​Nestled on a scenic peninsula overlooking the pristine waters of Dale Hollow Lake, Dale Hollow State Resort Park is a hidden paradise in southern Kentucky. Located at 5970 State Park Rd, Burkesville, KY 42717, this park is a world away from the ordinary, offering a comprehensive and beautiful escape for outdoor lovers. While the Dale Hollow Lake itself straddles the Kentucky and Tennessee border, the state park on the Kentucky side is a destination in its own right, combining rugged natural beauty with resort-style amenities. For more information, click here.

The heart of the park is its deep connection to the lake. The reservoir is renowned for its crystal-clear water and world-class fishing, holding the world record for the largest smallmouth bass. The park’s full-service marina provides easy access for boating, fishing, and water sports, and the lake’s incredible water clarity makes it a premier destination for scuba diving. Beyond the lake, the park’s landscape is a playground for adventure. Over 15 miles of multi-purpose trails wind along old logging roads and narrow ridge tops, offering breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding forest. These trails are perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.

Beyond its natural attractions, Dale Hollow State Resort Park offers a top-notch experience for visitors. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy the nationally-ranked 18-hole golf course, which features dramatic elevation changes and stunning views. Guests can stay at the modern lodge with its own pool, or choose from a variety of campsites and cabins for a more rustic experience. The park also provides guided tours of Cindy Cave, a unique opportunity to explore the underground wonders of the region. With so many activities on offer, Dale Hollow State Park is more than just a place to visit—it’s a complete destination where adventure and relaxation meet in a beautiful and unspoiled setting.

For more of the area’s best parks and locations, click here.  For the best lodging and campgrounds, click here. For the best adventures and activities, click here. 

Dubbed “America’s Largest Waterpark Resort,” the Wilderness Resort in Wisconsin Dells, located at 511 E Adams St, is a colossal destination that redefines the family vacation. Spanning over 600 acres, this isn’t just a hotel with a water park; it’s a self-contained world of aquatic adventures and endless entertainment. You can make reservations online by clicking here.

With a variety of lodging options ranging from hotel rooms and condos to luxurious cabins, the resort caters to every type of traveler. The sheer scale and variety of attractions make it a top-tier destination for those seeking an unforgettable getaway.

The main draw of the Wilderness is its incredible collection of water parks, which are exclusive to resort guests. With four indoor and four outdoor water parks, it offers a truly weatherproof vacation. You can brave the thrilling slides of the Wild WaterDome, home to a massive indoor wave pool, or relax on the lazy river at Prospector’s Creek.

In the warmer months, the outdoor parks come to life with additional slides, pools, and splash pads. The resort’s genius lies in its ability to provide a different experience in each park, ensuring that no two days are the same.

​Beyond the water, the Wilderness Resort is a hub of “dry” activities. Guests can challenge each other on go-kart tracks, test their skills at multiple mega-arcades, or conquer the heights of an indoor ropes course. The resort also offers mini-golf, laser tag, and a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to full-service restaurants.

This comprehensive approach means you never have to leave the property, as everything you need for a fun-filled family vacation is right there. For those looking for the ultimate water park experience, the Wilderness Resort stands as a testament to the fact that bigger truly is better.

For more nearby lodging options, click here. For a listing of local parks and amazing locations, click here.  For the best family activities in the area, click here.

​Escape the ordinary and dive into the wild heart of Utah at Antelope Island State Park, located at 4528 W 1700 S, Syracuse, UT 84075. This isn’t just a park; it’s an island kingdom of rugged mountains, sweeping vistas, and untamed wildlife. Connected to the mainland by a seven-mile causeway that cuts through the shimmering expanse of the Great Salt Lake, Antelope Island offers a powerful dose of nature’s raw beauty. The park is a photographer’s and adventurer’s paradise, a place where you can feel the immensity of the American West.

While the name suggests antelope, the true rulers of this island are the massive, free-roaming American bison. With a herd numbering in the hundreds, it’s common to find these powerful beasts grazing near the roads or trails, a humbling reminder of the wild. But the island’s wildlife doesn’t stop there; you’ll also encounter bighorn sheep, mule deer, coyotes, and the park’s namesake pronghorn. The diverse terrain offers endless opportunities for exploration. Hikers can challenge themselves on trails like the demanding climb to the summit of Frary Peak, which rewards with panoramic views that will leave you speechless. Mountain bikers can carve their own path on miles of backcountry trails, while those looking for a unique experience can even take a dip in the hyper-saline waters of the Great Salt Lake—a swim where you can’t help but float.

​Antelope Island State Park is a sanctuary for both the adventurous spirit and the seeker of solitude. It’s a place where you can watch a stunning sunset paint the sky over the lake, or, as an internationally certified Dark Sky Park, witness the cosmos in a breathtaking display of stars. Whether you’re seeking a thrilling hike, a close encounter with incredible wildlife, or a moment of quiet reflection, this badass island is a must-visit destination that proves the most epic adventures are often found off the beaten path.

For more nearby lodging options, click here. For a listing of local parks and amazing locations, click here.  For the best family activities in the area, click here.

​Emerald Bay State Park, located on the southwest shore of Lake Tahoe, is one of California’s most breathtaking natural wonders. This protected area is a designated National Natural Landmark and is celebrated for its stunning blue-green water, rugged shoreline, and unique history. A must-see destination for anyone visiting the Sierra Nevada, the park is easily accessible with an address of 138 Emerald Bay Rd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150. Its blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue makes it a perfect stop for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. For more information, click here.

Nestled in the heart of Minnesota’s picturesque Brainerd Lakes Area, Three Bears Lodge offers an unforgettable indoor waterpark and resort experience perfect for families. Located at 11080 Fun Drive, Brainerd, MN 56401, this popular destination provides a blend of exciting water adventures, comfortable accommodations, and convenient amenities, making it an ideal choice for your next family vacation or weekend escape. Whether you’re seeking aquatic thrills or a relaxing retreat, Three Bears Lodge delivers a memorable experience year-round, regardless of the Minnesota weather. Visit the official website here.