Day Trips from Johnson City
← All Johnson City day tripsDay Trips from Johnson City: State Parks & Natural Areas
The best state parks and natural areas within driving distance of Johnson City, TN. Hiking, camping, swimming, and stunning scenery without the national park crowds. Real drive times, ratings, and visitor info included.
12 state parks near Johnson City
Pisgah National Forest, Rocky Bluff recreation area
Hot Springs, NC 28743
Just 1 hr 17 min from Johnson City, rated 4.9 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Just 1 hr 43 min from Johnson City, rated 4.9 stars by 50,117 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
South Mountains State Park
Connelly Springs, NC 28612
Just 2 hrs 4 min from Johnson City, rated 4.9 stars by 2,909 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
New River Gorge National Park & Preserve
USA
Just 2 hrs 56 min from Johnson City, rated 4.9 stars by 5,921 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Dupont State Recreational Forest
Hendersonville, NC 28739
Just 1 hr 45 min from Johnson City, rated 4.9 stars by 103 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Pinnacle Natural Area Preserve
Honaker, VA 24260
Just 1 hr 25 min from Johnson City, rated 4.8 stars by 157 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Table Rock State Park
Pickens, SC 29671
Just 1 hr 59 min from Johnson City, rated 4.8 stars by 2,181 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Bad Branch State Nature Preserve
Eolia, KY 40826
Just 1 hr 51 min from Johnson City, rated 4.8 stars by 118 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Natural Tunnel State Park
Duffield, VA 24244
Just 49 min from Johnson City, rated 4.8 stars by 1,824 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Cherokee National Forest
TN 37312, USA
Just 1 hr 27 min from Johnson City, rated 4.8 stars by 7,822 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
The Channels
VA 24280, USA
Just 1 hr 37 min from Johnson City, rated 4.8 stars by 340 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Kingdom Come State Park
Cumberland, KY 40823
Just 1 hr 53 min from Johnson City, rated 4.8 stars by 611 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About State Parks Day Trips from Johnson City
What are the best state parks near Johnson City, TN?
The best state parks near Johnson City offer hiking, camping, swimming, fishing, and scenic overlooks. Check the cards above for top-rated parks with drive times, ratings, and budget estimates.
How much does it cost to visit state parks near Johnson City?
Most state parks near Johnson City charge a vehicle entry fee of $5-$15 per day. Annual passes are usually available for $25-$50 and pay for themselves in 2-3 visits. Camping fees are separate and vary by site type.
Which state parks near Johnson City are best for camping?
Several state parks within driving distance of Johnson City offer campgrounds ranging from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV sites with showers. Book early for summer weekends, as popular parks fill up months in advance.
What is the best time to visit state parks near Johnson City?
Spring and fall offer the best weather and smallest crowds at state parks near Johnson City. Summer is great for swimming and camping but parks are busiest. Winter visits are peaceful and many parks stay open year-round for hiking.
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