What is a State Park Resort?
A state park resort is a state park that offers resort-style amenities, such as lodges, cabins, dining options, golf courses, marinas, and recreational activities like hiking, boating, and fishing. These parks provide a mix of natural beauty and comfortable accommodations, making them ideal for family vacations, romantic getaways, and outdoor enthusiasts who want a bit of luxury with their adventure.
Unlike traditional state parks, which may only have basic campgrounds, state park resorts typically feature:
- Full-service lodges or resort-style cabins (often with kitchens, bathrooms, and modern conveniences)
- On-site dining and restaurants
- Golf courses or other recreational facilities
- Marinas for boating and fishing
- Guided outdoor activities and adventure programs
Many Southeastern states, such as Georgia, Tennessee, and South Carolina, have excellent state park resorts that offer comfortable accommodations while still providing access to nature.
Discovering State Park Resorts
State parks offer unparalleled natural beauty and recreational opportunities across all 50 states. However, finding the best state park resorts can be a daunting task, especially when trying to gather information from a myriad of park websites. To make this easier for you, we have compiled a comprehensive list highlighting some of the finest state park resorts across the nation.
Why Choose State Park Resorts?
State park resorts provide unique experiences, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying various amenities. From cozy cabins to full-service lodges, there’s something for every type of traveler. Many state park resorts also offer outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and even guided tours, making them an ideal destination for families, couples, or solo adventurers.
Your Guide to the Best Resorts
Our goal is to aggregate essential information on the best resorts within state parks. This includes details such as location, available amenities, average pricing, and activities. By providing all this information in one place, we aim to save you time and help you make informed decisions when planning your next getaway. No more sifting through countless state park sites; we have compiled the essential data you need for a memorable experience.
Here are some of the best state park resorts across different regions of the U.S., offering a mix of outdoor adventure and resort-style accommodations:
Southeast (Mild Climate, Mountains, Lakes, and Beaches)
Amicalola Falls State Park & Lodge (GA)
- Nestled in the North Georgia mountains with views of Amicalola Falls, the tallest cascading waterfall in the Southeast.
- Offers a lodge with a restaurant, cabins, and access to the Appalachian Trail.
- Best For: Hiking, mountain views, and nature lovers.
Fall Creek Falls State Park Resort (TN)
- Home to Fall Creek Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in the eastern U.S.
- Features a modern lodge with a lake view, golf course, and cabins.
- Best For: Waterfalls, family-friendly activities, and outdoor adventure.
Hickory Knob State Resort Park (SC)
- A lakeside resort with a full-service lodge, golf course, and lake activities.
- Offers fishing, hiking, and a peaceful retreat in South Carolina’s countryside.
- Best For: Relaxation, golfing, and lake lovers.
- A beachfront eco-resort inside Gulf State Park with boardwalks, a fishing pier, and a modern hotel-style lodge.
- Best For: Beach vacations, family trips, and eco-tourism.
Northeast (Scenic Mountains, Lakes, and Forests)
Lake Champlain State Park Resorts (VT/NY)
- Offers waterfront lodges and cabins with easy access to boating, fishing, and historic sites.
- Best For: Lake lovers, history buffs, and outdoor relaxation.
Letchworth State Park (NY) – Glen Iris Inn
- Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” this park features incredible gorges and waterfalls.
- The Glen Iris Inn offers charming historic accommodations inside the park.
- Best For: Scenic views, hiking, and history lovers.
- Beautiful cabins near Sebago Lake, perfect for water sports, fishing, and nature walks.
- Best For: Quiet retreats, family vacations, and water activities.
Midwest (Great Lakes, Rolling Hills, and Forests)
- Located inside Starved Rock State Park, famous for sandstone canyons, waterfalls, and river views.
- Offers a full-service lodge, restaurant, and cozy cabins.
- Best For: Hiking, history, and scenic getaways.
Brown County State Park Lodge (IN)
- Often called the “Little Smokies” for its rolling forested hills, this resort offers horseback riding, hiking, and a full-service lodge.
- Best For: Fall foliage, horseback riding, and family-friendly trips.
- A beautiful lakefront resort on the shores of Lake Erie, featuring a full-service lodge, cabins, golf course, and beach access.
- Offers indoor and outdoor pools, boardwalk trails, and nature programs for families.
- Best For: Waterfront relaxation, family-friendly activities, and nature lovers.
Southwest (Deserts, Mountains, and Canyons)
Davis Mountains State Park & Indian Lodge (TX)
- Features a historic adobe-style lodge set in the stunning Davis Mountains.
- Best For: Stargazing, desert landscapes, and peaceful retreats.
Kartchner Caverns State Park – The Lodge at Castle Hot Springs (AZ)
- While not inside a state park, Castle Hot Springs is a luxury desert oasis near Kartchner Caverns and other stunning Arizona landscapes.
- Features private hot spring pools, gourmet dining, and high-end accommodations in a secluded, natural setting.
- Perfect for: A luxurious, nature-immersed retreat with spa-like relaxation.
Red Cliffs Lodge (UT) – Near Dead Horse Point State Park & Moab
- A stunning riverside resort located near Dead Horse Point State Park and Arches National Park in Moab.
- Features private cabins, a winery, horseback riding, and dramatic red rock scenery.
- Best For: A luxury Western experience with adventure activities like Jeep tours, rafting, and hiking.
West (Mountains, Coastal Views, and Wilderness)
- Located on Payette Lake, this park offers modern lakefront cabins.
- Great for boating, kayaking, hiking, and year-round outdoor activities.
- Best For: Families, lake lovers, and scenic mountain retreats.
Timberline Lodge (OR – Mount Hood National Forest)
- Timberline Lodge is known for its stunning mountain views and historical charm, making it a great base for exploring both state parks and natural areas.
- A historic ski resort lodge on Mount Hood, offering year-round skiing.
- Best For: Mountain getaways, skiing, and history lovers.
Zephyr Cove Resort (NV – Lake Tahoe State Park)
- A beachfront lodge on Lake Tahoe, perfect for boating and relaxation.
- Best For: Lake vacations, scenic mountain views, and adventure.