Use This Complete List of All the U.S. National Parks to Plan Your Next Trip

Explore the great outdoors with ease! This complete list of U.S. National Parks is your ultimate resource for planning unforgettable trips. Discover stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and exciting activities. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, find the perfect park and start crafting your dream vacation today using this travel guide.

Why Explore the U.S. National Parks?

The National Parks offer an unparalleled glimpse into the natural and cultural heritage of the United States. From the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the serene beauty of Acadia's coastline, these protected areas showcase the diverse landscapes and rich history that make America unique. Beyond the stunning scenery, visiting a National Park provides opportunities for a wide range of activities, including hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, and learning about the environment. Whether you're a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a casual traveler, there's a park waiting to ignite your sense of adventure.

Choosing your next National Park destination can be overwhelming, given the sheer number of options. That’s why we've created this resource to help you narrow down your choices and discover the perfect park for your interests and abilities. Consider factors like the time of year, your desired activity level, and the types of landscapes that appeal to you most. Planning ahead is crucial for a successful and enjoyable National Park experience.

Your Complete List of U.S. National Parks

Below is a comprehensive table detailing all 63 officially designated National Parks in the United States. We’ve included essential information to help you begin planning, including the state(s) where the park is located, a brief description of the park's main attractions, and some keywords that are relevant to it.

Park Name	State(s)	Description	Keywords
Acadia National Park	Maine	Rugged coastline, granite peaks, historical carriage roads, and diverse habitats.	Coastal Hiking, Rock Climbing, Lighthouses, Ocean Views, Wildlife Watching
Arches National Park	Utah	Home to over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, in addition to a variety of unique geological resources and formations.	Hiking, Rock Formations, Desert Landscapes, Photography, Stargazing
Badlands National Park	South Dakota	Dramatic landscapes of eroded buttes, pinnacles, and spires, mixed grass prairie, and abundant wildlife.	Fossil Hunting, Wildlife Viewing, Hiking, Scenic Drives, Badlands Geology
Big Bend National Park	Texas	Vast and remote park with dramatic desert landscapes, the Chisos Mountains, and the Rio Grande River.	Hiking, River Rafting, Birdwatching, Desert Ecosystems, Dark Skies
Biscayne National Park	Florida	Preserves Biscayne Bay and its offshore barrier reefs, offering opportunities for boating, snorkeling, and diving.	Snorkeling, Diving, Boating, Coral Reefs, Marine Wildlife
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park	Colorado	Features steep cliffs, dramatic views, and challenging rock climbing opportunities.	Rock Climbing, Canyon Views, Hiking, Dark Skies, Fishing
Bryce Canyon National Park	Utah	Known for its unique geology, consisting of a series of giant natural amphitheaters filled with thousands of distinctive geological formations called hoodoos.	Hiking, Hoodoos, Scenic Overlooks, Stargazing, Photography
Canyonlands National Park	Utah	A wilderness of countless canyons and fantastically carved buttes carved by the Colorado and Green rivers.	Hiking, Canyoneering, Rafting, Four-Wheeling, Desert Landscapes
Capitol Reef National Park	Utah	Features the Waterpocket Fold, a nearly 100-mile long warp in the earth's crust.	Hiking, Scenic Drives, Orchards, Rock Art, Geology
Carlsbad Caverns National Park	New Mexico	Features over 100 caves formed from dissolved limestone.	Cave Tours, Hiking, Bat Watching, Underground Exploration, Geology
Channel Islands National Park	California	Five islands and their surrounding ocean environment, possessing unique geological, ecological, and cultural resources.	Island Hopping, Kayaking, Wildlife Viewing, Hiking, Marine Conservation
Congaree National Park	South Carolina	Protects the largest intact expanse of old growth bottomland hardwood forest in the southeastern United States.	Hiking, Kayaking, Birdwatching, Old-Growth Forest, Swamp Ecosystem
Crater Lake National Park	Oregon	Famous for its deep blue water and the picturesque Wizard Island. Formed by a collapsed volcano.	Lake Views, Hiking, Boat Tours, Volcanic Landscapes, Scenic Drives
Cuyahoga Valley National Park	Ohio	Recaptures the rural landscape along the Cuyahoga River between Akron and Cleveland.	Hiking, Waterfalls, Scenic Railroad, Covered Bridges, Historical Sites
Death Valley National Park	California, Nevada	A below-sea-level basin with towering peaks and scorching temperatures.	Hiking, Stargazing, Desert Landscapes, Extreme Temperatures, Geology
Denali National Park and Preserve	Alaska	Home to Denali, North America's highest peak, as well as vast taiga forests and tundra.	Wildlife Viewing, Mountaineering, Hiking, Bus Tours, Glaciers
Dry Tortugas National Park	Florida	Composed of seven islands, it features Fort Jefferson, a massive unfinished coastal fortress.	Snorkeling, Diving, Birdwatching, Historical Fort, Island Exploration
Everglades National Park	Florida	A subtropical wilderness, providing habitat for numerous rare and endangered species like the manatee, American crocodile, and the elusive Florida panther.	Airboat Tours, Wildlife Viewing, Kayaking, Hiking, Mangrove Ecosystems
Gateway Arch National Park	Missouri	Commemorates the Louisiana Purchase and westward expansion of the United States.	Historical Monument, Museum, Riverfront Views, City Views, Architectural Landmark
Glacier National Park	Montana	Features over 700 miles of trails, pristine forests, alpine meadows, rugged mountains, and spectacular lakes.	Hiking, Scenic Drives, Glacier Views, Wildlife Viewing, Lake Activities
Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve	Alaska	An icy wilderness of glaciers, mountains, and fjords.	Glacier Viewing, Whale Watching, Kayaking, Cruise Tours, Wildlife Viewing
Grand Canyon National Park	Arizona	A natural wonder, carved by the Colorado River.	Hiking, Scenic Views, Rafting, Mule Rides, Photography
Grand Teton National Park	Wyoming	Dominated by the Teton Range, with stunning alpine scenery and abundant wildlife.	Hiking, Climbing, Wildlife Viewing, Lake Activities, Scenic Drives
Great Basin National Park	Nevada	Features ancient bristlecone pines, a variety of wildlife, and the Lehman Caves.	Cave Tours, Hiking, Stargazing, Ancient Trees, Mountain Scenery
Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve	Colorado	Home to the tallest sand dunes in North America.	Sandboarding, Hiking, Stargazing, Dune Exploration, Medano Creek
Great Smoky Mountains National Park	North Carolina, Tennessee	Characterized by lush forests, abundant wildflowers, and stunning mountain views.	Hiking, Waterfalls, Wildlife Viewing, Historical Structures, Fall Colors
Guadalupe Mountains National Park	Texas	Features the highest point in Texas, diverse desert flora and fauna, and McKittrick Canyon.	Hiking, Canyon Exploration, Desert Landscapes, Stargazing, Birdwatching
Haleakalā National Park	Hawaii	Protects the dormant Haleakalā volcano and its unique volcanic landscapes.	Sunrise Viewing, Hiking, Stargazing, Volcanic Landscapes, Hawaiian Culture
Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park	Hawaii	Home to two active volcanoes, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, and diverse volcanic landscapes.	Volcano Viewing, Lava Flows, Hiking, Geothermal Features, Hawaiian Culture
Hot Springs National Park	Arkansas	Known for its thermal springs and historic bathhouses.	Hot Springs, Bathhouses, Hiking, Historical Sites, Relaxation
Indiana Dunes National Park	Indiana	Featuring 15 miles of the southern shore of Lake Michigan, Indiana Dunes boasts everything from beaches, to sand dunes, to forests.	Beaches, Sand Dunes, Hiking, Birdwatching, Lake Activities
Isle Royale National Park	Michigan	A rugged, isolated island offering unparalleled solitude and opportunities for wilderness exploration.	Backpacking, Kayaking, Wildlife Viewing, Hiking, Solitude
Joshua Tree National Park	California	Characterized by its iconic Joshua trees and stunning desert landscapes.	Rock Climbing, Hiking, Stargazing, Desert Landscapes, Joshua Trees
Katmai National Park and Preserve	Alaska	Known for its brown bears and the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes.	Bear Viewing, Fishing, Volcanic Landscapes, Hiking, Backcountry Camping
Kenai Fjords National Park	Alaska	A land of glaciers, fjords, and marine wildlife.	Glacier Viewing, Wildlife Cruises, Kayaking, Hiking, Coastal Scenery
Kings Canyon National Park	California	Home to giant sequoia trees and the deep Kings Canyon.	Sequoia Trees, Hiking, Canyon Views, Backcountry Camping, Wildlife Viewing
Kobuk Valley National Park	Alaska	Features the Great Kobuk Sand Dunes, caribou migrations, and rich cultural history.	Sand Dunes, Wildlife Viewing, Hiking, Cultural Exploration, Remote Wilderness
Lake Clark National Park and Preserve	Alaska	A pristine wilderness with glaciers, volcanoes, and abundant wildlife.	Bear Viewing, Fishing, Hiking, Kayaking, Remote Wilderness
Lassen Volcanic National Park	California	Features hydrothermal areas, volcanoes, and stunning mountain scenery.	Hiking, Volcanic Features, Hot Springs, Lake Activities, Stargazing
Mammoth Cave National Park	Kentucky	Home to the world's longest known cave system.	Cave Tours, Hiking, River Activities, Wildlife Viewing, Geology
Mesa Verde National Park	Colorado	Preserves the cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Puebloans.	Cliff Dwellings, Archaeology, Hiking, Cultural History, Guided Tours
Mount Rainier National Park	Washington	Dominated by the towering Mount Rainier volcano, with glaciers, meadows, and forests.	Hiking, Mountain Views, Wildflowers, Glacier Views, Wildlife Viewing
National Park of American Samoa	American Samoa	Protects rainforests, beaches, and coral reefs in the South Pacific.	Snorkeling, Hiking, Rainforest Exploration, Samoan Culture, Beach Activities
New River Gorge National Park and Preserve	West Virginia	Features a deep canyon carved by the New River, offering opportunities for outdoor recreation.	Hiking, Whitewater Rafting, Rock Climbing, Bridge Views, History
North Cascades National Park	Washington	A rugged wilderness of glaciers, mountains, and forests.	Hiking, Backpacking, Mountain Views, Glacier Views, Wilderness Exploration
Olympic National Park	Washington	Protects a diverse range of ecosystems, including rainforests, mountains, and coastline.	Hiking, Rainforest Exploration, Coastal Exploration, Mountain Views, Wildlife Viewing
Petrified Forest National Park	Arizona	Known for its petrified wood and colorful badlands.	Petrified Wood, Hiking, Scenic Drives, Geology, Badlands
Pinnacles National Park	California	Features towering rock formations, talus caves, and diverse wildlife.	Hiking, Rock Climbing, Cave Exploration, Condor Viewing, Wildlife Viewing
Redwood National and State Parks	California	Home to the tallest trees on Earth.	Redwood Trees, Hiking, Coastal Exploration, Scenic Drives, Wildlife Viewing
Rocky Mountain National Park	Colorado	Features towering peaks, alpine meadows, and abundant wildlife.	Hiking, Mountain Views, Wildlife Viewing, Scenic Drives, Lake Activities
Saguaro National Park	Arizona	Protects the iconic saguaro cactus and the Sonoran Desert ecosystem.	Hiking, Desert Landscapes, Cactus Viewing, Wildlife Viewing, Scenic Drives
Sequoia National Park	California	Home to giant sequoia trees, including the General Sherman Tree.	Sequoia Trees, Hiking, Giant Trees, Wildlife Viewing, Mountain Scenery
Shenandoah National Park	Virginia	Features scenic drives, hiking trails, and stunning views of the Shenandoah Valley.	Hiking, Scenic Drives, Waterfalls, Wildlife Viewing, Fall Colors
Theodore Roosevelt National Park	North Dakota	Protects the rugged badlands landscape where Theodore Roosevelt ranched in the late 1800s.	Hiking, Wildlife Viewing, Scenic Drives, Badlands Landscapes, Historical Sites
Virgin Islands National Park	U.S. Virgin Islands	Features pristine beaches, clear waters, and lush tropical forests.	Snorkeling, Swimming, Hiking, Beach Relaxation, Historical Ruins
Voyageurs National Park	Minnesota	A water-based park with interconnected waterways, forests, and islands.	Boating, Canoeing, Kayaking, Fishing, Wildlife Viewing
White Sands National Park	New Mexico	Features glistening white sand dunes made of gypsum.	Hiking, Sledding, Photography, Desert Landscapes, Dune Exploration
Wind Cave National Park	South Dakota	Known for its unique boxwork cave formations.	Cave Tours, Hiking, Wildlife Viewing, Underground Exploration, Prairie Ecosystem
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve	Alaska	The largest national park in the United States, featuring towering mountains, glaciers, and vast wilderness.	Mountaineering, Glacier Viewing, Hiking, Remote Wilderness, Wildlife Viewing
Yellowstone National Park	Wyoming, Montana, Idaho	The world's first national park, known for its geysers, hot springs, and abundant wildlife.	Geysers, Hot Springs, Wildlife Viewing, Hiking, Scenic Drives
Yosemite National Park	California	Famous for its towering granite cliffs, waterfalls, and giant sequoia trees.	Hiking, Rock Climbing, Waterfalls, Sequoia Trees, Scenic Views
Zion National Park	Utah	Features dramatic canyons carved by the Virgin River.	Hiking, Canyoneering, Scenic Drives, River Hikes, Photography

Tips for Planning Your National Park Trip

Once you've chosen your National Park, consider these tips for a smooth and memorable trip:

Book Accommodations and Tours in Advance: Popular parks and activities fill up quickly, especially during peak season.

Check the Weather Forecast: Conditions can change rapidly, especially in mountainous areas.

Pack Appropriately: Bring layers of clothing, comfortable hiking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of water.

Leave No Trace: Pack out everything you pack in, stay on marked trails, and respect wildlife.

Be Aware of Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from animals and never feed them. Store food properly to avoid attracting them to your campsite.

Purchase a National Park Pass: The "America the Beautiful Pass" provides access to all National Parks and many other federal recreation areas for a single annual fee.

Start Your Adventure Today!

With this comprehensive list and helpful planning tips, you're well on your way to experiencing the beauty and wonder of the U.S. National Parks. So, grab your hiking boots, pack your bags, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure! Explore the natural wonders of the United States and create lasting memories in these iconic landscapes. Happy travels!