{
  "id": 14252921,
  "title": "After traveling to all 50 states, I think these 6 state parks are some of the country's most incredible hidden gems",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/13/after-traveling-to-all-50-states-i-think-these-6-state-parks-are-some",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-13T17:31:19.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Business Insider",
    "slug": "business-insider",
    "url": "https://www.businessinsider.com/best-lesser-known-us-state-parks-according-to-frequent-traveler-2026-10"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "After exploring all 50 states, I've discovered some of the nation's most breathtaking hidden gems reside within its state parks. Emily Hart, who has visited every state, shares her favorite state parks that offer stunning beauty and adventure without the crowds of national parks.\n\nDevil's Lake State Park in Wisconsin is her top pick. Despite being the most-visited park in the state, many people don't know about its stunning panoramic views from the East and West Bluff trails. The park's massive rock formations, like Balanced Rock and Devil's Doorway, attract hikers and rock climbers.\n\nCoopers Rock State Forest in West Virginia, often recommended for sunset watching, features unique rock formations and scenic trails that wind through the Cheat River Gorge. Letchworth State Park in New York, nicknamed the \"Grand Canyon of the East,\" is known for its three waterfalls and 66 miles of hiking trails, creating a picturesque autumn destination.\n\nUtah's Kodachrome Basin State Park, with its red, orange, and yellow rock formations, feels like another world. Matthiessen State Park in Illinois captivates with its dramatic canyons, waterfalls, and towering forests, offering a magical experience for nature lovers during fall foliage season. Lastly, Colorado's Eldorado Canyon State Park, just 9 miles from Boulder, offers dramatic canyon views, rock climbing, and scenic hiking trails, making it a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts.",
  "summary": "After visiting all 50 states, I think Letchworth, Matthiessen, and Kodachrome Basin are some of the best lesser-known US state parks.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}