From desert hiking in Arizona, to clamming on the Maine coast, a huge roster full of activities awaits your family at America's best state parks. There are more than 5,000 state parks--nearly 95 times the number of national parks--spread across the country. That means at least a few are a short drive away for most families.

State Parks provide the perfect training grounds in which we can introduce our kids to camping by the crashing surf, hiking amidst 100-year-old pines or exploring underground caves. You'll find our nation's state parks offer recreational options and settings as diverse as the regions they span and at a price that meets most vacation budgets. Here are 50 favorites where you can stake your claim.

Freelance writer Lee Woodruff lives in Phoenix with her husband and two kids.

Please keep in mind that phone numbers, addresses, and prices are subject to change. Updated July 2005.