15 Best East Coast National Parks (East Coast Parks to Visit)
Are you thinking about visiting one of the East Coast national parks? Wondering which is the best East Coast national park?
All of the East Coast parks are awesome! We recently took a trip to the East Coast and visited many of them! I am excited to share with you all of the East Coast national parks we love the best.
In this post, not only will we show you the best East Coast national parks, but we will also look at preserves and seashores. We will highlight 15 national parks on the East Coast. This will hopefully help you know which eastern national parks you would like to visit.
These East Coast National Parks USA are all amazing and offer a variety of outdoor activities you will love. We will look at the best times to visit each East Coast park. We will also highlight the best hikes as well as the best things to do at the different national parks on the east coast.
Let’s explore the East Coast national parks and plan the best East Coast national park vacation.
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If you haven’t already invested in a National Park Pass is a great idea!
1. Acadia National Park
Location: Maine
Where to Stay: Bay Harbor Grand Hotel
Acadia National Park is one of the best national parks on the east coast. Located on the coast of Maine, the park is made up of gorgeous lakes, meadows, and a stunning rocky coastline.
Best Time to Go to Acadia National Park
Late spring to early fall is the best time to go to this East Coast national Park. The absolute best time is the first two weeks in September. The weather is still nice and the crowds are lower.
Things to Do at Acadia National Park
One of the best things to do in Acadia is to watch the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain. At sunrise, the sun begins to dance above the Atlantic Ocean, casting beautiful colors of pinks and purples on everything. You can also take in the sunset with a morning boat tour.
After the sunrise, head to the nearby town of Bar Harbor for breakfast. Café This Way has yummy blueberry pancakes, and downtown Bar Harbor is full of cute shops.
Back in the park, Jordan Pond is a great place to get an easy hike in. For more time by the water, Sand Beach is a great place to hang out. Finally, make sure you drive the Park Loop Road for stunning views you can also take a bus tour.
How Much Time Should I Spend at Acadia National Park?
To see everything, plan to spend at least two days in Acadia. It is an East Coast national park worth exploring!
Contributed By: Seasaltandfog.com
2. Shenandoah National Park
Location: Virginia
Where to Stay: The Inn and Tavern at Meander
Shenandoah is a must-visit national park on the East Coast, especially if you’re in the Washington, DC area. It’s a short drive from DC or Virginia, located in the dreamy Blue Ridge Mountains, and perfect for a day trip or weekend stay.
Best Time to Go to Shenandoah National Park
The best times to go are September – November, and March-May. The park is absolutely beautiful in Spring and Fall.
Hiking at Shenandoah Things to Do at Acadia National Park
Shenandoah has hiking trails and nature paths for all activity levels and is home to a fairly large segment of the Appalachian Trail, which runs from Georgia to Maine.
Don’t miss driving on Skyline Drive, especially if you visit in the autumn, but beware of heavy traffic due to other fall foliage enthusiasts.
Year-round, it is recommended that you arrive at the park early. Parking is limited, and due to the fact that 2-lane Skyline Drive is the main thoroughfare in the park, traffic can get heavy.
If you’re in the mood for a more rigorous hike, Shenandoah’s most famous peak is Old Rag, perfect for a day hike for more experienced hikers. A less strenuous option is Rose River (pictured), a 4-mile loop with gorgeous vistas and minimal rock scramble.
There are several lodges in the park where you can grab a snack, use the restroom, or enjoy gorgeous vistas from wraparound porches– such as Skyland and Big Meadows. There are several trailheads accessible from the lodges as well.
Shenandoah is not too far away from Monticello if you want to add a East Coast historical site to your trip.
3. Appalachian Trail
Locations: Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia, Virginia, Tennessee, North Carolina, and Georgia
Where to Stay: Camp
The Appalachian Trail is one of the most famous hiking trails in the world. It stretches from Springer Mountain, Georgia to Mount Katahdin, Maine, and covers a total of 2200 miles!
Things to Do on the Appalachian Trail
The trail goes through 14 states including Virginia, Tennessee, New York, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania. At least two million people visit sections of this trail each year making it one of America’s most popular hiking destinations and it’s easy to see why.
There’s something magical about settling into your tent for the night and staring at the stars. You might find yourself cuddled under a blanket while eating your evening meal or sitting next to a campfire.
You may hear coyotes howling in the distance or come across some wild turkeys crossing your path. The Appalachian Trail offers many opportunities for both solitude and socializing which is perfect for people who are looking for an adventure.
Explore More of the Appalachian Trail
Along the route, there are many beautiful east coast national parks. It passes through a total of 8 forests and 6 national parks.
This includes Baxter State Park in Maine, the White Mountains, Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, Mount Rogers in Virginia, the Great Smoky Mountains. It also features a number of breathtaking views as with elevations ranging from between sea level to 6500 feet above sea level.
Contributed By: AdventuresofAlice.com
4. New River Gorge National Park
Location: West Virigina
Where to Stay: Camping
The New River Gorge National Park is the newest national park in the east, making it the 63rd National Park in the USA. The River Gorge was a National River but as of 2020 is now a national park. It is located in West Virginia.
Best Time of Year to Go to New River Gorge National Park
April – October is the best time of year to visit this newest national park on the east coast. During these months it is the best time to river raft.
Things to Do at New River Gorge
The New River Gorge has the best whitewater rafting in the country. It also has some of the best climbing sites on the east coast. There are over 1,400 established rock climbs. Zip lining in New River Gorge is also a highlight at this east coast park.
There are over 50 miles of hiking trails offering easy to more challenging hikes. A lot of the hikes are along abandoned railroad tracks. There are also ATV trails available. Four primitive campsites are located within the park. There are also two visitor centers at this eastern national park.
How Much Time Should I Spend at New River Gorge?
You should plan 1-3 days depending if you want to do a whitewater rafting trip.
It is one of the best East Coast national parks!
5. Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Location: Ohio
Where to Stay: Marriott
Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a beautiful, underrated East Coast National Park in northeast Ohio. It is more of a national park in the eastern US as it is not exactly on the coast!
Best Time of Year to Visit Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Spring and Fall are the best times to visit this amazing East Coast National park!
How Much Time Should I Spend at Cuyahoga Valley National Park?
Covering the highlights in two to three days, like a weekend, would be a great amount of time. Even exploring the park for one day would be enough to see many of the top sights.
Things to Do at Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Hiking is one of the best and most popular things to do. While visiting Cuyahoga, be sure not to miss the Brandywine Falls and Ledges trails for beautiful scenery. These hikes are both relatively short and could be completed in a couple of hours.
For a dose of both history and outdoors, grab your bicycle and pedal down the Towpath trail, historically used as a method for transporting goods from Lake Erie.
One of the best unique things to do is to catch a ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, especially in peak fall foliage viewing times.
Camping at Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Overnight accommodations are limited in the park, even with camping. A car is definitely necessary to get around this park and could be used to drive the Riverview Road, too.
This is one of the top National Parks in the East Coast you should plan a visit to.
Contributed By: Paonpause.com
6. Great Smoky Mountains
Location: Tennessee and North Carolina
Where to Stay: Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the best East Coast National parks. It is the most visited of all US National Parks. It is the most biodiverse park in the United States.
It straddles the border of Tennessee and North Carolina on lands stolen from the Indigenous Cherokee people and showcases Southern Appalachia and the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Best Time to Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The best time is Summer and Fall. June, July, and August are the most popular times.
How Much Time Should I Spend at Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
You can sample the different landscapes in a weekend – but if you like hiking, you wouldn’t be bored with a week or more.
Things to Do at Smoky Mountain National Park
Hiking is the best way to see the park. If its views you’re after, the best hikes in the Smokies are Clingman’s Dome, Charlie’s Bunion, Rocky Top, or Mount LeConte. Easy waterfall hikes include Mingo Falls and the Deep Creek Waterfall Loop. You can book a guided hiking tour!
For wildlife, don’t miss the elk around the Oconaluftee Visitor Center. Visitors in June will get to see the synchronous fireflies. And look for endangered Hellbender salamanders in the many creeks.
Alternatives to hiking include horseback riding, tubing in the rivers, fishing, cycling Cades Cove, driving the scenic Route 441 across the ridge, and boat trips on Fontana Lake.
Explore the Remote Areas of the Smokies
The Smokies are among the U.S.’s most-visited parks. You’ll feel surrounded by crowds on popular trails, especially on the TN side. But the park also has an incredibly remote backcountry in the south and northeast.
There are few viable day hikes here, and you must reserve a backcountry permit in advance (they’re not competitive).
After you’ve lugged 30 pounds of camping gear up and down the 6,000-foot ridge, you’ll never want to go back to the crowds of Cades Cove again.
There are so many things to do at the Smoky Mountains. This makes one of the best East Coast National Parks.
Contributed By: Trainsplanesandtuktuks.com
7. Congaree National Park
Location: South Carolina
Where to Stay: Camping or Local Hotels
Congaree National Park is one of the least visited national parks in the East Coast and honestly all of the United States. Despite the fact that most people skip over this park, it has so much to offer in terms of things to do and see.
Best Time to Visit Congaree National Park
The best time to visit Congaree is late October/early November — temps are still comfortable in SC and the fall foliage is stunning.
Things to Do at Congaree National Park
Congaree is the perfect destination to get that East Coast parks experience and skip the crowds. Hiking, kayaking, fishing, and camping are some of the most popular activities at Congaree.
With over 25 miles of hiking trails and the opportunity to explore the Congaree River, this park is an outdoor lover’s paradise. Feel free to bring along your fur babies! Unlike most other national parks, Congaree is extremely dog-friendly.
Columbia, the state capital of South Carolina, is just 30 minutes northwest of the park, making it an easy day trip from the city.
Congaree National Park is one of the best National Parks in the East Coast that is worth a visit!
Contributed By: Madelyneonthemove.com
8. Everglades National Park
Location: Florida
Where to Stay: Mami or Ft Lauderdale
Everglades National Park is one of the great biological wonders of the world, a world heritage site, an International Biosphere Reserve, a Wetland of International Importance, and the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States. This makes it one of the most fascinating National Parks in the East Coast to explore.
Best Time to Visit Everglades National Park
December through April is the best time to visit this East Coast national park. With the more comfortable weather and the dry season, it is the best time to go.
Things to Do at Everglades National Park
Though the main focus of a visit is usually to spot some alligators, there is more to do than just searching for the modern-day dinosaurs. Everglades National Park features a variety of hiking trails, biking trails, bird watching, boating, and camping.
One of the most popular activities to do when visiting the Everglades is to take an airboat ride, where you glide over sawgrass as you search for alligators and other wildlife. It is really easy to book an airboat tour. Shark Valley is one of the best places to observe wildlife in its natural habitat.
How Long Should I Spend at Everglades National Park?
You will want at least two to three days to get a feel for the park. If you want to fully explore the park, give yourself a week. You will be able to cover the most ground by exploring by car.
There are so many things to do at the Everglades. It is one of the best East Coast national parks.
Contributed By: Worldadventurists.com
9. Biscayne National Park
Location: Florida
Where to Stay: Mami or the Florida Keys
If you enjoy nature and the great outdoors then Biscayne National Park is a beautiful place to explore. Located on the southern tip of Florida this is a gorgeous spot for hiking, swimming, and exploring. It is one of the best East Coast parks!
The Best Time to Visit Biscayne National Park
The best time to visit is November – May. These times are outside of the hurricane season.
Things to Do at Biscayne National Park
Definitely visit this park on a weekend with good weather to get the best experience possible. Of course, activities at Biscayne are all about the water. Go on a boat tour, go fishing or even snorkeling or enjoy a day by the beach.
One of the best ways to explore the park is by kayak. You can rent them or go on a guided tour which will take you to all the best spots around.
Keep an eye out for rare bird species and take fishing equipment if that is something you enjoy. Just make sure you adhere to any local laws and regulations when it comes to fishing.
How Long Should I Spend At Biscayne National Park?
If you’re visiting Biscayne National Park you should stay for at least a weekend, maybe even a week if you have the time.
The park is not extremely large but it’s very long so it can take some time to get from one end to another. This is a fun national park on the East Coast.
Contributed By: Guideyourtravel.com
10. Big Cypress National Preserve
Best Time to Go to Big Cypress National Preserve
The best time to go is December – March. There are fewer bugs, more and greater wildlife viewing opportunities. The area may be a little more crowded but the weather conditions are perfect!
How Much Time Should I Spend at Big Cypress National Preserve?
Things to Do at Big Cypress National Preserve
11. Dry Tortugas National Park
Location: Florida
Where to Stay: Key West
Located nearly 70-miles off the coast of Key West, Florida is Dry Tortugas National Park. One of the most remote east coast national parks in the United States, Dry Tortugas is made up of a series of small islands.
Best Time of Year to Visit Dry Tortugas National Park
The best time to go is November – April. There won’t be as much wind and it makes the water conditions much better.
Things to Do at Dry Tortugas National Park
There are several activities at Dry Tortugas National Park, but one of the main attractions is traveling by ferry or seaplane to reach the remote islands. Each option offers a unique experience, be sure to compare the pros and cons of traveling by Dry Tortugas ferry or seaplane.
During a day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park take a tour of Fort Jefferson, go bird watching, and snorkel. The water surrounding Fort Jefferson is home to beautiful coral reefs. The National Park Service claims 99% of this national park is actually made up of the underwater coral and sea life.
Camping at Dry Tortugas National Park
Enhance a visit to Dry Tortugas National park by spending the night camping outside of Fort Jefferson. With some advance planning, reserve a camping ticket on the ferry and spend a few days on a remote island. Watch the sunset from the top of Fort Jefferson, spend the evening stargazing and go for a morning swim.
Dry Tortugas is one of the best East Coast National Parks.
Contributed By: Htwtravel.com
12. US Virgin Islands National Park
Location: Virgin Islands
Where to Stay: Resorts on the Island
The Virgin Islands National Park is located on St. John island, which is one of the three major islands that make up the U.S Virgin Islands. It’s a paradise-like national park with crystal clear water beaches and an abundance of wildlife.
Best Time of Year to Visit Virgin Island National Park
There really isn’t a bad time to visit! April – June is probably the best because December – March is the peak season. It is really wonderful anytime you go.
Hiking at Virgin Island National Park
It’s nearly 7000 acres large and has numerous trails to hike for any skill level. Some of its most popular hiking trails are Lind Point Trail which takes you to the beach, Reef Bay Trail, one of its most famous trails, and Caneel Hill trail.
It’s not an uncommon sight to see donkeys or goats around the island, especially near the roads, so keep that in mind if you’re driving. If you’re taking a ferry from St. Thomas to get to St. John, there will be plenty of restaurants in the entrance area, so be sure to grab a quick bite before heading out. You’ll struggle to find any food options when you’re out and about by the park.
If you’re looking for an East Coast national park where you can hike in paradise and then reward yourself with a relaxing day at the beach, then the U.S Virgin Islands are the perfect East Coast national park.
Close to the U.S Virgin Islands is also the British Virgin Islands, which you can visit if you plan your trip accordingly. However, their national park isn’t as extensive or popular as the Virgin Islands National Park.
Contributed By: Travelexplorator.com
13. Cumberland Island National Seashore
Location: Georgia
Where to Stay: Local Bed and Breakfast
Many people have never heard of the gem that is Cumberland Island National Seashore. It is an East Coast National Park treasure.
Located in the southeast tip of Georgia, visiting the island will require a boat trip. Once there, you could explore Cumberland Island in one day or camp for a few nights.
Best Time to Visit the Cumberland Island National Seashore
The best time to visit the Cumberland Island is January – March. There aren’t as many bugs and the weather is nice.
Things to Do on Cumberland Island National Seashore
What makes the trip so incredible, you may ask? To start, the island is teeming with beautiful wild horses grazing on the green grass butting against white sand beaches.
There’s also an incredible amount of history that includes plantations, Carnegie mansions, and the small chapel where John F. Kennedy Jr. got married. This little island is full of surprises – what will you discover during your visit?
National Seashores are some of the East Coast parks you do not want to miss!
Contributed By: Parksexpert.com
14. Cape Hatteras National Seashore
Location: North Carolina
Where To Stay: Outer Banks
Did you know that the Outer Banks of North Carolina is also home to a National Seashore? The nation’s first National Seashore, Cape Hatteras National Seashore, was established to protect North Carolina’s 70 miles of barrier islands.
Popular for its pristine beaches, the Outer Banks attracts thousands of tourists year-round. From Hatteras to Nags Head, there are a ton of fun things that can’t be missed.
Best Time to Visit Cape Hatteras National Seashore
The best time to enjoy the warm water activities is late April – early June and then again in mid-September -late October.
Things to Do at Cape Hatteras National Seashore
Families can enjoy hiking, fishing, water sports, and of course the beach! If you’re looking for wildlife and nature, be sure to check out Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge.
You can also visit three different lighthouses in the area: The Bodie Island Light Stations, Cape Hatteras Light Station, and Ocracoke Light Station.
Finish up your time in the Outer Banks by exploring all the fun things to do in Nags Head including a trip to the Wright Brothers National Memorial. History comes alive as you learn about our country’s first flights. You also won’t want to miss a trip to the east coast’s tallest sand dunes at Jockey’s Ridge State Park.
A visit to the Outer Banks and Cape Hatteras National Seashore is an East Coast family vacation that your family is guaranteed to love!
Contributed By: Morethanmainstreet.com
15. Blue Ridge National Parkway
Locations: Virginia and North Carolina
Where to Stay: Cherokee NC
The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of America’s most scenic drives and spans from its southern tip in Cherokee, NC to its northern tip in Afton, VA. What many people don’t know is that the Parkway is part of the National Parks System and there is so much more to it than driving.
Best Time to Visit the Blue Ridge Parkway
Spring to Fall is the best time to visit this National Park in the East Coast parkway.
How Much Time Should I Spend on the Blue Ridge Parkway?
You can drive the Parkway in about two days if you choose to only stop at overlooks. However, I recommend taking a week and stopping off to hike and explore the cute towns along the Parkway like Linville Falls, NC.
Things to Do Along the Blue Ridge Parkway
If you like hiking then be sure to stop at Graveyard Fields, Crabtree Falls, Grandfather Mountain, and Peaks of Otter. There are plenty of waterfall hikes or hikes with gorgeous mountain vistas depending on what you like.
There are also a few different wineries that you can stop at along the way. Linville Falls Winery, Grandfather Vineyard & Winery, and Chateau Morrisette are some of the best.
You’ll find stunning mountain vistas in the North Carolina section and rolling farmland in the Virginia portion. There are tons of unique stops in every section so the best way to enjoy the Parkway is without a timeline.
The Blue Ridge Parkway is beautiful in every season, but it does close often in the winter so be sure to check before your trip. This should be included in your East Coast national park road trip.
Contributed By: Stuckonthego.com
Are You Ready to Visit Some East Coast National Parks?
The East Coast parks are amazing! There are lots of East Coast Historical Sites to see along the way too. Hopefully, you found one that you are excited to visit. I know I would love to visit all the national parks in the East Coast.
Have fun visiting the best East Coast National Parks USA!
Once you have visited all the east coast national parks be sure to visit the West Coast National Parks including the Utah National parks. These include Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Zion, and Bryce. California has some amazing national parks as well. Idaho and Wyoming have Yellowstone which is my favorite!
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This is a fabulous guide. I’m ashamed to admit that I live in this half of the States and have only been to a handful of these national parks. It’s time to get back out there!! Sadly, I also think I just read that tent and RV camping is now completely prohibited in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park 🙁
We are checking a few of these National Parks off our list this year. Of course, there are more I want to see.
We didn’t get a chance to do any National Parks on our last road trip, but I would love to check off several of these at some point! Hopefully we will be able to start traveling to the US again next year, so we can continue exploring!
These look great! I’ve spent time in the Smokies, and I once lived near Skyline Drive in Front Royal, Virginia, for six months, but I need to get on a lot of these! I’d go do them all today if I could!
At least 3 of these are within driving distance and possibly a day or overnight trip. I’ll have to plan a trip during the week this summer for hiking fun!
It’s the perfect time to get outside! And would love to visit all of these East Coast national parks! So beautiful!
Fantastic post. There are so many great places to visit on the east coast.
These are beautiful parks to explore! I’ll be in the Great Smokies this fall.
This is a must read for anyone looking to get out there and explore this summer! Thanks for putting this together!
Thanks, Summer is a great time to explore these parks.
Acadia looks so incredible! I have never een to Maine and it just looks like such a perfect location to relax and explore.
I know I would love to go too!
I lived in Cuyahoga County for a while, but I have never been to the park. Next time I am in Ohio, I will have to check it out.
For sure!
Being from Indiana, I’ve driven through and visited the Smokies many times. The Blue Ridge Parkway is beautiful! And we recently got back from an amazing trip to Cumberland Island.
Acadia is on our must visit list! The sunrises sound beautiful! What activities do you suggest we do there?
Hiking is my favorite activity.
My husband and I love visiting national parks when we travel. I pinned it to refer back to it later.
Oh good! I’m glad!
Yes, I am ready to see some east coast national parks. There are a few that are not too far for us to visit. Thanks for compiling this great list.
I love when the parks are close by and you can visit often!
I love this area and need to get back and do some exploring! So many National parks with some amazing landscapes!
I love the landscapes!
I loved seeing the photo of Rose River in Shenandoah. That was the last hike we did before we left Virginia.
That is awesome!
I love exploring different parks and seeing the nature of different cities. Looks like a beautiful place.
There are some great parks!
Living on the West Coast, it’s too easy to forget there are parks other than Yosemite and Sequoia.
I know right! I always think of west coast national parks!
I love this list and want to go to every one of these parks! I have not been to a National Park east of the Mississippi, so I have some work to do. Great photos!
I know, I have to go to!
Yes, it definitely is time to get outdoors! I was just thinking today about how I need to visit Shenandoah National Park.
I wish I would have visited when I lived on the east coast!
I can’t wait to visit all of these National Parks!!
I know, me too. I can’t wait!
This is a wonderful curated list of the best national parks to visit on the east coast. I started to list which ones I wanted to visit and it was all of them! So beautiful!
Love that! Me too!
I love national parks, but have only ever been to ones on the west coast. This is a great list!
Me too! I need to go East!
This was an amazing guide! I would love to plan a trip to visit these parks! Thank you for the information!
I know I want to go too! I love national parks
What a great list!
These look like awesome National Parks to visit on the East Coast. We loved Acadia National Park and totally wish we would have had a 2nd day to spend there
I would love to go to Acadia!
Time for the outdoors & the National Parks!
Yes, it is a perfect time to get outdoors!
Wow, so many NP’s on the East Coast! I have only been to Acadia but I woudl love to visit some of the other suggestions!
I know there are so many to explore!
This is a good guide to national parks in the east coas
Thanks!
The vegetation in the Big Cypress National Preserve looks like a scary movie scene. I would like to visit the East Coast National Parks to do photography.
For sure! It gets the imagination going.
I used to love taking my family to national parks. It wasIt w