One thing I always like to tell people about is the Trail of Tears State Park - Cape Girardeau, MO.
I used to live in Cape, and still am somewhat awed by the history of the Trail of Tears. And as for beauty, it’s hard to top.
Cape the town itself right on the river is beautiful too. Here’s a link to their Visitor and Convention Bureau.
The only other place I consider Heaven On Earth In America is Buckhorn Lake State Park in Kentucky.
The lodge is gorgeous - it’s not expensive - they have campgrounds as well. And, they are friendly - they remembered me 15 years later after the last time I was there with my family on vacation when I got a wild hair up my butt and drove there for an impromptu vacation.
For a look at the Old West, try Arizona:
Tombstone and the Historical Parts
Some of the most populated Ghost Towns in America - Jerome is excellent and the mining operations were very cool.
Most of the places in AZ have campgrounds, too.
Ok, you want BIG - how about The Grand Canyon. For more info on stuff in the area to do check here. I took a helicopter ride over it a few years ago - that’s not something I will ever forget…
Um, SO says the Black Hills are cool. But what does he know? He still hasn’t caught that mouse, the moron.
There’s The Hoover Dam - hey don’t laugh - I saw a documentary on this and it’s COOL! Read the story behind it - really!
Here are some Big Mountains (Rockies), some Cool Ruins and some big red rocks and beautiful scenery.
When I think “big” though, Dallas comes to mind. (Scroll down the page to see the links.)
Now - are you going to send us all postcards from all these places? 