National Wildflower Week is the first full week in May but you can enjoy wildflowers the whole month through and beyond. A camping trip in spring in one of the following state parks will bring you not only great recreation opportunities but also plenty of wildflower viewing.
Raccoon Creek State Park, Pennsylvania
This state park is one of the largest in Pennsylvania. With more than 7,500 acres to explore, you are sure to find plenty to do. There are 44 miles of trails where you can hike, or you can get out on Raccoon Lake in a canoe, rowboat, kayak, or hydrobike. You can enjoy fishing in the lake or in Traverse Creek. See if you can catch a carp, bass, trout, or walleye. Best of all perhaps, is a walk through the Wildflower Reserve. Many of the 500 species of plants that grow here bloom in the spring. When available, take a guided wildflower walk and learn more about the flowers and plants growing in this reserve.
Kanopolis State Park, Kansas
Hiking in this state park has a lot of natural scenery, with sandstone canyons, rugged cliffs, and little caves carved out of the rock. The Horsethief Canyon Trail takes you into that landscape, but if you want to view meadows of blooming wildflowers and yucca plants, you should take the three-mile loop that brings you to this colorful view. You have 26 miles of trails to explore and lots of wildlife viewing opportunities as well. There are swimming beaches and boat ramps on the 3,500-acre lake, with abundant fish to catch. The park has two campgrounds, with nearly 450 campsites ranging from primitive to full hookups, and six cabins.
Recommended: Experience Outdoor Exercise on State Park Biking Trails
Wayfarers Unit – Flathead Lake State Park, Montana
Wayfarers is a special place in the spring because of the wildflowers that abound here. As you hike into the forest, youโll see the beauty of these colorful flowers. Another activity that attracts people to this park are the amazing sunsets over Flathead Lake. From the cliffs along the shore, you will see vistas of the beautiful lake any time of day. The lake itself provides water sports that the whole family will love. Get some sun by spending a day boating on the water. There is public access so you can launch your boat. Swimming in the lake will cool you off, and then you can enjoy a picnic overlooking the sparkling water. There are a number of nature trails where you can hike along the lakeโs shore. Accommodations include 30 campsites for tents, and RVs or trailers under 40 feet.
Brown County State Park, Indiana
This state park is called the โLittle Smokiesโ because the area resembles the Great Smoky Mountains. And just like the Great Smoky Mountains enthralls visitors with vistas of wildflowers, so does Brown County State Park. In the spring, everywhere you look youโll see wildflower displays created by nature along the hiking trails in the park. The best trail for wildflower viewing is Taylor Ridge Trail. If youโre up for it, try climbing the 90-foot fire tower for some amazing views. You will find so much to do here, from canoeing and fishing, to wildlife viewing and bird watching. Two rare finds exist here too, which you need to make a point to see. On Trail 5, make time to visit the state-endangered Yellowwood tree. At the nature center, you should stop by to see the state-endangered timber rattlesnake. You never know what interesting things youโll discover at this state park.
Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site, Texas
Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site is teeming with wildflowers during spring, and it is a sight to see. As you hike the easy trails through the park, youโll be amazed at the diversity of these colorful plants. Other marvels of the park are the longhorn cattle, and the American bison
Be sure to see the historic cabins on the park grounds, including the Danz Family log cabin and the Behrens Cabin with period furnishings. Other activities include bird watching, fishing in the river, and wildlife viewing. Youโll have the opportunity to swim in the pool in the summertime and play tennis or baseball throughout the year. It is a historic site that offers many amenities to enjoy.
Are you ready for an outdoor adventure? Plan your camping trip!
Check with your Local Government Organization
Many policies have been established to counter and control the coronavirus outbreak. State and local officials have been taking decisive action to stop the spread. The policies vary by state, sometimes to a great degree. When you book a reservation, make sure to review the park and state’s latest rules and regulations prior to your visit.
For COVID-19 updates, please visit our Impacted Park List and Reservation Guide for the latest information.