13 Best National Parks on the East Coast – for your next trip

Are you looking for the best National Parks on the East Coast of the US? You are in the right place. While I can’t argue that there is a more extensive selection of National Parks on the West Coast, East Coast National Parks still have plenty to offer for a relaxing yet fascinating getaway in nature. You don’t have to travel far to find extremely diverse fauna and flora, natural monuments and some of the most beautiful national parks in USA.

From soaring mountains of Shenandoah National Park, teeming with life coastlines of Biscayne National Park, the ancient Champion Trees of Congaree National Park to fascinating Mammoth Cave National Park, national parks on East Coast have it all! 

So, here there are – 13 best national parks East Coast is renowned for. 

East Coast National Parks Map

Here is the map of East Coast National Parks:

Best National Parks of the East (Central) 

#1 Shenandoah National Park

By Julie McCool from Fun in Fairfax VA

Shenandoah National Park situated less than two hours west of Washington DC, is one of the best national parks East Coast is renowned for and a perfect place for a day trip or longer vacation in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. 

The beauty of Shenandoah is easy to explore from Skyline Drive, which stretches 105 miles through the park. Enjoy the views from 75 overlooks, or head out on one of over 500 miles of Shenandoah hiking trails. Whatever you decide, you will quickly realise that Shenandoah is one of the prettiest national parks in the entire country!

Many of the best views and hikes are in Shenandoah National Park’s Central District, so they’re easy to visit in a few hours or a few days. There are hikes for every fitness level, from short walks to epic climbs. An easy 1.5-mile hike to Stony Man Summit pays off with beautiful westward views. Dark Hollow Falls is popular with waterfall lovers, and the 4-mile Rose River loop delivers both waterfalls and swimming holes. 

When you’re ready for a break, you can enjoy a meal with a view at one of the two park lodges—Skyland or Big Meadows Lodge. Try the Blackberry Ice Cream Pie, a favourite Shenandoah treat. Be sure to stop at the Harry Byrd Visitor Center to learn about Shenandoah’s fascinating history. 

Where to stay?

There are several economical hotels just outside the park in the small town of Luray. If you have kids along, Massanutten Resort is a great place to stay, just 13 miles west of the park in the Shenandoah Valley. The resort has indoor and outdoor waterparks, an Adventure Center, and more so you can reward the kids for their hiking efforts. Of course, you can also stay in the park at one of the lodges or several seasonal campgrounds.

#2 Great Smoky Mountains National Park

By Dymphe from Dymabroad

One of the best national parks in East Coast of the United States is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The Great Smokey Mountain is one of the most visited national parks in the US that received over 12 million visitors in 2020! It is also one of the most famous national parks in the US amongst Yellowstone, Zion Rocky Mountain National Park.

You can find this place between North Carolina and Tennessee. The area is known for the extensive forests and wildflowers that you can find at the park. 

There is also a lot of water in the National Park – many rivers and small streams of water. One of the best things to do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park is going to Clingmans Dome. You can find here an observation tower from where you have a beautiful panoramic view of the surrounding areas. This is definitely the best place for scenic views in the entire national park. 

Another one of the best things to do in this east coast park is going to Fontana Lake and boating there. What’s great to do in the national park too is to explore the waterfalls, as there are many of them. Besides that, hiking is also great in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. One of the best hiking trails in the park is the Rainbow Falls Trail, where you see a waterfall along the way. Some cute towns that are near the national park are Gatlinburg, Cherokee, and Pigeon Forge. 

Where to stay?

An excellent hotel to stay in is the Best Western Toni Inn in Pigeon Forge.

#3 Acadia National Park 

By Karen of Outdoor Adventure Sampler

Acadia is one of the most visited east coast national parks and one of the most popular national parks in the USA. Combining rocky ocean shores and picturesque mountains on the east coast, Acadia is a nature lover’s paradise on Mount Desert Island in Maine. 

Drive the Park Loop Road to find scenic vistas and natural wonders. Visitors to Thunder Hole can see and hear ocean waves spout up high in the air with a huge roar. You can also take the free shuttle, the Island Explorer, to all the attractions in Acadia.

Hikers will love the 158 miles of trails at Acadia. Hike the Ship Harbor or Ocean Path trails to see the rugged Atlantic coast. These mellow trails bring you down to the crashing surf to beach comb. Or you can attempt a heart-pounding climb of Cadillac Mountain, the highest peak on the eastern seaboard.

The rustic carriage roads built in the early 1900s by philanthropist John D. Rockefeller are popular with cyclists. These crushed gravel roads are perfect for biking as they wind through the scenic areas of the park. Acadia is one of the best national parks on East Coast for outdoor enthusiasts that can enjoy rock climbing at Otter Cliffs or sea kayaking in the many bays around Acadia National Park.

Nearby Bar Harbor is a charming oceanfront town for visitors to Acadia National Park. Grab an ice cream cone while you stroll the bustling streets. Make sure you have a taste of the lobster rolls Bar Harbor is famous for. 

Where to stay?

The Island Place is a cosy place to stay after a busy day exploring land and water activities in Acadia. You can walk to everything in Bar Harbor from the hotel.

#4 New River Gorge National Park

By Amanda Williams from A Dangerous Business Travel Blog

Located in the ancient Appalachian Mountains in the heart of West Virginia, New River Gorge National Park is a new national park in the USA as of 2021. With incredible views, lovely hiking trails, and plenty of adventure activities to try, New River Gorge can easily join the list of the best East Coast national parks!

When it comes to things to do at New River Gorge National Park east coast, whitewater rafting down the New River is the most popular activity. There are rafting trips suitable for most experience levels; the Lower New trip is the most booked and lets you tackle a couple of Class V rapids. Other popular activities include rock climbing, zip-lining, mountain biking, and hiking – don’t miss the Endless Wall Trail and the Long Point Trail.

For those not really swayed by adventure sports, there are also some beautiful and historic driving routes to enjoy, including Fayette Station Road and the Scenic Drive through the park (be sure to stop at Grandview Point!).

You can also visit old mining towns and new tourist towns, including the town of Fayetteville, which has designated itself as “the coolest small town.” It’s filled with cute shops and a bunch of local (and delicious) restaurants. Make sure to have at least one meal at the Cathedral Cafe.

Where to stay?

As for where to stay near the New River Gorge, camping and cabin rentals are popular, including at “adventure resorts” like ACE Adventure Resort or Adventures on the Gorge. There are also great vacation rentals such as the Lafayette Flats in Fayetteville and chain hotels like Hampton Inn in Beckley.

#5 Mammoth Cave National Park 

Situated in Kentucky, a 1.5-hour drive from Nashville, Mammoth Cave National Park is home to the longest cave system in the world and for that, it’s been granted the title of UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you’re looking for a unique Eastern national park, look no further! 

One of the best things to do in the Mammoth Cave National Park is taking a guided tour of the cave! The tour will take you through unique tube-shaped passages and sparkly walls of gypsum. You will also learn about early human settlements in the area and its evidence in the cave. 

Exploring the cave is not the only thing you can do in this park. Mammoth Cave National Park is also one of the most biodiverse national parks in the East that you can appreciate that while hiking the many trails that come at different levels of difficulty. Along the way, you’ll be able to enjoy some scenic views, rivers, sinkholes and ridgetops. If you’re into mountain biking, you’ll find here trails specifically designed for that too.  

Other activities available at the park include canoeing, kayaking and boating the Green and Nolin Rivers where you’ll be able to spot many species of fish such as bluegill, catfish and crappie. 

Where to stay?

There are 13 designed camping sites within the park grounds where you can truly immerse yourself in nature and solitude. But, if you rather stay close to the modern comforts, stay in one of the nearby towns minutes away from the park that has a good selection of hotels and rentals. Some recommended hotels include the quaint Grand Victorian Inn located in Park City or the modern Hampton Inn Cave City. For a unique experience, stay in the Historic Wigwam Village No 2.  

Best Gold Coast Parks 

Here are the 3 best national parks Gold Coast Florida.

#6 Biscayne National Park

By Victoria from Guide your Travel

Biscayne National Park is one of the best Gold Coast National Parks if not the best and a lovely spot to visit if you enjoy nature and the great outdoors. This beautiful area on Florida’s southern point is ideal for hiking, swimming, and exploring. 

If you want to get the most out of your stay, go on a weekend when the weather is nice. The beautiful Florida water is, of course, always at the centre of Biscayne’s activities. The park is hands down the best national park on the East Coast for ocean lovers. Take a boat excursion, go fishing or snorkelling, or simply relax on the beach. Kayaking is one of the most exciting ways to see the park. You can either rent them or join a guided tour that will take you to all of the top sites in the area. 

Keep an eye out for unusual bird species and bring fishing gear if you enjoy fishing. When it comes to fishing, just make sure you follow any local laws and restrictions. If you visit Biscayne National Park, you should plan on staying for at least a weekend, and if you have the time, a week. This national park on East Coast is not particularly large, but it is quite long, so getting from one end to another can take some time. Don’t forget to pack your camera. A trip to Biscayne will be the perfect opportunity to practice your photography.

Where to stay?

The best place to stay near Biscayne National Park is Homestead or Florida City which both have a good selection of hotels for different budgets. Stay in Hilton Garden Inn Homestead or Fairway Inn Florida City which also offer family rooms and an outdoor pool for an affordable price.

#7 Everglades National Park

By Stéphanie from Bey Of Travel

Are you planning on visiting the beautiful state of Florida? Make sure not to miss the Everglades National Park, one of the best eastern national parks and one of the best parks in USA! With more than 1.5 million acres of wetland to cover, there are plenty of things for you to see and do out here. 

The park’s four entrances will each introduce you to various parts of the park, leaving you all with a different experience depending on what entrance you choose. Royal Palm entrance in the city of Homestead is the park’s main entrance. Several famous hiking trails, such as the Anhinga and Gumbo Limbo Trail, depart from here. 

During these fairly easy hikes, you will get to encounter some of the park’s most beautiful flora and fauna. Thirty-eight miles south of the entrance, you can find the Flamingo Visitor Center. This area is due to its bay and mangrove waterways, the perfect place to spot all kinds of wildlife, including numerous species of birds and fish. 

Shark Valley Entrance is relatively close to Miami, making the Everglades a must-see during your stay in the city. This entrance even leads you to one of the most beautiful parts of the park, where you can, believe it or not, see some alligators. Besides that, there is also an observation deck which will make it even easier for you to spot all kinds of amazing wildlife. Another area for you to discover is the Ten Thousand Islands. 

Narrated boat tours leave daily from the Gulf Coast Entrance, which you can easily access via Everglades City. In addition, there are tons of other activities for you to engage in, such as bicycling, fishing, camping, kayaking, and canoeing, making it the perfect getaway for the whole family.

Where to stay?

There is no accommodation available within the boundaries of the park other than camping. But you can stay in the neighbouring areas such as Homestead, Florida City, Miami, Everglades City, and Chokoloskee. A great hotel option is Hilton Garden Inn in Homestead or Everglades Adventures Hotel in Everglades City.

#8 Dry Tortugas National Park 

By Victoria Yore from Florida Trippers

Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the best National Parks in Eastern US! It is consistently named one of the most remote National Parks in the USA, and for a good reason! The only way to get here is to either take a boat where the ride lasts 3+ hours one way or take a seaplane! 

This remote National Park is located off the coast of South Florida, about 3 hours from Key West. To visit here, you will want to stay in Key West and make that your home base for your day trip to Dry Tortugas. Alternatively, you can camp on Dry Tortugas, but consider the time of year as some times of year are very hot! 

The highlight of Dry Tortugas is Fort Jefferson! You can take tours of it, walk around and explore it, or go snorkelling around it. Dry Tortugas is famous for the fantastic snorkelling you can do here in crystal clear water!

Dry Tortugas National Park in East Coast only attracts around 60,000 visitors a year, so you can be sure that it won’t be too crowded no matter what time you visit!

Where to stay?

When you are done with the day, spend the night at a lovely little hotel in Key West, such as The Southernmost Inn (adult-exclusive).

Best National Parks South East US

#9 Hot Springs National Park 

If you’re looking for a romantic getaway with your loved one, Hot Springs is the best national park in USA! Classifying it to the National Parks in Southeast US is not exactly correct, because it is situated in Arkansas, however, it is a great and unique place to explore and this post would not be complete without including Hot Springs National Park.  

The Hot Springs area has a long and rich history. The site received its designation as Hot Springs Reservation in 1831, but American Indians knew and visited the area a long time before that, mostly to get rock for their tools and weapons. Later on, President Thomas Jefferson sent an expedition and soon after that, the springs become a destination for health seekers. The Hot Springs became to be known as the ‘American Spa’ and a bustling city was created to serve the needs of visitors. 

Amongst the best things to do in Hot Springs is enjoying the healing and soothing properties of the natural springs in one of the bathhouses – The Buckstaff or the Quapaw that boasts modern-day spa facilities including a steam cave. To learn more about this national park, visit the Fordyce Bathhouse Museum and Visitor Centre.

Other things to do in the park include hiking one of the areas – the Hot Springs and North Mountain Trails or the West Mountain Trails or mountain biking. 

Where to stay?

The best place to stay near the park is Hot Springs town. Some of the best mid-range hotels in Hot Springs include Home2 Suites by Hilton Hot Springs that comes with a pool and Dame Fortune’s Cottage Court. If you’re looking for a more special and romantic stay, consider Hilltop Manor B&B.

#10 Congaree National Park, South Carolina 

By Soumya from Stories by Soumya

One of the least explored yet stunningly beautiful east national parks and most beautiful national parks in USA is the Congaree National Park in South Carolina. 

Congaree is a unique natural hotspot with fascinating biodiversity. It is home to the largest spread of primaeval bottomland hardwood forest and a fantastic collection of really tall trees known as the Champion trees. Some of these trees are ancient (more than 500 years old!) and form one of the highest canopies in the world.

Whether you are looking for a strenuous hike through the park’s 25 miles of hiking trails, an opportunity to kayak or canoe through the swamps, or just a leisurely stroll on its boardwalks, Congaree won’t disappoint you. 

There are several easy trails to consider, such as the Elevated Boardwalk and Bluff Trail. If you are looking for something moderate to difficult, try Oakridge Trail or the River Trail. Be sure to check all details about the trails at Congaree here before planning your visit.

Where to stay?

You may choose to camp at Congaree or spend the night at Columbia, South Carolina’s capital city, just 30 minutes away. Best Western Executive Inn & Suites on Sleep Inn at Bush River Road is a great place to stay. 

Another popular way to visit Congaree is to do it as a day trip from Charleston, a historic city filled with fascinating museums, stunning antebellum homes, and colourful shopping streets.

Best National Parks in the Northeast US

#11 Cuyahoga Valley National Park

By Christine from Treasured Family Travels

The Cuyahoga Valley National Park (CVNP) encompasses 33,000 acres in Northeast Ohio and is the only national park in the state. Stretching from Cleveland to Akron, the park includes 140 miles of hiking, biking and bridle trails with no access fee. If you’re looking for the best Eastern US national parks with no entrance fees, look no further! 

Looking for an easy walking trail? Follow the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath trail – one of the highlights of this national park. While this paved trail extends 90 miles in total, 20 miles of it is within the CVNP.  Begin at Lock 39 Trailhead in the north, near Cleveland. 

Take the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad roundtrip through the park, or take it one way after hiking for a while. You can even bring your bike on board! Check the weekly excursions as they often have special events like brew trains, wine tastings and even The Polar Express.

Stop at one of the two visitor centres within the park: Boston Mill Visitor Center or the Canal Exploration Center. Both have loads of information regarding the best hikes and other things to do within the park.

Discover the quaint towns of Peninsula or Boston Mills. Both are stops on the train or drive here for a leisurely lunch while enjoying the natural beauty around you.

If you are looking for waterfalls, check out Brandywine Falls, Bridal Veil Falls or Blue Hen Falls. All of these are moderately easy hikes that lead to beautiful views of the falls.

While you are here in Ohio and looking for fun things to do in Cleveland, make it a point to see the natural beauty of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. The Cuyahoga Valley is definitely one of the best national parks east in the autumn when leaves are bright shades of yellow, burnt orange and a vibrant red. However, you can enjoy the natural beauty of this park anytime.

Where to stay?

The best places to stay near Cuyahoga Valley National Park are the towns in the local area such as Richfield, Independence, Fairlawn and Cuyahoga Falls. Some of the recommended hotels include the luxurious Sheraton Suites Akron Cuyahoga Falls that comes with an indoor pool and Comfort Inn Independence with a complimentary breakfast and seasonal outdoor pool.  

#12 Voyageurs National Park

By Samantha Meabon from PAonPause

Voyageurs National Park, located in northern Minnesota along the Canadian border, is both beautiful and underrated. 

The lakes and connecting waterways form a playground for fishing and recreation. You have to get out on the water to enjoy this park. While you’re cruising around in your watercraft, stay on the lookout for a bald eagle. There are over 40 nesting pairs within the park! 

Don’t miss a visit to the Kettle Falls Hotel and the Ellsworth Rock Gardens. Both spots are beautiful natural areas with plenty of historical significance. Tours can be reserved through the NPS and private companies endorsed by the National Parks if you don’t have your own boat. 

On the mainland, check out the Blind Ash Bay hiking trail from the Ash River Visitors Center. It covers 3.1 miles in total, which includes a 1.2-mile hike to a 0.7-mile loop and a view out over Lake Kabetogama. If you’re looking for a more backcountry experience, take a shuttle boat out to trails on the Kabetogama peninsula and hike to a campsite along one of the backcountry lakes. 

Where to stay?

Clusters of cabins are situated along the lakeshores, some of which are available for reservation. If you’re looking for a more modern hotel, you’ll have to head over to International Falls, the closest town, on the far west side of the park. 

Check out the Cantilever Hotel, a Wyndham property, for modern comforts during your stay in northern Minnesota. It’s only 15 minutes from the park visitor’s centre on Rainy Lake! Houseboat rentals are popular for summer vacations here, as well. Take one to dock at one of the many campsites, some of which feel like your own private island.

#13 Gateway Arch National Park in St. Louis

By Stephanie Craig from Oklahoma Wonders

One of the most unique national parks eastern US is Gateway Arch National Park surrounding the Gateway Arch in St. Louis. While this is one of the most iconic sites in the US, it is a controversial national park since it is quite small compared to other northeast national parks and is located entirely within the city of St. Louis. 

But while it may be one of the smallest national parks, it’s got the tallest monument of any National Parks Service site. The Gateway Arch beats the Washington Monument in that respect! 

The highlight here is a trip to the top of the arch to see the fantastic views of St. Louis and the Mississippi River down below. You can also learn about the construction of the arch as well as its history. 

The arch itself was built as a monument to Thomas Jefferson and America’s westward expansion. However, today it is also a memorial to Dred Scott, an enslaved man who sued for his freedom. 

Most people don’t think of urban parks when they want to plan a trip to a US national parks northeast, but this is a great way to enjoy a city vacation while enjoying the best national park in Missouri!

Where to stay?

Saint Louis has many hotels available for all budgets. Stay in the luxurious Drury Plaza St. Louis at the Arch to be close to the park or midrange Missouri Athletic Club also located within a walking distance to The Gateway Arch. 

Best National Parks on the East Coast – Tips for visiting 

Visiting a national park can be super fun for couples, friends or whole families and can provide the very needed escape from the busy city lives most of us live. It is however important to have fun responsibly. 

Every park has different rules in terms of camping, fire pits, disposing of rubbish, bringing dogs (some don’t allow these things, some have strict rules). It is important to check the rules for the specific park before your visit. 

Another important thing is safety. Before you go hiking, always tell someone where you’re going and what’s your rough itinerary. A good practice is to let know the owner of the place you’re staying or message a friend or a family member. Always bring with you additional food and drink and a first aid kit, better to be safe than sorry. Stay within the marked route and always carry a physical map with you. 

If you’re planning to visit multiple national parks in the US, consider purchasing a National Park Pass. The pass allows you to enter over 2,000 federal land parks for a one-off fee. Before you buy one, check if the parks you want to travel to, charge for an entrance. Many national parks mentioned in this post offer a free entrance so it is entirely possible to visit multiple parks without paying a penny in entrance charges.

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