As staffing shortages continue to strain operations at iconic national parks such as Zion, Yellowstone, and Great Smoky Mountains, visitors this summer may face long lines, heavy crowds, and unexpected closures. However, state parks — often overshadowed by their federal counterparts — present a compelling and less congested alternative for travelers seeking nature, wildlife, and outdoor adventure.
There are more than 9,800 state-managed parks, forests, and preserves nationwide, according to Paul McCormack, president of the National Association of State Park Directors. In 2022 alone, these state-run sites recorded 877 million visits, significantly outpacing the 332 million logged at the 433 National Park Service locations.
From desert landscapes to alpine lakes, state parks offer similar — and sometimes identical — features to national parks, typically with fewer visitors and lower entrance fees. Many are located within a short drive of their more famous neighbors, making them ideal substitutes for a nature-focused summer vacation.
Below are five state parks located within three hours of well-known national parks, each offering a unique blend of beauty, wildlife, and outdoor activity.
Colorado: State Forest State Park
Located about two hours from Rocky Mountain National Park, State Forest is Colorado’s largest state park at 71,000 acres. It offers alpine scenery with lakes, pine and aspen forests, and mountain vistas — but sees a fraction of the visitors. Near Walden, Colorado, the park is home to an estimated 600 moose, making it the state’s premier location for moose sightings.
While Rocky Mountain is known for its car-accessible views along Trail Ridge Road, State Forest demands more effort for its panoramic rewards. Fishing is popular here, with both easily accessible stocked lakes and remote backcountry streams. Night skies reveal a dazzling Milky Way view.
Open from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., the park offers 228 campsites, cabins, and yurts. Daily entry is $12 per vehicle or $4 for individuals.
Utah: Snow Canyon State Park
Just 45 minutes from Zion National Park, Snow Canyon offers similar red rock vistas, slot canyons, and lava flows within 7,400 acres. Part of the 62,000-acre Red Cliffs Desert Reserve, the park supports diverse desert wildlife, including coyotes and canyon tree frogs.
Hiking, climbing, horseback riding, and biking are popular activities. The park, described by locals as a hidden gem, is open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. and features a 36-site campground. Entry is $15 per vehicle for nonresidents and $10 for Utah residents.
North Carolina: DuPont State Recreational Forest
Roughly 90 minutes from Great Smoky Mountains National Park, DuPont Forest encompasses 12,400 acres of mountain terrain, four lakes, and several major waterfalls. Located near Asheville, it supports activities such as hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and fishing.
The park is known for its biodiversity, including rare orchids and abundant wildlife. Accessibility is a priority, with facilities accommodating visitors with limited mobility. Entry is free, and the park is open from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. Camping is available at nearby Gorges State Park.
Wyoming: Hot Springs State Park
Less than 150 miles southeast of Yellowstone, Hot Springs State Park in Thermopolis features natural hot springs, bison herds, and travertine terraces reminiscent of Yellowstone’s geothermal attractions.
The 1,100-acre park discharges over 1.8 million gallons of 128-degree water daily into the Bighorn River. A free public bathhouse and nearby petroglyph site add to its appeal. The park is open year-round with no entrance fee. Camping is available at nearby Boysen State Park.
Florida: Jonathan Dickinson State Park
Located just over two hours from the Everglades, Jonathan Dickinson State Park offers subtropical ecosystems, the scenic Loxahatchee River, and the 86-foot-high Hobe Mountain sand dune.
Popular for kayaking, wildlife viewing, and hiking, the park is home to diverse flora and fauna, from mangroves to manatees. The Loxahatchee River, designated a wild and scenic river, winds through oak canopies draped in Spanish moss.
The park is open from 8 a.m. until sunset. Admission is $6 per vehicle, with 142 campsites and additional accommodations available for reservation.
As many national parks grapple with resource constraints, state parks are stepping into the spotlight. Offering comparable natural experiences, greater accessibility, and more manageable crowds, these parks provide compelling options for travelers seeking the beauty of the American outdoors — without the bottlenecks.
