10 Spectacular State Parks Worth Adding to Your Bucket List
The United States is home to some incredible scenery. Some of the most beautiful landscapes have been protected and preserved as national parks. While only 63 parks are given the status of national parks, each state in the country also has numerous state parks that are also beautiful and worth protecting.
Some of our favorite trips have been to state parks, especially those off the beaten path, which are usually less crowded than national parks.
A recent study analyzed more than 2,700 US landmarks – including 263 state parks – by comparing their total number of hashtags (sum of the top three hashtags used) to reveal which are the country’s most popular state parks on social media!
1. Hocking Hills State Park, Ohio
Total Number of Hashtags: 352,942
Hocking Hills State Park, located in southeastern Ohio, tops the list with an impressive 352,942 hashtags. This park is renowned for its stunning waterfalls, deep gorges, and lush forests. One of its most famous features is Old Man’s Cave, a natural gorge with picturesque hiking trails and dramatic rock formations.
The park also boasts the beautiful Cedar Falls and Ash Cave, both offering breathtaking views and serene spots for reflection. Hocking Hills is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring the area’s unique geology.
2. Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park, Hawaii
Total Number of Hashtags: 264,401
Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park on the island of Kauai is a paradise for hikers and photographers alike, with 264,401 hashtags to its name. The park is famous for its rugged coastline, featuring towering sea cliffs, narrow valleys, and cascading waterfalls.
The Kalalau Trail, a challenging 11-mile trek, offers some of the most stunning coastal views in the world. Visitors can also explore sea caves, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy the vibrant marine life. The dramatic landscapes and pristine beaches make Na Pali Coast a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
3. Watkins Glen State Park, New York
Total Number of Hashtags: 246,677
Watkins Glen State Park in New York is a gem in the Finger Lakes region, with 246,677 hashtags showcasing its beauty. The park is renowned for its stunning gorge, which features 19 waterfalls along a 2-mile trail. The Gorge Trail takes visitors through tunnels and over stone bridges, offering close-up views of the cascading water and lush greenery.
Watkins Glen also hosts an annual fall foliage festival, attracting visitors from all over to witness the vibrant autumn colors. The park’s unique geological formations and picturesque scenery make it popular for hikers and photographers.
4. Emerald Bay State Park, California
Total Number of Hashtags: 232,091
Emerald Bay State Park, located in Lake Tahoe, California, boasts 232,091 hashtags. This park is famous for its stunningly clear waters and the iconic Fannette Island, the only island in Lake Tahoe. Visitors can explore the beautiful Emerald Bay, hike to the historic Vikingsholm mansion, or enjoy a boat tour around the bay.
The park also offers excellent kayaking, paddleboarding, and scuba diving opportunities. The panoramic views from the surrounding trails provide breathtaking vistas of the lake and the Sierra Nevada mountains, making it a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
5. Smith Rock State Park, Oregon
Total Number of Hashtags: 215,864
Smith Rock State Park in Oregon has garnered 215,864 hashtags, highlighting its dramatic landscapes and challenging rock formations. Known as the birthplace of modern American sport climbing, the park offers a variety of climbing routes for all skill levels. The Crooked River winds through the park, providing a stunning backdrop for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.
The Misery Ridge Trail offers panoramic views of the park and the surrounding Cascade Mountains. Smith Rock’s unique geology and outdoor recreational opportunities make it a favorite among adventurers and nature photographers.
6. Silver Falls State Park, Oregon
Total Number of Hashtags: 163,324
Silver Falls State Park, also in Oregon, has received 163,324 hashtags. This park is home to the famous Trail of Ten Falls, a 7.2-mile loop that takes hikers past ten breathtaking waterfalls. Visitors can even walk behind some of these falls for a unique perspective.
The park’s lush forests, scenic views, and abundant wildlife make it a popular destination for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers. Silver Falls also offers camping, picnicking, and horseback riding, providing a range of activities for visitors to enjoy.
7. Starved Rock State Park, Illinois
Total Number of Hashtags: 156,740
Starved Rock State Park in Illinois has attracted 156,740 hashtags, showcasing its unique canyons and waterfalls. Located along the Illinois River, the park offers 13 miles of hiking trails with stunning views of sandstone cliffs, wooded areas, and the river. The park’s namesake, Starved Rock, is a large sandstone butte that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Starved Rock is also known for its rich history, including Native American legends and French exploration. The park’s natural beauty and historical significance make it a popular destination for visitors of all ages.
8. Deception Pass State Park, Washington
Total Number of Hashtags: 142,887
Deception Pass State Park in Washington has 142,887 hashtags, highlighting its dramatic landscapes and coastal views. The park is situated on Whidbey and Fidalgo Islands and is connected by the iconic Deception Pass Bridge. Visitors can explore the park’s rugged coastline, dense forests, and scenic trails.
The park also offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The stunning views from the bridge and the park’s diverse ecosystems make it a favorite destination for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
9. Chimney Rock State Park, North Carolina
Total Number of Hashtags: 140,755
Chimney Rock State Park in North Carolina has 140,755 hashtags, drawing attention to its iconic rock formation and panoramic views. The park’s namesake, Chimney Rock, is a 315-foot granite monolith offering sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Lake Lure.
Visitors can hike the Outcroppings Trail to the top of Chimney Rock or explore the Hickory Nut Falls Trail, which leads to a 404-foot waterfall. The park also features a variety of other trails, rock climbing opportunities, and educational programs. Chimney Rock’s stunning vistas and outdoor activities make it a popular visitor destination.
10. Waimea Canyon State Park, Hawaii
Total Number of Hashtags: 137,085
Waimea Canyon State Park in Hawaii has garnered 137,085 hashtags, showcasing its breathtaking vistas and unique geological formations. Known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” Waimea Canyon offers dramatic views of deep red and brown cliffs, lush greenery, and cascading waterfalls.
The park features several lookout points and hiking trails that provide panoramic views of the canyon and the surrounding landscape. Waimea Canyon’s striking beauty and diverse ecosystems make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers.
What’s Your Favorite?
These top 10 most Instagrammed state parks offer a glimpse into the diverse and stunning natural beauty of the United States. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, a nature photographer, or simply looking for a beautiful place to explore, these parks provide a wealth of outdoor adventure and inspiration opportunities.
Which of these state parks have you visited? Do you have a favorite that didn’t make the list?
Source: Bonus Finder
