Best US State Parks & cozy Cabins

Known for its extensive sandstone cave, Indian Cave State Park covers 3,052 acres of the area bordering the Missouri River. It provides sweeping views of majestic hardwood forest and the mighty Missouri river that creates a picturesque show of colors during autumn. The park offers 22 miles of scenic hiking trails, fishing areas, horseback riding, winter skiing, beautiful campsites and picnicking spots. Indian Cave State Park also has 16 miles of equestrian trails.

Home to sandstone cliffs, thousand-foot deep canyons, wild caves, cascading creeks, waterfalls, dense woodland and magnificent wildlife, the park provides ample outdoor recreation choices. The most popular hiking trails include the strenuous Waterfalls Trail and West Rim Loop Trail as well as the short Overlook Trail. Visitors can also enjoy mountain biking at the Five Points Recreation Area and the Cloudland Connector Trail.

Located in scenic Oak Creek Canyon, Slide Rock State Park is the perfect location to relax, enjoy the great outdoors and escape from the mundane cares of everyday life. The park is surrounded by beautiful red rock formations typical of the region and contains a 43-acre working apple farm. There are three hiking trails in the park including the Pendley Homestead Trail (0.25-mile), the Slide Rock Route (0.3-mile) and the Clifftop Nature Trail (0.25-mile).

Located in Shannon County, Missouri, Echo Bluff State Park is a favorite family-friendly destination that allows you to create new memories as you experience all the fun activities the Ozarks have to offer. The park's impressive natural setting and the modern amenities make it welcoming for every visitor. Visitors of all ages will enjoy their days with hiking, floating, camping, swimming, and fishing.

This Park offers a myriad range of recreational opportunities in a scenic natural setting. Hocking Hills encompasses 2,356-acres of the area and boasts towering cliffs, hemlock-shaded gorges, and spectacular waterfalls. The park is divided into seven separate sections that include Old Man's Cave, Cantwell Cliffs, Cedar Falls, Rock House, Ash Cave, Conkle's Hollow and Whispering Cave. Recreational activities include canoeing, kayaking, hiking, boating, picnicking, camping, hunting, and fishing.

Located on the bank of the Mountain Fork River and Broken Bow Lake, Beavers Bend State Park offers visitors spectacular views and plenty of exciting activities inside the park. Visitors to this state park will enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, biking, water skiing, miniature golf, nature center activities, canoeing, horseback riding and river float trips.

Located on Lake Jocassee's southwestern shore, Devils Fork State Park offers outdoor recreation against the scenic backdrop of the Jocassee Gorges. The park is a popular fishing destination for anglers and excellent habitat for brown and rainbow trout, smallmouth, largemouth, white bass, crappie, and catfish. The crystal clear water of Lake Jocassee is perfect for scuba diving. The Bear Cove Trail is 2 miles in length and passes through the beautiful hardwood forest.

This State Park is one of the most spectacular and scenic outdoor recreation areas in Tennessee. The 256 feet tall Fall Creek Falls is one of the highest waterfalls in the eastern US. It has two long-distance trails for adventure-loving visitors. The Canopy Challenge Course includes wobbly bridges, balance beams, cargo nets, rope swings and zip lines.

Nestled at the tip of the San Rafael Desert, Goblin Valley State Park is famed for its hoodoos or goblins (mushroom-shaped rock formations). This State Park offers incredible scenery and a fantastic opportunity for various outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, mountain biking, disc golf and wilderness trips. Mountain Biking trails are divided into five loops, which provide breathtaking views of the region.