Introduction
National parks offer some of the most awe-inspiring and breathtaking scenery in the world, and the United States has some of the most spectacular national parks on the planet. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, wildlife enthusiast or just someone who appreciates the natural world, the national parks in the United States are a must-see. In this guide, we will provide you with an overview of the 63 national parks in the United States.
Why Visit National Parks?
National parks offer numerous benefits to those who visit them. From the stunning landscapes to the cultural and historical significance, there’s something for everyone. National parks provide an opportunity to connect with the natural world and appreciate its beauty. It is also a great way to learn about the history and culture of the area.
National parks also promote physical and mental health. It has been proven that spending time in nature can reduce stress, lower blood pressure and improve mood. Hiking, backpacking and camping are great ways to get exercise and enjoy the great outdoors. National parks also contribute to conservation efforts and the preservation of natural habitats.
Overview of the National Parks System
The national parks system was established in 1872 with the creation of Yellowstone National Park. Today, there are 63 national parks in the United States. The national parks system was created to preserve and protect America’s natural and cultural heritage. Some interesting facts about the national parks system include:
- The most visited national park is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with over 11 million visitors each year.
- The first national park to be established was Yellowstone National Park in 1872.
- The newest national park is New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, which was established in December 2020.
- There are also national monuments, national wildlife refuges, national forests, and national scenic trails that are managed by the National Park Service.
A Comprehensive List of National Parks
Here is a comprehensive list of all 63 national parks in the United States. The list is in alphabetical order and includes the location of each national park, year established, and the main features and attractions:
- Acadia National Park, Maine (1916) – stunning coastlines, mountains, and wildlife viewing
- American Samoa National Park, American Samoa (1988) – coral reefs, rainforests, and Polynesian culture
- Arches National Park, Utah (1971) – iconic red rock formations, arches, and canyons
- Badlands National Park, South Dakota (1978) – multi-colored rock formations, fossils, and prairie landscapes
- Big Bend National Park, Texas (1944) – mountains, desert, and the Rio Grande river
- Biscayne National Park, Florida (1980) – coral reefs, islands, and marine life
- Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado (1999) – dramatic cliffs, canyons, and the Gunnison River
- Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah (1928) – colorful hoodoos, canyons, and natural amphitheaters
- Canyonlands National Park, Utah (1964) – canyons, mesas, and rock spires
- Capitol Reef National Park, Utah (1971) – domes, cliffs, and canyons
- Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico (1930) – massive underground limestone caves and formations
- Channel Islands National Park, California (1980) – sea caves, beaches, and wildlife
- Congaree National Park, South Carolina (2003) – hardwood forest, boardwalks, and kayaking
- Crater Lake National Park, Oregon (1902) – deep blue lake, mountains, and forests
- Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio (2000) – waterfalls, forests, and historic sites
- Death Valley National Park, California and Nevada (1994) – desert, mountains, and the lowest point in North America
- Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska (1917) – tundra, glaciers, and Denali (formerly Mount McKinley)
- Everglades National Park, Florida (1934) – mangrove forests, wetlands, and wildlife
- Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve, Alaska (1980) – wilderness, mountains, and the Arctic Circle
- Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, Alaska (1980) – glaciers, fjords, and marine life
- Glacier National Park, Montana (1910) – mountains, glaciers, and historic lodges
- Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona (1919) – iconic canyon, hiking, and river trips
- Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming (1929) – mountains, wildlife, and scenic drives
- Great Basin National Park, Nevada (1986) – mountains, caves, and stargazing
- Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Colorado (2004) – sand dunes, mountains, and starry skies
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee (1934) – mountains, forests, and historic buildings
- Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas (1966) – mountains, hiking, and camping
- Haleakalā National Park, Hawaii (1916) – volcanic landscapes, hiking, and cultural sites
- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii (1916) – active volcanoes, lava fields, and cultural sites
- Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas (1921) – hot springs, hiking, and historic bathhouses
- Isle Royale National Park, Michigan (1940) – islands, wildlife, and hiking
- Joshua Tree National Park, California (1994) – iconic trees, rock formations, and stargazing
- Katmai National Park and Preserve, Alaska (1980) – bears, volcanoes, and fisheries
- Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska (1980) – glaciers, wildlife, and ocean
- Kings Canyon National Park, California (1940) – canyons, mountains, and giant sequoia trees
- Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska (1980) – sand dunes, caribou, and wilderness
- Lake Clark National Park and Preserve, Alaska (1980) – volcanoes, salmon, and coastal mountains
- Lassen Volcanic National Park, California (1916) – volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and hiking
- Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky (1941) – massive underground limestone caves and formations
- Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado (1906) – ancient cliff dwellings, culture, and history
- Mount Rainier National Park, Washington (1899) – glacier-topped mountain, hiking, and wildlife
- North Cascades National Park, Washington (1968) – mountains, glaciers, and wilderness
- Olympic National Park, Washington (1938) – mountains, rainforests, and beaches
- Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona (1962) – petrified wood, badlands, and hiking
- Pinnacles National Park, California (2013) – rock formations, hiking, and wildlife viewing
- Redwood National and State Parks, California (1968) – giant redwoods, coastlines, and wildlife
- Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado (1915) – mountains, wildlife, and hiking
- Saguaro National Park, Arizona (1994) – cactus forests, wildlife, and hiking
- Sequoia National Park, California (1890) – giant sequoia trees, mountains, and hiking
- Shenandoah National Park, Virginia (1935) – mountains, waterfalls, and scenic drives
- Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota (1978) – badlands, wildlife, and history
- Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota (1971) – lakes, islands, and boating
- White Sands National Park, New Mexico (2019) – white sand dunes, hikes, and stargazing
- Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota (1903) – massive underground limestone caves and formations
- Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, Alaska (1980) – mountains, glaciers, and wilderness
- Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming (1872) – geysers, hot springs, and wildlife
- Yosemite National Park, California (1890) – waterfalls, granite cliffs, and hiking
- Zion National Park, Utah (1919) – red rock canyons, hiking, and wildlife
Planning Your National Parks Trip
Here are some tips on how to plan a trip to national parks:
- Choose the best time of the year – Check the weather and crowds to decide the best season to visit. Some parks may be closed during certain times of the year.
- Select the right activities – Each park offers different activities, so choose what interests you the most. Some popular activities include hiking, camping, wildlife watching, and scenic drives.
- Book accommodations and transportation – Make reservations for camping, lodging, and transportation as early as possible, especially during peak seasons.
- Bring the right gear – Make sure to pack for the activities you have planned. For example, hiking boots, camping gear, and binoculars may be necessary.
Protecting and Supporting National Parks
National parks face several challenges, such as underfunding, overcrowding, and climate change. There are many ways individuals can help protect and support national parks, including:
- Volunteering – There are many opportunities to volunteer at national parks, such as trail maintenance, visitor services, and resource management.
- Donating – Many national parks accept donations to help fund crucial conservation projects.
- Advocating for policies – Contact elected officials to support legislation that protects national parks and wilderness areas.
- Practicing responsible tourism – Follow the Leave No Trace principles, respect wildlife, and avoid damaging natural resources.
Conclusion
The national parks system offers some of the most breathtaking scenery and natural wonders in the world. With 63 national parks to choose from, there’s something for everyone. We hope this guide has inspired you to explore the beauty and diversity of America’s natural wonders, and we encourage you to support and protect these precious resources for generations to come.