The United States is a vast land of astonishing beauty and endless adventure that provides something for everyone. The East Coast of the US consists of all the states that have a shoreline on the Atlantic Ocean. Although Pennsylvania, Vermont, and West Virginia have no Atlantic coastline, they are still considered a part of the East Coast of the US because of their locations.
The East coast national parks are varied and offer stunning hikes, swamps, and marshes, and bottomland forests. This guide to the national parks on the East coast will provide you with all the information that you will need before planning your trip to some of the best national parks on the East Coast. Find out the best way to reach, the best time to visit, things to do, where to stay, where you eat, and more.
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List of East Coast National Parks
- Congaree National Park
- Shenandoah National Park
- Great Smoky Mountain National Park
- Biscayne National Park
- Acadia National Park
- Everglades National Park
- New River George National Park
United States East Coast National Parks Map
Best National Parks on the East Coast
1. Congaree National Park, South Carolina
By Rachel of Means to Explore
Congaree National Park is South Carolina’s underrated but beautiful old-growth bottomland forest along the banks of the Congaree River. Located in the middle of the state you’d never guess you’re just outside of Columbia, the state’s capital. Fly into Columbia, hop on I-26 East to I-77 North, and be at the park’s Harry Hampton Visitor Center in 30 minutes!
What is the entrance fee for Congaree National Park?
The Entree to Congaree National Park is FREE so come hike and kayak to your heart’s content!
When is the best time to visit Congaree National Park?
South Carolina has hot, humid summers so visit between October to May for more manageable temperatures and mosquito levels (A bug spray is still necessary).
How many days do you need in Congaree National Park?
2-3 days is the perfect amount of time to experience Congaree. Hiking Trails in Congaree are the main activity, but kayaking Cedar Creek or the Congaree River deserves a day of its own, too.
Insider Tip: Check the water gauges and the weather before you go. This is a bottomland forest, and it floods several times a year. Even the Boardwalk Trail floods sometimes!
Where to stay in Congaree National Park?
A small reservation fee is required to camp at one of the two, tent-only campgrounds. Or, Columbia has hotels and restaurants aplenty. Even if you stay in the middle of downtown, you’re only 30 minutes from the park. Check out accommodation options, the latest prices, and more details here.
Where to eat in Congaree National Park?
There are no food options available inside the park. Columbia has plenty of restaurants and the nearest town of Gadsden which is 10 mins from the park has very limited options.
What are the best things to do in Congaree National Park?
1. Stroll the Boardwalk Loop Trail for an easy introduction to the park. This trail is handicap accessible!
2. Kayak Cedar Creek: Bring your own kayak or rent from a local company.
3. Hike the River Loop Trail and see the park’s namesake, the mighty Congaree River.
4. Hike the Weston Lake Loop Trail to see Cedar Creek and Weston Lake and all the wildlife that lives in the waterways.
5. Watch the synchronous fireflies put on a show: This very popular event happens every year between mid-May to mid-June.
2. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
By Maggie of Pink Caddy Travelogue
Located just 50 miles from Washington, DC, Shenandoah National Park is a wilderness playground for those looking to escape the city. With hiking trails, the famous and scenic Skyline Drive, and several historical sites, Shenandoah offers something for everyone.
The best and easiest way to visit the park is via car, so if you’re flying in, you’ll want to rent one. Fly into one of the small regional closest airports, Shenandoah Valley or Charlottesville, both of which are about 40 minutes from a park entrance. Dulles International is a little farther away (about 2 hours) but offers better deals on flights.
What is the entrance fee for Shenandoah National Park?
You do not need a special permit to visit, but there is an entrance fee. An entrance pass for a single vehicle is $30 and is good for 7 days. The park is open 24/7 but Skyline Drive, the only main road in the park, does occasionally close for inclement weather.
When is the best time to visit Shenandoah National Park?
While Shenandoah National Park is beautiful year-round, the most popular time to visit is in the Fall when the trees are at their peak leaf color. However, that also means that’s when the park is most crowded. To avoid the crowds, consider visiting in the spring when the Azaleas and Rhododendrons are in full bloom and the summer heat hasn’t set in yet.
How many days do you need in Shenandoah National Park?
3-4 days is the ideal number of days that you need to explore Shenandoah National Park better.
Where to stay in Shenandoah National Park?
The most convenient place to stay is inside the park, at either Skyland or Great Meadows, the park’s two lodges. But you must make a reservation way in advance. They both also have dining rooms and snack bars. Outside of the park, the closest towns/cities are Harrisonburg and Charlottesville. You can check accommodation options, latest prices for Harrisonburg here and Charlottesville here.
Where to eat in Shenandoah National Park?
There are multiple options to eat in Shenandoah National Park. With food stops located every 25 miles or so, you will not have to worry about food. Elkwallow Wayside, Skyland, and Big Meadows lodge are a few options.
What are the best things to do in Shenandoah National Park?
1. Hike the Old Rag Mountain: Shenandoah has over 500 miles of hiking trails, many of which go to scenic vistas or waterfalls. Old Rag Mountain is a tough hike that greets you with scenic vistas but takes around 5-6 hrs to complete.
2. Explore Rapidan Camp: You can also visit Rapidan Camp established by President Hoover or one of the various original homesites.
3. Skyline Drive: Visitors can also drive the length of the 100-mile Skyline Drive, which follows along the top of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
4. Dark Hollow Falls: One of the most popular hikes in this national park that is short but steep and rocky.
5. Hike Hawksbill Mountain and see a stunning sunset, only if you are an experienced hiker to hike back in dark, otherwise, the views from the summit are good anytime.
3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
By Carrie of Trains Planes and Tuktuks
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the crown jewel of the East Coast and the most visited East Coast National Park. This park straddles the border of North Carolina and Tennessee. It’s home to some of the highest peaks in the east, which are often enveloped in “smoky” fog. And it’s the most biodiverse park in the United States. Most people access the Smokies from the gateway towns of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, TN. There’s a small regional airport between them, where you can rent a car to reach the park.
What is the entrance fee for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
The Smokies are free to visit unless you want to camp in the backcountry. Campsites require permits, which cost $5/night.
When is the best time to visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
The Great Smoky Mountains are a fabulous year-round destination. Early November is perfect for autumn leaves and few crowds, or go in April for wildflowers.
How many days do you need in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
There is no perfect amount of time to spend at Smoky Mountain National park. You could rush through a few of the top trails and viewpoints in the Smokies in two days. But you wouldn’t be bored with a week (or a month — or a lifetime) in this enormous park.
Where to stay in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
The most popular place to stay when visiting the Great Smoky Mountains NP is Gatlinburg, TN. But it’s also a horrible tourist trap — Bryson City or Waynesville, NC is more pleasant. (One caveat: The NC side is a bit of a drive from the popular Cades Cove area. But on the whole, the NC-side hikes are better). Inside the park, your options are car campgrounds (restrooms, no showers) and backcountry campsites/shelters.
Many people are surprised at how truly remote Great Smoky Mountains National Park is. The only lodge is an 8-mile hike from the nearest road. Check out the accommodation options in Waynesville here and Bryson city here.
Where to eat in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
There are no food options, not even a snack shop. Pack a lunch if you’re visiting for the day, and do your grocery shopping in Gatlinburg or Waynesville if you’re camping.
What are the best things to do in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
1. Hiking: The most popular activity in Smokies is hiking and there are a lot of hikes in Smoky Mountains National Park. Deep Creek Waterfall Loop is a great option for beginner hikers. Charlie’s Bunion is a unique 8-mile trek to panoramic views. Experienced hikers will love Mt. LeConte, Mt. Sterling, and Mt. Cammerer.
2. Explore the beaches: For a more relaxing vacation, rent a tube and float down the river at Deep Creek. Or explore Fontana Lake by boat or kayak – the islands have beautiful beaches that you’ll have to yourself.
3. For those who prefer to see the Smokies by car, a stop at the Newfound Gap Overlook is essential. Then, head up to Clingmans Dome – the highest peak in the park. It’s a popular spot for sunrise (when the fog doesn’t spoil the views). Clingmans Dome Road is closed in winter.
4. Firefly Festival: If you visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park in June, try to get a ticket for the synchronous firefly festival. These unique lightning bugs put on a spectacular show each year at Elkmont Campground. The ticket lottery opens at the end of April.
Tips for visiting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The biggest safety consideration in the Smokies is wildlife — namely bears. You have a high chance of seeing one, but it won’t bother you if you don’t bother it. Stay 100 feet away if you can, and make noise while you hike so you don’t surprise them. Secure all food in your car, backpack, or bear-safe trash can, hang your entire backpack from the cables at backcountry campsites, and never leave food unattended.
You may also encounter elk, which can be aggressive. Keep a 100-foot distance. Rattlesnakes and copperheads are the biggest non-mammalian risks — check for copperheads before sitting on or leaning against trees and logs.
Insider Tip: If you plan to do a lot of hiking, look at a topographic map in advance. Many trails in the Smokies require deep river crossings.
4. Biscayne National Park
By Candice of CS Ginger
As one of the most unique East Coast National parks in the United States, visiting Biscayne National Park is a lot of fun and a great way to spend the day out on the water. Biscayne National Park is about an hour south of Miami. Miami International Airport is the closest major airport and the next closest major airport is the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport.
What is the entrance fee for Biscayne National Park?
There is no entrance fee to get into Biscayne National Park. The waters are open all the time, but the Visitor Center and boat launch do have hours of operation. The Visitor Center is open every day from 9 AM – 5 PM and the boat launch is open from 7 AM – 5:30 PM.
When is the best time to visit Biscayne National Park?
Florida has year-round sunshine so there is no bad time to visit, however, it would be best to visit Biscayne National Park during Florida’s dry season i.e from Mid-December to Mid-April.
How many days do you need in Biscayne National Park?
Considering the majority of the If you have more time then spend as many days as you can.
Where to stay in Biscayne National Park?
There is the small town of Homestead about 20 minutes west of the park. There is not a lot to do in Homestead besides visiting the national parks in the area so it would be best to stay in Miami or Key Largo. Check out the accommodation option for Homestead, and Key Largo.
Where to eat in Biscayne National Park?
There are not any restaurants or dining options in the park so you will need to bring your own lunch and snacks. But the town of Homestead or Miami has several options.
What are the best things to do in Biscayne National Park?
The best way to explore Biscayne National Park is on a tour with the Biscayne National Park Institute. They have several tours available like the Heritage of Biscayne Cruise, snorkeling and scuba tours, and paddling tours. These tours last half a day to a full day.
If you do not want to snorkel or paddle, the Heritage of Biscayne Cruise is a great tour. A knowledgeable tour guide will take you to see many of the keys in the park and then you will have about an hour to explore one of the larger keys in the park-like Boca Chita.
Besides your tour, you can explore the visitors center and the short walking paths around the visitor center. Plan on spending a half-day to a full day in the park depending on the length of your tour.
5. Acadia National Park, Maine
By Michelle of The Wandering Queen
Located in Maine, Acadia National Park is one of the best East Coast National Parks that can be best reached by car. Fly into Boston, rent a car, and drive around 4.5 hrs to reach Acadia. It is filled with mountains, beautiful beaches, excellent food, and cute lighthouses. You will fall in love with this one-of-a-kind fantastic park!
What is the entrance fee for Acadia National Park?
To enter Acadia National Park, all visitors must purchase, print (online), and display a weekly, annual, or lifetime pass. The private vehicle pass costs $30 and is valid for 7 days.
When is the best time to visit Acadia National Park?
The best time to go to Acadia National Park in terms of pleasant weather is between late spring and fall. But considering how popular it is, it is always crowded.
How many days do you need in Acadia National Park?
All you need is around 3 days to see a majority of this outstanding national park! If you have clue from where to start then take the Acadia National Park self-guided driving tour.
Where to stay in Acadia National Park?
Acadia National Park is located right next to the cutest town called Bar Harbor. This quaint, adorable town filled with restaurants, bars, shops, and hotels is the perfect getaway spot. The atmosphere is contagious, especially on beautiful sunny days. Check out the accommodation option and latest prices here.
Where to eat in Acadia National Park?
One of the best places to eat is the Jordan Pond which has some of the best popovers! Just make sure to make a reservation before getting here as it can get pretty crowded.
What are the best things to do in Acadia National Park?
Some of the best things to do in Acadia National Park include sunrise at Cadillac Mountain, driving the park loop road, hanging out at the beaches, biking the carriage road, watching the sunset at Bass Harbor Lighthouse, hiking the precipice trail, and rock climbing. Permits are only required for sunrise at Cadillac Mountain and it is worth it to obtain this permit!
6. Everglades National Park
By Lori of Naples Florida Travel Guide
Located in the southern tip of the Florida peninsula, Everglades National Park is a unique wildness region in the United States with unique sub-tropical habitat found nowhere else in the world. The Park sits squarely between Miami and southwest Florida and Naples in southwest Florida, occupying the majority of the land between the two, so you can drive to the Park from either coast. It’s just not so easy to explore when you get there.
What is the entrance fee for Everglades National Park?
The National Park Entrance fees range from $15-30 USD depending on whether you’re walking, riding a motorcycle, or driving a car, and is valid for 7 days.
When is the best time to visit Everglades National Park?
The best time of year to visit the Everglades National Park depends on how much you mind the south Florida heat and humidity. Winter from November through April is a good time to visit for perfect weather and fewer mosquitoes and humidity. Kayaking and wildlife sightings aren’t as good as in the summertime.
How many days do you need in Everglades National Park?
Everglades National Park is one of the largest parks in the United States so allow at least 2-3 days to explore it. If you are short on time then booking a 3-part Miami tour is the best way to discover the rich wildlife in the Everglades, visit the hotspots in Miami City like Wynwood and Miami Beach, and take a cruise of Biscayne Bay, passing by “Millionaire’s Row”.
Where to stay in Everglades National Park?
If you are looking to stay overnight in the park, there are several campgrounds near Everglades National Park where you can pitch a tent, park your RV, or stay overnight in a comfy cabin. For outside park accommodation options and the latest prices, check here.
Where to eat in Everglades National Park?
There are limited options of food and beverages at Everglades National Park that are sold at Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center bookstore, at the Royal Palm Visitor Center bookstore, at the Flamingo marina store, and at the Gulf Coast Visitor Center store so it’s recommended to bring your own food during the stay.
What are the best things to do in Everglades National Park?
Exploring Everglades National Park is easy from the bow of a kayak, airboat, or hiking along grassy trails and boardwalks above the soggy landscape. Most adventurers bring a bike or kayak to get closer to the water. An airboat ride is also a fun (but noisy) way to glide over the water.
A visit to Shark Valley Visitor Center is a must, and you can take a tram ride along 15 miles of secluded trail to see local wildlife. There are several Seminole Native American villages you can visit to see the original culture of the Glades along with several Seminole-run cafes where you can try the local fry bread for lunch.
7. New River Gorge National Park
By Megan of Red Around The World
New River Gorge National Park is one of the newest East Coast national parks and it can be found outside of Beckley, West Virginia which is also the closest airport. From Beckley, the best way to get anywhere in New River Gorge National Park is going to be by driving yourself. The only public transportation option for getting to the park is a taxi.
What is the entrance fee for New River Gorge National Park?
There are no special permits needed to visit New River Gorge National Park and preserve.
When is the best time to visit New River Gorge National Park?
There isn’t a bad time to visit the park, but fall will be best with summer in a close second. In the fall (mid-late October) you’ll get to see the leaves changing which is always amazing.
How many days do you need in New River Gorge National Park?
You can easily spend a few weeks here, but even if you just have one day in New River Gorge, you can see the main highlights. To see the main sights in the park is anywhere from 20-50 minutes, averaging about 30 minutes for most. If you don’t have many days then 2-3 would be the best.
Where to stay in New River Gorge National Park?
Beckley is going to be the most central place to stay when you’re visiting since the park and the main stops are pretty spread out. Beckley makes it easy to see all of them with similar drive times between them. The Clarion Pointe is a great place to stay that’s easy to get to and close to lots of food options. Check out the accommodation options and the latest prices here.
Where to eat in New River Gorge National Park?
Restaurants and grocery stores can be found in Beckley, Fayetteville, Sandstone, Glen Jean, and other towns around the park.
What are the best things to do in New River Gorge National Park?
There are tons of amazing things to do in the park but some of the best are driving the 7 mile Fayette Station Road from the Canyon Rim Visitor Center down to the river with a view of the bridge and back up. Before you leave the visitor center, make sure to do a short walk to the bridge view. It’s short but has a lot of stairs. This takes 1-2 hours depending on how much you stop and can be more if you hike it all.
Hiking to Sandstone Falls is an easy 0.5-mile boardwalk and hiking the Glade Creek Trail is a moderate 5.6 miles with a strenuous 0.2-mile option to Kate’s Falls. The Main Overlook at Grandview is a short, less than 0.5-mile round-trip, walk to a stunning overlook. If you want to hike in the Grandview area, there are tons of trails to choose from. If you really want to do something adventurous, consider doing a whitewater rafting trip. It’s some of the best in the country.
Tips on visiting National Parks
Visiting the national parks is fun and adventure but it also comes with a set of responsibilities. Always make sure to leave nothing but footprints, pack proper gear according to the activity you are doing. If it’s hiking have proper hiking shoes, don’t forget a reusable bottle and some food. You should also be prepared for unexpected weather.
The cell reception in National Parks can be sketchy so make sure to tell someone before visiting the park or start a hike so that in case of a mishap, someone should always know your whereabouts. Respect the rules that the park has set out, and every park may have different rules so make sure to read the rules before the trip.
Final Thoughts
When talking about National Parks in the US, people don’t think about the East Coast National Parks rather, the majority of people can only think of Grand Canyon, Utah, and Yosemite. But East Coast National Parks offers a wide variety of things to do and are diverse. They also boast of natural beauty and rich wildlife. I hope this post inspires you to take a trip to the East Coast National Parks and see their beauty.
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I am from the East Coast and do not recognize most of these national parks!
I’d say Acadia and the Everglades are probably the ones I would want to see the most, especially as they’re so different. In fact all of these parks all have something completely unique that the others don’t have which is why travel through the US is so amazing. Seeing alligators would be awesome (from a distance)
This is a great list! I’ve only heard of two of these national parks before, and I haven’t been to the states as many times as I would have liked in order to visit some national parks. I would love to check all of these out and go hiking in them at some point!
As usual, a very nice post, Suvarna. You write it so descriptively that you take the reader to the destination.