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Lincoln Woods State Park Voted Rhode Island's Most Popular National Park to Visit During National Park Week

Park Pursuits: Lincoln Woods State Park Voted Rhode Island's Most Popular National Park to Visit During National Park Week.

National Park Week is rolling in from April 19 to April 27 - and there’s no better time to celebrate America’s love for the open road and the great outdoors. To mark the occasion, Gunther Volvo Coconut Creek launched a family-focused poll, asking: 

Which national park would most want to visit this National Park Week, if distance was not a factor?

For many families, the journey is just as important as the destination -  and nothing says adventure like packing up the car and hitting the road. By polling families across the country, they uncovered the most dreamed-of parks for a spring getaway. Nationally, the top 5 were as follows:

#1 Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee

America’s most-visited national park is a treasure trove of misty peaks, waterfalls, and wildlife. Families can hike easy trails like Laurel Falls, look for black bears, or explore historic cabins from early settlers. Best of all? It’s free to enter, making it the ultimate nature playground.

#2 Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

This world wonder offers jaw-dropping views and easy trails that hug the rim — perfect for families with little ones. Ranger programs and visitor centers bring the geology and history to life in ways kids actually understand. It’s big, bold, and surprisingly accessible for such an epic destination.

#3 Yellowstone National Park, Montana

While most of Yellowstone lies in Wyoming, Montana’s gateway offers quieter access and stunning scenery. Families can visit Mammoth Hot Springs, spot bison, and explore geysers — all with fewer crowds. It’s America’s first national park, and still one of its best.

#4 Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii

Walk through lava tubes, witness steaming craters, and learn how new land is formed in real time. Kids will be fascinated by the raw, dramatic landscape, and ranger-led programs help explain the volcanic science. It’s fiery, fascinating, and full of wonder.

#5 Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky

Explore the world’s longest cave system on a guided tour that’s equal parts thrilling and educational. Above ground, families can hike, bike, or paddle the Green River through lush forest. It’s one of Kentucky’s crown jewels — and totally kid-approved.

Rhode Island had 5 national parks that made the rankings: 

#73 Lincoln Woods State Park

Just minutes from Providence, this park is a hub for hiking, fishing, and swims at the freshwater beach. There’s also a shady picnic areas. It’s an easy city escape that feels totally green.

#78 Colt State Park

Right on the edge of Narragansett Bay, this coastal park offers big open fields, walking paths, and sweeping ocean views. It’s perfect for kite flying, biking, or a picnic with plenty of sea breeze. Simple, scenic, and super relaxing.

#177 Arcadia Management Area

Rhode Island’s largest recreational area, this forested escape has miles of trails, rivers for paddling, and quiet picnic spots. It’s a great place for families to hike, fish, or simply unplug together. Wild, peaceful, and full of nature.

#179 Fort Adams State Park

This waterfront park near Newport features a historic fort, walking trails, and unbeatable views of sailboats gliding by. Families can tour the old fort, fly kites on the lawn, or just chill by the bay. 

#221 aBeavertail State Park

Located at the southern tip of Jamestown, this park offers rocky coastline, dramatic waves, and one of the best lighthouses in the state. Kids love climbing the rocks and peeking into tide pools. It’s Rhode Island’s raw coastal beauty at its best.

Infographic showing the top national park in each state. 

“National Park Week is all about reconnecting - with nature, with family, and with the spirit of adventure,” says Joseph Gunther IV of Gunther Volvo Coconut Creek. “Our poll shows that no matter where families live, there’s a shared dream of hitting the road and making unforgettable memories in these iconic parks. It’s clear that America’s love for the outdoors is as strong as ever.”