Up and down the East Coast, the US has incredible national parks that everyone loves to experience. Just like the diverse landscape in the east, you’ll find that each of the national parks has something different to offer.
This list has 10 of the best East Coast National Parks to help you know what’s out there ready to be explored and, most importantly, to make sure you don’t miss a thing. On this list, you’ll find parks with incredible fall foliage, others with gorgeous scenic drives, and even those that are a tropical paradise best explored in a bathing suit.
So, let’s get into it and show you how great each one of these East Coast parks really is.
1. Acadia National Park (Maine)
Starting out the list is the magnificent Acadia National Park.
Located on the Maine coast, Acadia is about 50,000 acres of pristine wilderness with 60 miles of coastline and 150 miles of hiking trails.
There’s not a bad hike at Acadia! Whether you’re looking for forest trails, panoramic views, rocky coastlines, or walking around a lake, Acadia has got it.
One of the most popular things to do is to drive up Cadillac Mountain. Make sure you make a reservation online during peak season, from mid-May through mid-October.
If you’re looking to get away from the crowds, consider visiting parts of Acadia that are on the Schoodic Peninsula, Isle au Haut, and other smaller islands.
LEARN MORE: 15 Perfect Places to Visit in Maine
Acadia National Park – Maine
2. Great Smoky Mountains National Park (North Carolina & Tennessee)
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited of all national parks in the entire country.
Located in both North Carolina and Tennessee, the park is an outdoor Appalachian wonderland.
So, what’s the reason so many people set their destination for the Smokies? It’s one of the most easily accessible parks, with some of the most beautiful vistas in the country.
No matter the season, you’ll love hiking Charlies Bunion, taking in the view at Clingmans Dome, or driving the scenic Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park – North Carolina and Tennessee
3. Shenandoah National Park (Virginia)
One of the best East Coast parks is definitely Shenandoah.
It’s a beautiful place to be just about any time of year. The fall foliage is some of the best in the country, and the season lasts for weeks due to variations in elevation at the park.
It comes to life with bursts of color in the springtime. And of course, it’s a delightful place in the summer or winter.
No matter the time of year, you’ll love hiking Old Rag and driving the Skyline Drive through the Blue Ridge Mountains.
LEARN MORE: Where’s the Best Vacation Spots East Coast?
Shenandoah National Park – Virginia.
4. Dry Tortugas National Park (Florida)
Dry Tortugas National Park is unlike any other park on this list of the best East Coast national parks.
To get there, head down to tropical paradise in the Florida Keys, then hop on a boat or seaplane to complete the trip.
Once there, you’ll be in the most incredible place; it’s hard to believe it’s a national park.
To really enjoy Dry Tortugas, you’ll need to explore the incredible reef under the water that makes up the majority of the park.
Dry Tortugas National Park – Florida
5. Cuyahoga National Park (Ohio)
In Cleveland, Ohio, you’ll find Cuyahoga National Park, which is one of the best national parks on the East Coast.
It’s a wonderful place any time of year.
One of the best ways to experience Cuyahoga is to take a scenic train ride.
Definitely tour the Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail on foot or bike to get a lovely view of the park.
If you’ve got your own equipment, you can even paddle the Cuyahoga River.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park – Ohio
6. Everglades National Park (Florida)
There’s nothing quite like exploring the Florida Everglades.
And there’s no better place than the Everglades National Park, which is definitely one of the best East Coast National Parks.
Wildlife viewing is at its best in the Everglades. You’ll be able to see creatures that call the Everglades home, like alligators, wading birds, and even manatees.
If you want help spotting the local animals, consider taking a guided tour.
Everglades National Park – Florida
7. Mammoth Cave National Park (Kentucky)
The title is a major giveaway to the fact that Mammoth Cave National Park has the largest known cave system.
That’s a key factor that makes Kentucky’s Mammoth Cave National Park one of the most unique East Coast national parks.
Incredible natural terrain is on the itinerary at Mammoth Cave National Park.
In addition to touring the caves, you can hike, bike, fish, kayak, and camp in the park’s 50,000+ acres.
Mammoth Caves National Park – Kentucky
8. Congaree National Park (South Carolina)
Although Congaree National Park is one of the smaller parks on the list, it’s one not to miss.
Located in South Carolina, it is unique in that it has the oldest forest east of the Mississippi.
No matter your ability, you’ll be able to enjoy this wonderful park. Hiking trails range from easy to difficult in Congaree.
There are even elevated boardwalks for an easy stroll through the beautiful wilderness. You can also kayak, fish, and camp in Congaree.
Congaree National Park – South Carolina
9. Biscayne National Park (Florida)
Biscayne National Park is the water wonderland that only Florida can provide.
Since 95% of this amazing national park is WATER, the best way to experience it is by boat and in a bathing suit.
The park consists of coral reefs, mangrove forests, Biscayne Bay, and the Florida Keys. You can enjoy the park on your own or join a guided tour.
The Biscayne National Park Institute runs eco-adventures that explore shipwrecks, coral reefs, and lighthouses.
Biscayne National Park – Florida
10. New River Gorge National Park (West Virginia)
West Virginia’s New River Gorge National Park is the perfect getaway into the great outdoors.
It’s a great place to go rock climbing, white-water rafting, or simply get out into the beauty of nature.
No wonder it’s one of the best East Coast National Parks.
There are so many great places to check out in the park, including Sandstone Falls and the New River Gorge Bridge.
Discover the past at places like Richmond Hamilton Farm, Trump-Lily Farm, and the town of Thurmond.
New River Gorge National Park – West Virginia
Summary
As you can see, these East Coast parks are nothing short of amazing. From Maine down to the Florida Keys, you’ll find a park that’s right for your next getaway. Whether you’re looking for a road trip, weekend getaway, or summer vacation, there’s a National Park on the East Coast that’s the perfect fit.
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