United States National Parks

“Excellence through Knowledge”

Currently, there are 63 National Parks located within the United States and U.S. Territories. These are the crown jewels of the U.S. National Park System and began with the establishment of Yellowstone in 1872, marking the world’s first national park. This revolutionary step laid the foundation for preserving America’s natural treasures. In 1916, the National Park Service was created to manage these lands, and today it oversees over 4oo unique parks & locations, each offering unforgettable experiences—from the geothermal marvels of Yellowstone and towering cliffs of Yosemite to the vibrant coral reefs of Biscayne and tranquil forests of the Great Smoky Mountains. Each National park invites visitors to explore, connect with nature, and celebrate the beauty, history, and biodiversity that make these lands a cherished part of America’s heritage. Use the map or list below to start your adventure. 

ParkWander National Park Map

Acadia National Park, Maine nestled along Maine’s stunning coast, features dramatic ocean views, rocky shorelines, and lush woodlands. Known for Cadillac Mountain, scenic hiking trails, and historic carriage roads, it’s a beloved destination for both serene nature escapes and outdoor adventures.

Arches National Park, Utah is renowned for its stunning natural sandstone arches and unique rock formations, with over 2,000 arches dotting the landscape. Visitors can explore picturesque trails that lead to iconic sights like Delicate Arch and Landscape Arch, while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding red rock desert and vibrant sunsets.

Badlands National Park, South Dakota showcases a breathtaking landscape of sharply eroded buttes, pinnacles, and deep canyons, characterized by its dramatic geological formations and rich fossil beds. This unique park offers visitors stunning vistas, diverse wildlife, and a chance to explore its trails, making it a fascinating destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Big Bend National Park, Texas is a vast and remote wilderness that encompasses striking desert landscapes, rugged mountains, and the winding Rio Grande River. Known for its rich biodiversity and stunning vistas, visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and stargazing in one of the darkest skies in the continental United States, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Biscayne National Park, Florida a unique aquatic paradise that protects a vibrant marine ecosystem, featuring coral reefs, mangroves, and islands. Visitors can explore the park through snorkeling, boating, and kayaking, experiencing its stunning underwater landscapes and diverse wildlife, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and manatees.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado is renowned for its dramatic and steep granite cliffs that plunge over 2,700 feet into the Gunnison River. Visitors are captivated by the park’s stunning views, challenging hiking trails, and opportunities for rock climbing and fishing, all set against the backdrop of a striking, deep canyon landscape.

Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah famous for its otherworldly landscape of colorful hoodoos—tall, thin spires of rock that create a unique and mesmerizing terrain. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views from various viewpoints, hike among the hoodoos on well-marked trails, and experience the park’s stunning sunrises and sunsets that illuminate the rocks in vibrant hues.

Canyonlands National Park, Utah vast expanse of dramatic canyons, mesas, and buttes carved by the Colorado River and its tributaries. Divided into four districts—Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and the rivers—this park offers stunning vistas, rugged hiking trails, and opportunities for off-road adventures, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Capitol Reef National Park, Utah is renowned for its striking red rock formations, unique geological features, and historic orchards that reflect the area’s rich cultural history. Visitors can explore scenic drives, hike through colorful canyons, and discover ancient petroglyphs, all while enjoying the park’s serene and less crowded atmosphere.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico famous for its extensive underground network of caves, featuring stunning limestone formations, massive chambers, and unique geological features. Explore the breathtaking caverns, witnessing the spectacular stalactites and stalagmites, while also experiencing the nightly flight of thousands of bats emerging from the cave at sunset.

Channel Islands National Park, California is a remarkable archipelago comprising five islands that offer diverse ecosystems and stunning coastal scenery. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking while exploring the islands’ unique wildlife, including the endangered Channel Island fox, and discovering rich marine life in the surrounding waters.

Congaree National Park, South Carolina lush, biodiverse landscape that protects one of the largest remaining old-growth bottomland hardwood forests in the United States. Visitors can explore its extensive trail system, paddle along the Congaree River, and witness an array of wildlife, all while enjoying the park’s serene atmosphere and stunning views of towering trees and vibrant plant life.

Crater Lake National Park, Oregon is renowned for its stunning deep blue lake, formed in the caldera of a collapsed volcano. Surrounded by steep cliffs and lush forests, the park offers breathtaking views, hiking trails, and opportunities for boat tours, making it a captivating destination for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio features a beautiful blend of rolling hills, lush forests, and scenic rivers, all intertwined with a rich cultural history. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking along the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, exploring picturesque waterfalls like Brandywine Falls, and experiencing the vibrant flora and fauna of this serene park.

Death Valley National Park, California and Nevada known for its extreme temperatures, vast desert landscapes, and unique geological features, including salt flats, sand dunes, and rugged mountains. As one of the hottest places on Earth, it offers visitors a chance to explore its striking contrasts, from the vibrant colors of Artist’s Palette to the surreal beauty of Badwater Basin.

Denali National Park, Alaska home to North America’s highest peak, Mount Denali, rising majestically to 20,310 feet. The park features a diverse landscape of rugged mountains, vast tundra, and abundant wildlife, including grizzly bears, moose, and caribou, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking breathtaking vistas and adventure.

Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida a remote paradise located about 70 miles west of Key West, known for its stunning coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and historic Fort Jefferson. Accessible primarily by boat or seaplane, the park offers exceptional opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and exploring the rich marine life, while also providing a glimpse into the area’s fascinating history.

Everglades National Park, Florida a vast subtropical wilderness that protects a unique ecosystem, characterized by wetlands, mangroves, and sawgrass marshes. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including alligators, manatees, and the endangered Florida panther, making it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

Gates of the Arctic National Park, Alaska a pristine wilderness area that offers an untouched landscape of rugged mountains, deep valleys, and expansive tundra. As one of the least visited national parks in the United States, it provides adventurers with unparalleled opportunities for backcountry exploration, wildlife viewing, showcasing the breathtaking beauty of Alaska’s natural environment.

Gateway Arch National Park, Missouri and Illinois home to the iconic 630-foot Gateway Arch, which symbolizes the westward expansion of the United States. Visitors can explore the park’s rich history through the Museum at the Gateway Arch, enjoy scenic views from the top of the arch, and stroll along the Mississippi Riverfront, making it a vibrant destination for both history enthusiasts and casual tourists.

Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska stunning wilderness area renowned for its spectacular glaciers, deep fjords, and diverse marine ecosystems. Visitors can experience breathtaking boat tours, wildlife viewing opportunities—including humpback whales, sea lions, and brown bears—and explore the park’s dramatic landscapes.

Glacier National Park, Montana breathtaking expanse of pristine wilderness known for its stunning mountain landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and over 700 miles of hiking trails. Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems, witness iconic sights such as the Going-to-the-Sun Road and Grinnell Glacier, and encounter a variety of wildlife, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and a testament to nature’s grandeur.

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona one of the most iconic natural wonders of the world, featuring a vast and breathtaking canyon carved by the Colorado River over millions of years. Visitors can explore its stunning vistas from numerous viewpoints, hike along its trails, and experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the canyon’s layered rock formations, vibrant colors, and rich geological history.

Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming renowned for its majestic mountain range, featuring the stunning Teton Range that rises dramatically from the Jackson Hole valley. With its pristine lakes, diverse wildlife, and abundant recreational opportunities, the park offers visitors breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures.

Great Basin National Park, Nevada a hidden gem characterized by its diverse ecosystems, featuring high desert landscapes, ancient bristlecone pines, and the stunning Lehman Caves. Visitors can explore scenic hiking trails, stargaze in one of the darkest skies in the country, and experience the park’s unique geological formations.

Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve, Colorado home to the tallest sand dunes in North America, reaching heights of over 750 feet against the stunning backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Visitors can explore this unique landscape through hiking, sandboarding, and picnicking, while also enjoying the diverse ecosystems that include alpine forests and wetlands.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee the most visited national park in the United States, it offers visitors a plethora of outdoor activities, including hiking over 800 miles of trails, exploring historic homesteads, and experiencing the diverse wildlife that calls the park home, all while enjoying its serene beauty and cultural heritage.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas home to the rugged Guadalupe Peak, the highest point in the state, and offers diverse landscapes that include desert, canyons, and forests. The park is celebrated for its stunning hiking trails and rich geological history, showcasing ancient marine fossils and providing a unique environment for outdoor exploration.

Haleakalā National Park, Hawaii renowned for its stunning volcanic landscapes, featuring the massive Haleakalā Crater and diverse ecosystems ranging from tropical rainforests to arid deserts. Visitors can witness breathtaking sunrises and sunsets from the summit, explore unique flora and fauna, and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking and stargazing in this captivating natural wonder.

Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii showcases the stunning volcanic landscapes of Mauna Loa and Kīlauea, two of the world’s most active volcanoes. Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems, witness volcanic activity, and hike through unique lava tubes and craters, all while experiencing the rich cultural heritage of the native Hawaiian people.

Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas famous for its naturally occurring thermal springs, which have been used for their therapeutic properties for centuries. Visitors can explore the historic bathhouses, hike the park’s scenic trails, and enjoy the tranquil beauty of the Ouachita Mountains, all while experiencing the unique blend of nature and history that the park offers.

Indiana Dunes National Park, Indiana features a stunning landscape of sandy beaches, lush wetlands, and diverse ecosystems along the shores of Lake Michigan. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, birdwatching, and swimming, while exploring the park’s unique dunes and rich plant and animal life.

Isle Royale National Park, Michigan a remote island park known for its rugged wilderness, pristine lakes, and diverse wildlife, including moose and wolves. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, it offers visitors a chance to hike, canoe, and enjoy the natural beauty of its untouched landscapes, making it a serene destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Joshua Tree National Park, California the high desert meets the majestic Mojave and Colorado deserts, creating a unique environment filled with towering rock formations and the park’s namesake Joshua trees. The area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering over 800,000 acres of hiking trails, rock climbing opportunities, and breathtaking vistas, with stunning sunrises and sunsets.

Katmai National Park, Alaska dramatic volcanic landscapes, including the iconic Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes and active volcanoes. The park is also famous for its abundant wildlife, particularly the brown bears that gather at Brooks Falls to fish for salmon, making it a prime destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.

Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska known for its stunning glacial landscapes, including the dramatic Harding Icefield and numerous tidewater glaciers. The park is a haven for wildlife, with opportunities to see sea otters, seals, and puffins, making it a prime destination for kayaking and hiking while experiencing the breathtaking beauty of the rugged coastline and mountainous terrain.

Kings Canyon National Park, California known for its stunning granite cliffs, deep canyons, and towering sequoias, including the famous General Grant Tree. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, and exploring breathtaking landscapes like the Kings Canyon and the scenic drives along the Sierra Nevada mountains.

Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska known for its towering sand dunes, surrounded by vast wilderness and the Kobuk River. Visitors can explore this unique landscape, which showcases the transition from arctic tundra to desert-like dunes, while also experiencing diverse wildlife and the rich cultural history of the native Iñupiat people.

Lake Clark National Park, Alaska a remote wilderness area known for its stunning landscapes of mountains, lakes, and active volcanoes. It offers diverse ecosystems, abundant wildlife, and opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and kayaking. The park is also a prime spot for experiencing the beauty of Alaska’s nature, from the rugged coastlines to the picturesque mountain ranges.

Lassen Volcanic National Park, California known for its geothermal features, including steaming fumaroles, boiling mud pots, and the impressive Lassen Peak, which is an active volcano. Visitors can explore various hiking trails that showcase the park’s diverse ecosystems, from alpine meadows to lush forests, and enjoy activities such as camping, fishing, and stargazing.

Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky home to the longest cave system in the world, featuring over 400 miles of explored passageways. The park offers visitors the chance to explore its fascinating limestone formations, unique ecosystems, and rich history through guided cave tours and various outdoor activities such as hiking and wildlife observation.

Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado the UNESCO World Heritage Site preserves Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings, including the iconic Cliff Palace. The park offers visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural history of the Native American inhabitants through archaeological sites, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks, all set against a backdrop of stunning mesas and canyons.

Mount Rainier National Park, Washington an active stratovolcano that rises to 14,411 feet. The park features stunning alpine meadows, old-growth forests, and over 260 miles of hiking trails, offering visitors opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and winter sports. With its breathtaking scenery and diverse ecosystems, the park is a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers alike.

National Park of American Samoa, American Samoa a unique tropical park known for its stunning coastal rainforests, coral reefs, and volcanic landscapes. It encompasses parts of three islands and provides opportunities for hiking, snorkeling, and experiencing rich cultural heritage. The park is dedicated to preserving the diverse ecosystems and traditional practices of the Samoan people.

New River Gorge National Park & Preserve, West Virginia celebrated for its stunning river gorge, whitewater rafting, and rock climbing opportunities. The park features a diverse array of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing, alongside rich cultural history, particularly related to coal mining.

North Cascades National Park, Washington known for its rugged mountain terrain, stunning alpine lakes, and extensive wilderness areas. The park features over 300 glaciers, diverse ecosystems, and a network of trails for hiking, camping, and climbing, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Its remote beauty and rich biodiversity provide an excellent backdrop for exploring the Pacific Northwest’s natural heritage.

Olympic National Park, Washington renowned for its diverse ecosystems, ranging from rugged coastlines and temperate rainforests to alpine mountains. The park encompasses over 900 miles of hiking trails and provides opportunities for wildlife viewing, camping, and exploring stunning natural features like Hurricane Ridge and the Hoh Rain Forest.

Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona famous for its extensive deposits of petrified wood and striking badlands. Visitors can explore colorful landscapes, ancient fossils, and historic sites along scenic drives and hiking trails, showcasing the park’s rich geological history.

Pinnacles National Park, California unique rock formations, towering spires, and diverse habitats that support a variety of wildlife, including the endangered California condor. The park offers numerous hiking trails, rock climbing opportunities, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Its fascinating geology and ecosystems provide a captivating experience for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Redwood National Park, California home to the tallest trees on Earth, the coastal redwoods, which can reach heights of over 350 feet. The park features lush forests, diverse ecosystems, and stunning coastal views, offering visitors a chance to hike, camp, and experience the tranquility of nature. It plays a crucial role in conserving these ancient giants and their unique habitats, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado renowned for its stunning mountain landscapes, featuring towering peaks, alpine lakes, and diverse wildlife. The park offers over 300 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Saguaro National Park, Arizona famous for its iconic saguaro cacti, which can grow to be over 40 feet tall and live for over 150 years. The park showcases the Sonoran Desert’s unique ecosystem, offering visitors scenic drives, hiking trails, and opportunities for wildlife viewing, including desert foxes and various bird species. The stunning landscapes and diverse plant life make it a captivating destination for nature lovers and photographers.

Sequoia National Park, California renowned for its giant sequoia trees, including the General Sherman Tree, one of the largest living trees on Earth. The park features stunning landscapes of mountains, deep canyons, and diverse ecosystems, providing opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring. Visitors can experience breathtaking views from trails like the High Sierra Trail and enjoy the park’s rich wildlife.

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia the park offers over 200,000 acres of protected lands with numerous hiking trails, including a portion of the Appalachian Trail. Visitors can enjoy wildlife viewing, picnicking, and breathtaking views from Skyline Drive, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota known for its stunning Badlands, rugged terrain, and diverse wildlife, including bison, elk, and wild horses. The park preserves the landscape that inspired President Theodore Roosevelt’s conservation efforts, offering visitors opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife observation.

Virgin Islands National Park, Virgin Islands located on the island of St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands and is known for its stunning beaches, coral reefs, and tropical wildlife. The park encompasses over 7,000 acres of protected land, featuring hiking trails, historical ruins, and opportunities for snorkeling and diving.

Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota celebrated for its interconnected waterways, featuring a unique landscape of lakes, islands, and wetlands. This park offers a variety of recreational activities, including canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and hiking, allowing visitors to explore its scenic beauty and diverse ecosystems. With opportunities for wildlife observation and stunning night skies, Voyageurs is a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.

White Sands National Park, New Mexico the park offers visitors opportunities for hiking, sledding down the dunes, and enjoying breathtaking sunsets over the shimmering sands. Its unique ecosystem supports a variety of plant and animal life adapted to the arid environment, making it a fascinating destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota known for its extensive cave system, featuring one of the longest caves in the world. The park is also home to unique geological formations, such as boxwork, and diverse wildlife, including bison and elk. Above ground, visitors can explore the prairie and ponderosa pine forest ecosystems through a variety of trails and scenic drives.

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, Alaska the largest national park in the U.S., showcasing a stunning landscape of rugged mountains, glaciers, and diverse ecosystems. The park is home to some of North America’s tallest peaks, including Mount St. Elias, and offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, backpacking, and wildlife viewing.

Yellowstone National Park, Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming the first national park in the world, renowned for its geothermal features, including the iconic Old Faithful geyser. The park is home to diverse wildlife, such as bison, elk, and grizzly bears, and offers stunning landscapes of canyons, rivers, and lakes. With over 900 miles of hiking trails, visitors can explore the park’s natural beauty and rich ecological diversity.

Yosemite National Park, California famed for its majestic granite cliffs, including El Capitan and Half Dome, as well as its stunning waterfalls, such as Yosemite Falls. The park features diverse ecosystems, ancient giant sequoias, and a plethora of outdoor activities like hiking, rock climbing, and photography. Yosemite is a cherished destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Zion National Park, Utah renowned for its breathtaking canyon views, towering cliffs, and striking rock formations. The park features iconic hiking trails, including the challenging Angels Landing and the scenic Narrows, which allow visitors to explore its stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Its unique geology and vibrant plant life make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers alike.