STATE PARKS ARE STILL A GREAT BUY
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(MONEY Magazine) – As MONEY advised readers last July, many state parks feature extensive resorts with amenities matching those of private hotels, at a fraction of the cost. For example, National Bridge State Park in Kentucky (800-325-1710) has nine hiking trails, a 994-acre nature preserve, an ancient sandstone arch, pool, paddle boats and miniature golf. A room for two at the park's Hemlock Lodge is only $67 a night, and a three-room cottage, complete with kitchen appliances, cooking utensils and tableware, is only $91. If you don't want to cook, there is a restaurant at the lodge. Another terrific deal is available at Roman Nose Resort in Oklahoma (800-654-8240). Here you can explore Indian ruins, boat and play tennis, and stay in a one-bedroom cottage with kitchen facilities for $70 a day. For details about these resorts and others, get in touch with state agricultural or forestry departments.