The U.S.’s Official 'Most Loved' State Park Has Crystal-Clear Lakes, Friendly Wildlife, and a Low Entrance Fee

From sea to shining sea, the United States is filled with breathtaking landscapes for endless outdoor adventure. And while bigger national parks like Yellowstone and Yosemite tend to hog the spotlight, travelers who take less-trodden paths to state parks are often rewarded with lower costs, fewer crowds, and more flexible planning options. 

A new study set out to identify the highest-rated state park among the thousands across the country. After Tripadvisor data was analyzed by RV-rental platform RVezy, South Dakota’s Custer State Park was named the most beloved in the U.S.

Related: Skip Banff and Head to This Underrated Canadian National Park

At 71,000 acres, the state park is among the largest in the country. It’s located in South Dakota’s southwestern Black Hills, encompassing abundant wildlife, crystal-clear lakes, sprawling prairies, pine forests, and granite peaks. The diverse landscape is perfect for scenic road trips and hikes. And with weekly vehicle entrance fees at a relatively low $25, it’s an inarguably high-value destination.

Custer State Park is one of the best places in the nation to see buffalo, boasting one of the largest publicly owned herds in the world. Visit in late September to see the annual buffalo roundup, a stunning spectacle led by cowboys and park staff on horseback. 

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There is no shortage of options when it comes to activities to enjoy in Custer. Hike Black Elk Peak for panoramic mountain views. Needles Highway is another big draw, with unique granite spires rising from the roadside in dramatic fashion. In the hot days of summer, there’s nothing better than hitting the pristine mountain water for paddleboarding, kayaking, or swimming.  

These Other State Parks Made the Most-Loved List

California’s Point Lobos Natural Reserve took the number two spot on the list. It has some of the state’s most picturesque coastlines, plus turquoise coves, ample wildlife spotting, and gorgeous cypress tree groves. 

The eight other most-loved state parks are a diverse mix of thrilling destinations from all around the U.S.: Mount Jefferson State Natural Area in North Carolina, Maidstone State Park in Vermont, Moro Bay State Park in Arkansas, Beartown State Park in West Virginia, Quoddy Head State Park in Maine, Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park in North Dakota, Cedar Rock State Park in Iowa, and Kartchner Caverns State Park in Arizona. 

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“State parks across the United States continue to draw millions of visitors each year, offering a simple and affordable way to enjoy the outdoors,” RVezy wrote in its study. “They’re especially appealing for travelers looking for convenience. Many state parks are easy to access, less crowded than national parks, and well-suited for short trips or RV travel, making them increasingly popular among Americans.”