This summer will be a great time to get outside for some fabulous adventures in the sun. It’s important to leave the indoors behind from time to time and experience a healthy and fun day of outdoor adventure. If you need a little motivation, read below about all of the wonderful state parks where you can take advantage of many varied activities.
Boating at Lewis and Clark SRA, Nebraska
Boating is a popular pastime at Lewis and Clark State Recreational Area. The Lewis & Clark Lake is around 16 miles long and 3 miles wide, the second largest lake in Nebraska. Personal watercraft are permitted, which includes speed boats and sailboats. There are plenty of boat ramps from which to launch. As you move around the lake, you’ll see many scenic vistas and close to shore you can do some bird watching as well.
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Hiking in Big River State Forest, Illinois
Get out and try a hiking adventure to celebrate a summer of fun. At Big River State Forest, you’ll discover Big Pines Trail, Lincoln Trail and Wilderness Trail, which will give you a nice 3 1/2-mile hike through prairie woodland. The big river referred to is, of course, the Mississippi River, so you will get to witness water and forest habitat that supports diverse wildlife, like quail, white-tailed deer and rabbit.
Mountain Biking in Falls Lake State Recreation Area, North Carolina
The Falls Lake State Recreation Area has a beautiful reservoir which makes for scenic views. There are 14.3 miles of mountain biking trails where you can take your bike and head out for your choice of easy or intermediate riding to more advanced riding on a 6.5-mile trail. A variety of terrain will keep you entertained and when you are ready for a break, you’ll find picnic tables available for use to have a snack and replenish so you can get moving again.
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Fishing at Fred Hayes State Park at Starvation, Utah
Usually people think of Fred Hayes State Park as a place where the Starvation Reservoir offers great boating and fishing in a lovely desert landscape. However, wildlife viewing is an outdoor lover’s great opportunity to become one with nature. There are 3,500 acres of land, with plenty of space for animals to roam. Be ready to glimpse mule deer, foxes, coyotes, bobcats and beavers.
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Get Outdoors at First Landing State Park, Virginia
Biking or hiking around First Landing State Park is a marvelous way to get out and about for National Get Outdoors Day. When hiking the 19 trails in the park, you can travel through marsh, wetlands, cypress swamp and dunes on the shore. The one biking trail available is the Cape Henry Trail, which is 5.9 miles long and runs through the park. Stroll the beachfront and soak up some sun.
Explore Larch Meadows at Buttermilk Falls State Park, New York
Buttermilk Falls State Park is so named because of the lovely cascade that comes from the Buttermilk Creek as it flows through the steep valley towards the Cayuga Lake. There are a number of trails open for getting in a good jog — or hike if you prefer. Move along through the woodlands, along the gorge or go on the nature trail across Larch Meadows. This is a fabulous place to get outdoors for the whole family.
Get Out on the Lake at Daingerfield State Park, Texas
Paddling the Little Pine Lake in Daingerfield State Park is the perfect way to get outside and enjoy the late spring weather. You will discover trees all around reaching for the sky – oaks, dogwoods, pines and so many more. This 80-acre lake provides a wonderful recreational opportunity. Throw in a line while out there on the water. You don’t need a license to fish from the shore or from a boat in the park. You might catch a bass, perch or catfish. It will be a day worth remembering.
Birdwatching on Caladesi Island State Park, Florida
Caladesi Island State Park is situated on an undeveloped barrier island, one of the few remaining in Florida. With over 2,450 acres of mangroves, grass flats and upland spaces, including three miles of sandy beach, this park is where to come to get back in touch with nature. Birdwatching is a real treat on Caladesi Island. As you move along the nature trail, you can find all manner of birds – Scarlet Tanager, Swainson’s Thrush, Rose-breasted Grosbeak and Common Nighthawk. On the shore you can glimpse Piping Plover, Black Skimmer and all sorts of terns, waders and gulls. This truly is a birder’s paradise. As an added bonus, sea turtles nest on the island and you may be lucky to see them. Just heed the signs so the nests aren’t disturbed during nesting season.
Check with your Local Government Organization
Many policies have been established to counter and control the coronavirus outbreak. State and local officials have been taking decisive action to stop the spread. The policies vary by state, sometimes to a great degree. When you book a reservation, make sure to review the park and state’s latest rules and regulations prior to your visit.
For COVID-19 updates, please visit our Impacted Park List and Reservation Guide for the latest information.