According to data from the National Association of State Park Directors, more than 800 million people visit U.S. state parks annually, with family camping being one of the most popular activities. State parks offer affordable, accessible outdoor adventures while showcasing the country’s natural beauty and diverse ecosystems. From striking desert landscapes to coastal hideaways and forested trails, here are 14 state parks that deliver memorable family camping experiences.
Explore the Hoodoo Wonderland at Goblin Valley State Park, Utah
Goblin Valley is famous for its otherworldly sandstone formations called hoodoos, resembling goblins and castles. Families can camp among these unique rock structures and explore the Valley of Goblins on foot. The park also offers a Dark Sky designation, making it ideal for stargazing with minimal light pollution. With amenities like shaded picnic areas and modern campgrounds, it’s a kid-friendly destination that blends geology, hiking, and astronomy.
Tropical Beachfront Camping at Bahia Honda State Park, Florida
Located in the Florida Keys, Bahia Honda offers white sandy beaches and turquoise waters perfect for snorkeling and kayaking. The park’s Sandspur Beach is often ranked among America’s best beaches, making it a rare chance to camp steps from the ocean. Families can rent snorkeling gear on-site to explore the coral reef just offshore or watch sea turtles and dolphins. Limited campsites mean reservations are essential, especially in peak season.
Coastal Discovery at Cape Henlopen State Park, Delaware
Cape Henlopen sits at the mouth of Delaware Bay and offers beachside camping with both ocean and bay access. Families can bike along the five-mile trail through pine forests, tour the historic Fort Miles bunkers, or climb the WWII observation tower for panoramic views. The park’s shallow swimming areas and tide pools make it especially engaging for children, while fishing and kayaking provide activities for all ages.
Wilderness Retreat in Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, Michigan
Known as “the Porkies,” this park in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula covers nearly 60,000 acres of old-growth forest. Families camping here can explore Lake of the Clouds overlook, miles of waterfalls, and extensive hiking trails. Rustic cabins and yurts provide options beyond tent camping. In fall, the park is a hotspot for vibrant foliage, while summer offers swimming and canoeing on Lake Superior’s shoreline. Wildlife sightings include black bears, deer, and eagles.
Redwoods and River Adventures at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, California
Nestled along California’s Highway 1, Pfeiffer Big Sur is surrounded by giant redwoods and the Big Sur River. Family-friendly campsites line the riverbank, offering swimming and tubing opportunities. Trails like the Pfeiffer Falls Trail lead to waterfalls shaded by towering trees, making it a cool retreat even in summer. Campers also enjoy easy access to nearby coastal attractions, including Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park and its iconic McWay Falls.
Paddling Paradise at Caddo Lake State Park, Texas
Caddo Lake straddles the Texas–Louisiana border and is one of the largest natural lakes in the South. The park’s tent and cabin campsites sit beside a maze of cypress trees draped in Spanish moss. Families can paddle the 50 miles of bayous and sloughs by canoe or rent kayaks on-site. The lake is home to over 70 fish species, making it a prime spot for fishing trips with children.
Family History and Hiking at Petit Jean State Park, Arkansas
Petit Jean, Arkansas’s first state park, blends history and outdoor exploration. Families can camp in sites built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s and hike to Cedar Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in the state. The park also features caves with Native American rock art and scenic overlooks of the Arkansas River Valley. With a lodge, cabins, and tent camping, it offers versatile accommodations for families.
Hiking Arches at Natural Bridge State Park, Kentucky
Natural Bridge State Park is famous for its 78-foot-long sandstone arch, which families can reach by hiking trails or a sky lift. Campgrounds here provide easy access to the Red River Gorge Geological Area, known for its rock climbing and scenic vistas. In summer, a kid-friendly lake offers swimming and paddle boating. The park’s combination of natural landmarks and recreational options makes it a well-rounded camping destination.
Waterfall Trails at Watkins Glen State Park, New York
Located in the Finger Lakes region, Watkins Glen is best known for its gorge trail featuring 19 waterfalls along a two-mile path. Families can camp at wooded sites near Seneca Lake and enjoy activities like boating, fishing, and wine-country excursions for adults. The Gorge Trail’s stone bridges and tunnels provide an adventurous hike that captivates kids. Seasonal guided tours enhance the park’s geological and cultural history.
Barrier Island Camping at Fort De Soto Park, Florida
Fort De Soto in Tampa Bay offers beachside camping across five islands connected by bridges. Families can visit the historic 19th-century fort, kayak through mangrove tunnels, or cycle along the seven-mile paved trail. Its North Beach has consistently ranked among America’s top beaches. The campground includes waterfront sites where campers can launch kayaks directly into the bay, providing easy access to calm waters for beginners.
Coastal Forest Escape at Cape Lookout State Park, Oregon
Cape Lookout stretches along Oregon’s rugged coast, offering campsites nestled in coastal forest just steps from the beach. Families can hike the 2.4-mile Cape Lookout Trail for sweeping Pacific Ocean views or explore tide pools filled with starfish and crabs. The park’s proximity to Netarts Bay also provides opportunities for clamming and crabbing, popular with kids. Year-round camping with modern amenities makes it a versatile destination.
Seaside Wilderness at Hunting Island State Park, South Carolina
Hunting Island, South Carolina’s most visited state park, combines beaches, maritime forest, and salt marshes. Families can camp near the ocean and climb the historic Hunting Island Lighthouse, the only publicly accessible lighthouse in the state. The park also supports loggerhead sea turtle conservation, and visitors may witness hatchlings during summer. With nature trails winding through palmetto groves, it’s a mix of wildlife watching and coastal relaxation.
Mountain Adventures at Grafton Notch State Park, Maine
In the Mahoosuc Range of western Maine, Grafton Notch offers camping near waterfalls, gorges, and rugged peaks. Families can hike to Screw Auger Falls, a natural playground for kids with shallow pools and smooth rock formations. More adventurous groups can explore parts of the Appalachian Trail that cross through the park. Moose sightings are common, and the scenic drives along Route 26 add to the park’s appeal.
Scenic Vistas at Dead Horse Point State Park, Utah
Dead Horse Point overlooks the Colorado River with views rivaling those of nearby Canyonlands National Park. Families camping here enjoy sunrise and sunset vistas from the mesa, which is over 2,000 feet above the river. The park has developed campgrounds and yurts with dramatic backdrops. Kids often enjoy biking along the Intrepid Trail System, a beginner-friendly network with breathtaking canyon views. Stargazing is also excellent due to the park’s Dark Sky status.
