GREAT DRIVES
STATE PARKS ITINERARY (7-10 DAYS)
With over 150 state parks spread across five states, you could spend weeks exploring and still not scratch the surface of the numerous breathtaking outdoor recreational areas. These are some of the standout adventures you just can't miss when visiting the Great American West.
DAY 1: WYOMING
– With Denver as your gateway to the region, head north toward Curt Gowdy State Park. After a two-hour drive, you'll be itching to explore its seven distinct landscapes, which include three reservoirs. Continue north to Guernsey State Park, one of the area's premier camping destinations. Spend the night under the stars or keep heading on toward
Hot Springs State Park, where the naturally heated, free-flowing mineral pools beckon.
DAY 2-3: SOUTH DAKOTA
– Make your way east to Custer State Park, known as the crown jewel of the Black Hills region. Here, you'll find free-roaming buffalo, towering granite peaks and epic views. When you've had your fill of wildlife and wilderness, continue on to Lewis & Clark Recreation Area. With three separate campgrounds, you can rest your head or take advantage of the waterfront alongside the Missouri River. Just north of Sioux Falls, Palisades State Park is another must-see, and one of the most unique views in South Dakota with scenic Sioux quartzite cliff overlooks, an ideal backdrop for your photo op. Continue north to explore picturesque Fort Sisseton Historic State Park.
DAY 4-5: NORTH DAKOTA
– Cross into North Dakota for a visit to Fort Ransom State Park. A tribute to the state's homesteading heritage, the heavily wooded area is the start of the Sheyenne River Valley National Scenic Byway. Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park is home to a replica Indian Village and reconstructed military buildings. Beat the heat at Lake Sakakawea State Park, the third-largest man-made reservoir in the nation; Lake Metigoshe State Park, which straddles the U.S.-Canadia border; or Little Missouri State Park, an oasis on the edge of the Badlands.
DAY 6-7: MONTANA
– Cross into Montana to the sandstone formations and fossils of Makoshika State Park. Then head toward Billings to Chief Plenty Coups State Park, a national historic landmark, and Pictograph Cave State Park for more prehistoric discoveries. From there, journey underground to see geological wonders at Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park or step back in time at Bannack State Park, home of the state's first gold rush. You'll overnight at Missouri Headwaters State Park, where the Lewis and Clark Expedition camped in 1805.
DAY 8-9: IDAHO
– Start winding your way southwest with a stop at Harriman State Park for a taste of Yellowstone's landscape before making your way across the state to Bruneau Dunes State Park, the tallest stand-alone sand dune in North America. Another natural wonder, Thousand Springs State Park, is known for its numerous waterfalls that spring from the canyon walls. Spend the night at Castle Rock State Park, a mecca for climbers, hikers and bikers.
DAY 10: IDAHO
– Complete the loop with a visit to the turquoise-blue waters at Bear Lake State Park. Bring your swimsuit for a dip in the water before drying off during one last hike on one of the many scenic hiking trails.