The United States National Parks system is a treasure trove of breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and rich cultural heritage. Spanning over 80 million acres across all 50 states, these protected areas offer an unparalleled opportunity to reconnect with nature, embark on thrilling adventures, and witness the wonders of the natural world.
Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a first-time park visitor, this comprehensive guide will equip you with all the essential information to plan your dream vacation to a US National Park.
How Many National Parks are in the United States?
As of today, there are 63 national parks managed by the National Park Service (NPS) across the 50 states. These protected areas encompass a vast 52.4 million acres, offering a diverse range of ecosystems and landscapes.
United States National Parks Ranked (Top 10)
With over 60 national parks scattered across the country, each offering its own unique charm and attractions, choosing the best national parks in USA can be subjective, depending on your interests.
However, based on factors such as visitor numbers, ecological significance, and overall popularity, here is a list of some of the most renowned national parks in the United States, not necessarily in strict ranking order:
Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming)
Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona)
Yosemite National Park (California)
Great Smoky Mountains National Park (North Carolina, Tennessee)
Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)
Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming)
Glacier National Park (Montana)
Olympic National Park (Washington)
These parks are just a selection of the diverse range of natural wonders protected within the National Park System. To assist you in your journey, let’s take a closer look at some of the most iconic parks.
1. Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming)
Yellowstone, the world’s first National Park, is a geothermal wonderland brimming with geysers, hot springs, mudpots, and vibrant ecosystems. Witness the fury of Old Faithful erupt, explore the Grand Prismatic Spring’s mesmerizing colors, and keep an eye out for bison roaming the plains.
✨Tips: It’s recommended to book accommodations and transportation in advance, as they can fill up quickly during the peak season. Check our Yellowstone early discount campaign to plan your trip earlier with the best deals.
2. Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona)
The awe-inspiring Grand Canyon, carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, needs no introduction. Hike down into the canyon depths, explore the various viewpoints, or take a scenic helicopter tour for breathtaking aerial vistas.
3. Yosemite National Park (California)
Yosemite is a haven for nature lovers, with towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls like Yosemite Falls, and ancient sequoia groves. Hike Half Dome (permit required), capture the iconic view of El Capitan, or soak up the tranquility of Yosemite Valley.
4. Zion National Park (Utah)
Zion Canyon, carved by the Virgin River, is a labyrinth of red sandstone cliffs, slot canyons (The Narrows is a must-do!), and towering mesas. Hike the challenging Angels Landing for unparalleled views, or embark on a scenic drive along Zion-Mount Carmel Highway.
5. Great Smoky Mountains National Park (North Carolina, Tennessee)
A hiker’s paradise, the Great Smoky Mountains offer a verdant escape with cascading waterfalls, sprawling forests, and diverse wildlife. Hike along the Appalachian Trail, take in the views from Clingmans Dome (highest point in Tennessee), or experience the rich cultural heritage of the region.
6. Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)
Immerse yourself in the majestic Rocky Mountains, with snow-capped peaks, alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife like elk and bighorn sheep. Hike Trail Ridge Road (highest continuous paved highway in North America), explore serene Bear Lake, or spot marmots basking in the sun.
7. Acadia National Park (Maine)
Acadia National Park offers a taste of coastal beauty, with rocky coastlines, granite domes, and historic lighthouses. Hike Cadillac Mountain (highest point on the Atlantic seaboard), explore charming Bar Harbor town, or kayak amongst the picturesque islands.
8. Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming)
Majestic mountains reflected in pristine lakes – Grand Teton National Park offers unparalleled scenery. Hike through wildflower meadows, paddle on placid lakes, or spot iconic wildlife like moose and elk.
9. Glacier National Park (Montana)
Glacier National Park is a hiker’s paradise, with alpine meadows, glacial lakes, and towering peaks. Explore the park’s historic lodges, embark on a scenic boat tour on Lake McDonald, or go whitewater rafting for an adrenaline rush.
10. Olympic National Park (Washington)
Olympic National Park encompasses diverse ecosystems, from glacier-capped mountains and old-growth temperate rainforests to rugged coastlines. Hike through the Hoh Rainforest, explore tide pools along the Olympic Peninsula, or spot majestic Roosevelt elk.
Discover the United States National Parks by State
Planning a multi-state road trip or simply curious about national parks near you? We’ve got you covered! Here’s a state-by-state breakdown of all the national parks in the USA:
Western United States
This region boasts some of the country’s most iconic parks. Explore the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone (WY) and Grand Teton National Park (WY), hike through the towering redwoods of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks (CA), or witness the dramatic canyons of Zion (UT) and Bryce Canyon National Park (UT). Adventure awaits in Rocky Mountain National Park (CO), with its alpine lakes and snow-capped peaks, or in Glacier National Park (MT), where glaciers carve through a stunning mountain landscape.
Southwestern United States
Immerse yourself in the colorful deserts of the Southwest. Explore the otherworldly rock formations of Arches National Park (UT) and Canyonlands National Park (UT), or hike amidst the cacti forests of Saguaro National Park (AZ). Delve into the rich history of Chaco Culture National Historical Park (NM) or Mesa Verde National Park (CO),each showcasing the impressive cliff dwellings of ancient Puebloan people.
Pacific Northwest
Discover the lush rainforests and rugged coastline of the Pacific Northwest. Hike through the old-growth forests of Olympic National Park (WA) or Mount Rainier National Park (WA), kayak through the glacial fjords of Kenai Fjords National Park (AK), or explore the volcanic landscapes of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (HI).
Southeastern United States
The Southeast offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. Hike through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (NC & TN), the most visited national park in the USA, or explore the Everglades National Park (FL), a vast wetland teeming with wildlife. Learn about Civil War history at Gettysburg National Military Park (PA) or delve into the mysterious mounds of Cahokia Mounds World Heritage Site (IL).
Midwestern United States
Don’t overlook the natural wonders of the Midwest. Hike through the dramatic sandstone formations of Badlands National Park (SD), explore the serene lakes and forests of Voyageurs National Park (MN), or kayak through the remote Apostle Islands National Lakeshore (WI).
This is not an exhaustive list, and each state offers unique experiences. We recommend visiting the National Park Service website for detailed information on each park, including maps, things to do, and park regulations.
Best US National Parks in Different Landscapes
National parks in the USA cater to a wide range of interests. Here’s a quick peek into some categories to help you find your perfect park:
For the Mountain Enthusiast
Grand Teton National Park (WY), Rocky Mountain National Park (CO), Glacier National Park (MT).
Lovers of geothermal wonders
Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming, Montana, Idaho) reigns supreme with its geysers, mudpots, and hot springs. Don’t miss Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming) for its thermal features alongside the majestic Teton Range.
For the History Buff
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage at Mesa Verde National Park (Colorado) with its cliff dwellings, or explore Civil War battlefields at Gettysburg National Military Park (Pennsylvania).
For the Beach Lover
Biscayne National Park (FL), Virgin Islands National Park (USVI), Point Reyes National Seashore (CA).
Desert landscapes
Death Valley National Park (California, Nevada) is the hottest, driest, and lowest National Park in the US. Explore the otherworldly landscapes of White Sands National Park (New Mexico) or the cacti-filled wonderland of Saguaro National Park (Arizona).
Don’t Miss the Hidden Gems
Don’t limit yourself to the most popular parks. The USA boasts a wealth of hidden gems waiting to be explored:
Dry Tortugas National Park (FL)
Journey by ferry to this remote park featuring historic Civil War forts amidst turquoise waters.
Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve (CO)
Hike or camp amongst towering sand dunes, offering a unique desert experience.
Isle Royale National Park (MI)
Kayak or ferry to this island wilderness in Lake Superior, renowned for its remoteness and abundant wildlife.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Most Visited National Park in the United States?
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, straddling the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, holds the title of the most visited national park in the USA. This biodiverse haven attracted over 12.5 million visitors in 2021.
Q: What is the largest national park in the United States?
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve (Alaska) holds the title of the largest National Park, encompassing over 13.2 million acres.
Q: What is the first national park in the United States?
Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming, Montana, Idaho) was established in 1872 and holds the distinction of being the world’s first national park.
Q: How much does it cost to enter a National Park?
Entry fees vary by park, but most National Parks charge an entrance fee per vehicle, motorcycle, or individual. You can also purchase annual passes for unlimited access to all National Parks.
Tips for Planning Your National Park Adventure
🌲Consider weather conditions and peak seasons when planning your trip. Some parks, like Yellowstone, are ideal for summer exploration, while others, like Death Valley National Park, are more enjoyable in spring or fall. Research park-specific weather patterns to ensure a comfortable and safe visit.
🌲Certain national parks require permits for specific activities like backcountry camping or entering wilderness areas. Additionally, some popular parks have implemented reservation systems for campsites and entry fees. Always check the official National Park Service website for the park you plan to visit to avoid any inconveniences.
🌲Pack appropriate clothing and footwear based on the park’s climate and your chosen activities. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, and a hat. Consider bringing binoculars for wildlife viewing and a camera to capture lasting memories.
🌲Leave No Trace: Tread lightly and follow the principles of Leave No Trace to preserve the natural beauty of these parks for future generations. Pack out all trash, minimize your campfire impact, and stay on designated trails to avoid harming delicate ecosystems.
🌲Wild animals are fascinating creatures, but it’s crucial to maintain a safe distance. Never approach or feed wildlife, and always store food properly to avoid attracting unwanted visitors at campsites.
With careful planning and a sense of adventure, your National Park expedition will be an unforgettable journey.
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