Bluffs

Torreya sits on high bluffs above the Apalachicola, and the trails climb and drop through ravines that hold plant communities more typical of the Appalachians than the Gulf coast, including the endangered Torreya tree the park is named for. The loop trail has genuine elevation gain, which makes it the closest thing to real hiking in the state and a good choice for older children who find flat Florida trails dull. The Gregory House, an 1849 plantation house moved across the river piece by piece, sits on the bluff edge and is open for guided tours on a fixed schedule - once a day midweek, twice at weekends - so check the times before building a day around it. The trails reopened after Hurricane Michael flattened much of the canopy in 2018, and the regrowth is visible along them. It is remote; bring what you need.

Dramatic pointed clay spires rising over 150 feet above the shore of Lake Ontario, sculpted by wind, rain, and waves into shapes that look like something from another planet. The Bluff Trail along the rim gives top-down views of these formations while the Beach Trail offers a look from below. The formations are constantly changing and eroding so they look different every year. Kids are fascinated by the alien landscape. Stay on marked trails as the clay edges are unstable. It is genuinely one of the most unique natural sites in New York.

A family campground perched on bluffs above Lake Ontario with a beach, cabins, and trails along the Salmon River. The 148 campsites and 36 cabins are set in a wooded area above the lake. The beach has dramatic bluff views and Lake Ontario sunsets. The Salmon River at the park boundary is famous for salmon and steelhead fishing. Trails along the bluffs and through the woods connect the park areas. The combination of lake swimming, river fishing, and bluff-top camping makes this a unique family destination.

A massive 416-acre park along the Brazos and Bosque Rivers with over 10 miles of trails that include some surprisingly challenging terrain with limestone bluffs and creek crossings. Lover’s Leap offers dramatic cliff views high above the Brazos River. Miss Nellie’s Pretty Place is a hidden grotto that kids love discovering. The mountain bike trails are well-maintained and the disc golf course is one of the highest-rated in Texas.

Perched on limestone bluffs above Lake Texoma with some of the most dramatic overlooks of any Texas state park. The trails wind right along the cliff edges with views that make kids gasp and parents grip hands a little tighter. Swimming in the lake is excellent and the campsites range from tent pads to full-hookup RV sites with easy water access.