Pennsylvania's state parks are great places to visit any time of the year. When life begins to get a bit repetitive, break out of your everyday routine and head to one of the area's state parks, which offer thousands of acres that are ideal for every outdoor activity imaginable. Soak up the sun while swimming at the beaches at several of the state parks. Fly a model airplane or go horseback riding. Southwestern Pennsylvania's state parks, all family-friendly, promise jaw-dropping beauty, pure relaxation, and plenty of adventure. Would you agree that the following are the eight best state parks to visit near Pittsburgh?

1. Point State Park

Point State Park, at the tip of the Golden Triangle in Pittsburgh, is perhaps the most easily recognizable state park in the area. It offers plenty of traditional activities, including boating, hiking, and biking. In fact, two popular hiking and biking trails – the Great Allegheny Passage and the Three Rivers Heritage Trail – run through the park. History buffs can learn more about Pittsburgh by visiting the Fort Pitt Block House. Locals, thousands of whom flocked to Point State Park, will remember when the famous Giant Rubber Duck floated into town in 2013, docking on the river's edge.

2. Moraine State Park

Choose from dozens of activities – from hiking to boating – at the nearly 17,000 acre Moraine State Park or simply soak up the sun's rays at one of the park's two beaches, Lake Arthur and Pleasant Valley Beach. Approximately 40 miles outside of Pittsburgh, the state park features traditional activities as well as some not-so-traditional activities, including disc golf and bird watching from the waterfowl observation deck.

3. Keystone State Park

The 1,200-acre Keystone State Park is great for day-trips and family vacations year round. Camping, modern cabins, many trails, and a lake are all within walking distance, providing an ideal setting for wildlife watching or outdoor adventures.

The park is within easy driving distance from the Pittsburgh metropolitan area, the Laurel Highlands, and their many attractions.

4. McConnells Mills State Park

Seasoned climbers can test their skills at McConnells Mills State Park's two climbing areas while others can hit the nine miles of hiking trails, fish, hunt, or enjoy a picnic at the Kildoo Picnic Area, which also features a play area for kids. The Lawrence County park borders Slippery Rock Creek where, because of dangerous currents, swimming is prohibited.

5. Ohiopyle State Park

Carve out plenty of time for your visit to Ohiopyle State Park where photo-ops abound. Soak up the unparalleled beauty of the waterfalls, including Cucumber Falls, then slide down the natural water slides. Hikers can choose one of the many trails that cover nearly 79 miles while bikers have 27 miles of biking paths to explore. Ohiopyle State Park welcomes visitors to enjoy both summer and winter activities.

6. Ryerson Station State Park

Lace up your hiking shoes and hit the 13 miles of hiking trails at Ryerson Station State Park in Greene County, not too far from the West Virginia border. If hiking isn't your style, you'll find plenty else to do: swimming in the free pool, hunting, picnicking, and camping. Outdoor enthusiasts can also engage in such activities as sledding, ice skating, snowmobiling, and cross country skiing during the winter months.

7. Hillman State Park

Just 25 miles outside of Pittsburgh in Washington, Hillman State Park caters predominately to turkey and deer hunters and to hikers. However, the state park also features a model airplane field, which requires prior registration and verification of membership to the Academy of Model Aeronautics. Visitors are encouraged to use extreme caution when carrying and operating firearms.

8. Raccoon Creek State Park

Immerse yourself in outdoor adventure at Raccoon Creek State Park in Beaver County. Raccoon Lake provides an idyllic setting for boaters, kayakers, and fishermen while the more than 7,500 acre state park promises ample opportunity for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and camping. The park also features a sandy beach with a concession stand and a bathhouse.

The eight best state parks to visit near Pittsburgh promise plenty of adventure and excitement, all year around – whether you prefer a challenging or a relaxing outdoor experience. Which state park near Pittsburg is your favorite to visit?