The United States is home to an incredible array of national parks, each showcasing unique landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and rich cultural histories. There are currently 63 designated national parks across the country, offering countless opportunities for exploration, adventure, and connection with nature. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive list of U.S. national parks, highlight some notable ones, and address common questions about visiting these stunning sites.
Table of Contents
Complete List of U.S. National Parks
Here’s the complete list of national parks in the United States, organized by state:
Alaska
- Denali National Park and Preserve: Home to North America’s highest peak, Mount Denali, this park is renowned for its stunning wilderness and wildlife.
- Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve: A remote, untamed landscape that offers solitude and breathtaking natural beauty.
- Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve: Famous for its glaciers, marine wildlife, and pristine waters.
- Katmai National Park and Preserve: Known for its brown bears and the dramatic landscape of the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes.
- Kenai Fjords National Park: Features stunning fjords, glaciers, and diverse marine life.
- Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve: The largest national park in the U.S., it boasts towering mountains and vast wilderness.
American Samoa
- National Park of American Samoa: A tropical paradise with lush rainforests, coral reefs, and cultural heritage.
Arizona
- Grand Canyon National Park: One of the most iconic parks in the world, known for its immense and colorful canyon.
- Saguaro National Park: Celebrates the giant saguaro cactus and the desert landscapes of the Sonoran Desert.
Arkansas
- Hot Springs National Park: Known for its natural hot springs, historic bathhouses, and lush forests.
California
- Channel Islands National Park: A collection of islands known for their unique ecosystems and wildlife.
- Death Valley National Park: The hottest place on Earth, featuring dramatic desert landscapes.
- Joshua Tree National Park: Famous for its otherworldly Joshua trees and stunning rock formations.
- Kings Canyon National Park: Home to deep canyons, towering sequoias, and scenic vistas.
- Sequoia National Park: Known for its giant sequoia trees, including the General Sherman Tree.
- Yosemite National Park: Famous for its granite cliffs, waterfalls, and biodiversity.
Colorado
- Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park: Features steep cliffs and stunning vistas along the Gunnison River.
- Rocky Mountain National Park: Known for its breathtaking mountain landscapes and alpine lakes.
- Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve: Home to the tallest sand dunes in North America.
Florida
- Everglades National Park: A unique ecosystem that protects a vast subtropical wilderness and diverse wildlife.
- Biscayne National Park: Known for its coral reefs, islands, and clear waters.
Hawaii
- Haleakalā National Park: Features the massive Haleakalā volcano and diverse ecosystems.
- Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park: Home to active volcanoes, lava tubes, and rich Hawaiian culture.
Idaho
- Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve: A unique volcanic landscape with lava flows and craters.
Indiana
- Indiana Dunes National Park: Offers sandy beaches, dunes, and diverse habitats along Lake Michigan.
Iowa
- Effigy Mounds National Monument: Preserves ancient burial mounds shaped like animals.
Kentucky
- Mammoth Cave National Park: The longest cave system in the world, featuring fascinating underground formations.
Maine
- Acadia National Park: Known for its rugged coastline, forests, and stunning views from Cadillac Mountain.
Michigan
- Isle Royale National Park: A remote island park famous for its wilderness and wildlife.
Minnesota
- Voyageurs National Park: A water-based park known for its lakes, islands, and outdoor activities.
Missouri
- Gateway Arch National Park: Celebrates the iconic arch and the history of westward expansion.
Montana
- Glacier National Park: Known for its dramatic mountain scenery and diverse wildlife.
Nevada
- Great Basin National Park: Features ancient bristlecone pines and the stunning Lehman Caves.
New Hampshire
- White Mountain National Forest: Offers scenic beauty and recreational opportunities.
New Mexico
- Carlsbad Caverns National Park: Known for its impressive underground caves and formations.
- Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument: Preserves ancient cliff dwellings of the Mogollon people.
North Carolina
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Famous for its biodiversity and scenic beauty, shared with Tennessee.
North Dakota
- Theodore Roosevelt National Park: Features badlands, wildlife, and historical significance.
Ohio
- Cuyahoga Valley National Park: Known for its scenic landscapes, waterfalls, and recreational trails.
Oregon
- Crater Lake National Park: Famous for its deep blue lake formed in a volcanic caldera.
Pennsylvania
- Gettysburg National Military Park: Preserves the site of the pivotal Civil War battle.
South Carolina
- Congaree National Park: Home to one of the tallest deciduous forests in the U.S.
South Dakota
- Badlands National Park: Known for its rugged landscape and rich fossil beds.
- Wind Cave National Park: Features one of the longest caves in the world and unique wildlife.
Tennessee
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park: The most visited national park in the U.S., shared with North Carolina.
Texas
- Big Bend National Park: A remote park known for its stunning desert landscapes and canyons.
- Guadalupe Mountains National Park: Home to the highest peak in Texas and diverse wildlife.
Utah
- Arches National Park: Known for its stunning natural arches and unique rock formations.
- Bryce Canyon National Park: Famous for its hoodoo rock formations and breathtaking vistas.
- Canyonlands National Park: Features dramatic canyons and diverse landscapes.
- Capitol Reef National Park: Known for its unique geology and historic fruit orchards.
- Zion National Park: Renowned for its impressive canyon views and hiking opportunities.
Vermont
- Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park: Focuses on conservation history and the role of land stewardship.
Virginia
- Shenandoah National Park: Known for its scenic drives and hiking trails in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Washington
- Mount Rainier National Park: Features the iconic Mount Rainier and stunning alpine scenery.
- Olympic National Park: Offers diverse ecosystems, from mountains to rainforests and coastal areas.
- North Cascades National Park: Known for its rugged mountains and glacial landscapes.
West Virginia
- New River Gorge National Park and Preserve: Features stunning gorges, whitewater rafting, and rock climbing.
Wisconsin
- Apostle Islands National Lakeshore: Known for its beautiful islands, sea caves, and maritime history.
Wyoming
- Yellowstone National Park: The first national park in the world, famous for its geothermal features and wildlife.
- Grand Teton National Park: Known for its stunning mountain scenery and outdoor recreation.
FAQs
1. How many national parks are there in the U.S.?
There are currently 63 designated national parks in the United States.
2. How do I plan a visit to a national park?
Research the parks you’re interested in, check their official websites for details on trails, accommodations, and any park-specific regulations. It’s also a good idea to plan your visit during the off-peak season to avoid crowds.
3. Are national parks accessible year-round?
Most national parks are open year-round, but some may have seasonal closures or limited access due to weather conditions. Always check the specific park’s status before your visit.
4. Do national parks charge entrance fees?
Yes, most national parks charge an entrance fee. Fees can vary by park, and annual passes are available for frequent visitors.
5. Can I camp in national parks?
Yes, many national parks offer camping facilities, but it’s advisable to make reservations in advance, especially during peak seasons.
6. Are pets allowed in national parks?
Policies on pets vary by park. Some parks allow pets on certain trails and in campgrounds, while others have restrictions. Check individual park regulations before bringing your pet.
Conclusion
The list of U.S. national parks represents a treasure trove of natural beauty and adventure. From the majestic peaks of the Rockies to the lush landscapes of the Smokies, each park offers unique experiences that connect you with the great outdoors. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a long road trip, exploring these national parks can lead to unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for America’s diverse landscapes. So gather your gear, hit the road, and embark on an adventure through the stunning natural wonders of the United States!
