32 Underrated National Parks Perfect for Avoiding Summer Crowds

25. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio: Midwest Serenity on the Water

Cuyahoga Valley, nestled between Cleveland and Akron, may be one of the country’s most overlooked national parks—but it’s also one of its most peaceful. Miles of towpaths trace the historic Ohio & Erie Canal, weaving through forests, farmland, and waterfalls. The park’s Brandywine Falls and ledgy hiking trails offer a quiet, photogenic charm, while bike rides along the Cuyahoga River soothe the summer soul. Despite being within a short drive of two cities, this park feels worlds away, offering an easy, crowd-free escape into Midwestern greenery and nostalgia.