Forget the crowded tourist traps. If you head down to Peterson in Clay County, you'll run right into Wanata State Park, a 160-acre patch of rugged timber that most folks drive right past. That is a huge mistake. Back in 1934, the Civilian Conservation Corps stacked heavy fieldstones to build a massive shelter house overlooking the Little Sioux River, standing at the peak of a steep bluff. Absolutely killer view. You can sit on that stone porch, listen to wind push through giant bur oaks, and look out over the river without hearing a single highway engine.

So, what are you supposed to actually do once you pull into the gravel lot Grab a fishing pole. The Little Sioux River curls right along the park border, packed with channel catfish and walleye hiding under fallen logs. You can also tackle the dirt trails winding through the steep ravines. They will burn your calves. Actually, the main draw isn't fancy amenities or concession stands it's just raw, quiet woods where high schoolers can finally put their phones away for an hour or two.