escaping the sea. This spectacular coastline is known for surfing and offers delightful tide pooling exploration during low tide. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot eagles, elk, and whales from the park’s old-growth forest trails that meander along rocky bluffs. by Ashley Bowling
stateparks.oregon.gov | Cannon Beach, OR
