Looking for the best national parks in the Midwest? This is the guide for you!
Did you know that the Midwest has national parks? As a lifelong Midwest local, I honestly did not know this.
Seriously! My eyes were opened when I learned that nationally protected outdoor areas were indeed in my home region.
The Midwest is so known for being flat (and “mid”), I seriously was not even aware of this.
From the towering sands of Indiana Dunes to the underground world of Mammoth Cave National Park, which holds the title of the world’s longest-known cave system, the Midwest offers an array of adventures.
8 Best Midwest National Parks
1. Indiana Dunes National Park
Location: Indiana
Indidana Dunes is the Midwest national park that I visit most frequently!
The park offers over 50 miles of trails.
Beach lovers will enjoy the15 miles of pristine shoreline along Lake Michigan.
(My favorite part of Indiana Dunes is the slow reveal of blue Lake Michigan from the hiking trails!)
After exploring Indiana Dunes, you can hang out in the neighboring town of Beverly Shores.
Beverly Shores has restaurants, shopping, and is home to the historic 1933 World’s Fare Homes.
It’s easy to get to Indiana Dunes via train or drive from Chicago.
⭐Stay: Quality Inn
2. Badlands National Park
Location: South Dakota
Badlands National Park is known for its dramatic landscapes of layered rock formations.
The park offers hiking trails for all levels, including the easy Window Trail or the more challenging Saddle Pass Trail.
Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the chance to spot bison, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs in the wild.
Stargazing events are also a must-do, taking advantage of the park’s minimal light pollution.
Badlands National Park provides some of the best hiking in the Midwest!
⭐Stay: Badlands Frontier Cabins
Book at Booking.com3. Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Location: North Dakota
Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota showcases rugged badlands, wildlife, and stunning landscapes.
Visitors can hike the park’s trails, drive the scenic loop, and spot bison, elk, and wild horses.
The Painted Canyon Overlook offers panoramic views of the striking terrain.
Be sure to bring water and sunscreen, as the park’s weather can be unpredictable. Sunrise and sunset are the best times for photography and wildlife viewing.
Scenic drives through the park provide easy access to many viewpoints and trailheads, making it accessible for all ages and abilities.
⭐Stay: Little Missouri Inn & Suites Watford City
4. Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Location: Ohio
Cuyahoga Valley National Park offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural history.
Visitors can hike scenic trails, bike along the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath, and explore waterfalls like Brandywine Falls. Top hiking trails include Ledges Trail and Towpath Trail.
The park is home to wildlife, historic sites, and the Cuyahoga River, perfect for kayaking or scenic train rides.
Be sure to visit the Boston Mill Visitor Center for maps and tips.
⭐Stay: Sheraton Suites Akron Cuyahoga Falls
Read Next: Best Midwest Hiking
5. Voyageurs National Park
Location: Minnesota
Voyageurs National Park in Minnesota is a pristine wilderness area, offering visitors the unique opportunity to explore by water!
The park is known for water activities like kayaking and canoeing. There are also tons of hiking trails throughout the park.
Winter transforms Voyageurs into a snowy wonderland with activities like snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.
Read Next: Midwest Road Trips
6. Isle Royale National Park
Location: Lake Superior, Michigan
Isle Royale National Park in Michigan is a remote island paradise known for its pristine wilderness.
Visitors can hike, kayak, or take a boat to explore its rugged trails, dense forests, and crystal-clear lakes.
The park is famous for its wolf and moose populations, offering unique wildlife sightings.
Due to its isolation, plan ahead for accommodations and transportation, as access is limited to ferries or seaplanes.
Summer months are the best time to visit for milder weather and more activity options.
7. Mammoth Cave National Park
Location: Kentucky
Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky is home to the world’s longest known cave system!
Visitors can take guided cave tours, exploring vast underground chambers and intricate passageways.
Above ground, there are hiking and biking trails through lush forests and along the Green River.
Its underground cave adventures make Mammoth Cave a unique national park in the Midwest!
⭐Stay: Grand Victorian Inn
8. Gateway Arch National Park
Location: St. Louis, Missouri
Gateway Arch National Park in St. Louis, Missouri, stands out for its unique blend of natural beauty and urban architecture.
The park is centered around the Gateway Arch with views of the city and the Mississippi River from its observation deck.
Though not known for hiking trails, the park features beautifully landscaped grounds perfect for leisurely walks and picnics.
The park also hosts riverboat cruises, historical exhibits within the Museum at the Gateway Arch, and outdoor concerts.
⭐Stay: Saint Louis Autograph Collection
Other Midwest Attractions
1. Pictured Rocks
Location: Along the shore of Lake Superior in Michigan
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is perched beautifully along the southern shore of Lake Superior in Michigan.
It is known for breathtaking views like multicolored sandstone cliffs, expansive beaches, and dense forests.
It stands out for its impressive hiking trails, such as the Chapel Loop, which grants hikers picturesque views of the cliffs and waterfalls.
Seasonal activities include kayaking or showshoeing.
⭐Stay: North Star Hotel
Read Next: Midwest Weekend Couples Getaways
2. Apostle Islands
Location: Wisconsin
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin is famous for its stunning natural beauty.
The best things to do include admiring its crystal-clear waters, historic lighthouses, and a cluster of 21 islands.
Visitors can explore a variety of forest hiking trails overlooking Lake Superior.
Top activities include kayaking near the sea caves during warmer months, and snowshoeing during winter months.
3. Nebraska National Scenic River
Location: Nebraska
Nebraska National Scenic River is ideal for kayaking and canoeing.
The surrounding areas are dotted with hiking trails that cater to all levels of experience.
⭐Stay: Harmony Inn & Suites
4. Effigy Mounds National Monument
Location: Iowa
Effigy Mounds National Monument stands out within the National Park Service for its unique cultural and historical significance.
It is home to over 200 prehistoric mounds built by Native American tribes.
Visitors can explore this sacred landscape through a network of hiking trails near the Mississippi River.
The park also provides educational programs and guided tours.
⭐Stay: Cobblestone Inn and Suites
5. Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve
Location: Kansas
Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve in Kansas offers expansive views of one of the last remaining tallgrass prairies in the U.S.
Visitors can hike scenic trails, spot wildlife like bison and prairie chickens, and learn about the area’s ecological importance at the visitor center.
The preserve also has historical sites, including a restored 19th-century ranch.
Be prepared for hot, dry conditions in summer, and bring plenty of water.
Early morning or late afternoon visits are ideal for wildlife viewing and cooler temperatures.
Conclusion
Imagine exploring the hidden gems tucked away in the Midwest! You’ll quickly learn that the Midwest isn’t always flat.
The Midwest’s national parks are filled with stunning beauty and diverse ecosystems.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a peaceful retreat, the Midwest’s national parks welcome you!
