in a state filled with natural wonders, it is no surprise that the rio de janeiro's authorities have inaugurated a number of state parks, to protect the various natural attributes of the region, and to promote sustainable development in the more ecologically diverse regions, without putting native ecosystems at risk.

the city of rio is home to one national park, the parque national da tijuca, and two state parks - the parque estadual da pedra branca and the newly established parque estadual da mendanha.

the classification of a 'state park' as unit of conservation is the oldest in brazil, and has proven to be a hugely popular endeavor, with the parks often offering a number of recreational opportunities, as well as providing a basis for the preservation and scientific exploration.