Thanksgiving weekend is the perfect time to slow down, get outside, and trade crowded dining rooms for peaceful scenery. Whether you’re looking for hiking trails, quiet lakes, cozy cabins, or places where the whole family can unwind, these ten vacation parks offer the perfect backdrop for a memorable holiday.
If your family enjoys relaxing with board games between adventures, the classic Camp Board Game is always a great travel companion. You can explore more family-friendly outdoor games here on our Games Page.
Here are ten parks worth considering for your Thanksgiving getaway.
1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee & North Carolina)
Rolling mountains, soft morning fog, and endless fall colors make the Smokies a stunning Thanksgiving destination. Scenic drives and cozy cabins add to the charm.
2. Yosemite National Park (California)
Fewer crowds and cool temperatures make late fall one of the best times to visit Yosemite. Expect towering cliffs, peaceful meadows, and iconic viewpoints with golden light.
3. Shenandoah National Park (Virginia)
Skyline Drive offers incredible late-autumn scenery. Families can enjoy hiking, wildlife viewing, or simply relaxing in a mountainside cabin.
4. Custer State Park (South Dakota)
Prairies, granite peaks, and roaming wildlife create a rugged and memorable Thanksgiving setting. Sunrise drives here are unforgettable.
5. Acadia National Park (Maine)
Cool coastal air, quiet harbors, and the last flashes of fall color make Acadia an excellent Thanksgiving stop. Enjoy scenic hikes and cozy New England towns.
6. Mount Rainier National Park (Washington)
Snow-dusted forests and clear mountain views give Rainier a peaceful, holiday atmosphere. Perfect for families who enjoy scenic drives and quiet walks.
7. Everglades National Park (Florida)
Warm weather lovers will appreciate Thanksgiving in the Everglades. Wildlife, airboat tours, and open landscapes offer a completely different holiday feel.
8. Glacier National Park (Montana)
Remote, tranquil, and breathtaking, Glacier in November is for those who want solitude and big scenery. Expect snow-capped peaks and mirror-like lakes.
9. Zion National Park (Utah)
Red cliffs and winding canyons make Zion one of the most dramatic Thanksgiving settings. Cooler weather means easier hiking and fewer crowds.
10. Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming)
Crisp mornings, wildlife sightings, and stunning mountain silhouettes make the Tetons a peaceful family escape during the holiday weekend.
Final Thoughts
Spending Thanksgiving in a national park gives families a chance to connect, explore, and enjoy a slower pace. Whether you’re cooking outdoors, hiking new trails, or playing games inside a cozy cabin, these parks offer the perfect environment for creating lasting memories.