Devin Jacobs
Have you ever wondered which county in your state truly stands out for its natural beauty? You could be a nature enthusiast or simply looking for a scenic escape; finding the most picturesque county in your state can be an exciting adventure. Stopping off in these counties could be just what you need during a road trip. That being said, here are the most amazing counties in every U.S. state.
Alabama: Baldwin County
Baldwin County stands out for its Gulf Coast beaches, lush parks, and historic sites like Fort Morgan. The area is popular for its outdoor activities, from fishing to bird watching. Coastal towns such as Gulf Shores have welcoming atmospheres and vibrant local culture. The county also has coastal towns with seafood restaurants and boutiques.
Alaska: Kenai Peninsula Borough
Wonderlane/Openverse
Well known for its glaciers and diverse wildlife, the Kenai Peninsula Borough has unparalleled natural splendor. In the county, you can go salmon fishing, hiking, and whale watching. Kenai Fjords National Park provides outdoor adventures like hiking, while the town of Homer has a thriving arts community.
Arizona: Coconino County
Coconino County in Arizona is a nature lover’s paradise with attractions like the Grand Canyon, Sedona’s red rock formations, and Flagstaff’s San Francisco Peaks. You can hike through forests, swim in lakes, and stargaze at one of the county’s dark sky parks. The diverse landscapes are truly awe-inspiring.
Arkansas: Washington County
This northwest Arkansas region is defined by a mix of economic vitality and cultural richness. Once a collection of farms and mills, it now has a thriving metropolitan area with cities like Fayetteville and Springdale. In the southeast, you’ll see beautiful flat-top mountains and valleys; in the northwest, you can walk through rolling hills and prairies.
California: Marin County
Golden Gate views lead to a region where outdoor adventures await at every turn. Main Country is home to spots like the redwoods of Muir Woods and the rugged trails of Mount Tamalpais. When visiting, you can surf, hike, and take pictures of coastal landscapes. Communities range from seaside towns to affluent cities.
Colorado: San Miguel County
San Miguel County has the mountain town of Telluride, a premier destination for skiing and festivals. The county has alpine scenery, historic mining sites, and endless outdoor activities like hiking and cycling. Summer months bring music festivals and the Placerville Firemen’s Picnic, where you can spend the day with family and friends.
Connecticut: Litchfield County
If you’re looking for the perfect place to build a life and start a family, then Litchfield County might be the place for you. The county has advanced manufacturing and healthcare sectors and supports entrepreneurs and small businesses. Moreover, it has scenic surroundings, such as rolling hills, rivers, and Ken Falls State Park.
Delaware: Sussex County
In Delaware, there is a little place called Sussex County. It’s surrounded by beach towns where you can take your family out for picnics, surfing, and swimming. Before visiting the county, check when they have their famous seafood festivals. The area also has state parks where you can go hiking or check out local wildlife.
Florida: Monroe County
Monroe County includes the Florida Keys, stretching from Key Largo to Key West. This tropical paradise has coral reefs, water sports, and a great nightlife for those who want to let loose and party. Historic sites like Ernest Hemingway’s home add cultural depth to this island destination. The Everglade National Park is one of the most beautiful places in the county.
Georgia: Rabun County
Many U.S. counties are ideal for people who love spending time outdoors. For example, Rabun County has waterfalls that you can visit, as well as lakes and forests. If you want to go out for coffee and a bite to eat, then visit the Clayton, where you can also experience the county’s art scene. It’s also home to three beautiful lakes where you can go boating.
Hawaii: Maui County
Tourists are always looking for luxury places to stay when visiting Hawaii. If you decide to visit the state in the summertime, stop at Maui County, where you can relax on the beach or hike through volcanic landscapes. There’s also the Haleakala National Park and the scenic Hana Highway, perfect for pictures and vlogging.
Idaho: Blaine County
Sun Valley’s appeal goes beyond its famous ski slopes, reflecting a history that shifted from mining to becoming a leading resort destination. Established in 1895, Blaine County transitioned from a bustling mining hub to a cultural hotspot. It now attracts visitors with its outdoor activities, celebrity connections, and stunning landscapes.
Illinois: Jo Daviess County
In this northern Illinois region, Charles Mound stands as the state’s highest natural point, which gives you beautiful panoramic views. This county features historical towns like Galena, which are rich with 19th-century architecture. There are many scenic landscapes and areas with immigrant heritage and historical significance.
Indiana: Brown County
Early settlers faced rugged terrain and dense forests in Brown County, where pioneer life thrived despite challenges. The area’s history includes the establishment of Nashville, its county seat, in 1836. Today, the county is noted for its art community, historic landmarks, and year-round events like the Time to Wine Down event.
Iowa: Allamakee County
Wildwoods give way to trout streams and sandstone bluffs in this region. Scenic rivers, panoramic valleys, and timbered hills offer abundant wildlife and outdoor adventures. The historic towns add cultural interest, while the landscape provides a perfect retreat for nature lovers seeking relaxation.
Kansas: Chase County
Locals in Chase County love fast cars and slow-cooked brisket, so you’re in for a real adventure here. Chase County’s Flint Hills has scenic drives and grasslands, while the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve reveals a rare, untouched ecosystem. If you love the outdoors, you can take hiking tours or attend local festivals.
Kentucky: Woodford County
Are you looking for a place to take family or friends before summer ends? Woodford County has plenty of attractions for people of all ages. For the kids, there are horse farms to visit. However, for a more grownup party, you can visit the county’s vineyards for wine tasting or romantic picnics.
Louisiana: St. Tammany Parish
Named after Tamanend, the revered Lenape Chief, this parish has historical and natural attractions. St. Tammany Parish features the scenic Tammany Trace, a 31-mile trail ideal for biking and hiking. Covington, the parish seat, provides historical insights and a gateway to local wetlands and outdoor activities.
Maine: Hancock County
Did you know that Hancock County was one of the locations where Stephen King’s movie adaption of Pet Semetary was filmed? This is because Main is King’s Home State. There are other cool and unusual attractions to visit in the county, such as The Granite Garden Gallary. Spend time outdoors at the Acadia National Park, where you can fish in crystal clear lakes.
Maryland: Talbot County
Talbot County, on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, is known for its charming waterfront towns and maritime heritage. It’s surrounded by more than 600 miles of Chesapeake Bay waterfront. St. Michaels and Easton offer historic sites, boutique shops, and restaurants that serve chicken, fish, and brisket. You can access the county by boat, car, or small plane.
Massachusetts: Barnstable County
Seven distinct villages form the heart of Barnstable County, each with unique experiences. For example, Sandy Neck Beach in West Barnstable allows you to bask in the sun, surf, or take a scenic drive. Dining at Spanky’s Clam Shack in Hyannis provides seafood dishes while you watch boats on the harbor.
Michigan: Leelanau County
You don’t have to travel all over the U.S. to find a variety of activities and attractions because Leelanay County has a little something for everyone. For camping, you can stop off at the county’s campsite and participate in fishing and hiking activities. Or you can visit Sleeping Bear Dunes for skiing or mountain climbing.
Minnesota: Cook County
You can experience the vastness of Lake Superior, the world’s largest freshwater lake, and take in the scenic beauty of Eagle Mountain, the state’s tallest peak. Grand Portage is home to Minnesota’s highest waterfall, while Lutsen Mountains provides skiing at the largest resort in the Midwest.
Mississippi: Lafayette County
When visiting Lafayette County, you can have many outdoor adventures during the day and go out on the town in the evenings. All historical sites in the area are beautifully preserved, and you can take tours throughout the county. There’s also a Safari Animal Wild Life park where you get to see Giraffes.
Missouri: Taney County
Taney County is located in southwestern Missouri and is famous for Branson, the entertainment hub. The area offers live music shows, amusement parks, and scenic lakes. Outdoor activities include hiking, fishing, and exploring the nearby Ozark Mountains. It’s also known for its beautiful lakes and Table Rock.
Montana: Gallatin County
Did you know that Gallatin is one of the fastest-growing counties in Southwest Montana? This is because the area has plenty of attractions. With Bozeman as its county seat, the area attracts people who love the outdoors to its world-class skiing, blue-ribbon trout streams, and proximity to Yellowstone National Park.
Nebraska: Cherry County
When you visit Cherry County, you can do over 50 things. You can go canoeing down the Niobrara National Scenic River, hike the Cowboy Trail, and fish in Merritt Reservoir. What’s more, you can see a variety of wildlife at nature reserves like Valentine National Wildlife Refuge, which is also one of the most beautiful parks in America.
Nevada: Washoe County
In the heart of Nevada, visitors will find Washoe County, which has many sites to see. The area features 49 parks, 161 miles of scenic trails, and over 10,000 acres of open space. There are endless activities to take part in, such as hiking or fishing. It’s the ideal place to go if you’re a nature photographer or if you want to spend time outdoors.
New Hampshire: Grafton County
If you enjoy cycling or hiking, Grafton County is a paradise, as there are numerous trails and scenic routes to travel through. The county was established in 1771 and is steeped in history, with Haverhill serving as the county seat. You’ll love the magnificent Mount Cardigan, a treeless granite summit.
New Jersey: Cape May County
During July and August, resorts in Cape May County sponsor many summer concerts, most of which are free. You can also climb the iconic Cape May Lighthouse to enjoy a summer concert under the stars. The area is popular worldwide for birdwatching and features the most amazing beaches in New Jersey.
New Mexico: Taos County
Are you looking for the perfect place to spend the last month of summer? Located in the northern reaches of New Mexico, Taos County beckons with its cultural festival and outdoor adventures. You can walk through ancient sites and there are beautiful natural wonders nearby such as the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
New York: Suffolk County
A 32-mile-long barrier island presents an escape with pristine beaches. This is a famous tourist destination thanks to attractions like Fire Island and Jones Beach State Park, a beloved summer spot with a two-mile boardwalk facing the Atlantic Ocean. You can also visit Montauk, which has six state parks.
North Carolina: Buncombe County
Buncombe County, also called Land of the Sky, is situated in the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s famous for the city of Asheville. The area has scenic drives, hiking trails, and cultural attractions. There’s also The Biltmore Estate, a historic mansion with a large garden that provides a glimpse into the region’s past.
North Dakota: Stark County
Dickinson, the county seat, anchors Stark County with attractions like the West River Community Center and North Park Campground. With a population of 33,646, it’s the seventh most populous county in North Dakota. One reason to visit this county is its beautiful rivers and hiking trails.
Ohio: Hocking County
Imagine over 25 miles of trails that reveal hidden waterfalls, rock formations, and recessed caves. That’s what you can expect when you visit Hocking County. The area also features Old Man’s Cave and Conkle’s Hollow, home to the area’s deepest gorge. Thrill-seekers can go ziplining with Hocking Hills Canopy Tours or fishing in Lake Logan State Park.
Oklahoma: McCurtain County
Formed from the Choctaw Nation at statehood, McCurtain County carries the legacy of influential Choctaw leaders like Green McCurtain. The region has a rich past, from early trading posts to the impact of the Arkansas and Choctaw Railway. The picturesque landscape, marked by forests and lakes, is ideal for outdoor adventurers and history buffs alike.
Oregon: Deschutes County
Deschutes County is one of the most beautiful counties because of its high deserts, mountains, and rivers. With 3,055 square miles of diverse terrain, it provides everything from scenic hikes to thrilling water activities. You can also take guided tours through historic cities like Bend, La Pine, Redmond, and Sisters while enjoying a mild climate.
Pennsylvania: Bucks County
This county has scenic countryside along the Delaware River. Having 16 county and state parks, such as Nockamixon State Park and Ringing Rocks County Park, the area provides 475 miles of trails for hiking enthusiasts. The scenic farmland, like Shady Brook Farm, has sunflower fields that are perfect for photography.
Rhode Island: Newport County
Do you want to stay in a country where presidents spend their vacation time? Back in the day, places in Newport County were known as the Summer White Houses during the administration of J.F Kennedy and Dwight. D Eisenhower. It’s a waterfront on Aquidneck Island with historic mansions and a sailing legacy.
South Carolina: Charleston County
From bird walks to coastal explorations, Charleston County has a range of activities led by expert naturalists and historians. Year-round, visitors can engage with the area’s natural beauty and rich past through educational programs and guided adventures. Its parks provide unique experiences that highlight its environmental and historical significance.
South Dakota: Pennington County
Pennington County, home to the iconic Mount Rushmore, gives you dramatic landscapes and outdoor adventures. The area features the Black Hills, Badlands National Park, and towns like Rapid City where you can go hiking or view wildlife. The natural wonders and cultural attractions make it a standout destination.
Tennessee: Sevier County
The Smoky Mountains frame Sevier County’s landscape, giving you “insta-worthy” views and a wealth of hiking trails. Immerse yourself in the culture of nearby Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, or enjoy family-friendly attractions like Dollywood. This county’s mix of scenic beauty and entertainment makes it an ideal destination for a holiday.
Texas: Travis County
Travis County is another stunning destination for families. The area features Mount Bonnell’s breathtaking views, the historic Texas Capitol, and McKinney Falls State Park’s scenic beauty. The Austin City Limits Music Festival shows both local and international bands. Whether hiking, attending events, or exploring the city, Travis County provides activities for all interests.
Utah: Grand County
In southeastern Utah, you’ll find Grand County, which is famous for its rocky landscapes. The area has the Arches National Park, with its red rock formations, and the Colorado River, where you can go rafting. Moab, a lively town within the county, serves as a gateway to these natural wonders.
Vermont: Windsor County
If you’re looking for a quiet environment, Windsor County might be the best place for your next vacation. This county is a haven with its rivers, lakes, forests, and mountains. The quaint downtown has unique shopping and a self-guided walking tour of over 40 historic structures.
Virginia: Albemarle County
In Central Virginia, the blend of landscapes and historic significance creates an inviting atmosphere in Albemarle County. The county spans 726 square miles of rolling hills and picturesque family farms, with the Blue Ridge Mountains as a backdrop. Outdoor enthusiasts can wander the hiking trails and enjoy paddling adventures.
Washington: San Juan County
You can participate in many activities when you visit San Juan County. At the western end of San Juan Island, the Whale Museum gives insights into local whale history and conservation. Nearby, the 25-acre Pelindaba Lavender Farm invites picnickers and dog walkers to relax and take in the view. Lastly, The Cattle Point Lighthouse provides panoramic views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
West Virginia: Tucker County
One of the reasons people love visiting Tucker County is because of all the events they host, where you can win prizes. For example, you can participate in the GetTuckered Scavenger Hunt to uncover Civil War landmarks. Besides the county’s events, you can go camping under the stars at Blackwater Falls State Park or sit by the river at Parsons.
Wisconsin: Door County
Enveloped by Green Bay and Lake Michigan, this peninsula offers a blend of coastal views and outdoor adventure. Parks like Peninsula State Park and Newport State Park present serene beaches, rugged cliffs, and a network of trails. The region’s quaint towns, local shops, and seasonal orchards add to its appeal, making it a must-visit destination.
Wyoming: Teton County
Teton County is popular for its dramatic mountain landscapes and outdoor recreation. The area features Grand Teton National Park, Jackson Hole, and the Snake River. For those who love the outdoors, you can go hiking, skiing, and wildlife viewing, which makes it the best year-round destination for families.