For a true wilderness experience, travelers visit Boundary Waters in Northern Minnesota for its renowned canoing and fishing sites. Part of the Superior National Forest, the region's terrain was shaped by glaciers, and comprises more than 1,000 lakes and streams, with several isolated islands. Visitors are likely to see "a ridiculous amount of stars," says Robert Reid, U.S. travel editor of Lonely Planet. "It's an unbelievable sight," says Reid. "You're in a completely untouched land."

Catalina Island, Calif.

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Catalina Island

California

Catalina Island, the most famous of California's Channel Islands, is only 22 miles off the shore fromLos Angeles. Catalina's visitors enjoy excellent snorkeling, kayaking and hiking on the island, or dine on Avalon, the Channel Islands' only city. "A lot of people don't really consider the availability of an unspoiled natural environment so close to L.A.," says Jess Moss, editor at Fodor's.

Cumberland Island, Georgia

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Cumberland Island

Georgia

Beachgoers looking for a secluded island getaway may want to consider a visit to Cumberland Island in Georgia, site of John F. Kennedy Jr.'s 1996 wedding to Carolyn Bessette. Once owned by the Carnegie family, Cumberland Island is part of the national seashore and is best known for its miles of undisturbed beaches. For the outdoor types, the island also features miles of trails for horseback riding and hiking.

Thousand Islands, N.Y.

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Thousand Islands

New York

As its name suggests, the Thousand Island Region comprises more than 1,000 islands along the U.S.-Canada border, surrounded by the St. Lawrence River, Lake Ontario and Adirondacks Mountains. Jess Moss, editor of Fodor's, recommends staying in the historic Alexandria Bay in upstate New York. Visitors can explore upstate New York's wilderness in several of the region's state parks and also enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, boating and hiking.

San Juan Islands, Wash.

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San Juan Islands

Washington

The San Juan Islands offer a stunning view of forested beaches and sea animals, says Robert Reid, U.S. travel editor for Lonely Planet. Travelers can get around the archipelago, which is nestled betweenSeattle and Victoria, British Columbia, by a ferry system. Most people opt to lodge on San Juan Island, but Orcas island is also a popular spot for tourists, especially those who want to catch sight of local whale pods. "It feels like a stepping stone to Alaska," Reid says. "You see a lot of wildlife you wouldn't see in other places."