List of National Parks: Exploring America’s Natural Wonders

The United States is home to 63 national parks, each offering unique landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and unforgettable experiences. These protected areas preserve the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the country, providing opportunities for exploration, adventure, and connection with nature. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive list of national parks, highlight some notable parks, and answer common questions about visiting these magnificent sites.

Complete List of National Parks

Here’s a complete list of national parks in the United States, organized by state:

Alaska

1. Denali National Park and Preserve
2. Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve
3. Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve
4. Katmai National Park and Preserve
5. Kenai Fjords National Park
6. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve

American Samoa

7. National Park of American Samoa

Arizona

8. Grand Canyon National Park
9. Saguaro National Park

Arkansas

10. Hot Springs National Park

California

11. Channel Islands National Park
12. Death Valley National Park
13. Joshua Tree National Park
14. Kings Canyon National Park
15. Sequoia National Park
16. Yosemite National Park

Colorado

17. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
18. Rocky Mountain National Park
19. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

Florida

20. Everglades National Park
21. Biscayne National Park

Hawaii

22. Haleakalā National Park
23. Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

Idaho

24. Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve

Indiana

25. Indiana Dunes National Park

Iowa

26. Effigy Mounds National Monument

Kentucky

27. Mammoth Cave National Park

Maine

28. Acadia National Park

Michigan

29. Isle Royale National Park

Minnesota

30. Voyageurs National Park

Missouri

31. Gateway Arch National Park

Montana

32. Glacier National Park

Nevada

33. Great Basin National Park

New Hampshire

34. White Mountain National Forest

New Mexico

35. Carlsbad Caverns National Park
36. Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument

North Carolina

37. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

North Dakota

38. Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Ohio

39. Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Oregon

40. Crater Lake National Park

Pennsylvania

41. Gettysburg National Military Park

South Carolina

42. Congaree National Park

South Dakota

43. Badlands National Park
44. Wind Cave National Park

Tennessee

45. Great Smoky Mountains National Park (shared with North Carolina)

Texas

46. Big Bend National Park
47. Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Utah

48. Arches National Park
49. Bryce Canyon National Park
50. Canyonlands National Park
51. Capitol Reef National Park
52. Zion National Park

Vermont

53. Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park

Virginia

54. Shenandoah National Park

Washington

55. Mount Rainier National Park
56. Olympic National Park
57. North Cascades National Park

West Virginia

58. New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

Wisconsin

59. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

Wyoming

60. Yellowstone National Park
61. Grand Teton National Park

Additional Areas

62. Lassen Volcanic National Park (California)
63. Chickasaw National Recreation Area (Oklahoma)

Notable National Parks

While all national parks are worth visiting, some are particularly renowned for their stunning natural features and recreational opportunities:

• Yosemite National Park: Famous for its granite cliffs, waterfalls, and giant sequoias, Yosemite offers breathtaking scenery and numerous hiking trails.
• Grand Canyon National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Grand Canyon is known for its immense size and intricate landscapes, attracting millions of visitors each year.
• Yellowstone National Park: The first national park in the world, Yellowstone features geothermal wonders, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes.
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park: This park is celebrated for its biodiversity, lush forests, and beautiful mountain scenery, making it the most visited national park in the U.S.

FAQs

1. How many national parks are there in the United States?
There are 63 designated national parks across the country, each offering unique experiences.

2. How do I plan a visit to a national park?
Start by researching the parks you’re interested in, checking their websites for information on trails, amenities, and safety guidelines. Consider the best times to visit, park entrance fees, and lodging options.

3. Are national parks accessible year-round?
While many parks are open year-round, some may have seasonal closures or limited access during winter months due to weather conditions. Always check specific park details before your visit.

4. Do national parks have entrance fees?
Yes, most national parks charge an entrance fee, which can vary by park. Annual passes and discounts for seniors and military members are often available.

5. Can I camp in national parks?
Yes, most national parks offer camping facilities, but reservations may be required during peak seasons. Make sure to check individual park regulations regarding camping.

Conclusion

The national parks of the United States offer unparalleled opportunities for adventure, exploration, and connection with nature. From the rugged beauty of the Grand Canyon to the serene landscapes of Acadia, each park has its own story to tell. Whether you’re planning a short visit or a lengthy road trip, the list of national parks is an essential resource for discovering America’s natural treasures. So pack your bags, grab your map, and embark on an unforgettable journey through these breathtaking landscapes!