With a wealth of natural beauty and wonder, Appalachian states have taken the liberty of preserving and sharing the magnificent mountain landscapes with the general public. All of these state parks capture the vast diversity of this ancient mountain range with activities for all. Each park has its own flare and history, and they hope to bring awareness and pride to the region.

1. Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park – Big Stone Gap, VA

Southwest Virginia Museum |Vastateparksstaff – Wikimedia Commons

Any history buff or fan of the state will love attending Virginia`s Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park. This state park hosts its museum in a 19th century home and boasts local artifacts and information for visitors. Beyond historical backgrounds, Southwest Virginia Museum offers a beautifully decorated grounds, perfect for an evening stroll.

For more information, visit their website here.

2. Natural Tunnel State Park – Scott County, VA

Natural Tunnel State Park | Ser Amantio di Nicolao

The name says it all! This natural tunnel is completely… well… natural! The massive tunnel houses a section of railroad stretching for 850 feet and reaches 10 story heights. This incredible and peculiar landmark sits close to two park campgrounds, cabins, and the Clinch River.

More information on the tunnel can be found here.

3. Hocking Hills State Park – Hocking County, OH

Hocking Hills State Park | Dustin M. Ramsey

From caves to cliffs to gorges, Hocking Hills State park showcases a variety of nature adventures for everyone. Enjoy one of the 11 hiking trails and 2 mountain biking trails at this scenic Ohio destination.

All you need to know about Hocking Hills can be found here.

4. Blackwater Falls State Park – Davis, WV

Blackwater Falls State Park | Jarek Tuszyskiński

Nestled in the high mountains of Davis, West Virginia, Blackwater Falls State Park is the perfect small town getaway. With multiple hiking trails, a lake, lodge, and of course, the Blackwater Falls, this small yet substantial state park offers a variety of easily accessible entertainment. Take a trip to Pendleton Point overlook or book a winter trip to ski in the Allegheny Mountains.

More information on Blackwater Falls State Park can be found here.

5. South Mountains State Park – Connelly Springs, NC

South Mountains State Park | Russiancarolinanet

North Carolina’s state park gem, this high elevation park is home to a number of fun activities for the entire family. This park also offers historical lessons of the South Mountains through their museum exhibits. Take a ride on their 17 mile bike loop or take advantage of their 33 miles of bridle trails.

You’ll find further information here.

6. Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest – Suches, GA

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest | ChattOconeeNF

867,00 acres of dazzling forest spanning over twenty counties of the beautiful state of Georgia. Visit the Track Rock Gap Petroglyph site, where Native Americans once carved their stories thousands of years ago. If archeological finds are not your taste, try the Anna Ruby Twin Falls, a natural wonder that holds adjacent waterfalls.

More information on the national forest can be found here.

7. Roan Mountain State Park – Roan Mountain, TN

Roan Mountain State Park | Brian Stansberry

A Tennessee favorite, Roan Mountain State Park is a 2,000 acre park dedicated to bringing the beautiful Appalachian landscape to the public. Take a peak at their Miller Farmstead exhibit, a 1908 farm that allows park goers to enjoy the mountain lifestyle of long ago. The park also offers fishing, swimming, and hiking to visitors.

For more information, you should visit this website.

8. Baxter State Park – Millinocket, ME

Baxter State Park | Famartin

With 215 miles of trails, Baxter State Park hold endless possibilities for hiking, running, and biking. 337 campsites and over 200,000 acres of wilderness make this state park the perfect summer trip.

Further information on the park can be found here.

9. Grayson Highlands State Park – Mouth of Wilson, VA

Grayson Highlands State Park | Brian M. Powell

Grayson Highlands State Park is located near Virginia’s two tallest mountains, Whitetop Mountain and Mount Rogers. This park is great for equestrian fanatics, for it houses horse trails and horse camps for visitors and their furry friends.

You’ll find more information here.

10. Bear Mountain State Park – Bear Mountain, NY

Bear Mountain State Park | Aretemetic

A New York getaway, Bear Mountain State Park boasts a plethora of options to the public. Take advantage of the Trailside Museum and Zoo as well as the indoor skate rate, open late fall through early spring.

You’ll find further information about Bear Mountain State Park here.