"I found Camden Hills State Park to be a quieter, less crowded alternative to Acadia National Park; the 5,700-acre park, about 80 miles south of Acadia, delivers the same iconic coastal views and year-round outdoor activities. In summer I could hike, rock climb, birdwatch, or ride horseback along scenic trails; in autumn the hills turn blazing reds, oranges, and golds for prime leaf-peeping; and in winter the park becomes a haven for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. There are more than 100 campsites (including park facilities with hot showers), dog-friendly trails (leashes required), and options for every fitness level from gentler routes like the Tablelands or Nature Trail to more ambitious outings." - Taryn White Taryn White Taryn White is a D.C.-based travel writer who covers a wide range of topics, including family travel, hotels, food, aviation, beaches, historical and cultural topics, and wellness travel. She can often be spotted around the world with her husband and two travel-loving kids. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines