Begin with the park’s own information
State parks in the United States are run by individual state agencies, so rules, fees and facilities differ from state to state and even from park to park. Before you go, find the park’s official page and check the basics:
- Opening hours and seasonal closures
- Entry or parking fees and how to pay (some parks use cash boxes, some use apps or reservation systems)
- Alerts about trail closures, flooding, wildfire danger, construction or wildlife activity
- Rules about dogs, drones, fires, alcohol, bikes and swimming
- Whether you need a reservation, a day-use permit or a special pass for certain areas
Reservation systems can fill up on popular weekends and holidays, so look early if your plan depends on it. Cell service is often limited or absent in parks, so download maps and print or save directions before you leave.
Choose the right trail
A good trail matches the weakest member of the group, not the strongest. Park websites and trailhead signs usually list distance, elevation gain and difficulty. A few things to consider:
- Distance and time. A beginner or family group might comfortably do two to four miles, while experienced hikers might do much more. Allow extra time for stops and slower walkers.
- Elevation gain. A short trail with a steep climb can be harder than a long flat one.
- Surface. Some trails are paved or boardwalked, while others are rocky, muddy or have stream crossings.
- Loop or out-and-back. Loops avoid retracing steps, but out-and-back routes make it easy to turn around.
- Features. Waterfalls, overlooks, lakes or picnic areas make good destinations.
For the larger picture of outdoor trips, the topic of hiking and camping covers general skills, and the idea of a state park visit as an outing is the focus here. If you are curious about parks that are known for their scenery, state parks are also explored from the sightseeing angle.
Start earlier in the day if you can. It gives you more daylight, cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. Know your turnaround time, and stick to it. A rule such as “turn back at 2 p.m. or when half the water is gone” keeps you from being caught by darkness.
Check the weather
Look at the forecast the day before and again that morning, and pay attention to temperatures, wind, rain and thunderstorms. Mountain and canyon weather can change quickly. Heavy rain can turn trails to mud and raise streams. In hot weather, bring extra water and plan for shade. In cold seasons, dress in layers and remember that daylight is shorter.
Basic understanding of weather systems can help you read the sky: dark building clouds in the afternoon can mean a storm. If thunder is heard, move away from exposed ridges and open areas. When in doubt, head back.
Packing checklist
Use the following as a starting point and adjust for the season and length of the trip.
Essentials
- Plenty of water (a common rule of thumb is to carry more than you think you need)
- Snacks and a lunch
- Map or downloaded trail information, plus a charged phone and a power bank
- Sun protection: hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
- Appropriate footwear, broken in, with socks you do not mind getting dirty
- Rain layer and an extra warm layer
- Basic first aid kit with blister care
- Insect repellent, and a way to check for ticks afterward where they are common
- A whistle, flashlight or headlamp in case you stay out longer than planned
Comfort
- A small daypack
- A trash bag for your litter
- Hand sanitizer or wipes
- A change of clothes and shoes for the car
- Cash or a card for fees
Tell someone where you are going and when you plan to return, particularly if the park is remote.
Leave no trace
Parks stay attractive because visitors treat them carefully. The widely used leave-no-trace principles can be summarized:
- Plan ahead and prepare, as described above.
- Stay on durable surfaces, meaning established trails and campsites. Avoid cutting switchbacks or trampling vegetation.
- Pack out what you pack in, including food scraps, wrappers and tissues.
- Leave what you find. Do not pick flowers, move rocks or take natural objects.
- Be careful with fire. Use only designated fire rings if fires are allowed, and follow any bans.
- Respect wildlife. Observe from a distance and never feed animals. Store food securely.
- Be considerate of others. Keep noise low, yield on the trail and keep dogs under control if they are allowed.
The principle of caring for the places we visit overlaps with the wider idea of wildlife conservation, and your habits in a park are a small part of it.
At the park
Check in at the visitor center if there is one. Staff can tell you about current conditions and may suggest trails. Follow posted signs, since they usually exist for safety. Be aware of wildlife and plants that can cause harm, such as snakes, ticks or poison ivy in some areas. Do not approach wild animals, even ones that seem tame.
If you are swimming, check whether it is permitted and whether lifeguards are on duty. Water can be colder and more dangerous than it looks.
Wrapping up
Before you leave, check your group, your belongings and your trash. Note any hazards you saw and tell park staff if appropriate. A good day trip leaves you tired and happy and the park unchanged.