Step Off the Beaten Path: The Best National Park Adventures

Natural Wonders Await at these Often-Overlooked National Parks

The United States boasts an abundance of breathtaking natural landscapes protected within the National Park System. While countless visitors flock to a select few of the more well-known parks each year, there are many equally captivating national parks that often go overlooked. These off-the-beaten-path parks and landmarks invite visitors to break away from the crowds and immerse themselves in the breathtaking beauty and serenity of nature. For the traveler eager to avoid the traffic, there is no need to compromise when it comes to accommodations-all of which have the Select Registry seal of approval.

Discover unmatched hospitality and endless comfort at this selection of charming inns just a jaunt away from the hidden gems of the U.S. National Park System.

National Parks with Miles to Explore

New River Gorge National Park, West Virginia

Set in southern West Virginia, New River Gorge National Park and Preserve allows visitors to experience an adventure where old meets new. Despite being the nation’s youngest official national park, receiving the designation in 2020, it protects one of the oldest rivers on the continent—the New River.

Encompassing over 70,000 acres featuring scenic views, fascinating rock formations, tranquil trails, and more, New River Gorge National Park and Preserve provides boundless opportunities to experience nature in its most unfiltered form. From whitewater rafting down the Lower Gorge and walking the boardwalk to Sandstone Falls, to biking on a rail trail and visiting the ruins of Nuttallburg, a historic coal town, it is the perfect place to experience rich history and culture, outdoor recreation, and natural beauty in West Virginia.

Stay at Bluefield Inn

Less than two hours away from New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, stay in Southern-style comfort at the Bluefield Inn, listed on the National Historic Register. Stately rooms are complemented by expansive verandas and verdant gardens where guests can unwind after a day at the park or explore the nearby town of Bluefield. With a gourmet breakfast, spa-like bathrooms, and a library, the Bluefield Inn is the perfect retreat and homebase during an escape to the park.

Bluefield Inn

Stay at Lilly Valley Inn

Wake up to views of the New River as it meanders through the Appalachian Mountains from the Lilly Valley Inn. Breathtaking views and luxury accommodations make for a romantic setting to get away. Conveniently located between Blacksburg and Roanoke, Virginia, the Lilly Valley Inn puts visitors close to renowned wineries, scenic hiking trails, and fishing spots— not to mention New River Gorge National Park and Preserve.

Lilly Valley Inn

National Parks with Caves & Coastlines

Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, U.S. National Park, and home to the longest cave system in the world—Mammoth Cave National Park is a can’t-miss destination in the mountains of Kentucky.

At Mammoth Cave National Park, visitors have the opportunity to journey below the surface and back in time during an unforgettable cave tour showcasing underground waterways, towering rock formations, and ancient human artifacts. The park is also home to plenty of above-ground adventure—backcountry camping sites, over 80 miles of hiking trails, and serene spots to cast a line or paddle a kayak or canoe. At the end of a fulfilling day immersed in nature, return to serene accommodations at Charred Oaks Inn.

Stay at Charred Oaks Inn

Set in Kentucky’s bucolic horse country, Charred Oaks Inn provides an intimate setting from which to explore Lexington, attend a horse race, or sample some world-famous Kentucky bourbon. Charred Oaks Inn is also just under two hours away from Mammoth Cave and other natural attractions. Elegant finishes, timelessly adorned guest rooms and suites, and upscale amenities await!

Charred Oaks Inn

Stay at Chateau Bourbon

For the best of Southern living in neighboring Louisville, less than two hours from Mammoth Cave National Park, stay at Chateau Bourbon. From the genuine hospitality and soul-comforting food to the chance to sample Kentucky bourbon at a nearby distillery or catch a thoroughbred horse race at historic Churchill Downs, you’ll experience the best of the Bluegrass State.

Chateau Bourbon

Canaveral National Seashore, Florida

Discover the untamed coastline of Florida’s Canaveral National Seashore—the longest stretch of undeveloped coastline on the state’s Atlantic side. Here, visitors can bask in the splendor of the Sunshine State’s natural elements, like wide open spaces, rugged sand dunes, and salty Atlantic Ocean waters.

Canaveral National Seashore is home to diverse plant and animal species, making it the perfect destination for nature lovers. Go fishing at Mosquito Lagoon, hike beneath a lush canopy of coastal plant life on the Castle Windy trail, or enjoy a scenic kayak excursion. With the park’s proximity to Kennedy Space Center, you can even plan your visit around a rocket launch, with optimal viewing from Playalinda Beach. Relax after a day of sun-drenched fun in wellappointed accommodations at nearby Port d’Hiver Bed and Breakfast.

Stay at Port d’Hiver Bed and Breakfast

Fall asleep to the sound of swaying palm trees and the scent of flowering bougainvillea at Port d’Hiver Bed and Breakfast—where luxurious, island-style guest rooms overlook lush gardens and the Atlantic Ocean. Just an hour drive from Canaveral National Seashore, Port d’Hiver Bed and Breakfast is blissfully private while remaining close to the best of historic Melbourne Beach.

Port d’Hiver

Stay at Windemere Inn by the Sea

Or stay at Windemere Inn by the Sea for a chic, Caribbean-style beachfront escape. Enjoy ocean views, easy beach access, and stylish accommodations. An hour and a half from Orlando and less than an hour away from the expansive beaches of Canaveral National Seashore, Windermere Inn by the Sea promises elegant guest rooms, delicious food made with local ingredients, and warm hospitality—an idyllic, romantic getaway.

Windemere Inn by the Sea

National Parks with Timeless History

River Raisin National Battlefield Park, Michigan

Nature and history lovers unite. Discover fascinating, well-preserved remnants of the storied Battle of Frenchtown, taking place during the War of 1812, alongside peaceful nature trails at River Raisin National Battlefield Park in Monroe, Michigan.

As visitors make their way through River Raisin National Battlefield Park, they are transported to key moments in the battle between the United States and Tecumseh’s American Indian confederation. History tells of the victory of the Native American coalition in a conflict that devastated U.S. forces, and a variety of monuments and battlements stand as evidence of the defeat today. One of the more recently designated national parks, River Raisin National Battlefield Park should be on every history buff’s bucket list—and so should a stay at Robyn’s Inn in downtown Plymouth.

Stay at Robyn’s Inn

Step back in time at Robyn’s Inn, a recently restored historic home. Choose between luxurious rooms in the main house or the separate carriage house for an intimate stay within walking distance of the local farmer’s market. Robyn’s Inn is also just under an hour from River Raisin National Battlefield Park, making it the perfect spot from which to embark on a journey to the past and learn about the area’s rich history and culture.

Robyn’s Inn

Stay at The Nordic Pineapple Bed and Breakfast

Where strangers become friends, The Nordic Pineapple Bed and Breakfast encourages guests to slow down while enjoying welcoming accommodations, delicious dining, and cozy amenities like multiple fireplaces and outdoor fire pits. The Nordic Pineapple is also conveniently located within walking distance of charming St. John’s and just two hours from the historic River Raisin National Battlefield Park.

The Nordic Pineapple

Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park, Georgia

Welcome to the site of the largest archeological dig in United States history, where continuous human habitation has been sustained for more than 12,000 years. Welcome to Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park in the state of Georgia.

Visit the legacy of thousands of generations of Native Americans, dating back to the Paleo-Indian Period when inhabitants of the area hunted mammals during the Ice Age. At the park, visitors can walk among the ancient earthen mounds constructed to honor society’s elite, visit the site of the historic 1930s archeological dig, and explore the area’s biodiverse ecosystem along several scenic walking trails. At the end of a day at the park, retreat to a sanctuary at Gillen House Luxury Bed and Breakfast, set in the pastoral farmlands of Georgia.

Stay at Gillen House Luxury Bed and Breakfast

Gillen House Luxury Bed and Breakfast invites guests to experience well-appointed accommodations, an elegant and artistic atmosphere, and quaint country living. Stay in a historic building set within a collection of carefully tended gardens, minutes from charming Maxeys, Georgia and under two hours from Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park.

Gillen House

Stay at Pleasanton Courtyard Bed and Breakfast

Escape the hustle and bustle of nearby Atlanta at Pleasanton Courtyard Bed and Breakfast. Spread out on nearly 20 acres of rolling green lawns or cozy up on the sprawling front porch with a book—the options are endless when it comes to finding ways to relax. Take advantage of the saltwater pool and the sauna, sample mouthwatering cuisine at various local establishments, or make your way to Trilith, Peachtree City, or the famous Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park, just under two hours away.

Pleasanton Courtyard

Sam Houston National Forest, Texas

Explore the natural beauty of Sam Houston National Forest with its scenic trails ideal for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Discover diverse wildlife and serene campsites, and be sure to visit attractions like the Lone Star Hiking Trail, Lake Conroe, and the Stubblefield Recreation Area for an unforgettable outdoor experience.

Stay at Historic Hill House & Farm

Built in 1885, this property is located one hour from downtown Houston, found in the East Texas Pinewood countryside. Amenities on-site include two pools, hot tubs, spa services, meeting and event space, a fishing pond, hiking trails, and friendly farm animals. With over 130 years of hospitality, guests can expect a warm welcome at this craft lodging property found on 70 acres in Sam Houston National Forest.

Historic Hill House & Farm