Travel TipsĀ
The Best of the Midwest: 7 National Parks You Never Thought to Visit in the Middle of the Country
Photo credit: National Park Service ā M. Reed
1. Badlands National Park
South Dakota
With a name like Badlands, youād expect the landscape to be dramatic. And it is. Rugged buttes jut out from the surrounding prairie lands in a way thatās somewhat unexpected and absolutely stunning. During golden hour, the scenery is even more spectacular as the sunās soft light enhances the color of the buttes, making them even more striking.
Those that only have a short amount of time to visit this park should plan on driving the Badlands Loop Road (SD Hwy 240), which offers excellent views of the Badlands. Ben Reifel Visitor Center is a great stop along the way to learn more about the parkās cultural history, ecology, and paleontology.Ā Ā
If you have more time to explore, check out theĀ hiking trailsĀ orĀ bike routes, do someĀ birdwatchingĀ andĀ wildlife viewing, or visit theĀ Fossil Prep LabĀ and watch paleontologists at work.Ā Ā
Badlands National Park is just one of the many things to see in the Black Hills area. Those that have a few days in the area may be interested inĀ this itinerary.Ā
Photo credit: Erik Drost
2. Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Ohio
Located the farthest east of the parks on this list of Midwest national parks, Cuyahoga Valley National Park has plenty of historic charm in addition to its natural beauty. One example of this historic charm is the Stanford House, a house that belonged to James Stanford who was one of the original settlers of the Cuyahoga Valley. Today, visitors are able to book a room andĀ spend the nightĀ at this historic house! Historic charm can also be seen inĀ The Inn at Brandywine Falls, another one of the parkās lodging options.
Another piece of history that runs through Cuyahoga National Park is theĀ Towpath Trail, which follows the route of the Ohio & Erie Canal. This canal played a pivotal role in the settlement of several communities and the United Statesā industrial development.
The park also has plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation includingĀ hiking,Ā mountain biking,Ā kayaking and canoeing,Ā winter sports, and more.Ā Questing, a treasure hunt of sorts, is another popular activity in the park. For a unique experience thatās also a great way to see the park, take a ride on theĀ Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. This train can also be used as a shuttle to/from hiking and biking adventures in the park!
Photo credit: Sam Valadi
3. Gateway Arch National Park
Missouri
Gateway Arch National Park is unlike most other US national parks because of its urban setting. Formerly called Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, it gained national park designation in February 2018.
Located right in St. Louis, the 630-foot Gateway Arch dominates the cityās skyline.Ā For a unique experience and different perspective, visitors can take aĀ tram rideĀ to the top of the arch. While the visual focal point of this national park may be Gateway Arch, visitors shouldnāt miss the history associated with this landmark. AĀ museumĀ tells the story about the Native Americans, pioneers, and explorers that helped make America what it is today. TheĀ Old CourthouseĀ is another place at this national park that visitors can tour and learn more about United States history.
Photo credit: National Park Service ā M. Woodbridge Williams
4. Indiana Dunes National Park
Indiana
Nestled up against Lake Michigan lies one of Americaās newest national parks, Indiana Dunes National Park. Prior to being designated as a national park in February 2019, it was known as Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. As the name indicates, this national park features sand dunes formed and shaped by wind and water depositing sand.
With fifteen miles of beach, Indiana Dunes National Park is great for swimming and beach-going as well as water activities such as kayaking, fishing, and boating. Other outdoor activities includeĀ hiking,Ā bird watching,Ā horseback riding, and more.
Within the national parkās boundaries are also some interesting historic buildings including someĀ Century of Progress homes. A home tour of these unique homes is held each year. Indiana Dunes Outdoor Adventure Festival is another event the park hosts.
5. Theodore Roosevelt National Park
North Dakota
In the heart of North Dakotaās Badlands lies the stateās only national park, named after Theodore Roosevelt who spent a significant amount of time there prior to becoming President in 1901. Theodore Roosevelt National Park (TRNP) has acres of prairie lands along with the more rugged landscape of the Badlands. The Little Missouri River winds through the park as well.
TRNP is home to a variety of wildlife including bison, prairie dogs, wild horses, and more, providing excellent wildlife watching opportunities. Other activities visitors can do in the park include driving theĀ Scenic Loop,Ā hiking,Ā horseback riding,Ā canoeing/kayaking, andĀ camping.Ā You can also explore a few historic places in TRNP, including Theodore RooseveltāsĀ Elkhorn RanchĀ andĀ Maltese Cross Cabin.
To learn more about things to do near Theodore National Park,Ā click here.
Photo credit: Flickr user Fighting Irish 1977
6. Voyageurs National Park
Minnesota
Minnesota is known as the land of 10,000 lakes, so it makes sense that its sole national park includes several lakes and islands. Voyageurs National Park is located way up north, along the US-Canada border.
Because of its lakes and waterways, Voyageurs National Park is an appealing destination for those interested in canoeing, kayaking and boating. To have the best experience at this national park, youāll likely want to find some way to get on the water, whether itās with your own watercraft, aĀ rentalĀ or byĀ guided tour. Voyageurs is also a popular place forĀ houseboats.
This national park attracts winter enthusiasts as well, with options for cross country skiing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, and otherĀ winter activities.
Photo credit: Patrick Boyle
7. Wind Cave National Park
South Dakota
Wind Cave National Park is located in the Black Hills area of South Dakota, and features one of the longest caves in the world. When visiting this national park, you should definitely try to do aĀ cave tourĀ in order to get a closer look at this amazing underground geological formation.Ā Above ground, youāll find an abundance of prairie lands, with trails forĀ hikingĀ andĀ horseback riding.
Those planning to visit Wind Cave National Park should also plan to make Custer State Park a part of the trip! If youāre planning to make the Black Hills area part of a Yellowstone road trip, check outĀ this itinerary.
There are national parks everywhere!
Instead of just driving through the middle of the country right by some of these lesser-known national parks, consider making them a destination for your next trip!