If you need a quick, peaceful getaway, there are more options in North Dakota than the national and state parks (even though those are pretty awesome). These little known parks, refuges, and preserves are all open to the public and are great for a relaxing afternoon. If you need a nice picnic spot, place to take a stroll, or just want to see some pretty nature and wildlife, here is where you want to go:

1. Chautauqua Park - Valley City

This is one of the best spots to see Valley City's famous Hi-Line Railroad Bridge as well as relax in the riverside park. It is scenic and full of fun things to do for all ages. Located at 933 12th Street NE, Valley City, ND 58072.

2. Upper Souris NWR - Minot

This beautiful refuge is located right on the Upper Souris River and hosts thousands of birds, both year round and during migration. The park has many trails to explore, even canoe and car trails, and many spots to fish and birdwatch. It's a beautiful slice of nature in the Peace Garden State. Located near Minot, ND. Click here for directions and more info.

3. Sullys Hill National Game Preserve - St. Michael

This stunning view of Devils Lake can be seen on Sullys Hill, a game preserve and fantastic park. This place has tons of wildlife to see. Deer, elk, bison - you name it. There is a particularly gorgeous hike up the hill to see this rewarding view at the overlook. Located at 2 Brunswick Road, St. Michael, ND 58370.

4. Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area - Walhalla

This spectacular view is at the Pembina Gorge near Walhalla, ND. Whether you go to hit the trails on foot, an ATV, or take a canoe or kayak down the river, you are sure to have a great experience here. This is also one of the number one places for leaf peepers to hit this fall - the forest is beautiful during that time. Located at Frost Fire Lodge on Country Road 55, Walhalla, ND 58282.

5. Keelboat Park - Bismarck

Keelboat Park is one of the most unique parks in North Dakota. It is situated along the Missouri River with fantastic river and bridge views, but that's not all. The park is full of unique sculptures and statues along the riverside paths that make for quite the interesting stroll. There is also recreations of the keelboats that the famous exploring group of Lewis and Clark used that you can get into and see for yourself - hence the name. Located at 1605 River Road, Bismarck, ND 58503.

6. Lindenwood Park - Fargo

Take a stroll through the gorgeous trees and along the river at this park in Fargo. This is especially beautiful during the fall when all the leaves are changing colors. There are lots of walking paths, campgrounds, picnic shelters, and more to enjoy. Located at 1905 Roger Maris Drive S, Fargo, ND 58103.

7. Seratoma Park and Japanese Gardens - Grand Forks

If you're looking for a nice spot for a simple stroll or a place to have a picnic, this is the park for you. Not only does it have the usual park features, it also has a unique Japanese-themed part that is from Grand Fork's sister city of Awano, Japan. It is one of the largest parks in the city. Located at 3300 11th Ave S, Grand Forks, ND 58201.

8. McDowell Dam Nature Park - Bismarck

McDowell Dam Nature Park is a serene, peaceful place to get a glimpse of the scenery and take advantage of all it has to offer. From fishing to lovely nature trails, it has everything you'd want in a park. Located at 1951 93rd Street NE, Bismarck, ND 58501.

Where is your favorite park in North Dakota? We didn't list the state parks here, but if you want to know more about them, click here! They are equally as awesome.