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 Cedar Breaks 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 preserves the farm where the first President of the United States was born. Visitors can explore a reconstructed colonial farm, view artifacts from Washington’s early life, and stroll along scenic Potomac River trails to learn about the legacy of America’s founding father.

George Washington Carver National Monument, Missouri honors the life and achievements of the renowned scientist and inventor. The site includes a museum, Carver’s boyhood home, and trails through the serene landscape that inspired his commitment to agriculture and education.

Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, New Mexico preserves the ancient homes of the Mogollon people, nestled within natural caves. Visitors can hike to these well-preserved dwellings, which offer a glimpse into the lives of Indigenous peoples who flourished here over 700 years ago.

Governors Island National Monument, New York protects two historic forts, Fort Jay and Castle Williams, pivotal in defending New York Harbor. This peaceful island retreat offers panoramic views of Manhattan and rich historical exhibits tracing over 200 years of military history.

Grand Portage National Monument, Minnesota preserves a vital historic hub of the North American fur trade. Visitors can explore the reconstructed Great Hall, follow trails used by voyageurs, and immerse themselves in the Ojibwe heritage tied to this iconic site.

Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument, Idaho is renowned for its rich cache of prehistoric fossils, including the Hagerman horse, an ancestor to modern horses. Visitors can learn about ancient ecosystems through interpretive exhibits and enjoy sweeping views of the Snake River Plain.

Hohokam Pima National Monument, Arizona protects the remnants of the ancient Hohokam civilization, known for its extensive irrigation canals. Though access is limited to protect the site, the monument highlights the ingenuity and cultural achievements of a vibrant prehistoric community.

Hovenweep National Monument, Colorado and Utah protecting ancient stone towers built by the Ancestral Puebloans. Visitors can explore the six main village sites scattered across the high desert landscape, showcasing sophisticated architectural techniques from over 700 years ago. This monument offers insight into the ingenuity and resilience of early desert dwellers.

Jewel Cave National Monument, South Dakota features one of the longest cave systems in the world, named for its dazzling calcite crystals. Visitors can join guided tours to explore its unique underground formations and learn about its geology and ecology. The site highlights the natural wonders hidden beneath the Black Hills.

John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, Oregon showcases colorful badlands and some of the world’s most detailed fossil records. The park’s three units preserve a timeline of 40 million years of prehistoric life, from plants to mammals. Visitors can explore the Painted Hills and learn about ancient ecosystems in the Thomas Condon Paleontology Center.

Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, Maine celebrates the rugged beauty of the North Woods, offering views of Mount Katahdin, pristine rivers, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can hike, paddle, and stargaze in this unspoiled wilderness. The area honors Indigenous heritage and the region’s ecological significance.

Lava Beds National Monument, California features over 800 caves formed by ancient volcanic activity, making it a haven for adventurers and geologists. Visitors can explore the extensive lava tube caves, battlefields from the Modoc War, and petroglyphs left by Native American tribes. The site is a fascinating blend of natural history and cultural heritage.

Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, Montana commemorates the historic clash between the U.S. Army and the Plains tribes in 1876. Visitors can tour the battlefield and memorials to learn about the events that unfolded, including the perspective of Native American warriors. This monument honors the history, sacrifice, and significance of both sides.

Medgar and Myrlie Evers Home National Monument, Mississippi home of civil rights activists Medgar and Myrlie Evers. Visitors can learn about their fight for racial justice and Medgar’s tragic assassination in 1963. This site honors their legacy and the continuing struggle for equality.

Mill Springs Battlefield National Monument, Kentucky marks the site of a crucial Civil War victory for the Union. Visitors can explore the battlefield, cemetery, and museum to learn about the strategic importance of the 1862 battle. This monument preserves a pivotal moment in American history.

Montezuma Castle National Monument, Arizona preserves a 20-room cliff dwelling built by the Sinagua people over 800 years ago. Visitors can marvel at this architectural marvel perched high on a limestone cliff and explore the serene desert surroundings. The monument showcases the ingenuity of ancient cultures in adapting to the Southwest’s arid environment.

Muir Woods National Monument, California protects an awe-inspiring grove of ancient coastal redwoods, some towering over 250 feet tall. Visitors can stroll along tranquil trails through the misty forest and connect with nature. This site honors conservationist John Muir’s legacy and the beauty of California’s natural treasures.

Natural Bridges National Monument, Utah features three massive natural rock bridges carved by water over millennia. Visitors can hike through rugged desert trails to explore Sipapu, Kachina, and Owachomo bridges up close. The park’s dark skies also make it a premier destination for stargazing.

Navajo National Monument, Arizona preserves the stunning cliff dwellings of Betatakin and Keet Seel, built by the Ancestral Puebloans. Guided tours offer a glimpse into the lives of those who lived here centuries ago. Surrounded by the Navajo Nation, the site holds deep cultural and historical significance.

Oregon Caves National Monument & Preserve, Oregon features a marble cave system nestled in a lush forested setting. Guided tours take visitors deep into the caves, showcasing dramatic formations and underground waterfalls. Above ground, hiking trails offer breathtaking views of the Siskiyou Mountains.

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, Arizona celebrates the unique beauty of the Sonoran Desert, home to the rare organ pipe cactus. Visitors can explore scenic drives, hike through rugged terrain, and marvel at the region’s diverse plant and animal life. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve highlights the delicate balance of desert ecosystems.

Petroglyph National Monument, New Mexico protects thousands of ancient petroglyphs etched into volcanic rock by Native Americans and early Spanish settlers. Visitors can walk along trails to view these remarkable symbols and learn about the cultures that created them. The site is a testament to human creativity across centuries.

Pipe Spring National Monument, Arizona preserves a historic desert oasis once vital to Indigenous peoples and early settlers. Visitors can tour the 19th-century fort, see native plants and wildlife, and learn about the region’s history through Paiute and pioneer perspectives.

Pipestone National Monument, Minnesota preserves sacred quarries where Native Americans have harvested pipestone for centuries to craft ceremonial pipes. Visitors can see active quarrying, explore cultural exhibits at the Visitor Center, and hike the Circle Trail, which features waterfalls and historic quarries.

Poverty Point National Monument, Louisiana preserves one of the oldest and most remarkable archaeological sites in North America, dating back over 3,000 years. This prehistoric complex features massive earthen mounds and ridges created by Indigenous peoples for trade, ceremonies, and community gatherings. It provides a window into ancient ingenuity and early societal structures.

Rainbow Bridge National Monument, Utah boasts one of the largest natural stone bridges in the world, revered as sacred by the Navajo people. Accessible by boat or backcountry trails, the bridge stands as a testament to the region’s geological wonders. Its breathtaking setting offers solitude and a powerful connection to both nature and culture.

Russell Cave National Monument, Alabama is a significant archaeological site showcasing over 10,000 years of human habitation. The cave provided shelter and resources to prehistoric peoples, evidenced by tools, artifacts, and remains. Visitors can explore this rich history through trails, exhibits, and ranger-led programs.

Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument, New Mexico preserves the ruins of three historic mission sites that reflect the interactions between Spanish missionaries and Indigenous Puebloan peoples. The site reveals a layered story of cultural exchange, conflict, and adaptation in the 17th century. Its scenic ruins and serene landscapes invite reflection on New Mexico’s early colonial history.

Scotts Bluff National Monument, Nebraska marks a historic landmark on the Oregon, Mormon, and California Trails. Towering bluffs served as a natural navigation point for pioneers traversing the Great Plains. Visitors today can hike trails or drive the summit road for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding prairie.

Springfield 1908 Race Riot National Monument, Illinois commemorates a pivotal event in America’s history that helped galvanize the Civil Rights Movement. The violent upheaval highlighted systemic racism and ultimately led to the founding of the NAACP. This site stands as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for racial equality.

Statue of Liberty National Monument, New Jersey and New York the enduring symbol of freedom and democracy, welcoming millions of immigrants as they arrived in America through Ellis Island. This iconic landmark invites visitors to explore Liberty Island and climb the statue for sweeping views of New York Harbor. Exhibits at Ellis Island document the immigrant experience, making it a site of national reflection and inspiration.

Stonewall National Monument, New York commemorates the Stonewall Uprising of 1969, a turning point in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights. Located in Greenwich Village, it preserves Christopher Park and the nearby Stonewall Inn, both central to the movement. Visitors can learn about the historic struggle for equality through interpretive exhibits and local activism history.

Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, Arizona protects the stunning lava fields and cinder cones left by a volcanic eruption nearly 1,000 years ago. Visitors can hike trails through surreal volcanic landscapes while learning about the eruption’s impact on nearby Indigenous communities. The vivid hues of the crater and its unique geology make it a fascinating destination.

Timpanogos Cave National Monument, Utah showcases a trio of stunning caves featuring intricate formations like stalactites, stalagmites, and helictites. Visitors embark on a steep but rewarding hike to reach the caves, guided tours illuminate their natural beauty and geologic history. The site offers a perfect blend of adventure and wonder.

Tonto National Monument, Arizona protects well-preserved cliff dwellings constructed by the Salado people in the 13th century. Visitors can explore these ancient structures and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the desert Southwest. The site also provides sweeping views of Tonto Basin and Roosevelt Lake.

Tule Lake National Monument, California preserves the largest of the World War II-era Japanese American incarceration camps. The site tells a somber story of civil liberties and resilience during a time of national crisis. Visitors can reflect on this chapter of history through preserved camp structures and exhibits.

Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument, Nevada is a paleontological treasure trove that reveals a rich Ice Age history. Visitors can see fossils of mammoths, giant sloths, and other megafauna that roamed the region over 200,000 years ago. The arid desert landscape is a testament to ancient climate changes.

Tuzigoot National Monument, Arizona showcases a 1,000-year-old Sinagua pueblo perched atop a hill overlooking the Verde Valley. Visitors can wander through the multi-room ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding desert. Interpretive displays illuminate the Sinagua’s innovative farming and cultural practices.

Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument, Virgin Islands protects over 12,000 acres of pristine underwater ecosystems, teeming with vibrant coral reefs and marine life. Snorkeling and diving offer a glimpse of this underwater paradise, while kayaking reveals the stunning mangrove forests. This marine sanctuary is crucial for conservation and biodiversity.

Waco Mammoth National Monument, Texas is home to the fossilized remains of Columbian mammoths that lived during the Ice Age. The site offers guided tours where visitors can view fossils in situ and learn about the mammoths’ social behaviors. It’s a fascinating journey into prehistoric life.

Walnut Canyon National Monument, Arizona features ancient cliff dwellings built by the Sinagua people over 700 years ago. Visitors can hike the Island Trail to explore the well-preserved homes and marvel at the canyon’s stunning landscapes. The site offers insight into the resourcefulness of early desert inhabitants.

Wupatki National Monument, Arizona preserves several Ancestral Puebloan dwellings, including the impressive Wupatki Pueblo. Visitors can explore this archaeological treasure and learn about the diverse cultures that thrived in the desert. The monument also features striking red-rock formations and sweeping desert vistas.

Yucca House National Monument, Colorado protects an unexcavated Ancestral Puebloan site, offering a unique glimpse into the lives of early inhabitants. The untouched ruins provide valuable insights into the region’s ancient cultures while preserving the area’s natural beauty. Visitors can explore the tranquil landscape and connect with its historical significance.