When you love the outdoors, the idea of a rustic, outdoorsy honeymoon destination could be just the thing to make your dreams come true. Finding the right location can be a little tricky though, especially in a post-COVID world in which we’re not really sure yet if we are post-COVID.
Thankfully, outdoorsy locations and private cabins are perfect for honeymooners, whatever the circumstances in the rest of the world. And these are some of the best spots you’ll find to have your honeymoon within USA borders – at National Parks.
Below you’ll find some you’ve probably thought of and some you might not have even heard of, depending on where you grew up. So, as you plan your Virginia wedding, think far and wide for your domestic honeymoon.
Glacier National Park – Montana
I’ve recently been reading up Glacier National Park for a magazine that loves all things Montana. The incredible lakes, beautiful cabins, stunning backdrops, and amazing hikes have me all aflutter – and highly recommend it as one number destination for honeymooners with or without kids in tow.
The incredible park has more activities, amenities, and delights than you could imagine!
Some of them include
- Horseback riding
- White water rafting
- Hiking
- Canoeing
- Kayaking
- Boat tours
- Polar swimming (any time of the year!)
- Snowshoeing (seasonal)
- Fly fishing
- Bus tours
- Scenic drives
- Wildlife viewing
- Birding
- Cabins
- Lodges
- Camping
- RV hookup sites
- Hotels
Plus, the park is close to museums, shopping, galleries, hot springs for a romantic soak in healing waters, and so much more.
Big Bend National Park – Texas
Another top recommendation I’ve got for lovers planning a nature-themed honeymoon is Big Bend National Park. The park is perfect for all sorts of outdoor activities, but especially for stargazing. Big Bend is one of the few locations in the USA that’s designated as a Dark Sky area – meaning you can really see all the stars from this spot when the skies are clear. There’s no light pollution from nearby cities and plenty of space for finding a romantic nestling spot for your evenings together under the natural sky.
In the park and nearby, you’ll also find plenty to do during daytimes when you’re enjoying this new adventure together as a married couple.
- Hiking
- Hot springs
- Scenic drives
- Fossil exhibits
- Nature trails
- Canoeing
- Kayaking
- Birdwatching
- Wildlife viewing
- White water rafting
- Horseback riding
- Mountain biking
- Golf
- Sightseeing
- Shopping
- Dining
- History museums and historic sites
- Exploring ghost towns
- Cross the Mexican border (it’s close!)
- Camping
- RV camping
- Hotels
- Lodges
- Cabins
Yosemite National Park – California
My best friend grew up just a stone’s throw away from this incredible national park. We sadly never got to go together, but someday I’m still planning to do so. And from everything I read, it’s an incredible spot for honeymooners hankering for some outdoor adventures.
The views are absolutely incredible, the hikes stunning (and challenging or easy, depending on your fitness level needs!) and there’s plenty to do nearby as well.
- Hiking
- Mountain biking
- Trail running
- Tram tours
- Ranger programs
- Scenic drives
- Horseback riding
- Birdwatching
- Fishing
- Picnicking
- Wildlife viewing
- Rock climbing
- Stargazing
- Waterfall viewing
- Photography
- Shopping
- Dining
- Wine tours
- Historic sites
- Museums
- Ansel Adams gallery
- Camping
- Cabins
- Lodges
- Hotels
Acadia National Park – Maine
For those looking to stay a little closer to home, Acadia National Park in Maine is another incredible destination you won’t want to miss. The coastline is incredible, with beautiful rocky shores, stunning lighthouses, cozy small towns, and glorious views all throughout the park itself.
Explore the park and area on foot, by bike, boat, or vehicle – even a helicopter or small plane in good weather!
- Hiking
- Scenic drives
- Sandy beaches
- Boat tours
- Lighthouse
- Visit Bar Harbor
- Wildlife viewing
- Birding
- Trail running
- Bus tours
- Pub tours
- Sailing
- Rock climbing
- Dining
- Shopping
- Museums
- Galleries
- Historic sites
- Camping
- RV camping
- Hotels
- Cabins
- Lodges
Everglades National Park – Florida
If you’re feeling more tropical is your thing, Everglades National Park might be the prime location for you. The area is accessible to many amenities for a tropical trip but do be aware that it’s still a few hours away from Key West. Some of the other keys are closer and equally interesting with even better beaches, though, so maybe plan a day or two south of the park, as well.
In Everglades NP, you’ll find loads of activities – and loads nearby as well.
- Airboat tours
- Bicycling
- Birdwatching
- Canoeing
- Kayaking
- Boat tours
- Fishing
- Geocaching
- Hiking
- Nature walks
- Museums
- Ranger programs
- Wildlife rescue
- Tram tours
- Nearby beaches
- Shopping
- Dining
- Camping
- RV camping
- Hotels
New River Gorge National Park – West Virginia
The newest park to be added to the national park system is New River Gorge. The name implies the river has carved the gorge out recently, but the river is estimated to be one of the oldest in the world. The park only opened in 2020, too, so you’ll be one of the first couples to enjoy this local wonder right in our backyard!
You’ll have plenty to do, too, with all the amenities and exciting features of the park and nearby.
- Hiking
- Biking
- White water rafting
- Trail running
- Rock climbing
- Fishing
- Hunting
- Backpacking
- Guided paddleboards tours
- Historic sites
- Shopping
- Dining
- Museums
- Outlooks
- Scenic drives
- Bridge walk
- Auto tours
- Primitive camping
- Hotels
- Cabins
