12 of the Best State Parks to Visit in October
Alec Sills-TrauschAs the leaves begin to change and the air becomes crisp, October is a perfect time to explore the wonders of nature in state parks across the country. With breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and a wide array of recreational activities, these parks offer an unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts.
From hiking through vibrant forests to camping under starry skies, I’ve compiled a list of the best state parks to visit in October that will allow you to embrace autumn’s beauty while creating lasting memories.
Lake Wenatchee State Park, WA
Lake Wenatchee State Park is a 1,000-acre park located in the Cascade Mountains of Washington state. The park is known for its stunning alpine scenery, including Lake Wenatchee, a crystal-clear lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
Visitors to Lake Wenatchee State Park can enjoy a variety of activities, including swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, and camping. The park also has a number of picnic areas and playgrounds.
In the summer, Lake Wenatchee is a popular destination for swimming, boating, and fishing. The lake is also a great place to rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the shoreline.
In the winter, Lake Wenatchee State Park is a great place to go snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Makena Beach State Park, HI
Makena Beach State Park is a 180-acre park located on the south coast of Maui. The park is known for its two beautiful beaches, Big Beach and Little Beach.
Big Beach is a mile-long stretch of golden sand, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles. Little Beach, also known as Red Sand Beach, is a smaller beach with red sand and clear turquoise water.
I loved my time here, and it’s totally one of the best state parks to visit in October.
Cathedral Gorge State Park, NV
Cathedral Gorge State Park is a 1,500-acre park located in the eastern foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains. The park is known for its unique geological formations, including towering red sandstone cliffs and narrow canyons.
Visitors to Cathedral Gorge State Park can enjoy hiking, camping, and picnicking. The park has a number of hiking trails that lead to scenic viewpoints and geological formations.
Castle Crags State Park, CA
Castle Crags State Park is a 6,000-acre park located in the Cascade Mountains of northern California. The park is known for its towering granite spires and domes, which resemble medieval castles.
Visitors to Castle Crags State Park can enjoy hiking, camping, and fishing. The park has a number of hiking trails that lead to scenic viewpoints and geological formations.
Valley of Fire State Park, NV
Valley of Fire State Park is a 46,000-acre park located in the Mojave Desert. The park is known for its red sandstone formations, which have been sculpted by wind and erosion over millions of years.
Visitors to Valley of Fire State Park can enjoy hiking, camping, and picnicking. The park has a number of hiking trails that lead to scenic viewpoints and geological formations. Because of all of this, it’s one of the best state parks to visit in October.
Hocking Hills State Park, OH
Hocking Hills State Park is a 7,355-acre park located in southeastern Ohio. The park is known for its unique geological formations, including towering sandstone cliffs, deep gorges, and waterfalls.
Those who make the trip to Hocking Hills State Park can enjoy hiking, camping, and picnicking. The park has a number of hiking trails that lead to scenic viewpoints and geological formations.
Red Rock State Park, AZ
Red Rock State Park is a 28,159-acre park located just west of Sedona, Arizona. The park is known for its towering red sandstone formations, which have been sculpted by wind and erosion over millions of years.
Red Rock State Park offers hiking, camping, and rock climbing. The park has a number of hiking trails that lead to scenic viewpoints and geological formations.
Custer State Park, SD
Custer State Park is a 71,000-acre park located in the Black Hills of South Dakota. The park is known for its wildlife, including bison, prairie dogs, and bighorn sheep.
Visitors to Custer State Park can enjoy hiking, camping, and fishing. The park also has a number of scenic drives, including the Needles Highway and the Iron Mountain Road.
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, UT
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is a 3,730-acre park located in southern Utah. The park is known for its unique coral pink sand dunes, which were created by millions of years of erosion of nearby Navajo sandstone cliffs.
Visitors to Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park can enjoy hiking, camping, and sandboarding. The park also has a number of scenic viewpoints, including the Coral Pink Sand Dunes Overlook.
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, CA
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is the largest state park in California, encompassing over 600,000 acres. The park is known for its diverse desert landscapes, including sand dunes, canyons, mountains, and badlands. There’s a reason why it’s considered one of the best state parks to visit in October.
Visitors to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park can enjoy hiking, camping, off-roading, and stargazing. The park also has a number of historical sites, including the Borrego Valley Alkali Flat, where the first transcontinental crossing by automobile occurred in 1903.
In the spring, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is known for its wildflowers, which bloom in a variety of colors. The park also has a number of bighorn sheep, which can be seen grazing in the foothills.
Lake Tahoe – Nevada State Park, NV
Lake Tahoe – Nevada State Park is a 14,000-acre park located on the west shore of Lake Tahoe. The park is known for its stunning lake views, as well as its hiking, biking, and camping opportunities.
Visitors to Lake Tahoe – Nevada State Park can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking. The park also has a number of picnic areas and playgrounds.
In the summer, Lake Tahoe – Nevada State Park is a popular destination for swimming, boating, and fishing. The park also has a number of hiking trails that lead to scenic viewpoints of Lake Tahoe.
In the winter, Lake Tahoe – Nevada State Park is a popular destination for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. The park also has a number of groomed trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Lost Dutchman State Park, AZ
One of the best state parks to visit in October. Lost Dutchman State Park is a 32,000-acre park located in the Superstition Mountains of Arizona. The park is known for its Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine, a legendary gold mine that has never been found.
Visitors to Lost Dutchman State Park can enjoy hiking, camping, and rock climbing. The park also has a number of scenic viewpoints, including the Flatiron and Weaver’s Needle.
In the spring, Lost Dutchman State Park is known for its wildflowers, which bloom in a variety of colors. The park also has a number of birds, including hawks, eagles, and vultures.
Final Thoughts on the Best State Parks to Visit in October
October is a remarkable time to explore the beauty and tranquility of our state parks. From the vibrant foliage and crisp air in New England to the rugged canyons of the Southwest, these natural treasures offer an array of experiences that cater to every outdoor enthusiast.
Whether you’re seeking a leisurely hike, a camping adventure, or simply a peaceful place to unwind amidst the breathtaking scenery, state parks provide an ideal destination.
So, as the leaves change and the temperatures drop, don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the wonders of October by visiting the diverse and enchanting state parks waiting to be discovered across the country.
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