10 absolutely beautiful places in the South you can’t miss this fall

The southern United States is full of unique things to do and see, and if one is in the mood to truly get off the grid, these quiet southern locations will please. From gorgeous parks in the Smoky Mountains to idyllic hot springs surrounded by baths and hikes, there truly is something for everyone.

Plus, there’s something to be said for breaking away from the norm and treating yourself to some seriously good self-care in one of the most beautiful parts of the United States. Putting off-the-grid vacation spots in the South on your “must-see” list is a smart way to disconnect and have an unforgettable vacation full of peace and quiet (plus natural beauty off the beaten track).

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10
Tennessee: Cummins Falls State Park

Cummins Falls State Park is one of the most beautiful, off-the-grid places you can go in the South for a vacation. It’s the perfect little getaway near the bustling city of Nashville. One can hike through the park and relax near Cummins Falls itself.

You can hike, swim, and enjoy the wonderful nature in this park. It’s a great way to escape the big city, get off the grid, and unplug.

• What makes it special: Huge Cummins Falls
• advice: Bring a swimsuit to swim at the base of the waterfall

9
South Carolina: Congaree National Park

This gorgeous park in South Carolina is one of the South’s most peaceful vacation spots; It has many tall, ancient trees and a beautiful trail that allows one to easily explore the park on foot.

Plus, a trip to Congaree National Park is easy to plan, and the hiking is easy enough to enjoy with the whole family.

• What makes it special: Its tall trees and easy-to-navigate trail
• advice: Get there early to get the best parking

8
West Virginia: Blackwater Falls State Park

Blackwater Falls State Park, West Virginia

The West Virginia park has some of the best hiking in the state (but swimming is not recommended at Blackwater Falls State Park).

Plus, the scenery is absolutely beautiful, and there are plenty of trails you can explore. Dive into the valley, immerse yourself in the deep, rugged forest and get back to nature.

• What makes it special: Miles of hiking trails and stunning waterfalls
• advice: Plan to spend several hours exploring

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7
Arkansas: Hot Springs National Park

Hot springs in Hot Springs National Park in the Jagged Mountains, part of the Ouachita Mountains, Arkansas, USA

This Arkansas gem has some of the most amazing natural features in the southern United States: ancient hot springs, great bathhouses, and plenty of hiking nearby.

One can learn a lot about the history of this area and experience the magic of the hot springs themselves, which is what makes Hot Springs National Park so special.

6
Florida: Jenny Springs

The calm waters of Jenny Springs, Florida

Ginny Springs, Florida is one of the best locations in the Sunshine State. One has the opportunity to bask in the hot springs or participate in all kinds of water sports such as tubing or diving.

There’s lots of great swimming too. Visiting in the spring or fall can help you avoid many crowds if you’re looking for a quieter, off-the-grid experience.

• What makes it special: Hot springs and all the water sports one can do
• advice: Visit off-season for smaller crowds

5
Georgia: Providence Canyon

Providence Canyon in southwest Georgia

This gorgeous state park has an array of different colored soils, including orange and red, making this spot a unique place to get off the grid in the South and see landscapes one may not have the opportunity to see anywhere else.

There’s lots of gorgeous foliage, great views, and lots of great hiking trails.

• What makes it special: Multi-colored soil and incredible views
• advice: If one has the time, camping out is a great option

4
Texas: Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Salt flats in Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a Texas treasure where one can truly get off the grid in the south (and off the beaten track) and see Permian fossil reefs and some of the highest peaks in the Lonestar State.

It is an otherworldly place to visit and can definitely give one a whole new perspective.

• What makes it special: Sky-high peaks and Permian fossil reefs
• advice: You can stay in El Paso and head to this park in the morning

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3
Georgia: Driftwood Beach

Driftwood Beach on the Atlantic Ocean on Jekyll Island, Georgia, United States

One of the most unique beaches in Georgia, Driftwood Beach is among the most interesting sites in the state. One can also get there quickly from the mainland.

Visitors will find sprawling views of pristine sand and plenty of driftwood, making it the perfect place to unwind, enjoy an off-the-grid Southern vacation, and truly relax.

• What makes it special: It’s a relaxing coastline and scenic driftwood
• advice: Go at low tide to see as much of the beach as possible

2
Tennessee: Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Historic log barn in a hardwood forest in fall in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee, USA

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a very popular choice, but the sheer size of this place will help one get off the grid and find some serenity no matter when you visit.

There are ample campgrounds, great trails, and cute nearby small towns where travelers can experience Southern hospitality on the cusp of one of the South’s best natural settings.

• What makes it special: It is a huge park that looks amazing in the fall months
• advice: You can camp in the park or stay in one of the beautiful and quiet nearby towns in Tennessee

1
Alabama: Little River Canyon National Park

Little River Falls in Little River Canyon National Park, Alabama

This excellent Alabaman green space is one of Southern Appalachia’s gems; Little River Canyon National Park is a stunning expanse filled with pristine nature and gorgeous scenery, earning it a place among the places you can go off the grid in the South.

In addition to being naturally beautiful and serene, it is also a great place for water sports such as white water rafting, wildlife spotting and trekking.

• What makes it special: Extensive opportunities for white water rafting and swimming
• advice: Bring hunting equipment and binoculars for bird watching