The 10 most popular state parks in the U.S., according to Google Maps

Google Maps receives bazillions, if not more, requests for directions each day. Have you ever wondered which state park is researched the most? Or what state park in your home state is most mentioned in Google Maps requests? Me, too!

Here are Google’s top ten most-requested directions for state parks in each state.

Making the list

Google Maps compiled its “Most Popular State Parks” list from direction requests made on the platform since Memorial Day 2025. In other words, it’s a ranking of where people used Google Maps to look up directions most often during this summer season.

Google’s post about the analysis explains the time frame and the methodology. These include inquiries about directions, plus some extra insights like which parks get the most “picnic” or “hike” mentions.

Note: Google’s data window was Memorial Day through early August 2025.

The top 10

Take a look. Here are Google’s ten most popular state parks in the U.S.

Note: For your convenience, I’ve named the park, state, provided a short description, and noted if the camp allows overnight camping for RVs.

If the park is day-use only, I’ve suggested two nearby overnight alternatives for RVers. Why? Because if the park made Google’s top list, it’s probably worth a look even if you can’t stay overnight.

1. Watkins Glen State Park—New York (Schuyler County)

Why people love it: The park features a 2-mile gorge with 19 waterfalls. Nineteen! Watkins Glen is easily one of the Finger Lakes’ showstoppers. It’s perfect for hikes through dramatic stone bridges, creek side paths and waterfall viewpoints.

RV info: RV/tent campsites are available in the park. The park’s campground is quite large. See ReserveAmerica for the campground facilities and reservations. Watkins Glen makes a great campground base as you take day trips throughout the area.

2. Liberty State Park—New Jersey (Jersey City)

Why people love it: Liberty is on the edge of the surrounding urban area, with sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island. The park has a huge day-use appeal for skyline photos and picnics.

RV info: Day-use only (no campground inside the park). If you’re RVing, nearby options include:

• Liberty Harbor RV Park (Jersey City): This is an urban RV park right on the waterfront, making it convenient for short stays and transit connections into New York City.

• Floyd Bennett Field / Camp Gateway (Gateway National Recreation Area, Brooklyn): Floyd Bennett Field is a National Park Service campground with RV capacity. Check the current status before heading that way. It’s a good alternative if you want overnight camping near New York City.

3. Silver Falls State Park—Oregon (Silverdale)

Why people love it: This beautiful park holds the “Trail of Ten Falls,” and the iconic South Falls, where you can walk behind a waterfall. You’ll love the classic Pacific Northwest scenery.

RV info: Yes, the park features an established campground with reservable sites. Some electrical sites are available through Oregon State Parks / ReserveAmerica. Plan ahead, because this park is extremely popular.

4. Starved Rock State Park—Illinois (near Utica)

Why people love it: Starved Rock features sandstone canyons, seasonal waterfalls, and excellent day hikes. It’s just a couple of hours from Chicago.

RV info: You can camp at Starved Rock with your rig. There are Class A sites, and some offer electrical service. Reservations move fast for high season.

5. Letchworth State Park—New York (Castile)

Why people love it: Letchworth is called the “Grand Canyon of the East.” You’ll see dramatic gorges, scenic overlooks, and waterfalls. Bonus: There are plenty of trail options.

RV info: Letchworth has drive-in campsites with cabins and facilities suitable for RVs. Reserve ahead on New York’s reservation portal.

6. Hammonasset Beach State Park—Connecticut (Madison)

Why people love it: This top ten most popular state park includes two miles of Long Island Sound beach, with a boardwalk and family-friendly amenities. It’s Connecticut’s largest shoreline park.

RV info: Hammonasset has a campground with RV sites. Reserve through CT parks / ReserveAmerica. Expect crowds in summer and occasional capacity closures. Plan to arrive early on peak days.

7. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve—California (near Carmel)

Why people love it: This beloved coastal reserve features kelp forests, sea otters, dramatic coves, and photography-perfect trails. The park is a fragile reserve with strict rules to protect wildlife.

RV info: This is a day-use only park. Vehicles over 21 feet are restricted on park roads. Here are nearby alternative campgrounds:

• Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park (Big Sur): This large campground takes RVs, but it fills early. Reservations are recommended.

• Marina Dunes RV Park: This full hookup park offers many amenities to RVers. It’s also close to shopping, wineries, and so much more. Some say it’s the best RV park in the Monterey Bay area.

8. Warren Dunes State Park—Michigan (Sawyer)

Why people love it: Visitors can expect to see big dunes and the fabulous Lake Michigan shoreline. Available activities include hiking, sledding on sand, and family beach time.

RV info: There are two popular campgrounds in the park. Sites vary and some offer RV hookups. You’ll want to book early for summer weekends.

9. Blue Spring State Park—Florida (Orange City)

Why people love it: Blue Spring has a crystal-clear spring and is a major manatee refuge in cooler months. At Blue Spring, you can swim, kayak, and more!

RV info: Blue Spring has a small campground with RV/tent sites, but the park frequently reaches capacity for day use. Plan ahead and reserve.

10. Jones Beach State Park—New York (Long Island)

Why people love it: Jones Beach features wide ocean beaches and a classic boardwalk. It’s naturally a huge summer draw.

RV info: Day-use only. Nearby RV-friendly options include:

• Nickerson Beach Campground (Long Beach / Lido Beach) — This county campground has RV hookups and operates seasonally. It’s a good Long Island beach camping alternative.

• Heckscher State Park (Long Island) — This ReserveAmerica campground is near Long Island and offers overnight RV stays.

Quick RVer tips

Google Maps’ top state parks will undoubtedly see even more visitors in the coming weeks and months. Here are some tips to help you secure an RV site.

• If a park has in-park camping, reserve early. Many of these parks saw huge summer interest and sites sell out quickly. Use the official state parks reservation portals to book.

• For day-use only parks (Liberty State Park, Point Lobos, Jones Beach): Park your rig at a nearby RV park or National Park Service campground. Take public transit for a short ride to the park for the day.

• Watch vehicle-size/length rules. Some parks restrict large rigs. Check each park’s “rules/vehicle restrictions” page before you reserve a site.

• Think midweek or shoulder season. Google Maps’ ranking reflects summer demand. For a calmer RV experience, try visiting on a weekday or in spring/fall if the park’s facilities are open.

Did your favorite state park make Google Maps’ list of the top ten most popular? Have you visited any of the top ten parks mentioned? Tell us about your experience in the comments below.

RELATED

• Need a new place to walk? Try this trail-finding trick with Google Maps
• Using Google Maps’ little-known features
• Amazing Google Earth feature allows you to accurately measure campsites, parking spaces, more
• Top 10 National Parks – according to Google searches

RVT1222b