Melanie Johnson
Melanie Johnson is a central Florida-based writer who has called the Sunshine State home for nearly 20 years. For Only In Your State, she covers small towns, urban legends, restaurants, outdoor adventures, and standout accommodations — with a particular gift for uncovering the offbeat, the overlooked, and the genuinely unexpected. In four years of writing for OIYS, her reporting has connected her with local business owners, everyday adventurers, and even the president of a micronation. Keep up with her work at muckrack.com/melanie-johnson-17.
The Best Kept Summer Secret in Arizona Is This Remote Swimming Spot
With towering red rock canyon walls and an emerald green pool, this hidden swimming spot in Arizona is perfect for cooling off when the desert hits triple digits.
5 Waterfront Nevada Rentals So Stunning They Don’t Feel Real
These waterfront rentals in Nevada offer stunning views, unique stays, and unforgettable escapes on the water.
5 Waterfront Texas Rentals So Stunning They Don’t Feel Real
From island-style paradises to bayfront hideaways to riverfront escapes, these waterfront rentals in Texas deliver unique stays along our prettiest waterways.
This Arizona State Park Has a Charming Town Right Next Door — and Nobody Talks About It
Discover a charming small town near Kartchner Caverns State Park that’s perfect for your next getaway, with great stays and easy park access.
The Hidden Attraction in Texas That People Still Seek Out to This Day
Head underground to this hidden attraction in Texas to discover local legends about bootleggers and ghostly sightings. It's worth the trip!
The Hidden Attraction in Arizona That People Still Seek Out to This Day
You'll find locals at this hidden attraction in Arizona, featuring waterfalls, caves, and an underground turquoise pool. It's a great spot for a day trip.
This Secluded Campground Near Lake Erie Is One of New York’s Best Kept Secrets
This secluded campground near Lake Erie is one of New York’s best-kept secrets. Here’s what to expect and how to visit.
Locals Love This Quirky Town in Mississippi—and It’s Still Underrated
Discover one of the quirkiest towns in Mississippi, filled with unique attractions and small-town charm. A hidden gem worth exploring.
Locals Love This Quirky Town in Colorado—and It’s Still Underrated
From retro attractions to unusual festivals to its overall fun vibe, this quirky town in Colorado is a hidden gem worth exploring.
3 Epic Airbnbs in Maryland With Indoor Pools, Lazy Rivers, and Unreal Water Views
Discover standout Airbnbs in Maryland with pools, hot tubs, and water views — here's what makes each one worth booking.
The Small-Town State Park in Maryland Locals Want to Keep to Themselves
Discover a peaceful small-town state park in Maryland that locals love for its quiet trails, scenic views, and hidden gem appeal.
Locals Love This Quirky Town in Louisiana—and It’s Still Underrated
Discover one of the quirkiest towns in Louisiana, filled with unique attractions and small-town charm. A hidden gem worth exploring.
This Secluded Campground Near Dismal Canyons Is One of Alabama’s Best Kept Secrets
This secluded campground near Dismals Canyon is one of Alabama’s best-kept secrets. Here’s what to expect and how to visit.
The Small-Town State Park in Alabama Locals Want to Keep to Themselves
Discover a quiet, small-town state park in Alabama where scenic views, peaceful trails, and local charm make it feel like a hidden gem.
Discover This Underrated Nevada Town Full of Quirky Charm
One of the quirkiest towns in Nevada is filled with unique attractions and small-town charm. A hidden gem worth exploring.
Skip the Hikes and Try This Louisiana Kayaking Trail Instead
This scenic kayak trail in Louisiana offers incredible views without the tough climb. Here’s why it’s better than a hike.
The Kayaking Trail in Nevada That’s Better Than Most Hikes
This scenic kayak trail in Nevada offers incredible views without the tough climb. Here’s why it’s better than a hike.
The Kayaking Trail in Texas That’s Better Than Most Hikes
Drift along a spring-fed river, with views of limestone cliffs and century-old cypress on this scenic kayaking trail in Texas. It's better than a hike!
3 Epic Airbnbs in Colorado With Swim Spas, Indoor Hot Springs, and Unreal Water Views
With a swim spa, an indoor hot springs pool, and water views, discover why these trending Airbnbs in Colorado are worth booking.
Skip the Hikes and Try This Kayaking Trail in Arizona Instead
Paddle across pretty blue waters and wind through sandstone cliffs on this scenic kayaking route in Arizona. It's an epic adventure!
