We Pittsburghers are fortunate to live within driving distance of a plethora of state parks. Some of them - Moraine State Park and Keystone State Park, for example - are household names, but, did you know there is a smattering of other, lesser-known state parks near the city of Pittsburgh? Some are tiny, while others stretch thousands of acres. Here are seven of them that you'll definitely want to visit ASAP:

1. Allegheny Islands State Park – Cheswick

Discover one of the most remote state parks near Pittsburgh. You can only access Allegheny Islands State Park, spanning 50 acres, via boat. Explore the undeveloped park via the footpaths. Popular activities include wildlife watching, fishing, and boating. Camping is only permitted for groups with permission from the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. Click here to learn more about this fascinating little slice of wilderness.

2. Hillman State Park – Burgettstown

Hillman State Park, about 35 minutes from downtown Pittsburgh, spans more than 3,500 acres. The day park hosts such popular activities as mountain biking, horseback riding, and wildlife watching. Or, explore the park on one of the nearly 40 miles of hiking trails. Hillman State Park also boasts a model airplane field. Read more about Hillman State Park here!

3. Ryerson Station State Park – Graysville

Journey less than an hour and a half to the picturesque Ryerson Station State Park. The park promises plenty of fun all year around. On those cold winter days, go cross country skiing, snowmobiling, or sledding. Of course, the state park also features such warm weather activities as swimming, fishing, and picnicking. Embark on one of the 13 miles of hiking trails. Or, spend the night at one of the rustic camp sites or rent a cottage. Read more about this wonderful state park here.

4. Laurel Hill State Park – Somerset

Laurel Hill State Park sprawls across nearly 4,000 acres. The enchanting state park offers 15 miles of trails, ranging from easy to difficult. Spend the day swimming, mountain biking, or boating. Pack your gear for a camping adventure. Laurel Hill State Park has 262 campsites, including two lodges and camping cottages. Click here to read more about this gorgeous state park!

5. Kooser State Park – Somerset

Tucked away in the Laurel Highlands, Kooser State Park spreads across a cozy 250 acres. The tiny state park offers only 1.5 miles of hiking. Embark on Tree Army Trail, the easy trail at only half of a mile, that will lead you to a picturesque stream. Other popular activities include picnicking and fishing. Click here for more information about Kooser State Park.

6. Linn Run State Park – Rector

Slip away to Linn Run State Park, a snug state park at only 612 acres. Spend the day horseback riding, wildlife watching, or hiking. Linn Run State Park offers an array of hiking trails totaling 6.25 miles. The one-mile Adams Fall Trail will lead you to a picturesque mountain waterfall and large boulders. Read more about Linn Run State Park here.

7. Laurel Ridge State Park – Rockwood

Over an hour and a half from downtown Pittsburgh, Laurel Ridge State Parks stretches across 13,625 acres. The picturesque state park is best known for the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail, which spans 70 miles. Other popular activities at the park include camping, wildlife watching, and picnicking. Read more on the official website.

What are your favorite state parks near Pittsburgh? Leave your thoughts in the comments below! Then, click here to read more about Highland Park, one of Pittsburgh's most popular parks.