This free printable list of National Parks will undoubtedly assist you in navigating places to visit in every state! This list includes a separate list for each state so it will be easier for you to check and make the most of your visit!
WHAT ARE NATIONAL PARKS?
A National Park is a designated area that the national government has set aside specifically to preserve the natural environment. A national park is designated for two distinct reasons. First, for the enjoyment and recreation of the general public. Followed by second which is for its historical or scientific interest.
The native flora and fauna that inhabit these particular landscapes that are designated as national parks are preserved. Every nation has a unique method for maintaining its national parks. Just like the United States and Canada, which are known for being committed to the preservation of both the environment and wildlife.
HOW MANY NATIONAL PARKS ARE IN THE USA?
In total, there are 423 national park locations in the United States. However, only an elite group of 63 National Parks stands out. Which has been regarded as the jewel in the crown of America. That has been welcoming millions of tourists every year.
Every national park is special in its own special way. But Congress considered the elite group of 63 National Parks to be especially important. So many people have been adding these parks to their bucket lists of places to visit.
This free printable list of national parks will make it easy for you to see which ones you want to visit next.
IS THERE A NATIONAL PARK IN EVERY STATE?
As previously stated, each country has its own method of protecting and preserving national parks. In the United States, where almost every state has a national park to boast about. National parks are defined as a protected areas of land set aside for conservation purposes.
Way back in 1916, then-President Woodrow Wilson established the National Park Service. Which now includes 414 areas covering more than 84 million acres in every state. As well as the District of Columbia, American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. Here is a complete guide on what national parks to expect in every state:
ALASKA
Alaska is known for its distinct and charming small towns. While Anchorage and Fairbanks are the state’s largest cities, this state also has some hidden gem towns. These towns make a great stop or destination. While you’re in Alaska, use your free printable list of National Parks and start visiting.
1. Denali National Park, Alaska
The first on our list is Denali National Park, which is open all year. But remember that visiting this national park can be difficult due to its vastness. Furthermore, there is only one road that can take your vehicle for 15 miles. It is also worth noting that there are very few hiking trails.
Most tourists visit this national park during the summer because it provides the best opportunities to see wildlife. While also having the most moderate weather, Making this time the easiest time to visit because of all the activities.
2. Gates of the Arctic National Park, Alaska
The Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve is a vast and largely undeveloped wilderness park. Having said that, there are no roads, trails, or established campsites in this national park. Visitors to this park are not required to follow any routes because there are none. Instead, they are free to explore the park’s 8.4 million acres of breathtaking natural beauty.
Expect no established services within the park boundaries and only limited means of communication. Or anything that work effectively to contact anyone for assistance because this park is an untouched wilderness park. It should be noted that cell phones do not work here.
Regardless, the Gates of the Arctic National Park is well worth a visit for its vast lands, stunning landscapes, and intriguing cultural presence. This national park is ideal for backpackers due to its sheer unpredictability and breathtaking views.
3. Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska
Glacier Bay National Park encompasses 3.3 million acres of rugged mountains, active glaciers, temperate rainforest, wild coastlines, and deep sheltered fjords. This national park is known as the crown jewel of Alaska’s Inside Passage. It is also part of a 25-million-acre World Heritage Site, making it one of the world’s largest international protected areas.
This national park has a lot to offer, including lofty mountain peaks. As well as ice-sculpted fjords, many marine wildlife, and massive tidewater glaciers. Every cruise ship sailing through the Inside Passage must visit this national park.
4. Katmai National Park, Alaska
The Katmai National Park and Preserve encompass over four million acres of remote, wild, and spectacular terrain. This national park contains the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes. As well as the site of the twentieth century’s largest volcanic eruption.
The landscape of this national park is known for having vast multi-lake watersheds. That features hundreds of miles of wild, untamed rivers and streams. It will house an outdoor laboratory for researching the effects of volcanism, climate change, and other large-scale landscape processes.
The Katmai National Park in Alaska is a remote park. But it is worth visiting for the great bear viewing at Brooks Falls and the epic, breathtaking volcanic landscapes.
5. Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska
The Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska, encompasses more than 600,000 acres and is situated outside of Seward. The enormous Harding Icefield, which covers 936 square miles and forms the park’s border, is 60% covered in snow and ice. This national park has a lot to offer, including a sizable icefield, numerous tidewater glaciers that pour down. As well as valleys that are carved out by glaciers and seawater that come together to form stunning fjords.
This is regarded as one of the most well-liked national parks in Alaska, offering visitors both leisurely and adventurous activities. Boat tours, kayaking, camping, public use cabins, fishing, beach combing, biking, hiking, cross-country skiing, dog sledding, ranger programs, flightseeing, and mountaineering are some of the activities you might enjoy here.
In addition, you can watch breathtaking whales and other marine wildlife from the boats. Orcas, humpback whales, fin whales, Dall’s porpoises, sea otters, Steller sea lions, and seabirds are frequently seen during this activity. Only a few trails can be found in this area, which is also where Exit Glacier Road ends. This road branches off the Seward Highway just outside of Seward.
6. Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska
The well-known Onion Portage archaeological site, a National Historic Landmark, is located in the Kobuk Valley National Park. A pioneering archaeologist named J. The aforementioned archaeological site has also been regarded as the birthplace of the Arctic Woodland Culture. Charles Giddings
As “big river” in Inupiaq, the name “Kobuk” is appropriate because this national park. As it is is known for its abundance of fish, which is its lifeblood. It is also renowned for having a wide variety of plants. The Kobuk locoweed, a unique wildflower to this national park. That is not present anywhere else in the world, resides here.
7. Lake Clark National Park, Alaska
Lake Clark National Park is known for preserving the Dena’ina people’s ancestral homelands. Which includes an intact ecosystem at the headwaters of the world’s largest sockeye salmon fishery. This national park also has a diverse cultural wilderness.
The rivers and lakes of this national park are well-known for their excellent fishing for salmon, Arctic char, Arctic grayling, Dolly Varden, northern pike, lake trout, and rainbow trout. Apart from fishing, other activities include backcountry hiking, camping, birding, and kayaking. As well as rafting requires careful planning and time commitment in this vast wilderness.
8. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, Alaska
The Wrangell and St. Elias National Park is home to one of North America’s largest active volcanoes. It also includes the Nabesna Glacier, which is one of North America’s longest valley glaciers and the world’s longest interior valley glacier.
This national park is remote, but it is a crowd favorite among Alaska’s other national parks. That is due to its countless mountains, glaciers, and sheer beauty. Visitors typically go glacier hiking, tour an abandoned copper mill, and venture into the backcountry. At the same time, some are already contented in admiring this park from the sky, which is absolutely breathtaking.
AMERICAN SAMOA
As you work through this big free printable list of National Parks…it is time to learn about American Samoa. American Samoa is a group of islands located roughly halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand. This state is about 100 kilometers east of Samoa. An island country with which it shares an archipelago, ethnicity, and culture. This state is well-known for its abundance of marine biodiversity, tuna fishing, ties to American football, and, of course, its national park!
1. National Park of American Samoa, American Samoa
9,500 acres of Old World or paleotropical rain forests are found in the National Park of American Samoa. Which is spread across more than 40 mountains and covers an area of about 76.8 square miles. It’s an interesting fact about this national park; it’s the only park in the United States where the fruit bat can be found.
Birdwatchers can find 350 different native bird species in this national park, including the Samoan starling and colorful tropical pigeons. Visitors also enjoy seeing sea turtles and humpback whales while on the coast. In addition, the park has significant archaeological sites scattered throughout the parklands. Such as Old Vatia, a prehistoric village site thought to have been inhabited between 1300 and 1750.
As you look at the free printable list of national parks…be sure to add this one to your must-go list!
ARIZONA
Arizona is a landlocked state in the Southwest of the United States, bordered to the west by California and Nevada and to the south by Mexico. With 7.2 million residents, it ranks as the 14th most populous and sixth-largest state in the union. Every traveler’s ideal location, this state offers great weather, stunning natural beauty, and well-known landmarks.
1. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
The Grand Canyon National Park is well known for its picturesque landscape. But even if you’ve seen it in photographs before, seeing it with your own eyes will undoubtedly leave you speechless. As you look into its depths, the craggy red rock, yawning chasms, and the interaction of light and shadow will hypnotize you.
Moran Point, Grandview Point, and Yaki Point are a few of the other fascinating highlights of this national park. The Tusayan Ruin is the remains of a small village where ancient Puebloan people once resided. It is located along the route to this national park, which makes it another fantastic stop.
2. Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
The only national park site that is known to contain a section of the original Route 66 alignment is the Petrified Forest National Park. The National Old Trails Highway passed through this national park, adding to its historical significance.
The Chinle Formation dates to the Triassic Period and is thought to have formed about 225 million years ago. It is known as the park’s primary geologic formation. As a result, this national park’s visitors can take in fossils, badlands, buttes, and mesas. As well as prehistoric petroglyphs, wildlife and wildflowers, and expansive views extending for more than a hundred miles!
3. Saguaro National Park, Arizona
The Saguaro cactus, which is native to the Sonoran Desert, is thought to be the inspiration for the name of the Saguaro National Park. This national park is well-known for being very simple for visitors to get to.
Since only a half-day is required to see and enjoy the highlights of this national park, it has long been a popular destination for visitors with short stays. However, if they have more time, they can tour the entire park. In contrast, enjoying activities such as day hiking or camping in the backcountry.
ARKANSAS
Arkansas is known as The Natural State and is teeming with outdoor attractions. Tourists can enjoy and participate in adrenaline-pumping adventures in Arkansas. Natural rock formations, hiking trails, rivers, lakes, dams, waterfalls, gardens, mountains, and parks worth visiting are all known to exist in this state, including the following.
1. Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas
A tribute to the “American Spa” of the 20th century, the Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas is renowned for having a rich cultural past. It also serves as a place of healing. The grand architecture of nine historic bathhouses. As well as the natural curiosities, have attracted both locals and tourists to this national park. This national park is undoubtedly a special place because it is right in the middle of town. It features ancient thermal springs, mountain views, amazing geology, forested hikes, and plenty of creeks.
CALIFORNIA
The Golden Gate Bridge, Disneyland, and Hollywood are just a few of the places in California that are known worldwide. Earning it the nickname “the golden state.” Aside from that, California is also well-known for Coachella, Silicon Valley, the Wine Country, the Surf Culture, and various other aspects of its culture. In addition to these, this state is well known for and adored for its national parks, which include the following.
1. Channel Islands National Park, California
Off the Pacific coast of the American state of California, this park includes five of the eight Channel Islands. The islands have been comparatively undeveloped despite being near to the shore of the highly populated state. 249,561 acres total, 79,019 of which are federally owned land. The largest of the eight islands, Santa Cruz, is owned and run by The Nature Conservancy to the extent of 76%.
2. Death Valley National Park, California and Nevada
The Death Valley National Park has been known for having the highest temperature ever recorded anywhere in the world, which made it the driest spot in North America from autumn. This national park is renowned for offering outdoor adventurers 3 million acres of wilderness that has been designated as such and hundreds of miles of backcountry roads that are home to a staggering variety of topography, historic sites, plants, and animals.
3. Joshua Tree National Park, California
This national park is known for its magnificent rock formations. One of the most famous is Arch Rock, which can be discovered at the foot of a short 800-metre trek, located near the White Tank Campsite.
4. Kings Canyon National Park, California
The world’s largest remaining grove of sequoia trees is found in the Kings Canyon National Park, which is also known for having a landscape resembling Yosemite Valley. Visitors who choose to drive to the bottom of Kings Canyon to Cedar Grove get to enjoy the most dramatic and beautiful scenery, featuring the stunning views of cliffs, the canyon, the powerful Kings River, and breathtaking rock formations.
John Muir once called this national park “a rival to Yosemite” because of its deep valleys, skyscraping trees, and distinctive rock outcroppings.
5. Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
Crystalline lakes, breathtaking mountains, scorching fumaroles, flower-filled meadows, and the remarkable volcanoes for which the park is called may all be found in this undiscovered gem close to Chester. While being less well-known, this Park is unquestionably worthwhile.
6. Pinnacles National Park, California
The spring wildflowers in the park are known for their beauty and variety. The entire year, a wide variety of species can be seen. Pinnacles National Park is divided into East and West Districts by the park’s rock formations, which are connected by paths.
7. Redwood National Park, California
This park is worthwhile to explore just for the redwoods. Yet there’s a lot more to Redwood National Park than just impressive, enormous trees! There are numerous old-growth woods, coastal drives and treks, and activities for every kind of national park enthusiast at Redwood National Park.
8. Sequoia National Park, California
The first park established to safeguard a living thing was Sequoia. The gigantic sequoia trees grow approximately 5,000 to 8,000 feet in height and are only found in the special environment of the western Sierra.
9. Yosemite National Park, California
The half-dome shape of Yosemite National Park, which is one of the most well-known but challenging traverses within the park and stands like a prod king that reigns over Yosemite Valley, is what makes the park most recognizable. The waterfalls, imposing granite monoliths, deep valleys, and historic giant sequoia trees in this national park are its most notable features.
COLORADO
The Rocky Mountains, as well as the state of Colorado’s forests, mountains, mesas, hot springs, and sand dunes, have long been recognized for their stunning natural scenery and diverse wildlife. In this national park, visitors can go hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, skiing, and canoeing, or they can relax in the natural surroundings.
1. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado
The Peregrine falcon, the world’s fastest bird, is reputed to reside in the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. The entrance to some of North America’s steepest cliffs, oldest rocks, and craggiest spires is provided by this national park. Although it is enormous and therefore overwhelming, it is also close-knit enough to feel the passage of time.
2. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado
The tallest dunes in North America can be found in the Great Sand Dunes National Park. This national park is home to the constantly shifting hills and mounds surrounding the mind-boggling desert-like Sangre de Cristo Mountains to the west. In which a variety of habitats, such as grasslands, wetlands, aspen forests, and alpine lakes, surround the dunes in this national park. Nearby this national park is another grove of 200 ponderosa pine trees that is rich in history and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This grove was once used by native tribes as a source of food and medicine.
3. Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado
In 1978, the United Nations declared the Mesa Verde National Park to be a cultural World Heritage Site. This national park is renowned for offering a unique look at the Ancestral Puebloan people, who are thought to have lived in the region for hundreds of years. 600 cliff dwellings and 5,000 archeological sites were left behind due to that prolonged occupation, 600 of which are currently open to the public. This national park is one of the best to visit because visitors can learn more about its fascinating history, take a tour of Cliff Palace, relax at Far View Lodge, and do many other things while there.
4. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Rocky Mountain National Park is a delight to visit with towering mountain peaks, hiking paths that connect to alpine lakes and waterfalls, animals, and a magnificent drive along one of the highest roads in the States.
FLORIDA
1. Biscayne National Park, Florida
A Wonderland of Water. Biscayne contains a unique blend of azure oceans, emerald islands, and fish-bedecked coral reefs within sight of Miami but thousands of miles away. There is also evidence of the existence of humans for 10,000 years, including prehistoric communities, shipwrecks, pineapple farmers, and even presidents.
2. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
The park’s 101 square miles are primarily under water. In conclusion, Dry Tortugas is a far-off location in the middle of nowhere, but it is definitely worth the trip! It is among the top attractions in the Florida Keys!
3. Everglades National Park, Florida
The Everglades was in the Top 4 on the list of the greatest national parks for 2022. And there’s a solid reason why: the wildlife is spectacular. You can’t just go on a boat excursion to see crocodiles and dolphins anywhere, and going on a hike with the possibility of seeing turtles and alligators along the way.
HAWAII
1. Haleakala National Park, Hawaii
The unique yet delicate ecosystems of Kipahulu Valley, which include picturesque pools along Oheo Gulch and many rare and endangered species, have been protected by the Haleakala National Park, which is known for its volcanic landscape on the upper slopes of Haleakala. Visitors to this national park can take in the sunrise above the clouds and the hike into the volcano’s crater. Along the way, visitors can also stop at the lush forests and waterfalls in the Kpahulu District.
2. Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii
The two most active volcanoes in the world, Mauna Loa and Kilauea, are located in the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. With any luck, visitors can witness Kilauea in action as its molten rock rises from beneath the Earth’s crust, forming new land. Mauna Kea, Kohala, and Hualalai are the other three volcanoes in Hawaii, in addition to Mauna Loa and Kilauea.
IDAHO
Even though Idaho is less well-known than California, it is still one of the best states to visit! You can explore and enjoy 30 state parks in Idaho and a national park. Aside from that, this state also provides a wide range of worthwhile activities, such as sand dune sledding, rock climbing, learning about the history of the Oregon Trail, or simply unwinding on a beach, but the most notable one is of course, going to the state’s national park!
1. Yellowstone National Park, Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming
Yellowstone National Park, which covers 2.2 million acres and is regarded as America’s first national park, is well known for its size. This national park, which spans a wide area, contains a variety of distinct habitats and regions, including a canyon, a lake, and a series of limestone terraces, in addition to geysers, fumaroles, and other geothermal features. This state is renowned for its diverse geography, abundant wildlife, and roaring geyser.
INDIANA
Indiana is the 38th-largest state in the United States of America by area. This state is renowned for having a very diverse economy, for having hosted professional sports teams, and for hosting illustrious sporting occasions. When visiting the state, tourists may engage in these activities. This state is renowned for its prairies, lush landscapes, and national park, among other highlights.
1. Indiana Dunes National Park
A well-known beach destination for residents of the Midwest and beyond, the Indiana Dunes National Park is known for its 15 miles of sandy beachfront along Lake Michigan. The size of this park, which can be explored in a single day, makes it the ideal vacation spot. This national park is a tangible example of the conflict between the need to preserve the environment and the expansion of the industry. It contains a peculiar fusion of natural and man-made elements that give some areas of the park a naturally rural feel while giving others a slightly urban one.
KENTUCKY
Kentucky, a state that is definitely worth visiting, is located in the southeast central part of the United States, to the north of Tennessee. This large state is well-known for producing some of the best bourbons and for hosting the most prestigious horse race in the world. In addition, this state is home to the gorgeous and storied Churchill Downs racetrack, but Mammoth Cave National Park is its most stunning feature.
1. Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky
In contrast to other national parks, the Mammoth Cave National Park offers a special magical experience. It takes visitors on an adventure into the underground world, where the darkness and muggy, earthy air indicate that they have entered an ancient location. Massive chambers and soaring rock formations create underground cathedrals in this national park. With more than 400 miles of mapped corridors, this national park is known for having one of the longest-known cave systems in the entire world. This national park offers a wide range of activities due to its size and scope.
MAINE
1. Acadia National Park, Maine
Although Acadia is well known for its breathtaking fall foliage, it is equally lovely in the winter, when it is frequently covered in snow. Hence, trekking and picturesque drives throughout the winter are common choices. In the winter, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are fantastic ways to explore the area, and occasionally volunteers even plow trails.
MICHIGAN
1. Isle Royale National Park, Michigan
36 campgrounds and 165 miles of beautiful hiking paths are available on Isle Royale for campers, paddlers, and recreational boaters. There are many places to see wildlife, antique lighthouses, shipwrecks, and copper mines. The fishing is also outstanding.
MINNESOTA
The state of Minnesota is one of the most popular holiday travel destinations because it offers everything from enchanted holiday lights and fun events to breathtaking performing arts and entertainment. This state is also known for having everything merry and bright. Additionally, this state is popular for its national park, delectable cuisine, and thrilling train rides!
1. Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota
It is well known that the Voyageurs National Park is situated in a remote area of northern Minnesota and offers a breathtaking wilderness. This national park is well-known for having four sizable lakes and numerous smaller ones dotted around the park, and it provides a range of activities from hiking to boating. Additionally, when visiting this national park, get ready to take in the stunning views of the Ellsworth Rock Gardens and Kettle Falls Hotel.
MISSOURI
1. Gateway Arch National Park, Missouri
The Gateway Arch honours St. Louis’ contribution to the nineteenth-century Westward Expansion of the United States. The park is a memorial to Thomas Jefferson’s role in opening the West, to the pioneers who helped create its history, and to Dred Scott who sued for his release in the Old Courthouse.
MONTANA
As soon as you begin trekking in Montana, you will see why this state is referred to as “Big Sky Country.” Adventurers will love this state’s wild rivers, which stretch for hundreds of miles, dense forests, and hikes that take visitors to hot springs, geysers, and glaciers in every direction. So, if you’re wondering where to start in this state, the national park is a must-see!
1. Glacier National Park, Montana
Even though Glacier National Park is now as well-known as the Grand Canyon or the Great Smoky Mountains, it still tops every outdoor enthusiast’s wish list. This 1,600 square-mile national park is home to snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes and glaciers, gushing waterfalls, and expanses of vibrant wildflowers. In addition, this national park is well known for seeing grizzly and black bears, but we must not overlook the park’s emblem, the mountain goat. And last but not least, there are many different hiking trails in this park.
NEVADA
1. Great Basin National Park, Nevada
The park boasts some of the darkest night sky in the contiguous United States, as well as Lehman Caves, Wheeler Peak Glacier, below 13,063-foot Wheeler Peak, and ancient bristlecone pine woods, the oldest known living non-clonal creatures.
NEW MEXICO
1. Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico
A maze of subterranean rooms, including one of the largest ever seen, may be found in Carlsbad Cavern. Although the length of the chambers and corridors is still unclear, the main cavern has been explored for more than 30 miles, of which 3 miles are accessible to tourists.
2. White Sands National Park, New Mexico
It’s difficult to travel to White Sands National Park, and there aren’t many things around to keep you very busy. It’s a peaceful area with peculiar traits and uncommon lifeforms. Not everyone can benefit from it, but some of us can. If you go, sand will likely go in your eyes as well as your shoes.
NORTH DAKOTA
1. Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota
It offers one of the most gorgeous routes in the country. There is a good amount of wildlife to see nearby, as well as outstanding geological aspects to discover. Driving slowly through the park is highly advised in order to enjoy yourself and avoid hitting any of the many prairie dogs that are scattered throughout.
NORTH CAROLINA
Because of its beautiful mountains, energetic cities, and immaculate beaches, the state of North Carolina is one of the places that many people find “hard to forget.” In addition, this state is renowned for its abundance of outdoor pursuits like camping, biking, and hiking. In addition, this state has major cities like Charlotte, Greensboro, and Raleigh, elite colleges like Duke and UNC Chapel Hill, and, most significantly, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee
One of the most popular national parks with a largely undeveloped, wild landscape that beckons you to reconnect with nature is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is known to span the border between Tennessee and North Carolina. On your visit, the national park’s picturesque mountain views, wildlife, historic structures, and an apparently endless number of hiking trails will greet you.
OHIO
Despite being one of the busiest states in the USA, Ohia is renowned for its tranquility. It has a sizable population and is the location of major cities like Cleveland, Cincinnati, and Columbus. This state’s attractions include a vibrant nightlife, thrilling rollercoasters, and mist-shrouded national parks. Additionally, this state is renowned for its cutting-edge restaurants, IPA breweries, and the Rock ‘n Roll Hall of Fame.
1. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
Given that it shares space with a small town, homes, and markets, the Cuyahoga Valley National Park feels more like a city park than a national park. Despite that, this national park successfully preserved the lush river valley that is known to be the location of both historical and natural sites. A network of hiking and biking trails can be found throughout the thousands of acres of forests and wetlands that make up this national park. Visitors to this national park enjoy taking pictures of the waterfalls, riding the train through the park’s center, and learning about the Ohio and Erie Canals.
OREGON
Despite having a land area of over 98,000 square miles, the state of Oregon only has two interstate highways, which leaves a lot of back roads winding through mossy green mountains, across starkly vivid desert landscapes, and along coastal waters. Oregon is one of the best travel destinations because of its contrasts!
1. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
The deepest lake in the United States is visible at the Crater Lake National Park, which is situated in northern Oregon. This national park offers panoramic summit views and vast, deep blue waters. In addition, there are over 90 miles of hiking trails there, as well as a breathtaking scenic drive that looks out over the lake. Definitely, a must-visit national park in the USA!
SOUTH CAROLINA
1. Congaree National Park, South Carolina
Trekking routes give access for hikers of all experience levels and time limitations, as well as spectacular and educational views of this overlooked gem on the banks of the Congaree River. This makes going to Congaree National Park a special and enjoyable experience.
SOUTH DAKOTA
1. Badlands National Park, South Dakota
One of the most underappreciated and distinctive American national parks is Badlands. It is ideal for a day excursion or a two-day family vacation. In Badlands National Park, you can find a few charming and enjoyable hiking trails, a ton of breathtaking viewpoints, and a surprisingly large variety of fauna.
2. Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota
Boxwork, a remarkable cave formation made up of thin calcite fins that resemble honeycombs, is well renowned for its spectacular display in the cave. One of the few remaining mixed-grass prairies, it supports natural animals like bison, elk, pronghorn, mule deer, coyotes, and prairie dogs.
TEXAS
The only Lone Star State, Texas, comes first on this list. This state has much more to offer than just great barbecue, brisket, and cowboys, making it one of the most popular travel destinations in the USA. This state is renowned for its outstanding architecture, rich culture, and stunning national park, naturally!
1. Big Bend National Park, Texas
Southwest Texas’ Big Bend National Park, which stretches along the border with Mexico, is renowned for being large and desolate. This national park is renowned for having a long history that includes the Spanish, Comanche Indians, and Mexican farmers. This national park is exceptional, and lovely, and provides a wonderful camping area. Its varied topography, stunning sunsets, and starry night skies will keep you returning.
2. Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas
In remote Western Texas, Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a hiker’s haven. Most people just see it as a beautiful rail trail for tourists travelling between El Paso and Carlsbad. But those who go there with purpose will find some of the best desert hiking in the South.
UTAH
1. Arches National Park, Utah
The greatest number of naturally occurring stone arches can be found in Arches National Park. The park is home to more than 2,000 known arches, as well as pinnacles, balanced rocks, fins, and other geologic formations. Some stand out more than others.
2. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
Of all the places in the world, Bryce has the most of these intriguing formations. This makes it particularly unique. While it is worthwhile to visit each canyon, if you are short on time, visiting just a few will give visitors a good idea of the park’s beauty.
3. Canyonlands National Park, Utah
Mountain biking is very popular in Canyonlands, especially on the 100-mile White Rim Road at Island in the Sky. The Island in the Sky mesa top is encircled and below by the 100-mile White Rim Road, which also offers expansive views of the surroundings.
4. Capitol Reef National Park, Utah
Capitol Reef National Park is worthwhile to visit because it is less crowded than other national parks in Utah. The park offers the ideal balance of stunning scenery, scenic hikes, and historical landmarks, more than enough to occupy any visitor for days.
5. Zion National Park, Utah
The 2,000-foot sandstone cliffs in Zion National Park are well known for big wall climbs. March through May and early September through early November offer the ideal climbing weather.
VIRGIN ISLANDS
1. Virgin Islands National Park, Virgin Islands
Coral reefs, seagrass beds, mangroves, and other marine habitats that support sea turtles, corals, and other marine life are protected by the park and monument. Some of the last native tropical dry rain forests in the Caribbean are also protected by Virgin Islands National Park.
VIRGINIA
1. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Visits to Shenandoah National Park are unquestionably worthwhile. There is really no better place in the eastern US to find peace and quiet than Shenandoah if you want to temporarily escape the stress of everyday life.
WASHINGTON
1. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
Wildflower viewing on Mount Rainier is renowned as being among the best in the world, with Paradise being the most well-liked location.
2. North Cascades National Park, Washington
For hikers and backpackers in particular, North Cascades National Park is greatly underappreciated. You can glimpse this place’s beauty from the scenic drives and overlooks, but you must hike the North Cascades’ trails to fully appreciate their grandeur.
3. Olympic National Park, Washington
In 1938, Olympic National Park was partly created to protect some of Washington’s rapidly vanishing ancient forests. Currently, one of the largest remaining blocks of temperate rainforest and old-growth forest in the lower 48 states is protected by the park.
WEST VIRGINIA
1. New River Gorge National Park, West Virginia
Rock climbing is very popular in New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, which is one of the best places to do it. There are more than 1,400 established rock climbs in the park. Nuttall sandstone, which is extremely hard, is used to build the cliffs at “The New,” which are situated just below the gorge’s rim.
WYOMING
1. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
It is stunning and much smaller than Yellowstone, making it very doable in a single day. Travel to Jenny Lake and board a boat to the mountains where folks hike to Inspiration Point and Hidden Falls.
FREE PRINTABLE LIST OF NATIONAL PARKS
2023 is just around the corner! Visiting as many national parks as possible in each US state is a fantastic item to add to your bucket list this year. As you explore these national parks filled with history, adventure, and education, this free printable list of national parks will come in handy, without a doubt!
If you enjoyed this free printable list of national parks and intend to visit one, the following printables will be very helpful for keeping your kids entertained on long drives:
- Dinosaur Charades Printable Cards
- Printable Nature Scavenger Hunt
- Nature Charades Printable Cards
- Camping Meal Planner
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