9 Under-the-Radar National Parks You’ve Never Heard of

National Parks

By CREATED BY E! NEWS FOR SUBARU Apr 01, 2016 4:15 PMTags

Celebs, they're always taunting us with their exotic vacations.

Perhaps it's the stress of the constant spotlight or perhaps it's the fact that they have unlimited funds. Either way we can't help but envy their picturesque vacation style. Luckily, even if your getaway budget is small, you're not doomed to a trip of lackluster views. National Parks are free of charge and little did you know, their natural beauty actually rivals the setting of pricey, celeb-adored resorts.

For your next trip, here are 9 under-the-radar National Parks that will have you feeling like a celeb yourself! 

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Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona

If you're drawn to art, like many celebs, why not visit this majestic frozen forest? This national park is laden with petrified wood embedded with semi-precious stones like amethyst and jasper. The breathtakingly beautiful formations are like nothing you've seen before, not even in the movies. 

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Zion, Utah

Celebs are avid hikers, and for good reason: it's a really good workout. Throw a little scenery into the mix and you are in business. The trails range from beginner to overnight. Don't know where to start? Two of Zion's most famous hikes: Angels Landing and the Zion Narrows are both winners. Happy trails!

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 National Park of American Samoa, American Samoa

We like this one because, for picture-taking, there will be no filter needed. Seriously: it is that pretty—like, postcard pretty. Think coral sand beaches, crystal clear water for snorkeling and romantic sunsets. We feel like a celeb just thinking about it.

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Congaree National Park, South Carolina

If you're into danger, but not that into it, this South Carolina Park is a good compromise. Take a walk on the wild side and hike your way through densely wooded areas (where you may or may not encounter wildlife like gators, wild pigs, snakes and bobcats) or opt for a low-key stroll along the boardwalk loop trail—a further distance from any clawed creatures.

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Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida

Anyone who tells you that you are too old to explore a 19th Century Fort and snorkel in crystal clear water alongside marine life is just plain wrong. The fact that these seven small islands are only accessible by boat or seaplane makes it all the more magical.

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North Cascades National Park, Washington

This park is kind of a have-your-cake-and-eat-it-too situation for the vacationer who wants to see it all. What do we mean? The majestic mountain scenery includes snowfields and glaciers, alpine meadows and cascading waterfalls all nestled within the North Cascade range.

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Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado

Adventure seekers be warned: You're not going to want to leave these expansive sand dunes once you arrive. Hiking, sand sledding and daring water activities at Medano Creek are just a few of the great outdoor adventures that evoke movie set-like vibes. 

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Haleakala National Park, Maui, Hawaii

Celebs on set usually have grueling early morning call times. If you have plans to visit Haleakala (a Hawaiian name that means house of the sun), consider yourself a celeb with an early call time, too. To capture that perfect picture, make your way to the summit and then spend the rest of the day splashing around at the picturesque waterfalls. 

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Great Basin National Park, Nevada

This one will play tricks on you because it's technically a desert, but it's alive with a mixed bag of vegetation. Instead of cacti like you'd expect to see, think of a much more lush setting with plants such as sagebrush, rabbitbrush and mixed saltbush. The combo of glacial snow and seasonal foliage is truly a sight to see. 

To learn what you can do to help preserve and celebrate the majestic natural beauty that's all around us visit TheMoreYouKnow.com/Subaru!