The United States National Monuments

The U.S. National Monuments are a collection of protected areas that preserve some of the nation’s most significant natural, historical, and cultural landmarks. These sites, designated by the President or Congress, serve to protect everything from ancient Native American ruins and battlefields to stunning natural formations like rock canyons, deserts, and volcanic landscapes. Unlike National Parks, which are often larger and focus primarily on recreation and conservation, National Monuments can encompass a wide range of areas including historical structures, archaeological sites, and unique natural landscapes. They are managed by several federal agencies, including the National Park Service and the Bureau of Land Management, ensuring these special places remain preserved for future generations. From the rugged beauty of Monument Valley to the historic wonders of the Statue of Liberty, National Monuments are a testament to the diverse heritage and breathtaking landscapes that define the United States.

ParkWander National Monuments Map

African Burial Ground National Monument, New York commemorates the largest known burial ground for African Americans from the 17th and 18th centuries. The site honors the lives of enslaved and free Africans, with a memorial plaza and visitor center offering insight into the profound history and cultural contributions of the African American community in early New York.

Agate Fossil Beds National Monument, Nebraska preserves one of the richest fossil sites in North America, showcasing ancient remains of Miocene-era mammals. Visitors can explore the park’s fossil beds, see exhibits about paleontological discoveries, and learn about the area’s significance in the study of prehistoric life.

Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument, Texas is a unique archaeological site where prehistoric Native American peoples mined high-quality flint to create tools. Visitors can explore the ancient quarries, learn about the history of flint usage in tool-making, and view stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Aniakchak National Monument, Alaska is a remote and rugged wilderness area known for its volcanic landscape and dramatic geological features. The park encompasses the Aniakchak Crater, one of the most active volcanic craters in the world, and offers visitors an extraordinary glimpse into the power of nature through its rugged coastline, deep valleys, and rich wildlife, making it a haven for adventurers and those seeking solitude in an untouched environment.

Aztec Ruins National Monument, New Mexico preserves the ancient ruins of a 12th-century Puebloan community. The site is famous for its well-preserved Great House, which includes multi-story buildings, intricate masonry, and a kiva—a ceremonial space central to Puebloan culture. Visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the Ancestral Puebloans’ advanced architectural skills and rich cultural heritage while enjoying scenic views of the surrounding high desert landscape.

Bandelier National Monument, New Mexico showcases the ancient dwellings and cultural heritage of the Ancestral Puebloans. Visitors can explore preserved cliff dwellings, ceremonial kivas, and petroglyphs, which provide a glimpse into the lives of the people who thrived here over 800 years ago.

Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument, District of Columbia preserves the historic headquarters of the National Woman’s Party. This site honors the fight for women’s suffrage and equality, showcasing artifacts, exhibits, and the legacy of leaders who shaped the women’s rights movement in the United States.

Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument, Alabama commemorates pivotal moments of the Civil Rights Movement. This site includes landmarks like the 16th Street Baptist Church and Kelly Ingram Park, highlighting the struggles and triumphs of those who fought for racial equality in America.

Booker T. Washington National Monument, Virginia preserves the birthplace of one of America’s most influential African American educators and leaders. The site offers a glimpse into Washington’s early life as an enslaved child and his journey to becoming a champion of education and self-reliance. Visitors can explore the reconstructed farm, exhibits, and walking trails that highlight his enduring legacy.

Buck Island Reef National Monument, Virgin Islands is a pristine marine sanctuary renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and underwater trail. This protected area offers visitors opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and relaxing on its unspoiled beaches. Home to diverse marine life and nesting sea turtles, it is a haven for nature enthusiasts and a vital ecological treasure.

Cabrillo National Monument, California honors the landing of Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo in 1542, marking the first European expedition to the West Coast. This historic site offers stunning views of San Diego Bay, a historic lighthouse, and access to tide pools teeming with marine life. Visitors can explore exhibits, hiking trails, and seasonal whale-watching opportunities, making it a hub for history, nature, and coastal beauty.

Camp Nelson National Monument, Kentucky preserves a significant Civil War-era site that served as a Union supply depot, recruitment center, and refuge for formerly enslaved individuals. This historic landmark played a vital role in the emancipation of African Americans and their enlistment into the Union Army.

Canyon de Chelly National Monument, Arizona protects a stunning landscape of dramatic red rock canyons, ancient cliff dwellings, and Navajo culture. This sacred site has been continuously inhabited for nearly 5,000 years, making it one of the longest-inhabited areas in North America.

Cape Krusenstern National Monument, Alaska preserves a pristine coastal plain and over 5,000 years of human history. Located along the Chukchi Sea, the monument features ancient beach ridges that document the lives of the region’s Indigenous peoples. Visitors can explore its vast wilderness, rich archaeological sites, and unique Arctic wildlife in a remote and rugged setting.

Capulin Volcano National Monument, New Mexico showcases the remarkable cinder cone of an extinct volcano that rises prominently above the surrounding plains. This geological wonder offers visitors a chance to explore lava flows, volcanic features, and panoramic views from the summit. The monument is a testament to the region’s volcanic history and provides hiking trails and opportunities to learn about the natural forces that shaped the landscape.

Casa Grande Ruins National Monument, Arizona protects the remains of a 14th-century Hohokam structure, one of the largest prehistoric buildings in North America. The “Great House” and surrounding ruins offer insight into the engineering and agricultural innovations of the Hohokam people, who once thrived in the Sonoran Desert.

Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, Florida is the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States, built by the Spanish in the 17th century to protect St. Augustine. Made from coquina stone, the fortress withstood numerous sieges, showcasing its durability and historical significance. Visitors can explore its bastions, ramparts, and exhibits, gaining a glimpse into colonial-era military life and the diverse cultural history of the region.

Castle Clinton National Monument, New York located at the southern tip of Manhattan, served as a fortification during the War of 1812. Later, it became a gateway for millions of immigrants as America’s first immigration station before Ellis Island. Today, visitors can explore this historic structure, learn about its diverse roles in U.S. history, and enjoy its scenic waterfront location in Battery Park.

Castle Mountains National Monument, California preserves a rugged desert landscape filled with Joshua trees, rolling grasslands, and dramatic volcanic formations. Situated between Mojave National Preserve and the Nevada border, the monument protects rich biodiversity, including desert bighorn sheep and golden eagles.

Cedar Breaks National Monument, Utah showcases a stunning natural amphitheater carved from red and orange limestone and sandstone, stretching over three miles wide and 2,000 feet deep. Located at over 10,000 feet above sea level, the monument offers breathtaking views, alpine meadows, and bristlecone pines, some of the oldest living trees on Earth.

César E. Chávez National Monument, California honors the life and legacy of labor leader and civil rights activist César Chávez. This historic site, located in the Tehachapi Mountains, includes the headquarters of the United Farm Workers and Chávez’s gravesite.

Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument, Ohio honors the life and legacy of Colonel Charles Young, a pioneering African American military officer and leader. Located in Wilberforce, the monument preserves Young’s historic home and celebrates his contributions as a Buffalo Soldier, educator, and advocate for equality.

Chiricahua National Monument, Arizona preserves a dramatic “Wonderland of Rocks,” featuring towering pinnacles, balanced rock formations, and scenic canyons. Located in the southeastern corner of Arizona, this geological marvel offers a glimpse into ancient volcanic activity that shaped the region.

Colorado National Monument, Colorado showcases dramatic red rock canyons, towering monoliths, and sweeping desert vistas that highlight the rugged beauty of the Colorado Plateau. This iconic landscape near Grand Junction offers scenic drives, hiking trails, and abundant wildlife, making it a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Craters of the Moon National Monument, Idaho features a surreal landscape of ancient lava flows, cinder cones, and volcanic craters, offering a glimpse into the region’s fiery geological past. This unique destination invites exploration through hiking trails, caves, and stunning vistas shaped by millennia of volcanic activity.

Devils Postpile National Monument, California showcases striking basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity, standing as a rare geological wonder. Located near Mammoth Lakes, the monument also features the scenic Rainbow Falls and offers hiking, fishing, and stunning alpine vistas.

Devils Tower National Monument, Wyoming features an iconic monolithic butte rising dramatically from the plains, sacred to Indigenous peoples and renowned for its unique geology. This natural marvel, the first U.S. National Monument, is a favorite destination for climbers, hikers, and stargazers alike.

Dinosaur National Monument, Colorado and Utah preserves a treasure trove of dinosaur fossils and stunning desert landscapes with deep canyons carved by the Green and Yampa Rivers. Visitors can explore ancient petroglyphs, scenic drives, and fossil exhibits, connecting with both prehistoric life and the region’s natural beauty.

Effigy Mounds National Monument, Iowa protects ancient Native American burial and ceremonial mounds shaped like animals, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage. Nestled along the Mississippi River, the monument features scenic trails, forested bluffs, and opportunities to connect with history and nature.

El Malpais National Monument, New Mexico showcases a rugged landscape of ancient lava flows, towering sandstone cliffs, and volcanic craters. This unique destination invites exploration of its caves, trails, and natural arches while preserving the geological and cultural history of the region.

El Morro National Monument, New Mexico renowned for its dramatic sandstone bluff, which served as a vital water source and landmark for travelers along historic trade routes. The monument preserves ancient petroglyphs, historic inscriptions, and the remnants of Ancestral Puebloan ruins, offering visitors a glimpse into the past while showcasing stunning desert landscapes.

Emmett Till and Mamie Till-Mobley National Monument, Illinois and Mississippi honors the legacy of Emmett Till, whose tragic death in 1955 became a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement. The monument preserves key sites related to Till’s life and the efforts of his mother, Mamie Till-Mobley, including the courthouse where the trial occurred and the site of his burial, ensuring that their story continues to inspire the fight for justice and equality.

Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, Colorado protects one of the richest fossil deposits in the world, offering a glimpse into life 34 million years ago. The monument showcases impressive fossils of ancient plants, insects, and trees, with highlights including massive petrified redwood stumps and a visitor center with educational exhibits, making it a key site for paleontologists and nature enthusiasts alike.

Fort Frederica National Monument, Georgia preserves the remains of a colonial military outpost established in 1736 to defend the southern frontier of British America. The site offers visitors a chance to explore the fort’s ruins, learn about the region’s history through exhibits, and stroll along scenic trails that reveal the stories of early settlers, military life, and the battles that shaped Georgia’s development.

Fort Matanzas National Monument, Florida protects a historic Spanish fort built in the 1700s to defend St. Augustine from British invasion. Visitors can explore the well-preserved fort, learn about its role in the region’s colonial history, and enjoy scenic views of the Matanzas River and surrounding coastal wetlands.

Fort McHenry National Monument & Historic Shrine, Maryland is the site where the Battle of Baltimore took place during the War of 1812, inspiring Francis Scott Key to write “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Visitors can tour the historic fort, learn about its military significance, and explore exhibits related to the creation of the national anthem, all while enjoying panoramic views of the harbor.

Fort Monroe National Monument, Virginia preserves a historic coastal fortification that played a crucial role in American history, from the Civil War to the Civil Rights Movement. Located at the tip of the Virginia Peninsula, the monument features historic structures, including the 19th-century fort, as well as scenic views of the Chesapeake Bay and Hampton Roads.

Fort Pulaski National Monument, Georgia preserves a well-preserved Civil War-era fort located on Cockspur Island near Savannah. The fort is known for its impressive masonry, moats, and drawbridges, and it played a key role in the Confederate defense during the Civil War before its capture by Union forces.

Fort Stanwix National Monument, New York preserves the site of a critical 18th-century fort that played a key role during the American Revolution. The fort, located in Rome, New York, was the site of a significant siege in 1777, where American forces successfully held off British and Native American attackers.

Fort Union National Monument, New Mexico preserves the ruins of a vital military post that served as a key supply and defense point in the southwestern United States during the mid-1800s. Established in 1851, the fort was instrumental in the U.S. military’s efforts to protect trade routes and defend against Native American attacks.

Fossil Butte National Monument, Wyoming is renowned for its well-preserved fossils from the Eocene Epoch, approximately 50 million years ago. The monument showcases an extensive collection of prehistoric plants and animals, including fish, insects, and reptiles, that lived in a lush, subtropical environment. The monument provides a fascinating glimpse into the Earth’s distant past and the ancient ecosystems that once thrived in what is now the American West.

Freedom Riders National Monument, Alabama commemorates the courageous efforts of the Freedom Riders, a group of civil rights activists who challenged segregated bus terminals in the 1960s. Located in downtown Montgomery, the monument preserves the historic Greyhound Bus Station, where the violent attacks against these riders sparked nationwide attention.

George Washington Birthplace National Monument, Virginia

George Washington Carver National Monument, Missouri

Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, New Mexico

Governors Island National Monument, New York

Grand Portage National Monument, Minnesota

Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument, Idaho

Hohokam Pima National Monument, Arizona

Hovenweep National Monument, Colorado and Utah

Jewel Cave National Monument, South Dakota

John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, Oregon

Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, Maine

Lava Beds National Monument, California

Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, Montana

Medgar and Myrlie Evers Home National Monument, Mississippi

Mill Springs Battlefield National Monument, Kentucky

Montezuma Castle National Monument, Arizona

Muir Woods National Monument, California

Natural Bridges National Monument, Utah

Navajo National Monument, Arizona

Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve, Oregon

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, Arizona

Petroglyph National Monument, New Mexico

Pipe Spring National Monument, Arizona

Pipestone National Monument, Minnesota

Poverty Point National Monument, Louisiana

Rainbow Bridge National Monument, Utah

Russell Cave National Monument, Alabama

Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument, New Mexico

Scotts Bluff National Monument, Nebraska

Springfield 1908 Race Riot National Monument, Illinois

Statue of Liberty National Monument, New Jersey and New York

Stonewall National Monument, New York

Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, Arizona

Timpanogos Cave National Monument, Utah

Tonto National Monument, Arizona

Tule Lake National Monument, California

Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument, Nevada

Tuzigoot National Monument, Arizona

Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument, Virgin Islands

Waco Mammoth National Monument, Texas

Walnut Canyon National Monument, Arizona

Wupatki National Monument, Arizona

Yucca House National Monument, Colorado