The United States is home to some of the most beautiful & diverse landscapes. Many of these jaw-dropping sceneries (mountains, thunderous oceans, up-close wildlife, caves & so much more) can be found in National Parks. What is so impressive about National Parks? Every National Park is uniquely it’s own. No two National Parks are the same, they all feature something different than their competitors. This is one of the many reasons why those who love nature should try to visit all 63 U.S. National Parks.
Our first National Park trip was to Utah. While there we explored the Mighty 5 ( Arches, Bryce, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef & Zion). Every single park was breath taking. Since then, we’ve been hooked on visiting every National Park in the United States.
The National Parks should be on everybody’s bucket list as they offer a wide range of activities from white water rafting, rock climbing, wildlife watching, hiking & more. There is something for everyone. Even if you aren’t physically able, most National Parks have scenic overlooks that you can drive to.
To help you explore all 63 National Parks, I have put together a National Park checklist by state & a map of the National Parks for you.
This National Park guide covers all of the United States National Parks listed by the state as well as:
- Tips for planning a National Park trip
- All 423 Park Units (national historic sites, national monuments, and more)
- FREE printable map & checklist of the National Parks
- Most & Least visited National Parks
- Best time to visit each National Park
- Frequently asked questions
Are you looking for a way to celebrate your love for National Parks? Check out this article for ideas – Gifts for National Park Lovers
Table of Contents
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Things to keep in mind while reading
- Some National Parks are spread into multiple states. These National Parks will be placed under the state where it covers the most land.
–Death Valley National Park is under California. A small portion crosses into Nevada.
– Gateway Arch National Park is under Missouri. It also crosses into Illinois.
– Great Smoky Mountains National Park can be found in Tennessee. It also crosses into North Carolina.
– Yellowstone National Park can be found under Wyoming although it also crosses into Idaho & Montana. - The National Park System has 423 Units. Units consist of National Seashores, National Cemeteries, National Monuments, National Preserves, National Historic Sites, National Historical Parks, National Memorials, National Battlefields, National Recreation Areas, National Lakeshores, National Rivers, National Parkways, and National Trails.
- I will mark the places I have been to with an asterisk.
There are so many National Parks that I have been to but haven’t written about yet, if you have questions about them, please ask. I’m happy to help. - Annual visits – The 2021 statistics may be significantly less or more than years prior due to the pandemic. You can check out the yearly visitation report for all of the National Parks here.
Tips For Planning A National Park Trip
- National Park Pass (America the Beautiful Pass)
-If you plan to visit multiple National Parks throughout the year, a yearly pass can be cheaper than paying every time you enter a park.
-4th Graders and their families get in FREE. Learn more about Every Kid Outdoors
-Some National Parks are FREE. Be sure to check the fee of the National Park you are planning on visiting before you leave. - Check for closures
Sometimes trails or specific areas of the park can be closed either due to wildfires, wildlife nesting, vice presidents visiting & the list goes on. (We were at Yellowstone when a vice president decided to visit, they closed off the Old Faithful area. Thankfully we had already seen Old Faithful the day prior, but that wasn’t our initial plan.)
-You can check closures for National Parks by using The NPS app or the NPS website. Whether you choose to use the app (which is really cool) or the website, you’ll just search for the National Park and any alerts or closures will be right at the top. - Learn as much as you can about the National Park before you go
Some National Parks require permits to enter or hike certain areas. Most permits cannot be acquired on the day of. Knowing the park’s hours of operation, the best things to do, and the weather… can make sure that you have a successful trip. - Bring appropriate gear
Most of your time will be spent outside. I highly recommend bringing a hydration backpack and dressing accordingly. Moisture-wicking clothes are highly recommended. - Follow the rules & leave no trace
Our parks are a sight to be seen. Please leave them intact for everyone else to see. Many parks have different rules. Please look them up before you venture out. Some parks like White Sands National parks will let you explore anywhere, while others require you to stay on the trail. There are hefty fines and consequences for not following the rules. Learn more about leave no trace. - Avoid crowds
I highly recommend visiting the most visited parks during the off-season if possible. It is unbelievable how crowded the National Parks can get. If you must visit during peak season (typically summer) plan extra time. Everything will take longer. You can avoid the largest crowds by starting your day early. We once watched a sunrise at Bryce Canyon, and while we had to get up very early, it was worth it. There was hardly anyone around.
Are you eager to check off every U.S. national park? Use this helpful national park list. It includes a checklist of every U.S. national park broken down by state & map!
National Park List By State
To read the entire USA National Park list keep scrolling. If you want to read about a specific state, click the state link below, which will take you to that section specifically.
Alaska | American Samoa | Arizona | Arkansas | California | Colorado | Florida |
Hawaii | Indiana | Kentucky | Maine | Michigan | Minnesota | Missouri | Montana | Nevada | New Mexico | North Dakota | Ohio | Oregon | South Carolina | South Dakota | Tennessee | Texas | Utah | Virgin Islands | Virginia | Washington | West Virginia | Wyoming |
Alaska National Parks
Denali National Park
- Annual Visitors
54,850 (2020) and 601,152 (2019) - Best time to Visit
Late May to mid-September - Entrance Fees
Individual Weekly Pass 16 & up – $15
Denali Annual Pass (cardholder + 3 other travelers) – $45
America the Beautiful Pass – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Don’t Miss
Mt. Denali, Mount Healy Overlook Trail (6.9-mile moderate trail), Horseshoe Lake Trail (2.1-mile easy trail), Bus Tour, Whitewater Rafting
Denali National Park Facts
- Denali is North America’s tallest peak standing at 20,310′
- Most of Denali’s 6 million acres of land isn’t accessible to private vehicles.
- There is only one road in Denali National Park and it is 92 miles long.
- With careful planning, you can watch an impressive Aurora Borealis.
- Glaciers cover approximately 1 million acres of Denali.
Gates of the Arctic National Park
- Annual Visitors
7,362 (2021) - Best time to Visit
July to August - Entrance Fees
FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash. - Don’t Miss
Mt. Denali, Mount Healy Overlook Trail (6.9-mile moderate trail), Horseshoe Lake Trail (2.1-mile easy trail), Bus Tour, Whitewater Rafting
Gates of the Arctic National Park Facts
- Gates of the Arctic is the most northern national park in the United States.
- All 8,472,506 acres of this national park lie north of the Arctic Circle.
- It is the second-largest national park.
- It is one of the least visited national parks.
- Gates of the Arctic has no roads or trails. It’s incredibly remote.
- There is no cell service, amenities, or other services.
- Visitors should be self-sufficient.
Glacier Bay National Park
- Annual Visitors
89,768 (2021) - Best time to Visit
May to September - Entrance Fees
FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and only in a few select areas. - Don’t Miss
Kayak the Beardslee’s, Hike Bartlett Cove Forest Loop Trail (1.1-mile easy trail), Wildlife (brown bears, sea otters, whales, seals, black bears, humpback whales, mountain goats, sea birds, moose, and more), and see glaciers.
Glacier Bay National Park Facts
- Glacier Bay spans over 5,000 miles.
- It is home to over 1,000 glaciers and rainforests.
- Glaciers cover about 25% of the national park.
- It is home to incredible tidal changes. Sometimes up to 25 ft. in 6 hours!
- There are no roads that lead directly to Glacier Bay.
- The only way to get to Glacier Bay National Park is by boat, small plane, or ship.
Katmai National Park
- Annual Visitors
24,764 (2021) - Best time to Visit
June to September - Entrance Fees
FREE - Dog Friendly
Pets are allowed in the backcountry. They are not permitted within a 1.5-mile radius of Brooks Falls Platform. - Don’t Miss
See bears at Brooks Falls, Hike Dumpling Mountain (3-mile moderate trail), and take a guided tour to the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes
Katmai National Park Facts
- Katmai is home to roughly 2,000 brown bears, making it the best area in the United States to watch bears in their natural habitat.
- Bear viewing is best in July & September.
- Brooks Falls is the best spot to watch the bears eat salmon and play.
- The best way to see the park’s wildlife and glaciers is by boat.
Kenai Fjords National Park
- Annual Visitors
411,782 (2021) - Best time to Visit
June to August - Entrance Fees
FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and only in a few select areas. - Don’t Miss
Boat tour, Drive Exit Glacier Rd., Harding Ice Field Trail (9.2 miles hard trail), Exit Glacier Overlook Trail (2.2 miles easy trail)
Kenai Fjords National Park Facts –
- 51% of Kenai Fjords National Park is covered by ice.
- Approximately 40 glaciers flow from the Harding Ice Field.
- It is home to some spectacular wildlife (whales, sea otters, puffins, mountain goats, bears & more).
- Kenai Fjords cover 699,983 acres
Kobuk Valley National Park
- Annual Visitors
11,540 (2021) - Best time to Visit
June to September - Entrance Fees
FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash. However, NPS encourages you to leave them at home for safety. - Don’t Miss
See the Great Kobuk Sand Dunes, Kayak or Canoe the Kobuk River, take a flightseeing tour
Kobuk Valley National Park Facts
- Great Kobuk Sand Dunes cover 25 square miles & are approximately 100 ft. high.
- Kobuk Valley National Park covers 1.75 million acres.
- Kobuk Valley is very remote and can only be reached by foot, plane, or boat.
Lake Clark National Park
- Annual Visitors
18,278 (2021) - Best time to Visit
June to August - Entrance Fees
FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash. However, NPS encourages you to leave them at home for safety. - Don’t Miss
Tanalian Falls (7.5 miles moderate trail), Watch bears at Cook Inlet Coast, Canoe or Kayak Lake Clark
Lake Clark National Park Facts
- It’s only accessible by plane.
- Lake Clark National Park is approximately 4 million acres.
- It has lakes, mountains, & volcanoes.
- Mount Redoubt, an active volcano, is the highest point in the park.
Wrangell – St. Elias National Park
- Annual Visitors
50,189 (2021) - Best time to Visit
mid-May to mid-September - Entrance Fees
FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash. - Don’t Miss
Tour Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark, Root Glacier Trail (5.7-mile hard trail), Skookum Volcano Trail (4.2-mile moderate trail), West Kennecott Glacier Trail (2.4-mile easy trail), Drive McCarthy Road & Nabesna Road, Flightseeing Tour.
Wrangell – St. Elias National Park Facts
- It is the largest National Park in the United States with over 13 million acres.
- St. Elias is home to some of the largest volcanos in the United States.
- Mount Wrangell is one of the 3 largest active volcanos in the world.
- Mount St. Elias is the second tallest peak in the U.S. and Canada. It stands 18,008′ tall.
- There are only 2 public roadways in the park (Mcarthy Rd. & Nabesna Rd.)
Other Alaska National Park Service Units
- Alagnak Wild River
- Aniakchak National Monument & Preserve
- Bering Land Bridge National Preserve
- Cape Krusenstern National Monument
- Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park
- Lake Clark National Preserve
- Noatak National Preserve
- Sitka National Historical Park
- Yukon-Charley Rivers National Preserve
Take me back to the list of states!
American Samoa National Parks
National Park of American Samoa
- Annual Visitors
8,495 (2021) - Best time to Visit
June to October - Entrance Fees
FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, but in limited areas. - Don’t Miss
Snorkel Ofu Beach, Mount A’lava Trail (6.1-mile moderate trail), Tuafanua Trail (1.1-mile hard trail), Lower Sauma Ridge Trail (0.4-mile easy trail)
National Park Of American Samoa Facts
- American Samoa is split among 3 islands (Tutuila, Ofu, and Ta‘ū). You must fly to travel between the islands.
- It covers about 10,520 acres.
- The park preserves and protects coral reefs, tropical rainforests, fruit bats, and the Samoan culture.
Take me back to the list of states!
Arizona National Parks
Grand Canyon National Park
- Annual Visitors
4,532,677 (2021) - Best time to Visit
March to May & September to October - Entrance Fees
Vehicle Permit (admits one private vehicle & its passengers) – $35
Motorcycle Permit (admits one private motorcycle & its passengers) – $30
Individual Permit (admits one person by foot, park shuttle, bike, Grand Canyon Railway & private rafting trip. 15 & younger are FREE) – $20
Grand Canyon Annual Pass (cardholder + immediate family) – $70
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, leashed & on trails above the rim only. - Don’t Miss
Watch a sunset from the rim, View Desert View Watchtower, South Kaibab Trail to Cedar Ridge (2.8-mile moderate trail), Grand Canyon Rim (6.0-mile easy trail), and Scenic Drive on Hermit Rd.
Grand Canyon National Park Facts
- Grand Canyon is the 2nd most popular National Park.
- Grand Canyon National Park (1,904 square miles) is bigger than the state of Rhode Island (1,212 square miles).
- There are an estimated 1,000 caves in Grand Canyon. Only one (Cave of the Domes on Horseshoe Mesa) is open to the public.
Petrified Forest National Park
- Annual Visitors
590,334 (2021) - Best time to Visit
April to September - Entrance Fees
Vehicle Permit (admits one private vehicle & its passengers) – $25
Motorcycle Permit (admits one private motorcycle & its passengers) – $20
Individual Permit (admits one person by foot or bike) – $15
Petrified Forest Annual Pass (private vehicle + its occupants) – $45
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, they even have a BARK Ranger program. Ask about it at the visitor center. - Don’t Miss
Blue Mesa Trail (1.0-mile easy trail), Crystal Forest Trail (0.9-mile easy trail), Painted Desert Rim Trail (1.2-mile easy trail), Petrified Forest Scenic Drive, Geocaching, Long Logs & Agate House Loop Trail (2.6-mile easy trail).
Petrified Forest National Park Facts
- It is the only National Park that route 66 passes through.
- Petrified Forest covers a total of 221,390 acres.
- Petrified wood is mainly quartz.
- It is one of the world’s largest petrified forests.
Saguaro National Park
- Annual Visitors
1,079,786 (2021) - Best time to Visit
November to March - Entrance Fees
Vehicle Permit (admits one private vehicle & its passengers) – $25
Motorcycle Permit (admits one private motorcycle & its passengers) – $20
Individual Permit (admits one person by foot or bike) – $15
Saguaro Annual Pass (private vehicle + its occupants) – $45
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in select areas. - Don’t Miss
Cactus Forest Drive, Drive Scenic Bajada Loop, Bridal Wreath Falls (5.7-mile moderate hike), Valley View Overlook Trail (0.8-mile easy hike), See petroglyphs at Signal Hill, Catch a beautiful desert sunset with Saguaros.
Saguaro National Park Facts
- It is filled with Saguaro cacti. Some of which can grow over 40′!
- Saguaro National Park covers a total area of 91,445 acres.
- Saguaros are only found in a small area of the United States. They are protected by Saguaro National Park.
Other Arizona National Park Units
- Canyon de Chelly National Monument
- Casa Grande Ruins National Monument
- Chiricahua National Monument
- Coronado National Memorial
- Fort Bowie National Historic Site
- Hohokam Pima National Monument
- Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site
- Montezuma Castle National Monument
- Navajo National Monument
- Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument
- Pipe Spring National Monument
- Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument
- Tonto National Monument
- Tumacacori National Historical Park
- Tuzigoot National Monument
- Walnut Canyon National Monument
- Wupatki National Monument
Take me back to the list of states!
Arkansas National Parks
Hot Springs National Park*
- Annual Visitors
2,162,884 (2021) - Best time to Visit
April to October - Entrance Fees
Free - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash. - Don’t Miss
Bathhouse Row, Tour Fordyce Bathhouse, Goat Rock Trail (2.4-mile moderate trail), West Mountain Trail (2.4-mile easy trail), See Hot Water Cascade.
Hot Springs National Park Facts
- With only 5,500 acres Hot Springs National Park is the 2nd smallest National Park in the United States.
- There are 26 miles of hiking trails within Hot Springs National Park.
- It is one of America’s most accessible National Parks.
Other Arkansas National Park Units
- Arkansas Post National Memorial
- Buffalo National River
- Fort Smith National Historic Site
- Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site
- Pea Ridge National Military Park
- President William Jefferson Clinton Birthplace Home National Historic Site
Take me back to the list of states!
California National Parks
Channel Islands National Park
- Annual Visitors
319,252 (2021) - Best time to Visit
June to October - Entrance Fees
FREE - Dog Friendly
No - Don’t Miss
Kayak Sea Caves, Potato Harbor Trail (4.9-mile easy trail), Snorkeling, Arch Rock, Whale Watching
Channel Islands National Park Facts
- To reach Channel Islands National Park you’ll need to take a ferry and then explore by foot or kayak.
- The National Park is made up of 5 islands. They are Anacapa, Santa Cruz, San Miguel, Santa Barbara, and Santa Rosa.
- The Channel Islands were created by tectonic forces that caused them to rise out of the ocean over 5 million years ago.
- Diablo’s Peak or Devil’s Peak on Santa Cruz Island is the tallest peak on the Channel Islands. This peak stands at over 2,450 feet.
Death Valley National Park
Death Valley National Park also crosses into Nevada.
- Annual Visitors
1,146,551 (2021) - Best time to Visit
October to Early April - Entrance Fees
Vehicle Permit (admits one private vehicle & its passengers) – $30
Motorcycle Permit (admits one private motorcycle & its passengers) – $25
Individual Permit (admits one person by foot or bike) – $15
Death Valley Annual Pass (private vehicle + its occupants) – $55
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in select areas. - Don’t Miss
Badwater Basin Salt Flats Trail (1.9-mile easy trail), Zabriskie Point at sunrise (0.4-mile easy trail), Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Mosaic Canyon Trail (3.3-mile moderate trail), Ubehebe Crater
Death Valley National Park Facts
- It is the hottest, driest & lowest National Park.
- Temperatures in the summer are often over 110 degrees.
- Death Valley is the largest National Park in the lower 48 states.
- Death Valley is the lowest point in North America. It sits at 282 feet below sea level.
Joshua Tree National Park
- Annual Visitors
3,064,400 (2021) - Best time to Visit
March to May & October to November - Entrance Fees
Vehicle Permit (admits one private vehicle & its passengers) – $30
Motorcycle Permit (admits one private motorcycle & its passengers) – $25
Individual Permit (admits one person by foot or bike) – $15
Joshua Tree Annual Pass (private vehicle + its occupants) – $55
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in select areas. - Don’t Miss
Arch Rock Trail (1.4-mile easy trail), Sunset in Cholla Cactus Garden, Ryan Mountain (2.9-mile moderate trail), Skull Rock
Joshua Tree National Park Facts
- The Joshua Tree isn’t really a tree. It is a Yucca plant.
- Covering 1,235 square miles, Joshua Tree is the second-largest National Park in California.
- It is a Dark Sky Park.
Kings Canyon National Park
- Annual Visitors
562,918 (2021) - Best time to Visit
May to October - Entrance Fees
Vehicle Permit (admits one private vehicle & its passengers) – $35
Motorcycle Permit (admits one private motorcycle & its passengers) – $30
Individual Permit (admits one person by foot or bike) – $20
Kings Canyon & Sequoia Annual Pass (private vehicle + its occupants) – $70
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in select areas. - Don’t Miss
Drive Kings Canyon Scenic Byway, Mist Falls (8.7-mile moderate trail), General Grant Loop Trail (0.7-mile easy trail), Zumwalt Meadow & Roaring River Falls (5.4-mile easy trail)
Kings Canyon National Park Facts
- It’s home to the deepest canyon in the United States.
- Mountaineering is popular in Kings Canyon.
- It is 461,901 acres
Lassen Volcanic National Park
- Annual Visitors
359,635 (2021) - Best time to Visit
June to October - Entrance Fees
Vehicle Permit (admits one private vehicle & its passengers) – $30
Motorcycle Permit (admits one private motorcycle & its passengers) – $25
Individual Permit (admits one person by foot or bike) – $15
Lassen Volcanic Annual Pass (private vehicle + its occupants) – $55
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in select areas. - Don’t Miss
Drive Lassen Volcanic National Park Highway, Lassen Peak (5.1-mile hard trail), Bumpass Hell Trail (2.7-mile easy trail), Kings Creek Falls Trail (2.7-mile moderate trail)
Lassen Volcanic National Park Facts
- It covers an area of 106,452 acres.
- All four types of volcanos (shield, plug dome, cinder cone, and composite) can be found at Lassen Volcanic National Park.
- Lassen Peak is the southernmost active volcano in the Cascade Range of the Western United States.
Pinnacles National Park
- Annual Visitors
348,857 (2021) - Best time to Visit
September to May - Entrance Fees
Vehicle Permit (admits one private vehicle & its passengers) – $30
Motorcycle Permit (admits one private motorcycle & its passengers) – $25
Individual Permit (admits one person by foot or bike) – $15
Pinnacles Annual Pass (private vehicle + its occupants) – $55
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in select areas. - Don’t Miss
Moses Spring and Rim Trail Loop (2.5-mile moderate trail), Bear Gluch Reservoir, Balconies Cave Trail (2.6-mile moderate trail)
Pinnacles National Park Facts
- It covers 26,606 acres.
- Pinnacles National Park is the result of an ancient volcanic eruption.
- The San Andreas Fault Zone lies just east of the park.
Redwood National Park*
- Annual Visitors
435,879 (2021) - Best time to Visit
March to November - Entrance Fees
FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in select areas. - Don’t Miss
Trillium Falls Trail (2.6-mile moderate trail), Tall Trees Grove Loop (3.3-mile moderate trail), Drive Bald Hills Road, Klamath River Overlook
Redwood National Park Facts
- Redwood National Park covers a total area of 131,983 acres.
- Redwoods are the tallest trees and the tallest one is nearly 380 feet tall.
- Redwoods intertwine their roots with each other to help stabilize them.
- The bark of a Redwood can be up to a foot thick.
Sequoia National Park
- Annual Visitors
1,059,548 (2021) - Best time to Visit
May to October - Entrance Fees
Vehicle Permit (admits one private vehicle & its passengers) – $35
Motorcycle Permit (admits one private motorcycle & its passengers) – $30
Individual Permit (admits one person by foot or bike) – $20
Kings Canyon & Sequoia Annual Pass (private vehicle + its occupants) – $70
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in select areas. - Don’t Miss
Big Trees Trail (1.3-mile easy hike), Drive through Tunnel Log, Moro Rock Trail (0.5-mile moderate trail), General Sherman Tree, Crystal Cave
Sequoia National Park Facts
- Home to the world’s largest living tree (General Sherman Tree).
- Sequoia covers 404,064 acres.
- It’s home to the tallest mountain (Mount Whitney) in the Lower 48 states.
- Sequoia is America’s second oldest National Park.
Yosemite National Park
- Annual Visitors
3,287,595 (2021) - Best time to Visit
May to October - Entrance Fees
Vehicle Permit (admits one private vehicle & its passengers) – $35
Motorcycle Permit (admits one private motorcycle & its passengers) – $30
Individual Permit (admits one person by foot or bike) – $20
Yosemite Annual Pass (private vehicle + its occupants) – $70
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in select areas. - Don’t Miss
Lower Yosemite Falls Trail (1.2-mile easy trail), El Captain Meadow, Tunnel View, Valley View, Mirror Lake via Valley Loop Trail (4.4-mile moderate trail), Half Dome
Yosemite National Park Facts
- Yosemite is California’s most popular National Park.
- It was formed by glaciers.
- It’s home to one of the tallest waterfalls in America.
- Yosemite National Park covers 747,956 acres.
Other California National Parks Units
- Cabrillo National Monument
- Castle Mountains National Monument
- César E. Chávez National Monument
- Devils Postpile National Monument
- Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site
- Fort Point National Historic Site
- Golden Gate National Recreation Area
- John Muir National Historic Site
- Lava Beds National Monument
- Manzanar National Historic Site
- Mojave National Preserve
- Muir Woods National Monument
- Point Reyes National Seashore
- Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial
- Rosie the Riveter/World War II Home Front National Historical Park
- San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park
- Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area
- Tule Lake National Monument
- Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area
Take me back to the list of states!
Colorado National Parks
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
- Annual Visitors
308,910 (2021) - Best time to Visit
May to October - Entrance Fees
Vehicle Permit (admits one private vehicle & its passengers) – $30
Motorcycle Permit (admits one private motorcycle & its passengers) – $25
Individual Permit (admits one person by foot or bike) – $15
Black Canyon Annual Pass (private vehicle + its occupants) – $55
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in select areas. - Don’t Miss
Warner Point Nature Trail (1.5-mile easy trail), South Rim Scenic Drive, Painted Wall View, Gunnison Point Overlook
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park Facts
- Black Canyon covers a whopping 30,750 acres.
- Black Canyon’s Painted Wall is Colorado’s biggest cliff with a height of 2,250 feet tall.
- Some parts of the gorge only get about 30 minutes of sunlight a day.
- It is the least visited National Park in Colorado.
Learn more about Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Itinerary – One Day at Black Canyon of the Gunnison
Great Sand Dunes National Park *
- Annual Visitors
602,613 (2021) - Best time to Visit
March-November - Entrance Fees
Vehicle Permit (admits one private vehicle & its passengers) – $25
Motorcycle Permit (admits one private motorcycle & its passengers) – $20
Great Sand Dunes Annual Pass (private vehicle + its occupants) – $45
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in select areas. - Don’t Miss
Sandboarding, Sand Dunes Loop Trail (5.0-mile moderate trail), High Dune, Star Dune
Great Sand Dunes National Park Facts
- Home to the tallest sand dune in North America.
- Great Sand Dunes cover an area of 107,000 acres.
- The sand can reach a temperature of 150 degrees on summer afternoons.
Mesa Verde National Park
- Annual Visitors
548,477 (2021) - Best time to Visit
June to September - Entrance Fees
Vehicle Permit (admits one private vehicle & its passengers) – $30
Motorcycle Permit (admits one private motorcycle & its passengers) – $25
Individual Permit (admits one person by foot or bike) – $15
Mesa Verde Annual Pass (private vehicle + its occupants) – $55
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in select areas. - Don’t Miss
Spruce Tree House Overlook, Mesa Top Loop Road, Cliff Palace, Petroglyph Point Trail (2.4-mile moderate trail), Balcony House
Mesa Verde National Park Facts
- Mesa Verde contains over 4,000 archaeological sites.
- Mesa Verde National Park is a Dark Sky Park.
- This park spans over 52,074 acres.
Rocky Mountain National Park
- Annual Visitors
4,434,848 (2021) - Best time to Visit
June to September - Entrance Fees
Vehicle Permit (admits one private vehicle & its passengers) – $30
Motorcycle Permit (admits one private motorcycle & its passengers) – $25
Individual Permit (admits one person by foot or bike) – $15
Rocky Mountain Annual Pass (private vehicle + its occupants) – $70
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in select areas. - Don’t Miss
Drive Old Fall River Road, Alberta Falls Trail (1.6-mile easy trail), Emerald Lake Trail (3.2-mile moderate trail), Sky Pond via Glacier Gorge Trail (9.4-mile hard trail)
Rocky Mountain National Park Facts
- Rocky Mountain is the 3rd most visited National Park in the United States.
- It covers 265,461 acres.
- Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the Nation’s highest National Parks with elevations ranging from 7,860 feet to 14,259 feet.
Other Colorado National Park Units
- Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site
- Colorado National Monument
- Curecanti National Recreation Area
- Dinosaur National Monument
- Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument
- Hovenweep National Monument
- Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site
- Yucca House National Monument
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Florida National Parks
Biscayne National Park
- Annual Visitors
705,655 (2021) - Best time to Visit
October to May - Entrance Fees
FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in select areas. - Don’t Miss
Snorkel the Maritime Heritage Trail, Boat Tour of Boca Chita Key, Elliot Key Interpretive Loop (1.1-mile easy trail)
Biscayne National Park Facts
- Biscayne National Park is 95% underwater.
- There are no roads that lead to Biscayne. To get there you must travel by boat.
- This National Park is 172,971 acres.
- Biscayne is home to about 50 preserved shipwrecks.
Dry Tortugas National Park
- Annual Visitors
83,817 (2021) - Best time to Visit
November to April - Entrance Fees
Dry Tortugas Entrance Fee – $15
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in select areas. Pets are not allowed on commercial ferries or seaplanes. If traveling with pets you’ll need to travel by private boat or permitted tour guides. - Don’t Miss
Fort Jefferson, Snorkel Little Africa, Kayak to Loggerhead Key
Dry Tortugas National Park Facts
- It is about 47,125 acres.
- Dry Tortugas is made up of 7 islands.
- You can only get to Dry Tortuga by ferry or seaplane.
- Dry Tortugas National Park is made up of 99% water.
Everglades National Park
- Annual Visitors
942,130 (2021) - Best time to Visit
December to April - Entrance Fees
Vehicle Permit (admits one private vehicle & its passengers) – $30
Motorcycle Permit (admits one private motorcycle & its passengers) – $25
Individual Permit (admits one person by foot or bike) – $15
Everglades Annual Pass (private vehicle + its occupants) – $55
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in select areas. - Don’t Miss
Shark Valley, Anhinga Trail (0.8-mile easy trail), Take an airboat ride, 10,000 Islands boat tour, Drive Park Road to Flamingo
Everglades National Park Facts
- Everglades National Park covers 1.5 million acres.
- One of the largest wetlands in the world.
- It gets an average of 60″ of rain a year.
Other Florida National Park Units
- Big Cypress National Preserve
- Canaveral National Seashore
- Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
- De Soto National Memorial
- Fort Caroline National Memorial
- Fort Matanzas National Monument
- Gulf Islands National Seashore
- Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve
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Hawaii National Parks
Haleakalā National Park
- Annual Visitors
853,181 (2021) - Best time to Visit
May to July - Entrance Fees
Vehicle Permit (admits one private vehicle & its passengers) – $30
Motorcycle Permit (admits one private motorcycle & its passengers) – $25
Individual Permit (admits one person by foot or bike) – $15
Haleakalā Annual Pass (private vehicle + its occupants) – $55
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in select areas. - Don’t Miss
Haleakalā Summit at sunrise, Drive Road to Hana, Waimoku Falls via Pipiwai Trail (3.8-mile moderate trail), Seven Sacred Pools Trail (0.6-mile easy trail)
Haleakalā National Park Facts
- Haleakalā elevation ranges from sea level to over 10,000 ft.
- It protects 1 of 6 active volcanoes in Hawaii.
- There are more endangered species in Haleakalā than in any other United States National Park.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
- Annual Visitors
1,262,747 (2021) - Best time to Visit
May to July - Entrance Fees
Vehicle Permit (admits one private vehicle & its passengers) – $30
Motorcycle Permit (admits one private motorcycle & its passengers) – $25
Individual Permit (admits one person by foot or bike) – $15
Hawaii Volcanoes Annual Pass (private vehicle + its occupants) – $55
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in select areas. - Don’t Miss
Chain of Craters Road, Crater Rim Drive, Thurston Lava Tube Trail (0.4-mile easy trail), Pu’u Loa Petroglyphs Trail (1.2-mile easy trail), See lava at Halema’uma’u Crater
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Facts
- It is home to 2 of the world’s most active volcanoes (Kilauea and Mauna Loa).
- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park covers 323,431 acres.
- The last major volcanic activity within the park occurred in late 2018.
Other Hawaii National Park Units
- Honouliuli National Historic Site
- Kalaupapa National Historical Park
- Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park
- Pearl Harbor National Memorial
- Pu’uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park
- Pu’ukoholā Heiau National Historic Site
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Indiana National Parks
Indiana Dunes National Park*
- Annual Visitors
3,177,210 (2021) - Best time to Visit
March to November - Entrance Fees
Vehicle Permit (admits one private vehicle & its passengers) – $25
Motorcycle Permit (admits one private motorcycle & its passengers) – $20
Individual Permit (admits one person by foot or bike) – $15
Indiana Dunes Annual Pass (private vehicle + its occupants) – $45
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in most areas. - Don’t Miss
Freshwater swimming, Diana Dunes Dare, Cowles Bog Trail (4.3-mile moderate trail), See Mount Baldy
Indiana Dunes National Park Facts
- The National Park covers 15,000 acres.
- It has over 50 miles of hiking trails.
- Indiana Dunes National Park contains four national natural landmarks & one national historical landmark within its boundaries.
Other Indiana National Park Units
- George Rogers Clark National Historical Park
- Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial
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Kentucky National Parks
Mammoth Cave National Park
- Annual Visitors
515,774 (2021) - Best time to Visit
April to November - Entrance Fees
FREE, however, there is a fee to tour the cave. - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in most areas aside from the cave & buildings. - Don’t Miss
Cave Tours, Sunset Point at sunset, Dixon Cave Trail Loop (1.5-mile easy trail), Echo River Spring & Sinkhole Loop (2.8-mile easy trail)
Mammoth Cave National Park Facts
- It’s home to the largest cave system in the world.
- The underground caves are the same temperature all year round.
- Mammoth Cave contains lakes and rivers.
Other Kentucky National Park Units
- Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park
- Camp Nelson National Monument
- Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
- Mill Springs Battlefield National Monument
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Maine National Parks
Acadia National Park*
- Annual Visitors
4,069,098 (2021) - Best time to Visit
April to October - Entrance Fees
Vehicle Permit (admits one private vehicle & its passengers) – $30
Motorcycle Permit (admits one private motorcycle & its passengers) – $25
Individual Permit (admits one person by foot or bike) – $15
Acadia Annual Pass (private vehicle + its occupants) – $55
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in most areas. - Don’t Miss
Bar Island Trail (1.9-mile easy trail), The Beehive Loop Trail (1.5 miles hard trail), Drive Cadillac Mountain, See Thunderhole 1-2 hours before high tide, Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse, Jordan Pond Path (3.1-mile moderate trail).
Acadia National Park Facts
- Acadia sprawls over 47,000 acres of land.
- 20% of Acadia National Park is considered a wetland.
- Cadillac Mountain is one of the first places in the United States to see sunlight.
- Even though Acadia is one of the United States smallest National Parks, it often ranks in the top 10 for the total number of visitors.
Want to learn more about Acadia? Check out this post
Roadtrip Itinerary – East Coast Road Trip to Acadia
Best Hikes – Best Hikes in Acadia National Park
Other Main National Park Units
- Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument
- Saint Croix Island International Historic Site
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Michigan National Parks
Isle Royale National Park
- Annual Visitors
25,844 (2021) - Best time to Visit
May to September - Entrance Fees
Individual Permit – $7
Isle Royale Season Pass (cardholder + 3 adults) – $60
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
No - Don’t Miss
Rock Harbor Lighthouse, Scoville Point via Stoll Trail (4.7-mile moderate trail), Suzy’s Cave, Catch a sunset at Rainbow Cove.
Isle Royale National Park Facts
- The only way to get to Isle Royale is by Ferry or Seaplane.
- Isle Royale contains hundreds of islands.
- It is the only National Park that completely closes for the winter season.
Other Michigan National Park Units
- Keweenaw National Historical Park
- Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
- River Raisin National Battlefield Park
- Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
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Minnesota National Parks
Voyageurs National Park
- Annual Visitors
243,042 (2021) - Best time to Visit
June to September - Entrance Fees
FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in select areas. - Don’t Miss
Blind Ash Bay Trail (3.0-mile moderate trail), Watch the Northern Lights, Take a boat tour
Voyageurs National Park Facts
- Voyageurs National Park covers a total area of 218,054 acres and 1/3 of that is underwater.
- It is a Dark Sky Park.
- Voyageurs is home to many lakes. 4 large lakes and 26 smaller lakes, to be exact.
Other Minnesota National Park Units
- Grand Portage National Monument
- Mississippi National River and Recreation Areas
- Pipestone National Monument
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Missouri National Parks
Gateway Arch National Park*
Gateway Arch National Park also crosses into Illinois.
- Annual Visitors
1,145,081 (2021) - Best time to Visit
Year-round - Entrance Fees
FREE, unless you want to visit the museum or ride to the top of the Arch. - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and only on the grounds. - Don’t Miss
Tram ride to the top of the Gateway Arch, explore the museum and walk the grounds.
Gateway Arch National Park Facts
- It’s home to the world’s tallest arch.
- The Gateway Arch is as wide as it is tall.
- Gateway Arch National Park is the smallest National Park in the United States.
Other Missouri National Park Units
- George Washington Carver National Monument
- Harry S Truman National Historic Site
- Ozark National Scenic Riverways
- Ste. Genevieve National Historical Park
- Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site
- Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield
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Montana National Parks
Glacier National Park
- Annual Visitors
3,081,656 (2021) - Best time to Visit
June to September - Entrance Fees
Vehicle Permit (admits one private vehicle & its passengers) – $35
Motorcycle Permit (admits one private motorcycle & its passengers) – $30
Individual Permit (admits one person by foot or bike) – $20
Glacier Annual Pass (private vehicle + its occupants) – $70
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in select areas. - Don’t Miss
Sunset at Lake McDonald, Drive Going to the Sun Road, Avalanche Lake via the Trail of the Cedars (5.9-mile moderate trail)
Glacier National Park Facts
- It was once home to over 100 Glaciers and now it only has 20.
- Glacier is 1,013,322 acres,
- Glacier National Park has over 700 miles of hiking trails.
Other Montana National Park Units
- Big Hole National Battlefield
- Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area
- Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site
- Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument
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Nevada National Parks
Great Basin National Park
- Annual Visitors
144,875 (2021) - Best time to Visit
April to October - Entrance Fees
FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in select areas. - Don’t Miss
Lehman Caves, Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive, Bristlecone Pine Glacier Trail (4.5-mile moderate trail), Lexington Arch
Great Basin National Park Facts
- The parks Bristlecone Pine Trees are the oldest living organisms in the world.
- Great Basin is an International Dark Sky Park.
- Great Basin National Park sprawls over 77,100 acres.
Other Nevada National Park Units
- Lake Mead National Recreation Area
- Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument
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New Mexico National Parks
Carlsbad Caverns National Parks*
- Annual Visitors
349,244 (2021) - Best time to Visit
Year-round - Entrance Fees
Individual Permit (admits one person 16 years and older) – $15
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
No - Don’t Miss
Carlsbad Cavern, Walnut Canyon Desert Drive, Experience the Bat Flight Program
Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts
- The cave stays the same temperature all year.
- Carlsbad Caverns covers 46,766 acres.
- There are currently 120 discovered caves in Carlsbad Caverns National Park.
White Sands National Park*
- Annual Visitors
782,469 (2021) - Best time to Visit
September to May - Entrance Fees
Vehicle Permit (admits one private vehicle & its passengers) – $25
Motorcycle Permit (admits one private motorcycle & its passengers) – $20
Individual Permit (admits one person by foot or bike) – $15
White Sands Annual Pass (private vehicle + its occupants) – $45
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in most areas. - Don’t Miss
Dunes Drive, Alkali Flat Trail (4.7-mile moderate trail), Dune Life Nature Trail (1.0-mile easy trail)
White Sands National Park Facts
- You can sled down the sand dunes (This didn’t work well for us & we didn’t see anyone having better luck, but who’s to say you can’t figure it out?)
- White Sands National Park is not made of typical sand. It is actually made of gypsum. Gypsum acts differently and feels different than sand found on beaches.
- It is the world’s largest gypsum dune field.
Other New Mexico National Park Units
- Aztec Ruins National Monument
- Bandelier National Monument
- Capulin Volcano National Monument
- Chaco Culture National Historical Park
- El Malpais National Monument
- El Morro National Monument
- Fort Union National Monument
- Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument
- Manhattan Project National Historical Park
- Pecos National Historical Park
- Petroglyph National Monument
- Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument
- Valles Caldera National Preserve
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North Dakota National Parks
Theodore Roosevelt National Park
- Annual Visitors
796,085 (2021) - Best time to Visit
May to September - Entrance Fees
Vehicle Permit (admits one private vehicle & its passengers) – $30
Motorcycle Permit (admits one private motorcycle & its passengers) – $25
Individual Permit (admits one person by foot or bike) – $15
Theodore Roosevelt Annual Pass (private vehicle + its occupants) – $55
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in select areas. - Don’t Miss
Drive Scenic Loop, Petrified Forest, Cannonball Concretions, Wind Canyon Trail (0.5-mile easy trail)
Theodore Roosevelt National Park Facts
- It is home to the world’s third-largest concentration of petrified wood.
- Theodore Roosevelt National Park is 70,446 acres.
- This National Park is home to many animals including longhorn steers, bison, prairie dogs, wild horses, bighorn sheep, elk & deer.
Other North Dakota National Park Units
- Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site
- Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site
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Ohio National Parks
Cuyahoga Valley National Park*
- Annual Visitors
2,575,275 (2021) - Best time to Visit
April to October - Entrance Fees
FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in most areas. - Don’t Miss
Ride the Scenic Railroad, The Ledges Trail (2.3-mile moderate trail), Brandywine Gorge Trail (1.4-mile moderate trail), Blue Hen Falls (2.4-mile moderate trail)
Cuyahoga Valley National Park Facts
- Cuyahoga Valley National Park covers a total area of 33,000 acres.
- It is home to over 125 miles of hiking trails.
- Brandywine Falls is among the most popular attraction in the National Park.
Explore Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Hiking – Cuyahoga Valley National Park Trails You Don’t Want to Miss
Other Ohio National Park Units
- Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument
- Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park
- First Ladies National Historic Site
- Hopewell Culture National Historical Park
- James A. Garfield National Historic Site
- Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial
- William Howard Taft National Historic Site
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Oregon National Parks
Crater Lake National Park*
- Annual Visitors
647,751 (2021) - Best time to Visit
April to October - Entrance Fees
Vehicle Permit (admits one private vehicle & its passengers) – $30
Motorcycle Permit (admits one private motorcycle & its passengers) – $25
Individual Permit (admits one person by foot or bike) – $15
Crater Lake Annual Pass (private vehicle + its occupants) – $55
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in select areas. - Don’t Miss
Rim Drive, Boat Tour, Garfield Peak Trail (3.4-mile moderate trail), Watchman Peak Trail (1.7-mile moderate trail)
Crater Lake National Park FActs
- With a depth of 1,943 feet, Crater Lake is one of the deepest lakes in the world & the deepest lake in the United States.
- Crater Lake is one of the cleanest and clearest lakes in the world.
- You can swim in Crater Lake.
Explore Crater Lake
Hiking – Best Hikes in Crater Lake
Other Oregon National Park Units
- John Day Fossil Beds National Monument
- Lewis and Clark National Historical Park
- Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve
Want to learn more about Oregon? Check out this post!
Hiking – 17 Best Day Hikes in Oregon You Don’t Want to Miss
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South Carolina National Parks
Congaree National Park
- Annual Visitors
215,181 (2021) - Best time to Visit
March to May & September to November - Entrance Fees
FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in most areas. - Don’t Miss
The Boardwalk Trails, Canoe or Kayak, Weston Lake Loop Trail (4.7-mile easy trail)
Congaree National Park Facts
- It covers 26,276-acre acres.
- Congaree is home to some of the tallest trees in the Eastern United States.
- It is one of the least visited National Parks
Other South Carolina National Park Units
- Charles Pinckney National Historic Site
- Cowpens National Battlefield
- Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park
- Kings Mountain National Military Park
- Ninety Six National Historic Site
- Reconstruction Era National Historical Park
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South Dakota National Parks
Badlands National Park*
- Annual Visitors
1,224,226 (2021) - Best time to Visit
April to June & September to November - Entrance Fees
Vehicle Permit (admits one private vehicle & its passengers) – $30
Motorcycle Permit (admits one private motorcycle & its passengers) – $25
Individual Permit (admits one person by foot or bike) – $15
Badlands Annual Pass (private vehicle + its occupants) – $55
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in select areas. - Don’t Miss
Badlands Loop Road, Notch Trail (1.5-mile moderate trail), The Window Trail (0.3-mile easy trail), Saddle Pass Trail (0.7-mile moderate trail)
Badlands National Park Facts
- Badlands used to be covered by a shallow sea.
- It is one of the world’s richest fossil beds.
- It covers 242,756 acres.
Explore Badlands National Park
Hiking- 8 Best Easy Hikes in Badlands National Park
Wind Cave National Park
- Annual Visitors
709,001 (2021) - Best time to Visit
March to September - Entrance Fees
FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in select areas. - Don’t Miss
Wild Cave Tour, Rankin Ridge Trail (1.0-mile easy trail), Lookout Point Trail & Centennial Trail Loop (5.2-mile moderate trail)
Wind Cave National Park Facts
- Wind Cave was the first cave to become a National Park.
- It is one of America’s oldest National Parks.
- Wind Cave is one of the longest and most complex caves in the world.
Other South Dakota National Park Units
- Jewel Cave National Monument
- Minuteman Missile National Historic Site
- Missouri National Recreational River
- Mount Rushmore National Memorial
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Tennessee National Parks
Great Smoky Mountains National Park*
Great Smoky Mountains National Park also crosses into North Carolina.
- Annual Visitors
14,161,548 (2021) - Best time to Visit
May to November - Entrance Fees
FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in select areas. - Don’t Miss
Clingmans Dome, Cades Cove, Laurel Falls Trail (2.4-mile easy trail), Peregrine Peak via Alum Cave Bluff Trail (4.5-mile moderate trail)
Great Smoky Mountains National Park Facts
- It is the most visited National Park in America.
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park covers 522,427 acres.
- The highest peak in the park is Clingmans Dome at 6,643 feet.
Other Tennessee National Park Units
- Andrew Johnson National Historic Site
- Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
- Fort Donelson National Battlefield
- Obed Wild and Scenic River
- Shiloh National Military Park
- Stones River National Battlefield
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Texas National Parks
Big Bend National Park
- Annual Visitors
581,220 (2021) - Best time to Visit
October to April - Entrance Fees
Vehicle Permit (admits one private vehicle & its passengers) – $30
Motorcycle Permit (admits one private motorcycle & its passengers) – $25
Individual Permit (admits one person by foot or bike) – $12
Big Bend Annual Pass (private vehicle + its occupants) – $55
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in very select areas. - Don’t Miss
The Langford Hot Springs, The Window Trail (5.2-mile moderate trail), Lost Mine Trail (4.8-mile moderate trail)
Big Bend National Park Facts
- Big Bend is located along the Texas & New Mexico border.
- The Rio Grande River runs through it Big Bend National Park.
- The park is named after the Rio Grande River’s big bend in West Texas.
Guadalupe Mountains National Park*
- Annual Visitors
243,291 (2021) - Best time to Visit
November to April - Entrance Fees
Vehicle Permit (admits one private vehicle & its passengers) – $30
Motorcycle Permit (admits one private motorcycle & its passengers) – $25
Individual Permit (admits one person by foot or bike) – $12
Guadalupe Mountains Annual Pass (private vehicle + its occupants) – $55
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in very select areas. - Don’t Miss
Devils Hall Trail (3.6-mile hard trail), Guadalupe Peak Texas Highpoint Trail (8.4-mile hard trail), Smith Spring Trail (2.4-mile moderate trail)
Guadalupe Mountains National Park FActs
- Guadalupe Mountains National Park protects the world’s most extensive Permian fossil reef.
- Guadalupe Peak is the highest natural point in Texas, with an elevation of 8,751 feet.
- The Guadalupe Mountains are the same mountains shared with Carlsbad Caverns National Park.
Other Texas National Park Units
- Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument
- Amistad National Recreation Area
- Big Thicket National Preserve
- Chamizal National Memorial
- Fort Davis National Historic Site
- Lake Meredith National Recreation Area
- Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park
- Padre Island National Seashore
- Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park
- Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River
- San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
- Waco Mammoth National Monument
Utah National Parks
Arches National Park*
- Annual Visitors
1,806,865 (2021) - Best time to Visit
March to May & September to November - Entrance Fees
Vehicle Permit (admits one private vehicle & its passengers) – $30
Motorcycle Permit (admits one private motorcycle & its passengers) – $25
Individual Permit (admits one person by foot or bike) – $15
Arches Annual Pass (private vehicle + its occupants) – $55
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE
Timed Entry Ticket – $2 - Dog Friendly
No - Don’t Miss
Delicate Arch Trail (3.2-mile moderate trail), Devils Garden (7.9-mile hard trail), Double Arch Trail (0.6-mile easy trail), Sand Dune Arch Trail (0.3-mile easy trail), Windows Loop & Turret Arch Trail (1.2-mile easy trail)
Arches National Park Facts
- The longest arch in Arches National Park is Landscape Arch, at 306 feet long.
- Over 2,000 arches have been discovered and recorded in Arches National Park.
- Delicate Arch is 46 feet high and 32 feet wide, making it the largest free-standing arch in the park.
Want to learn more about Arches? Check out these posts
Roadtrip Itinerary – Utah National Parks Roadtrip
Bryce Canyon National Park*
- Annual Visitors
2,104,600 (2021) - Best time to Visit
March to October - Entrance Fees
Vehicle Permit (admits one private vehicle & its passengers) – $35
Motorcycle Permit (admits one private motorcycle & its passengers) – $30
Individual Permit (admits one person by foot or bike) – $20
Bryce Canyon Annual Pass (private vehicle + its occupants) – $70
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in very select areas. - Don’t Miss
Sunrise at Sunset Point, Scenic Drive, Navajo Loop & Queens Garden Trail (2.9-mile moderate trail), Mossy Cave Turret Arch & Little Windows Trail (1.0-mile easy trail)
Bryce Canyon National Park Facts
- Bryce Canyon National Park has the largest collection of hoodoos on earth.
- The highest part of this national park is Rainbow Point measuring 2,775 meters.
- The rocks in the park are approximately 65 million years old but they are still believed to be the youngest on the Colorado Plateau.
Want to learn more about Bryce Canyon? Check out these posts
Roadtrip Itinerary – Utah National Parks Roadtrip
Canyonlands National Park*
- Annual Visitors
911,594 (2021) - Best time to Visit
April to May & September to October - Entrance Fees
Vehicle Permit (admits one private vehicle & its passengers) – $30
Motorcycle Permit (admits one private motorcycle & its passengers) – $25
Individual Permit (admits one person by foot or bike) – $15
Canyonlands Annual Pass (private vehicle + its occupants) – $55
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
No - Don’t Miss
Mesa Arch Trail (0.7-mile easy trail), Grand View Point Trail (1.8-mile easy trail), Green River Overlook & Shafer Point Overlook
Canyonlands National Park Facts
- Canyonlands National Park covers a total area of 337,598 acres.
- The rivers divide the park into four districts: Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and The rivers.
- Traveling between the districts can take between 4-6 hours because there are few places to cross the rivers.
Want to learn more about Canyonlands? Check out these posts
Roadtrip Itinerary – Utah National Parks Roadtrip
Capitol Reef National Park*
- Annual Visitors
1,405,353 (2021) - Best time to Visit
March to June & September to October - Entrance Fees
Vehicle Permit (admits one private vehicle & its passengers) – $20
Motorcycle Permit (admits one private motorcycle & its passengers) – $15
Individual Permit (admits one person by foot or bike) – $10
Capitol Reef Annual Pass (private vehicle + its occupants) – $35
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in very select areas. - Don’t Miss
Hickman Bridge Trail (1.7-mile moderate trail), Petroglyph Panel, Scenic Drive
Capitol Reef National Park Facts
- Capitol Reef spans over 240,000 acres.
- You can pick fruit from the orchards for a small fee.
- Most of the park is not accessible by paved roads.
Want to learn more about Capitol Reef? Check out these posts
Roadtrip Itinerary – Utah National Parks Roadtrip
Zion National Park*
- Annual Visitors
5,039,835 (2021) - Best time to Visit
March to April & October to November - Entrance Fees
Vehicle Permit (admits one private vehicle & its passengers) – $35
Motorcycle Permit (admits one private motorcycle & its passengers) – $30
Individual Permit (admits one person by foot or bike) – $20
Zion Annual Pass (private vehicle + its occupants) – $70
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in very select areas. - Don’t Miss
Hike the Narrows, Angels Landing Trail (4.4-mile hard trail), or Scouts Lookout via West Rim Trail (3.6-mile hard trail), Scenic Drive (private vehicles are only allowed on it during the non-shuttle season, usually January to mid-February)
Zion National Park Facts
- Angel’s Landing is one of the scariest hikes in America.
- Zion National Park is a climber’s paradise with sandstone walls that stand over 2,000 feet high.
- Zion was Utah’s first National Park.
Want to learn more about Zion? Check out these posts
Roadtrip Itinerary – Utah National Parks Roadtrip
Hiking – Zion National Park’s easy hikes
Cost – Entrance Fees, Passes & How To Get In Free
Shuttle/Parking – Zion Shuttle & Parking Tips
Pack – What to Pack for Zion
Other Utah National Park Units
- Cedar Breaks National Monument
- Golden Spike National Historical Park
- Natural Bridges National Monument
- Rainbow Bridge National Monument
- Timpanogos Cave National Monument
Explore Utah’s National Parks
Road Trip- Utah National Parks Road Trip
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Virgin Islands National Parks
Virgin Islands National Park
- Annual Visitors
323,999 (2021) - Best time to Visit
December to April - Entrance Fees
FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in select areas. - Don’t Miss
Snorkel, Reef Bay Trail (4.4-mile moderate trail), Petroglyph Trail (3.3-mile easy trail), Ram Heat Trail (2.3-mile moderate trail), Snorkel underwater trail in Trunk Bay
Virgin Island National Park Facts
- One of the most popular attractions is Trunk Bay – with an underwater trail for snorkeling through the coral.
- To get to Virgin Islands National Park, you’ll have to first fly to another country (British Virgin Islands) and then take a ferry to the Virgin Islands.
- Three species of sea turtles can be found at Virgin Islands National Park.
Other Virgin Island National Park Units
- Buck Island Reef National Monument
- Christiansted National Historic Site
- Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve
- Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument
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Virginia National Parks
Shenandoah National Park
- Annual Visitors
1,592,312 (2021) - Best time to Visit
March to November - Entrance Fees
Vehicle Permit (admits one private vehicle & its passengers) – $30
Motorcycle Permit (admits one private motorcycle & its passengers) – $25
Individual Permit (admits one person by foot or bike) – $15
Shenandoah Annual Pass (private vehicle + its occupants) – $55
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in most areas. - Don’t Miss
Skyline Drive, Old Rag Mountain Loop (9.5-mile hard trail), Hawksbill Loop (2.7-mile moderate trail), Dark Hallow Falls (1.4-mile moderate trail)
Shenandoah National Park Facts
- Shenandoah National Park has one of the densest black bear populations in the United States.
- It has over 500 miles of trails.
- Shenandoah is the only place known to have the Shenandoah Salamander.
Other Shenandoah National Park Units
- Appomattox Court House National Historical Park
- Arlington House, The Robert E. Lee Memorial
- Booker T. Washington National Monument
- Cedar Creek and Belle Grove National Historical Park
- Colonial National Historical Park
- Fort Monroe National Monument
- Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania County Battlefields Memorial National Military Park
- George Washington Birthplace National Monument
- George Washington Memorial Parkway
- Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
- Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site
- Manassas National Battlefield Park
- Petersburg National Battlefield
- Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail
- Prince William Forest Park
- Richmond National Battlefield Park
- Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts
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Washington National Parks
Mount Rainer National Park
- Annual Visitors
1,670,063 (2021) - Best time to Visit
July to September - Entrance Fees
Vehicle Permit (admits one private vehicle & its passengers) – $30
Motorcycle Permit (admits one private motorcycle & its passengers) – $25
Individual Permit (admits one person by foot or bike) – $15
Mount Rainer Annual Pass (private vehicle + its occupants) – $55
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in very select areas. - Don’t Miss
Skyline Loop Trail (6.2-mile hard trail), Naches Peak Loop (3.3-mile moderate trail), Tolmie Peak Trail (5.6-mile moderate trail), Freemont Lookout
Mount Rainer National Park Facts
- It was the 5th National Park in America.
- Mount Rainer has more glaciers than any mountain in the United States.
- Mount Rainer is a Stratovolcano.
North Cascade National Park
- Annual Visitors
17,855 (2021) - Best time to Visit
June to September - Entrance Fees
FREE - Dog Friendly
No - Don’t Miss
North Cascades Scenic Highway, Cascades Pass Trail (6.5-mile moderate trail), Trail of the Cedars Nature Walk (1.7-mile easy trail), Thunder Creek Trail (10.3-mile moderate trail)
North Cascade National Park Facts
- It is one of the least visited National Parks.
- North Cascades is home to more than 300 glaciers.
- It covers more than 634,000 acres.
Olympic National Park
- Annual Visitors
2,718,925 (2021) - Best time to Visit
July to September - Entrance Fees
Vehicle Permit (admits one private vehicle & its passengers) – $30
Motorcycle Permit (admits one private motorcycle & its passengers) – $25
Individual Permit (admits one person by foot or bike) – $15
Olympic Annual Pass (private vehicle + its occupants) – $55
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in select areas. - Don’t Miss
Marymere Falls Trail (1.7-mile easy trail), HOH Rainforest Hall of Moss (1.1-mile easy trail), Ruby Beach, Explore Tide Pools
Olympic National Park Facts
- Olympic National Park is 922,651 acres.
- It’s home to 60 named glaciers.
- Olympic has 611 miles of trail.
Other Washington National Park Units
- Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve
- Fort Vancouver National Historic Site
- Lake Chelan National Recreation Area
- Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area
- Ross Lake National Recreation Area
- San Juan Island National Historical Park
- Whitman Mission National Historic Site
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West Virginia National Parks
New River Gorge National Park
- Annual Visitors
1,682,720 (2021) - Best time to Visit
April to October - Entrance Fees
FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in most areas. - Don’t Miss
Scenic Drive on Fayette Station Road, Whitewater Rafting, Bridge Walk Tour, Kates Falls Trail (0.4-mile moderate trail)
New River Gorge National Park Facts
- The New River is among the oldest rivers on the continent.
- It is 70,000 acres.
- New River Gorge Bridge weighs 88 million pounds.
Other West Virginia National Park Units
- Bluestone National Scenic River
- Gauley River National Recreation Area
- Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
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Wyoming National Parks
Grand Teton National Park*
- Annual Visitors
3,885,230 (2021) - Best time to Visit
April to September - Entrance Fees
Vehicle Permit (admits one private vehicle & its passengers) – $35
Motorcycle Permit (admits one private motorcycle & its passengers) – $30
Individual Permit (admits one person by foot or bike) – $20
Grand Teton Annual Pass (private vehicle + its occupants) – $70
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in select areas. - Don’t Miss
Mormon Row, Hidden Falls Trail (4.9-mile easy trail), Oxbow Bend, Jenny Lake Overlook
Grand Teton National Park Facts
- Grand Teton Peak is 13,770 feet high.
- Grand Teton National Park covers a total area of 309,994 acres.
- Grand Teton neighbors Yellowstone National Park.
Explore Grand Teton National Park
Hiking- Easy Hikes in Grand Teton National Park
Yellowstone National Park*
Yellowstone National Park also crosses into Idaho & Montana.
- Annual Visitors
4,860,242 (2021) - Best time to Visit
July to October - Entrance Fees
Vehicle Permit (admits one private vehicle & its passengers) – $35
Motorcycle Permit (admits one private motorcycle & its passengers) – $30
Individual Permit (admits one person by foot or bike) – $20
Yellowstone Annual Pass (private vehicle + its occupants) – $70
America the Beautiful Pass – (gives entry into any National Park for a year) – $80
4th Graders Annual Pass (4th graders & families) – FREE - Dog Friendly
Yes, on a leash and in very select areas. - Don’t Miss
Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, West Thumb Geyser Basin Trail (1.0-mile easy trail), The Wildlife
Yellowstone National Park Facts
- Yellowstone is one of the most visited National Parks in the United States.
- It is 2,221,766 acres which is larger than Rhode Island & Delaware combined.
- Yellowstone National Park has more than 10,000 hydrothermal features.
Explore Yellowstone National Park
Hiking- Easy Hikes in Yellowstone National Park
Gear- Best Affordable Binoculars for Yellowstone
Other Wyoming National Park Units
- Devils Tower National Monument
- Fort Laramie National Historic Site
- Fossil Butte National Monument
- John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway
Take me back to the list of states!
Are you eager to check off every U.S. national park? Use this helpful national park list. It includes a checklist of every U.S. national park broken down by state & map!
States Without National Parks But Have National Park Units
Alabama | Connecticut | Deleware | Georgia | Guam | Idaho | Illinois | Iowa| Kansas |
Louisana | Maryland | Massachusetts | Mississippi | Nebraska | New Hampshire |
New Jersey | New York | North Carolina | Oklahoma | Pennsylvania | Puerto Rico |
Rhode Island | Vermont | Washington D.C. | Wisconsin
Alabama National Park Units
- Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument
- Freedom Riders National Monument
- Horseshoe Bend National Military Park
- Little River Canyon National Preserve
- Russell Cave National Monument
- Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site
- Tuskegee Institute National Historic Site
Connecticut National Park Units
- Weir Farm National Historical Park
Deleware National Park Units
- First State National Historical Park
Georgia National Park Units
- Andersonville National Historic Site
- Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area
- Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park
- Cumberland Island National Seashore
- Fort Frederica National Monument
- Fort Pulaski National Monument
- Jimmy Carter National Historical Park
- Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park
- Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park
- Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park
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Guam National Park Units
- War in the Pacific National Historical Park
Idaho National Park Units
- City of Rocks National Reserve
- Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve
- Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument
- Minidoka National Historic Site
- Nez Perce National Historical Park
Illinois National Park Units
- Lincoln Home National Historic Site
- Pullman National Monument
More Fun Things To Do In Illinois
Things to do in Shawnee National Forest
Iowa National Park Units
- Effigy Mounds National Monument
- Herbert Hoover National Historic Site
Kansas National Park Units
- Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site
- Fort Larned National Historic Site
- Fort Scott National Historic Site
- Nicodemus National Historic Site
- Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve
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Louisana National Park Units
- Cane River Creole National Historical Park
- Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve
- New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park
- Poverty Point National Monument
Maryland National Park Units
- Antietam National Battlefield
- Assateague Island National Seashore
- Catoctin Mountain Park
- Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park
- Clara Barton National Historic Site
- Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
- Fort Washington Park
- Greenbelt Park
- Hampton National Historic Site
- Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park
- Monocacy National Battlefield
- Piscataway Park
- Thomas Stone National Historic Site
Massachusetts National Park Units
- Adams National Historical Park
- Boston African American National Historic Site
- Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area
- Boston National Historical Park
- Cape Cod National Seashore
- Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site
- John Fitzgerald Kennedy National Historic Site
- Longfellow – Washington’s Headquarters National Historic Site
- Lowell National Historical Park
- Minute Man National Historical Park
- New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park
- Salem Maritime National Historic Site
- Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site
- Springfield Armory National Historic Site
Mississippi National Park Units
- Brices Cross Roads National Battlefield Site
- Medgar and Myrlie Evers Home National Monument
- Natchez National Historical Park
- Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail
- Natchez Trace Parkway
- Tupelo National Battlefield
- Vicksburg National Military Park
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Nebraska National Park Units
- Agate Fossil Beds National Monument
- Homestead National Historical Park
- Niobrara National Scenic River
- Scotts Bluff National Monument
New Hampshire National Park Units
- Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park
New Jersey National Park Units
- Great Egg Harbor National Scenic and Recreational River
- Morristown National Historical Park
- Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park
- Thomas Edison National Historical Park
New York National Park Units
- African Burial Ground National Monument
- Castle Clinton National Monument
- Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site
- Federal Hall National Memorial
- Fire Island National Seashore
- Fort Stanwix National Monument
- Gateway National Recreation Area
- General Grant National Memorial
- Governors Island National Monument
- Hamilton Grange National Memorial
- Harriet Tubman National Historical Park
- Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site
- Martin Van Buren National Historic Site
- Sagamore Hill National Historic Site
- Saint Paul’s Church National Historic Site
- Saratoga National Historical Park
- Statue of Liberty National Monument
- Stonewall National Monument
- Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace National Historic Site
- Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site
- Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site
- Women’s Rights National Historical Park
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North Carolina National Park Units
- Blue Ridge Parkway
- Cape Hatteras National Seashore
- Cape Lookout National Seashore
- Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site
- Fort Raleigh National Historic Site
- Guilford Courthouse National Military Park
- Moores Creek National Battlefield
- Wright Brothers National Memorial
Oklahoma National Park Units
- Chickasaw National Recreation Area
- Washita Battlefield National Historic Site
Pennsylvania National Park Units
- Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site
- Delaware National Scenic River
- Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
- Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site
- Eisenhower National Historic Site
- Flight 93 National Memorial
- Fort Necessity National Battlefield
- Friendship Hill National Historic Site
- Gettysburg National Military Park
- Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site
- Independence National Historical Park
- Johnstown Flood National Memorial
- Steamtown National Historic Site
- Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial
- Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River
- Valley Forge National Historical Park
Puerto Rico National Park Units
- San Juan National Historic Site
Rhode Island National Park Units
- Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park
- Roger Williams National Memorial
Vermont National Park Units
- Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park
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Washington D.C. National Park Units
- Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument
- Carter G. Woodson Home National Historic Site
- Constitution Gardens
- Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial
- Ford’s Theatre National Historic Site
- Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial
- Frederick Douglass National Historic Site
- Korean War Veterans Memorial
- Lincoln Memorial
- Lyndon Baines Johnson Memorial Grove on the Potomac
- Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial
- Mary McLeod Bethune Council House National Historic Site
- National Capital Parks – East
- National Mall and Memorial Parks
- Pennsylvania Avenue National Historic Site
- Rock Creek Park
- Theodore Roosevelt Island
- Thomas Jefferson Memorial
- Vietnam Veterans Memorial
- Washington Monument
- White House
- World War I Memorial
- World War II Memorial
Wisconsin National Park Units
- Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
- Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway
Appalachian National Scenic Trail
Appalachian National Scenic Trail is a National Park Unit that sprawls over 14 states from Georgia to Maine.
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Most Visit National Parks in 2021
- The Great Smoky Mountains (14,161,548)
- Zion National Park (5,039,835)
- Yellowstone National Park (4,860,242)
- Grand Canyon (4,532,677)
- Rocky Mountain (4,434,848)
Least Visited National Parks 2021
- Gates of the Arctic (7,362)
- National Park of American Samoa (8,495)
- Kobuk Valley (11,540)
- North Cascades (17,855)
- Lake Clark (18,278)
Frequently Asked Questions
How Many National Parks are There in 2022?
There are 63 National Parks in the United States.
Aside from National Parks, the National Park Service manages another 423 units covering more than 85 million acres of land.
What’s the difference between National Parks & Units? Not much other than their name and how they were created. As mentioned above, National Park Units have names like National Memorial, National Lakeshore, National Cemetery & more.
What States Have No National Parks?
There are currently 25 states & U.S. Territories that do not have National Parks. They are Alabama, Connecticut, Deleware, Georgia, Guam, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Louisana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington D.C., & Wisconsin.
Final Thoughts on This U.S. National Park list by State
I hope this national park list will help you plan and keep track of all your national park adventures to come.
Are you eager to check off every U.S. national park? Use this helpful national park list. It includes a checklist of every U.S. national park broken down by state & map!
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