Enjoy the wonders of the great outdoors at these unsung state parks.
Ready to check some out?
Keep reading for 26 of the most bucket list-worthy state parks in the South.
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Learn the whole story at Fort Miles Museum and Historical Area.
(Its main exhibits are in an underground bunker, Battery 519.)
Visitors can even climb the observation tower, which has breathtaking views in every direction.
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But the rich history isnt the only attraction here.
Showers, changing rooms, and refreshments for sale make all-day trips more convenient.
The Seaside Nature Center even has a borrow-a-bike program so you dont have to haul in your own.
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Not up for a deep dive?
Tubing the spring-fed Ichetucknee River is a popular activity for most of the year.
Take a tram up the clear river, and then float back down for miles.
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It flows through wetlands and shaded hammocks, making for a gorgeous and relaxing trip.
Up for a little hiking?
Pick your own adventure, or embark on an excursion to traverse all three.
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(Even combined, the total distance will still be under 4 miles.)
Surf anglers can cast from the beach jetty atMurrells Inlet.
Each September, the site hosts a beloved arts and crafts festival.
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Mountain bikers, hikers, and those on horseback will discover trails ranging from easy to advanced.
This place has its own airstrip, which is unusual but not too surprising for a Texas-size park.
This stretch on the Cumberland Plateau has miles of pathways.
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Take a short stroll on the Overlook Trail, or try the more challenging Waterfalls Trail.
Hiking isnt the only adventure that Cloudland Canyon has to offer.
Dont miss the amazing view at Amicalola Falls itself.
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There are also lots of places for kids to play, including a splash pad.
On land, boardwalks and paths meander through mangroves and tropical hardwood forests.
The visitors center holds saltwater aquariums to provide up-close views for those who dont want to dive in.
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Refuel with pepperoni rolls at the snack bar for the ultimate taste of West Virginia.
Boats and paddleboards are available for rent if you prefer to play on the water and not in it.
Special trails for bikes attract those looking for two-wheeled excitement.
The centerpiece of Blackwater Falls State Park is a nearly 60-foot plunge along a river bend.Credit:Gabriela Herman
Overnight guests can choose a campground or a cabin.
Fish for trout and bass at Grundy Lakes, or relax on the manmade beach.
Other highlights include the Sewanee Natural Bridge (a sandstone arch above Lost Cove, a huge sinkhole).
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Climbers love the myriad rock formations.
Road-trippers can drive the famous Natchez Trace Parkway, which goes through the park.
Climbers will appreciate the sandstone cliffs and rock formationsa rarity in the state.
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Cabins, cottages, and hotel rooms accommodate overnight guests.
you might still see the ruins of the 1829 sugar mill nestled among the parks giant oaks.
The lakefront beach and fishing pier near the visitors center are great vantage points for taking in the sunset.
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Fontainebleau makes a real effort to be enjoyable and accessible to all.
The 7,300-square-foot playground is a huge hit with young ones and features ramps and inclusive swing seating.
lastateparks.com/parks-preserves/fontainebleau-state-park; 62883 Hwy.
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Paths lead to rock formations and caves.
If you manage to snag one, bring plenty of water.
The trail is considered strenuous and includes more than 1,000 stairs.
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In April and November, whitewater rafting is held on dam-release weekends.
Its moniker is a Muskogee word that means high place.
Spend the night in original CCC stone cabins from the 1930s or newer A-frame chalets and glamping tents.
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Hiking trails overlook mountains, waterfalls, and a cave.
Stop to view cascading streams, and then take a dip in the pools below to cool off.
ncparks.gov/state-parks/hanging-rock-state-park; 1790 Hanging Rock Park RoadDanbury, NC 27016; 336-593-8480
T.H.
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The Wilderness Preserve area is the ideal spot to look for wildlife.
During the summer, shorebirds and turtles nest at the beach.
The clear, shallow water of St. Joseph Bay is ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
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Canoes and kayaks can be launched into the vast Gulf.
It has even been immortalized in movies such as Forrest Gump and G.I.
Theres so much to see herethe Atlantic Ocean, the marshland, and the 5 miles of beaches.
Hanging Rock State Park, NC.Credit:Getty Images
Loggerhead turtles nest in the area as well.
If youd like fresh seafood for dinner, try crabbing or fishing off the pier on Fripp Inlet.
Experience the coastal breeze as you swim, boat, or kayak.
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The bridge is accessible via hiking trails and a seasonal sky lift.
Once at the base, intrepid travelers can walk across the bridge itself.
Up for a little more adventure?
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Dozens of attractions ideal for thrill seekers set Oak Mountain apart.
Bikers will find both a pump track and Alabamas oldest continuously running BMX track.
They are quite rare; this is reportedly the only one in the western hemisphere.
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The parks wild ponies were originally brought here in the 1970s to control forest growth.
You might see them out on the trails, but remember to keep your distance for safetys sake.
Riders arent the only ones who will find adventures here.
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However, the park is still available for day use and backcountry camping.
Planning a long trip?
dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/grayson-highlands; 829 Grayson Highland Ln., Mouth of Wilson, VA 24363; 276-579-709
Oak Mountain State Park.Credit:Courtesy Oak Mountain State Park
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