12. Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Medora, North Dakota

Theodore Roosevelt is a very welcoming park. The hiking is wonderful but not extreme. The trails are rolling but not ridiculous. There’s a lot to see by driving. The river is beautiful but you can wade across it. Access is easy.

There are badlands, bison and horses, prairies and prairie dogs. It’s a comfortable trip into nature.

13. Dry Tortugas National Park

Florida

What if you go below Mile 0? US-1 ends at Mile 0 on Key West, but what if you keep going down the keys? You’ll end up at Dry Tortugas National Park.

You’re going to need to take a ferry or seaplane, but the rewards for going beyond are fantastic. There’s Fort Jefferson (a favorite duty station in the careers of many rangers), perfect blue water, sand of course, and even camping. Hidden? Yes. Gem? Definitely.

14. Channel Islands National Park

Ventura, California

The recorded greeting on the phone for Channel Islands used to say “Thank you for calling Channel Islands National Park, the greatest national park in the world.”

It was changed out of modesty, not necessarily inaccuracy.

Like with Dry Tortugas, you’re going to need to take a boat ride booked in advance to access the park.

The islands have no roads but a good amount of trails and camping. You can also book a kayaking trip and explore the waters around the park, where scuba divers and snorkelers enjoy the truly hidden part of this gem.

And of course, you’ll find pristine beaches, tide pools, lagoons, wetlands, an abundance of wildlife — and did I mention sand?

Check out the rest of our 2023 Best Of Travel Awards.