18 notable parks in the Midwest

We are surrounded by all sorts of natural beauty in the United States. Our national parks and state parks are a treasure. My husband and I enjoy traveling to these types of destinations to hike and enjoy nature. Let’s take a look at some notable parks in the Midwest, the region where I live. The variety is incredible!

The America the Beautiful Pass

It’s worth noting that U.S. citizens and permanent residents aged 62 and older can buy an annual America the Beautiful Pass for $20 or a lifetime pass for $80. Proof of age and citizenship or residency is required. (Prices may change.)

The America the Beautiful Pass offers some great perks:

• It covers entrance fees for national parks, national wildlife refuges, and other federal recreation areas.
• It includes day-use fees at many national forests, grasslands, and Bureau of Land Management sites.
• If the site charges per vehicle, the pass covers everyone inside.
• If there’s a per-person charge, it typically covers up to four adults (kids under 16 are usually free).

It’s a fantastic way to explore beautiful outdoor spaces while saving money!

The National Park Service has an app with information about national parks across the country.

Use the table to jump to the desired section:

National Parks in the Midwest:	Selected State Parks in the Midwest:
Indiana Dunes National Park (Indiana)	Starved Rock State Park (Illinois)
Isle Royale National Park (Michigan)	Turkey Run State Park (Indiana)
Voyageurs National Park (Minnesota)	Custer State Park (South Dakota)
Badlands National Park (South Dakota)	Pokagon State Park (Indiana)
Cuyahoga Valley National Park (Ohio)	Devil’s Lake State Park (Wisconsin)
Gateway Arch National Park (Missouri)	Hocking Hills State Park (Ohio)
Hot Springs National Park (Arkansas)	Itasca State Park (Minnesota)
Theodore Roosevelt National Park (North Dakota)	Maquoketa Caves State Park (Iowa)
Wind Cave National Park (South Dakota)	Brown County State Park (Indiana)

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National Parks in the Midwest

We have spent some time at Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky. A great getaway! It’s just outside of the region we’re considering here. I’ve included information about nine different national parks in the Midwest.

1. Indiana Dunes National Park (Indiana)

Spanning fifteen miles along Lake Michigan’s southern shore, this national park boasts a remarkable variety of habitats and visitor activities. Beyond the beaches, you’ll find rugged dunes, peaceful forests, and serene wetlands connected by 50 miles of hiking trails. With exceptional birdwatching opportunities and over 1,100 native plant species, this 15,000-acre park ranks among the most biologically diverse in the country.

The campground features two loops with 66 sites—53 for drive-in access and 13 for walk/carry-in access. Four sites (15, 30, 41, and 55) are wheelchair accessible. Both loops offer modern restrooms and showers. Some sites have size restrictions for recreational vehicles. A convenience store and gas station are just a quarter-mile north at the intersection of U.S. Highway 12 and Broadway Avenue in Beverly Shores. The campground is closed from November 2 to March 31.

2. Isle Royale National Park (Michigan)

Isle Royale National Park is a secluded island haven located in the heart of Lake Superior. It’s accessible only by ferry, seaplane, or private boat. Pay close attention to the weather when planning your trip, because it changes frequently.

The park closes every winter from the beginning of November through the middle of April. It’s comprised of a cluster of over 400 islands. The main island, Isle Royale, is about 50 miles long and nine miles wide. There are 165 miles of trails and 36 campgrounds. Choose from backpacking, hiking, boating, canoeing, paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, diving, and camping. A wonderful variety!

3. Voyageurs National Park (Minnesota)

Voyageurs National Park spans 218,000 acres of lakes, forests, and streams in northern Minnesota. Established in 1975, the park is named after the French-Canadian Voyageurs who once thrived here. Explore areas rich in natural wonders, history, and cultural heritage. Activities include guided boat tours, canoe trips, and hikes, typically starting at the visitor centers for Rainy Lake, Kabetogama Lake, or Ash River. Furthermore, there are over 270 camp sites. The park is especially well known for its fabulous stargazing opportunities.

4. Badlands National Park (South Dakota)

The dramatic landscape of the Badlands attracts visitors from all over. Within these remarkable geological formations lies one of the richest fossil sites in the world. Spanning 244,000 acres, the park preserves a mix of grassland habitats that support bison, bighorn sheep, prairie dogs, and black-footed ferrets.

Badlands National Park has a lot to offer. Families can join the Junior Ranger Program and take a stroll along the Fossil Exhibit Trail, perfect for young explorers. Seasoned hikers can venture out and camp in the backcountry. If your feet are tired from all the adventure, you can drive the Badlands Loop Road and spot wildlife along the way. The sunrises and sunsets are also spectacular!

5. Cuyahoga Valley National Park (Ohio)

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is open all day every day, except Brandywine Falls, Ledges, Octagon, Kendall Lake, and Kendall Hills close from dusk until morning. No entrance fees or passes are required. The park is just an hour’s drive from the greater Cleveland, Akron, and Canton areas. It features about 250 historic buildings, including homes and farm properties, as well as significant landmarks like the Ohio & Erie Canal and the Valley Railway. Efforts continue to preserve these historic sites, rehabilitate structures, restore the railroad, and revitalize disturbed areas and the river. The park’s diverse natural resources support thriving wildlife, a rarity in an increasingly urbanized environment. Visitors can explore over 140 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The historic Towpath Trail, in particular, is a significant draw to the park. It is wheelchair, bike, and stroller accessible and has many different access points.

6. Gateway Arch National Park (Missouri)

The Gateway Arch, Old Courthouse, and surrounding parklands create a natural centerpiece for the lively downtown area of St. Louis. As an urban landmark, the Arch serves as a refreshing retreat for visitors while being conveniently close to local attractions, hotels, and dining options. Within walking distance, visitors can explore popular downtown spots like the historic Laclede’s Landing, the Washington Avenue district, the newly renovated Busch Stadium, and the Mississippi River.

All park guests are required to go through a security checkpoint. Weapons of any kind, including pepper spray and fixed-blade knives, are prohibited. If you’ve purchased a tram ticket in advance, be sure to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to your scheduled tram time to allow enough time for security screening. The hours are different at the Arch, courthouse, and grounds, so check before going.

7. Hot Springs National Park (Arkansas)

Hot Springs National Park boasts a rich cultural history, blending grand historic bathhouse architecture with natural wonders that have attracted visitors for centuries. With ancient thermal springs, scenic mountain views, unique geology, forested trails, and flowing creeks, it offers a one-of-a-kind destination. It’s surrounded by shops, diners, and attractions, but has hiking trails and mountain overlooks for a peaceful escape.

Arlington Lawn, Grand Promenade, Bathhouse Row sidewalks, Reserve Street, and Fountain Street are open daily from 5am to 10pm (walk-through traffic only after hours). Roads to Hot Springs Mountain, North Mountain, and West Mountain Summit are open to vehicles from 8am to 10pm. No entrance fees or passes required. Free parking is available at a garage on 128 Exchange Street.

Soaking in the thermal springs is only allowed at the Buckstaff and Quapaw bathhouses. Reservations are required for the 40 sites at Gulpha Gorge Campground. A cell phone tour of Bathhouse Row provides historical information, and pets are welcome on trails (but not in federal buildings). In the summer, be sure to stay hydrated and take precautions against the heat.

8. Theodore Roosevelt National Park (North Dakota)

Theodore Roosevelt National Park protects several areas of badlands in the southwestern corner of North Dakota. It was established in honor of Theodore Roosevelt, who hunted and ranched in the Little Missouri Badlands in his youth. It is open all day year-round. While entrance stations and visitor centers may close, the park remains accessible. One exception: be sure to check for any weather-related closures before your visit. While there, enjoy scenic drives, hiking, and spotting wildlife.

An entrance fee is required to visit Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Fees are collected at entrance stations from May to September and in visitor centers during the rest of the year. Self-pay stations are available when stations and centers are closed, and passes can be purchased online. During the winter season (October to May), fees can be paid or passes shown at the visitor centers, or they can be deposited in a drop box near the flagpole if the center is closed.

9. Wind Cave National Park (South Dakota)

Wind Cave National Park preserves two distinct environments: a vast underground cave system and a vibrant landscape above. Bison, elk, and other wildlife roam the rolling prairie and forested hills, while beneath lies Wind Cave, one of the world’s longest and most intricate caves. Spend time hiking, taking a cave tour, or enjoying the wildlife.

Weather at the park is unpredictable. Summers often exceed 80°F with frequent June and July thunderstorms that can bring hail and lightning. Winters are snowy with temperatures regularly below freezing, sometimes causing road closures. Always check the forecast and road conditions before visiting. The park has limited food and beverage options in the visitor center, so plan ahead.

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Selected State Parks in the Midwest

Here is information about nine different state parks in the Midwest:

1. Starved Rock State Park (Illinois)

Starved Rock State Park features 18 stunning sandstone canyons, scenic trails, and waterfalls. Established in 1911, it offers activities like hiking, camping, fishing, and boating. The historic lodge provides accommodations and dining. The park has a rich history. Its name comes from a Native American legend about a tragic siege atop the sandstone butte, though this tale lacks evidence.

Starved Rock State Park offers various accessible features, including parking near the visitor center with ramps, accessible restrooms, and seven wheelchair-accessible campsites with paths to restrooms and showers. The Middle Shelter and boat ramp area have concrete paths, and the lodge offers accessible parking and entrance. Trails are mostly uneven, with Illinois Canyon being step-free but requiring a creek crossing. Overlooks involve 50-150 steps. Service animals are welcome.

2. Turkey Run State Park (Indiana)

Turkey Run State Park, located along State Road 47 southwest of Crawfordsville, invites visitors to explore stunning sandstone ravines, wander through ancient forests, and take in scenic views along Sugar Creek. Don’t miss the Colonel Richard Lieber Cabin, which honors the founder of Indiana’s state park system.

Turkey Run State Park offers a variety of activities and amenities, including hiking trails, fishing, playgrounds, and guided horseback rides. Visitors can enjoy the Turkey Run Inn with an indoor pool, picnic areas, nature programs, and both cabin and campsite accommodations.

3. Custer State Park (South Dakota)

The rugged granite peaks and vast plains of Custer State Park are ready to be explored. Spanning 71,000 acres in the Black Hills, the park invites visitors to enjoy wildlife and countless adventures, from camping and hiking to fishing and simply unwinding. Opportunities for biking, boating, horseback riding, snowshoeing, and birdwatching abound. The park is open year-round, but showers, flush toilets, and other water systems may shut down between October 1 and April 30. Check the website to be sure.  

4. Pokagon State Park (Indiana)

Pokagon State Park near Angola, Indiana celebrates the area’s Native American heritage; it’s named after Potawatomi leaders Leopold and Simon Pokagon. Framed by Lake James and Snow Lake, the park offers year-round recreation, including boating, fishing, hiking, and scenic sunsets. In winter, it becomes a snowy haven with cross-country skiing, ice fishing, and a thrilling quarter-mile toboggan run reaching speeds of 35-40mph. Historic structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps add charm to its rolling hills and wetlands.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of rental options like paddleboats, rowboats, and pontoons. The park features campgrounds with both electric and non-electric sites, group areas, a camp store, and facilities for meetings and conferences. Other amenities include a nature center, playgrounds, and a saddle barn offering escorted rides.

5. Devil’s Lake State Park (Wisconsin)

Devil’s Lake State Park is the Wisconsin’s most visited park. Spanning more than 10,000 acres, the park is part of a larger 27,000-acre public recreational area in Sauk County. The park is situated on the ancestral lands of the Ho-Chunk people, who call it Tee Wakącąk (Sacred Lake), and is home to numerous ancient effigy mounds that continue to hold cultural importance.

The park is a top spot for outdoor lovers, featuring over 29 miles of hiking trails, a mountain biking trail, and two expansive sandy beaches. Visitors can picnic with charcoal grills; rent kayaks, canoes, paddleboats, or stand-up boards; or take on the challenge of rock climbing and bouldering with local outfitters.

6. Hocking Hills State Park (Ohio)

Hocking Hills State Park in Southeastern Ohio is renowned both nationally and internationally for its breathtaking natural beauty. The park offers towering cliffs, impressive waterfalls, and shaded gorges, with each season bringing unique features like winter ice formations, spring wildflowers, and vibrant fall foliage. A paradise for hikers and nature enthusiasts! Enjoy camping, kayaking, disc golf, hunting, paddling, or fishing.

7. Itasca State Park (Minnesota)

Itasca State Park, established in 1891, is Minnesota’s oldest state park, spanning over 32,000 acres with more than 100 lakes. It is famously home to the headwaters of the Mississippi River, where visitors can walk across the river as it begins its 2,552-mile journey to the Gulf of Mexico. The park features towering pine forests, historical landmarks, scenic drives, and 45 overnight lodging options. One highlight is the Wilderness Sanctuary, a National Natural Landmark spanning 2,000 acres.

The park’s rich landscape, formed by glacial movements, boasts unique “knob and kettle” terrain with hills, ponds, and lakes. Diverse wildlife thrives in the park, from loons and hummingbirds to deer, beaver, and even black bears. Historically, the region was explored in 1832 by Henry Rowe Schoolcraft, guided by Ozawindib, who identified the source of the Mississippi. Conservation pioneer Jacob V. Brower later led efforts to protect the area’s majestic pine forests, securing its designation as a state park in 1891.

8. Maquoketa Caves State Park (Iowa)

Maquoketa Caves State Park is one of Iowa’s most unique outdoor destinations, boasting more caves than any other state park. Towering bluffs and a six-mile trail system weave through stunning geological formations and lush forests. Visitors have flocked to this park for adventure and natural beauty since the 1860s. Popular highlights include the 50-foot-tall “Natural Bridge” and the massive 17-ton “Balanced Rock.”

The park offers around thirteen caves, from the expansive 1,100-foot “Dancehall Cave” to tighter spaces like Hernado’s Hideaway and Shinbone Cave for experienced spelunkers. Visitors can explore the park’s history and geology at the interpretive center. Camping options include both modern and primitive sites, with reservations required from March through November. Picnic shelters, playgrounds, and historic CCC structures further enhance this scenic, adventure-packed destination.

9. Brown County State Park (Indiana)

Brown County State Park spans nearly 16,000 acres of rugged hills, ridges, and foggy ravines. Shaped by glacial meltwaters, Indiana’s largest state park offers stunning scenic vistas, especially during the fall when its tree-lined roads burst with vibrant colors. Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, camping, and horse trails, along with year-round interpretive programs and guided horse rides.

The rustic Abe Martin Lodge provides motel rooms, cabins, dining, and conference facilities, plus an indoor water park. Top activities include climbing the 90-foot Fire Tower, spotting rare species like the Yellowwood tree and timber rattlesnake, and enjoying breathtaking sunrises and sunsets from scenic overlooks. Nearby Nashville adds charm with its unique shops, arts, and outdoor adventures.

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Have you visited any of these parks in the Midwest? What places do you recommend? I’d love to hear your thoughts.

Parks are a great destination for both short trips and long. It can be nice to get away and focus on nature. I’ve tried to assemble different types of information about these parks in the Midwest, and you can always follow the links if you’re interested in hearing more. Admittedly, I started with parks in the Midwest because they’re close to home for us.

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Fondly,

Crysti