Are you on the lookout for some of the best state parks to visit around Buffalo? You don't have to be a full-blown outdoor enthusiast to have a blast among the fresh air. At times, we all need to escape from the stresses of city living and retreat to nature. Whether it’s a picnic on the lake or a hike through the woods, being one with nature is a great way to feel peace and solace when life becomes a little hectic.

Luckily, there are loads of things to do in Buffalo and beyond -- including plenty of places to venture off for a relaxing getaway. From the shores of Lake Erie to the steep gorges of Letchworth, there’s anything but a shortage of open air around Buffalo. Pack your picnic baskets, put on your hiking shoes, and hit these 14 amazing state parks around Buffalo that will blow you away.

1. Allegany State Park

This 64,800 acre state park south of Buffalo is full of activities to partake in year-round. The rolling hills of the park are also referred to as the Enchanted Mountains and are one of the most beautiful places to view the colorful fall foliage. Stay active at the park on its 18 hiking trails and 5.6 miles of paved biking trails, and don’t let winter stop you! The park features miles of snowmobile trails for visitors to explore. No matter when you drop by, you'll love this spot.

2. Amherst State Park

This small, charming local state park is a great Sunday afternoon day trip destination near Buffalo. Featuring meadows, hiking trails, and Ellicott Creek, visitors can enjoy a walk with a dog or a picnic with friends and family. Everyone will adore Amherst.

3. Beaver Island State Park

Beaver Island State Park is a great place to experience all four seasons in Buffalo. Activities at the park include basking in the sun and swimming along the half-mile shoreline, spending a day on the water with your boat, canoe, or kayak, fishing year-round, and snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing in the winter. Regardless of the weather, you'll have fun at Beaver Island.

4. Buckhorn Island State Park

This state park is home to a serene nature preserve along the marsh and wetlands of the Niagara River. Visitors can enjoy a few refreshing hours hiking the trails, canoeing, fishing, and kayaking. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife throughout the park.

5. Buffalo Harbor State Park

No need to leave the city to visit this amazing state park! Buffalo Harbor State Park is located along the shorelines of Lake Erie. While swimming is currently not permitted at the park, visitors can enjoy several nearby restaurants, walk along the path, sunbathe on the beach, access the marina, and enjoy several activities on the water (kayaking and canoeing, for instance). What a great place to meet up with friends right within the bounds of Buffalo.

6. Darien Lakes State Park

When Western New Yorkers hear Darien Lake, a majority of them probably think "theme park." What they might not know, however, is they can extend their visit and check out nearby Darien Lakes State Park, as well! This under appreciated state park near Buffalo offers amenities such as campsites, pavilions, and playgrounds to make for a fun-filled summer getaway. Make a day of it.

7. Earl W. Brydges ArtPark

Located along the Niagara Gorges, the ArtPark state park is a great place for nature and entertainment. The park grounds serve as a venue for concerts during the summer and a ground for public art displays. When not enjoying a show, visitors can check out the nature trails and beautiful views of the Niagara River.

8. Evangola State Park

Irving’s Evangola State Park is a popular spot among the vibrant camping community in Buffalo. The state park features an arc-shaped shoreline where guests can swim in Lake Erie, not to mention soccer and baseball fields for those looking to participate in team sports. Stretch your legs and connect with the great outdoors when you explore this park.

9. Knox Farm State Park

Located in East Aurora, Knox Farm is the former estate of Buffalo’s Knox family. The park is made up of 633 acres of beautiful farmland, wetlands, and woods. Visitors can enjoy walks along the paths, biking in designated areas, and even horseback rides with a permit. Don’t be surprised to see multiple photo shoots occurring during your visit due to the beautiful backdrops this state park provides. You might even want to bring along your camera to snap a few photos of your own!

10. Letchworth State Park

There’s a reason Letchworth is known as the "Grand Canyon of the East." This exceptional park boasts beautiful gorges, waterfalls, and forestland galore. Visitors can choose to explore various hiking trails that total over 66 miles in combined length. For those who are daredevils, try out exciting whitewater rafting on the river’s rushing waters! Not afraid of heights? The park also offers hot air balloon rides to view the eastern canyons from above. Letchworth is chock full of excitement for all ages.

11. Fort Niagara State Park

This state park gives visitors access to both the Niagara River and beautiful Lake Ontario. Explore the park's many trails, take advantage of the refreshing pool on a hot summer day, or tire the little ones out in the playgrounds and 18 soccer fields. For a history lesson, head next door to Old Fort Niagara and learn about the area's past.

12. Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is not only a state park, but a full-blown natural wonder. This beautiful shared park between the United States and Canada is an absolute must-visit for all New Yorkers. The park consists of three waterfalls that dump over 750,000 gallons per second. If you want to get up close and personal, take the Cave of the Winds Tour or put your ponchos on and hop aboard the Maid of the Mist, which will take you right up to the falls via boat.

13. Whirlpool State Park

You can find this fast-paced park upstream from Niagara Falls. With two levels to choose from, visitors can stay on the street level to take photos of this park’s scenic views, or for those more daring, head down to the river level for up close views of the rushing waters... and a trail to the last park on our list!

14. Devil's Hole State Park

Enjoy a fun day at this park, which features gorgeous views of the jade-colored water and an awesome hiking trail where you can stretch your legs. Follow the stone staircase down to the river gorge, where you'll find ample opportunities to camp and fish. For the best views, visit in fall, when the colored trees add to the already breathtaking backdrop.

Now that you've uncovered some of the best state parks to visit around Buffalo, you're something of an expert on our area's natural wonders. Have you been lucky enough to check out any of these fresh air gems during previous day trips from Buffalo? We'd love to hear from you, so share your experiences with us by leaving a Facebook comment or recommend another beautiful park near Buffalo by completing our official nomination form.

Still seeking outdoor fun? Check out our ultimate bucket list for waterfall hikes near Buffalo.