The biggest remaining old-growth forest in the Southeast may be found at South Carolina's 26,500-acre Congaree National Park. One of the phrazle world's tallest canopies of deciduous trees is found in this park, which is made possible by the presence of the Congaree and Wateree rivers. Half of the park is protected wilderness, so outdoor enthusiasts may easily access remote regions. Camping, hiking, canoeing, and bird viewing spots abound.

 

South Dakota is sometimes neglected as a travel destination, but the state is home to more than just Mt. Rushmore. The Badlands are a geologic feature that rise out of an otherwise flat area, the product of millions of years of deposition and erosion. Day hikers and photographers both like the Badlands Loop Road as a convenient starting place. Bighorn sheep, prairie dogs, bison, and even black-footed ferrets are all possible sightings for park visitors. There are plenty of isolated spots to enjoy nature in the Sage Creek Wilderness Area.

 

For good reason, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most popular park in the United States. The Smokies are rich in plant and animal life and Southern culture, and they are also famous for the plumes of fog that rise up in the valleys between the mountains and settle like smoke over the summits. There are 384 miles of paved and unpaved roads that families with cars may cruise, and those who go off the usual route will encounter stunning nature. Several bald peaks, such as Gregory Bald, Rocky Top, and Andrews Bald, provide breathtaking vistas in every direction.

 

Travelers from all over the globe are drawn to this remote corner of Texas by the sight of a mighty river digging deep into the limestone, breaking up the otherwise featureless desert environment. Big Bend National Park encompasses an enormous 801,163 acres and has a wide range of ecosystems, from mountainous to desert. The Chisos Mountains are a great destination for backpackers since they include 42 authorized backcountry campsites.

 

Located in southern Utah, Zion National Park is often considered to be the state's most stunning natural attraction. The park's visitors will be amazed by what they see around every corner, thanks to the sandstone cliffs that rise abruptly out of the valley floor. Famous for its slot canyons, Zion is a great place for hikers and canyoneers, but the less active visitor won't be bored here either. Those who are up for the challenge may walk to the Narrows, a slot canyon trip that involves wading across the Virgin River. This is a potentially cool hike during the dog days of July, but you should keep an eye on the forecast.