This list includes each states top national park. All Travel Beasts has put together this simple list of top National Parks in the U.S. by each state for you to visit. National parks are known for their unique geological features, natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and diverse ecosystems. There are only 63 National Parks in the U.S. and only some states have them.
There are 20 states without national parks, that include: Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, & Wisconsin. For the states that do not have a National Park we included their top National Monument, Historical Site, or Trail that can be visited.
Each park is known for many different things, but you will always have an exceptional experience at each one. Yellowstone National Park is considered to be the first National Park in the world. California has 9 national parks which is the most in the U.S.. Alaska has the largest and smallest National Park. Wrangell St. Elias National Park with 13.2 million acres and Gateway Arch National Park with 91 acres. The most visited national park in the World is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee. Grab your backpack and head to these National Parks around the U.S..
1. Alabama
Little River Canyon National Preserve
Located on top of Lookout Mountain. There is a $3 fee per vehicle and no fee to tour the Scenic Drive. There are a variety of recreational activities such as, Bird Watching, Bicycling, Fishing, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Hunting, Kayaking, Rock Climbing, sightseeing. Black bears are also in this area. Camping is NOT allowed in the Preserve.
2. Alaska
Denali National Park & Preserve
Known to be the tallest mountain in North America with wonderful/ amazing views of landscapes and wildlife. Discover trails in Denali, or learn about hiking off-trail in the wilderness. You can also hike with a ranger. With six campgrounds, great biking, and even sled dogs that you can stop by and meet. This park has over 160 bird species. Wonderful for planning a backpacking adventure. (best time to travel) (fee)
3. Arizona
Grand Canyon National Park
One of the oldest national parks in the United States. The entrance fee is $30 per vehicle. There are 5 parts of the grand canyon, the South Rim, North Rim, East Canyon, West Canyon, and Antelope Canyon. Each part offers different adventures, there really is something for everyone. The weather at the Grand Canyon is at its best between April and June. The South Rim offer the broadest range of experiences from Rafting, Helicopter, Airplane, Motorcoach, Jeeping, Biking, boat tours, Mule Rides and more.
4. Arkansas
Hot Springs National Park
Hot springs is the second smallest national park. It is a representation for healing and is a tribute to the “American Spa” of the 20th century. There is no entrance fee nor are there any additional charges for the park’s brochure, junior ranger program, or ranger-led tours. Hiking, Bathhouse Row, Birding, biking, and photography. 26 miles of hiking trails. (best time to go)
5. California
Yosemite
Yosemite National Park is best known for its waterfalls and has some of the best views. There is a $35 per vehicle entrance fee upon arrival (credit card only) unless you have an annual or lifetime pass. The best time to visit is between June and September, when everything is typically open and accessible. The park has deep valleys, grand meadows, ancient giant sequoias, a vast wilderness area, and much more. This National park provides essential habitat for over 165 species of birds. Wilderness permits are required for all overnight hikes. Some things to do at this park would be, hiking, wilderness, guided tours, fishing, birdwatching, biking, photography, horseback riding, rock climbing, stargazing. This park has summer and winter sports. summer activities include: rafting, fishing, swimming, and boating. Winter activities include: Skiing and Snowshoeing, Snowboarding, Snow Tubing, and Sledding.
6. Colorado
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the country. Annual Pass – $70.00. In the summer months you can drive through the National Park, but not in the winter. November through April is the best time to avoid crowds in Rocky Mountain National Park. Summer and Fall weekends are the busiest in the park. quiet walks, exhilarating hikes, gorgeous sunrises and sunsets, wildlife watching, scenic drives, horseback rides, rock climbing, photography, backpacking, and much more. There are many wild animals that call this park home.
7. Connecticut
Weir Farm National Historical Park
The only National Park Service site dedicated to American painting and was home to three generations of American artists. There are no fees to visit Weir Farm NHP. Parking, special programs, tours, and access to the grounds are free of charge. Weir Farm National Historical Park is unique because Weir Farm was the home, workplace, and rural retreat of Julian Alden Weir. A leading figure in American art and the development of American Impressionism. Some things to do include art in the park, guided tours, museum exhibits, and numerous hiking trails.
8. Delaware
First State National Historical Park
Tghe Brandywine Valley is open sunrise to sunset and is free to access. Consists of six sites spread throughout the state of Delaware. Brandywine Valley great for hiking. These sites consist of more than 23-miles of recreational trails. Fort Christina is only open Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day. Old Swedes Historic Site, do charge a small fee. Old Swedes Historic Site serves as a reminder of the early Swedish settlement. The New Castle Court House served as Delaware’s first court house and eventually state capitol. The Dover Green serve as a gathering area for the growing town. John Dickinson Plantation. This site is the early childhood home of John Dickinson who is known as the Penman of the Revolution.
9. Florida
Everglades National Park
One of the largest wetlands in the world and the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States. All park visitors are required to pay an entrance fee. Everglades National Park provides important habitat for numerous rare and endangered species. This park inlcudes: bicycling, birdwatching, boating, camping, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, geocaching, hiking, ranger-led programs, wildlife viewing.
10. Georgia
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area
The entrance fee of $5. The 48 miles of river and 15 land units that make up the park can keep you busy for a whole day. Year-round fishing is available with a Georgia fishing license and a trout stamp. Here you can enjoy bicycling, fishing, and water activities on the Chattahoochee River.
11. Hawaii
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park
Two of the world’s most active volcanoes are located here. Entrance fee for a vehicle is $30, valid for seven days. Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is also one of the most fascinating biological landscapes in the world. Activities that you can do here are hiking, backcountry hiking, camping, tours, biking, educational programs, and a museum . This sacred landscape is filled with important and historic cultural sites.
12. Idaho
Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve
This National Monument and Preserve has a long history of volcanic activity. The 7 day pass entrance fee for a vehicle is $20. Late summer and early autumn is the best time to visit. The Craters of the Moon volcanic field will erupt again. There is a 42 site campground among the lava formations beyond the visitor center. Backcountry Camping, Hiking, Caving, Skiing, Scenic drive, Picnicing, and photography are some things you can do.
13. Illinois
Starved Rock State Park
This is a top visited State Park in Illinois. The best time to visit is between April and September. However, it is a year-round destination for hiking and sightseeing. Starved Rock State Park is a wilderness area on the Illinois River. Characterized by the 18 canyons within its 2,630 acres. There is no entrance fee to enter the park or for parking. Parking is on a first-come, first-serve basis. Some things to do would be Boating, Camping, Fishing, Hiking Trails, Hunting, Kayaking, wildlife photography. Park wildlife includes white-tailed deer, bald eagles, migratory birds and more.
14. Indiana
Indiana Dunes National Park
This park is very nice for a beach day. The entrance fee is $25 for a non-commercial family-sized passenger vehicle or $15 per-person for walk-in and is valid for 7-days from the date of purchase. With 15 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline and a diverse ecosystem. The best time to travel here would be during spring and fall, if you would like to avoid the summer crowds. Over 50 miles of trails. Beach-going, Swimming, Biking, Bird Watching, Camping, Fishing & Boating, Hiking, Geocaching, Historical Sites, Horseback Riding, Picnic, Winter Activities, Guided Tours.
15. Iowa
Effigy Mounds National Monument
Effigy is the top National monument in Iowa. There is not a fee to enter ad you have access to the, museum, interpretive film, trails, and ranger guided programs are all free. There is no better time to vistit than in Winter. Numerous effigy mounds are shaped like animals. Some archeologists believe they were built to mark celestial events or seasonal observances. Others speculate they were constructed as territorial markers or as boundaries between groups. Some things to do here is the Visitor center, interpretive film, trails, ranger guided programs, and a formal museum exhibit to learn the cultural history. (best time to go)
Kansas
Tallgrass Prairie Preserve
Tallgrass Prairie Preserve has many programs and activities. There is no fee for visitors. With over 150 species of birds and just over 35 species of mammals makes this preserve best for wildlife watching. The many things to do here are fishing, guided tours, backcountry hiking, trails, visitor center, and wildlife watching. 8 hiking trails a nearby camp site. (best time to visit)(back story)
Kentucky
Mammoth Cave National Park
The world’s longest known cave system. This park is free to enter. There is, however, a charge to tour the cave, stay in campgrounds, or reserve picnic shelters. Mammoth Cave National Park has many different plant and animal life. Things to do here are Cave tours, ranger led programs, camping with over 13 backcountry sites, lodging, hiking, Kayaking, Canoeing, boating, bicycling, fishing, stargazing, horseback riding, and even an audio tour of the Mammoth Cave.
Louisiana
Cane River Creole National Historical Park
The park does not charge admission fees. Cane River Creole National Historical Park has two parks, the Oakland Plantation and Magnolia Plantation The best time to visit is between mid-February to early May and from October to December. The two park sites have a total of 67 historic structures from 200 years of plantation life. Many family- friendly activities like, Audio and self guided tours, stargazing, discover new music, creating Creole food, and you can learn how to fish.
Maine
Acadia National Park
A Fee to enter in a vehicle is $30 and if the vehicle pass is purchased, no other pass is necessary. Known for its amazing scenery. The best time to visit Acadia National Park is between May and October. There is no winter camping or overnight parking allowed in Acadia. Some things to do here Hiking, Biking, skiing and snowshoeing, Arts & Culture, camping, lodging, tours, shopping and more.
Maryland
Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
Known as “The Birthplace of the National Anthem,” transportation is the Water Taxi. It costs $15 to enter the historic area of Fort McHenry for children and adults aged 15 and older. Children under 15 can enter for free. This fee grants you 7-day. There are not many things to do here, but you can go walking, running, and biking.
Massachusetts
Boston National Historical Park
Showcase Boston’s role in the American Revolution and other parts of history. There are no entrance fee. Boston National Historical Park contains a number of well-known sites connected by Boston’s Freedom Trail. You will find amazing historic sites, incredible monuments, beautiful parks, legendary trails, museums, and much more.
Michigan
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
In Michigan, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is the top National Lakeshore. All visitors 16 years old and up are required to have a Park Entrance Pass. Entrance Fee by vehicle is $10.00. Pictured Rocks includes 100 miles of hiking trails ranging from short and easy to long and challenging. Sandstone cliffs, beaches, waterfalls, sand dunes, inland lakes, deep forest, and wild shoreline. Hiking, camping, sightseeing, and four-season outdoor opportunities.
Minnesota
Voyageurs National Park
There is no fee to enter Voyageurs National Park. You’ll need to bring your own boat or rent one to get around, and the park’s remote location is also a deterrent to some. The best time of year to visit is in September and October when the park displays it’s magnificent fall foliage. The busy fishing and tourist seasons are over and the park is serene and quiet, perfect for an unforgettable outdoor getaway. Skiing, snowshoeing, camping, hiking trails, guided boat tours.
Mississippi
Natchez National Historical Park
The history of Natchez National Historical Park, honors the important role Natchez played in the creation of the Cotton Kingdom and the Antebellum South. There is not an entrance fee. Spring is a great time to visit. There are few things to do here like, self and guided tours, museum, and picnicking.
Missouri
Gateway Arch National Park
This park reflects St. Louis’ role in the Westward Expansion of the United States during the nineteenth century. Admission to the museum, café, and gift store is free for all visitors. Tickets to ride to the top of the arch is $11-$19. Discover amazing views from the top – at 630 feet. Spring and summer are busy times. More things to do here includes, guided tours, museum exhibits, park film.
Montana
Glacier National Park
This park is carved by prehistoric ice rivers. Entrance fee by vehicle is $35.00. For most people, late June through mid-September is the best time to visit. May through September is the busiest part of the year, but still a good time to go. More than 700 miles of hiking trails, it has a route to photogenic Hidden Lake. Diverse wildlife, meadows, deep forests, waterfalls. Things to do here include, backpacking, cycling, and camping.
Nebraska
Scotts Bluff National Monument
Towering 800 feet above the North Platte River. Learn the history of Scotts Bluff National Monument. There are no entrance fees. Things to do include, scenic driving, hiking with nearly 4 miles of hiking trails, guided tours, arts and culture, audio tour, biking, museum.
Nevada
Death Valley National Park
Hottest, Driest and Lowest National Park. This national park straddles the California–Nevada border, east of the Sierra Nevada. The best time to go is in late March to early April. The Entrance Fee per vehicle is $30.00. Something interesting about Death Valley National Park, is Star Wars was filmed in some parts of this park. Things to do include sightseeing, hiking, camping, backcountry driving, backpacking, road and mountain biking, stargazing, plus nearby attractions.
New Hampshire
Franconia Notch State Park
The entrance fee for Adults is $4.00; Youth ages 6-11 is $2.00. The best time to visit is in late spring through fall With many things to do such as, beaches, swimming, boating, camping, canoeing, kayaking, skiing, fishing, hiking, historical site, picnicking, scenic geology, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and trails.
New Jersey
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
There is no entrance fees. Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area has 70,000 acres of diverse landscape. Things to do here include, hiking, paddling, fishing, and hunting, bicycling, boating, kayaking, canoeing, picnicking, waterfalls. (back story)
New Mexico
White Sands National Park
The park is home to the globe’s largest collection of Ice-Age fossilized footprints. Park Entrance Vehicle $25.00. The best time to visit is late October and early November when the Cottonwoods are changing color. By mid November most of the Cottonwoods have changed color. Great wave-like dunes of gypsum sand have engulfed 275 square miles of desert, creating the world’s largest gypsum dunefield. However, once you have seen the white sand dunes, there is very little else to do or see. Some things to do are backcountry camping, bicycling, scenic drive, horseback riding, photography, picnicking, sledding.
New York
The Adirondack Park
One of the first Forever Wild Forest Preserves in the nation. There’s no fee to enter and the park doesn’t close at night. It is not a National or state Park. The best time to visit is from May to August, when the weather is warm and the top sites are open for longer hours. But the region can get crowded this time of year, so you should book your accommodations at least three months in advance. There are things to do here like, Hiking, camping, exhibits, rafting, kayaking and canoeing, rock climbing and ice climbing.
North Carolina
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
This is America’s most visited national park. The Park straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee. The entrance fee is $5. The best time to visit is during the months of June, July, and October. The months with the lowest visitation tend to be in the winter and spring. Cades Cove today is easily the most visited and photographed locations in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With plant and animal life, the beauty of its mountains, and the Southern Appalachian mountain culture, this makes it a top national park. With many things to do and see, such as, hiking, camping, biking, picnicking, watching wildlife, auto touring, fishing, photography, waterfall, and horseback riding. Also has, 10 frontcountry campgrounds or head into the backcountry.
North Dakota
Theodore Roosevelt National Park
It has one of the most scenic drives in the country. This national park honors the president Theodore Roosevelt. The entrance fee is $30.00 per vehicle that is valid for 7 days. Lots of wildlife viewing in the area. The best time to visit is from late May through June. With, sightseeing, camping, backcountry camping, hiking, kayaking, or canoeing, wildlife watching, horseback riding, skiing, snowshoeing, birdwatching and home to more than 180 species of birds.
Ohio
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
The park is a refuge for native plants and wildlife. Fall and spring is the best time to visit my park. Entrance to is free. Great views with deep forests, rolling hills, open farmlands, scenic drives, and 100 waterfalls. There are also, many things to do like the Train ride, hiking, biking, paddling on the Cuyahoga River, birdwatching, picnicking, fishing, stargazing, golfing, ice fishing, snowshoeing, snowshoeing, Sledding, Snow Tubing, and ice fishing.
Oklahoma
The Chickasaw National Recreation Area
There is no entry fee. As Oklahoma’s oldest national park area, Chickasaw National Recreation Area has been a destination for outdoor excursions for over a century. The best time to go is October. Camping, hiking, swimming, hunting, fishing, horseback riding, nature center, bicycling, boating. Six campgrounds with over 400 campsites.
Oregon
Crater Lake National Park
Known for the name Crater Lake, formed by the now-collapsed volcano, Mount Mazama. Offers a unique experience to see the deepest lake in the United States. Private Vehicles are $30 in the summer and $20 in the winter. The most popular months to visit Crater Lake are July, August, and September. That’s when the park’s roads, trails, and facilties are usually fully open. May and June are months of transition in the park, as winter slowly gives way to summer.Many things to do like photography, lodging, hiking, birdwatching, fishing, Winter Backcountry Camping, Cross-Country (Nordic) Skiing, Snowshoeing, Ranger-Guided Snowshoe Walks, Snowboarding, Sledding, and Snowmobiling.
Pennsylvania
Independence National Historical Park
Admission to most park sites is free. Pennsylvania preserves several sites associated with the American Revolution. Spring (March or April) or fall (September or October) are typically the best times to visit Independence Hall and Philadelphia as a whole. The weather is generally pleasant, and crowds are fewer. The National Hall is where the Second Continental Congress signed the Declaration of Independence here. Not many things to do, but learning the history of this park with the Museum Exhibits and Self-Guided Tours.
Rhode Island
Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park
This stretch of water housed several textile mills that powered the American Industrial Revolution. Paleo Indians arrived in the Blackstone Valley, the first humans to shape the landscape. Free parking is available onsite. 1000 acres of natural park, filled with trails and historical sites. hiking, biking, mountain biking, horseback riding, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, hunting, and skiing.
South Carolina
Congaree National Park
This national park is full of unique and fun opportunities. Free entrance. Spring – From March through May can be one of the best times to visit the park. It offers views that are both scenic and educational and learn about this little-known treasure on the banks of the Congaree River. The park preserves the largest tract of old growth bottomland hardwood forest left in the United States. The park provides a sanctuary for plants and animals, a research site for scientists, and a tranquil wilderness setting for walking and relaxing in. There are hiking trails, camping, backcountry camping, Wildlife, fishing, Paddle the 50-mile designated recreational paddle trail.
South Dakota
Mount Rushmore National Memorial
Mount Rushmore National Memorial is known for the granite face sculpture’s that depict U.S. presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln. . There is no entrance fee. However, fees are required to park at the memorial. The busiest months are June, July and August. May, September and October are less busy and popular months to visit as well. Mount Rushmore has a secret room that no one can enter. Located behind the face of Abraham Lincoln. Mount Rushmore is actually unfinished, in that each of the presidents was meant to also have a carved body. Somethings to do here include lodging, camping, Hiking museum with interactive exhibits. There are many more things to do near by.
Tennessee
Andrew Johnson National Historic Site
It was established to honor Andrew Johnson, the 17th president of the United States. Visit Andrew Johnson’s Early Home, There are no fees charged at the park .The most visited national park Great Smoky Mountains National Park is also in Tennesee and North Carolina with Streams, rivers and waterfalls. …………………………………………….
Texas
Big Bend National Park
Located in West Texas, bordering Mexico this national park is beautiful and definitely worth visiting. The entrance fee for a Vehicle is $30. Sunshine is abundant most of the year. Spring is typically warm and pleasant and is the parks busiest season. Try to avoid mid-March (Spring Break) unless you have reservations for accommodations. The best time to visit Big Bend National Park is October, November, March, or April. Some things to do here include, scenic driving, hiking, camping, backpacking, mountain biking, horseback riding, bird watching, wildlife watching, stargazing, rafting, canoeing, and kayaking.
Utah
Zion National Park
Utah’s First National Park. Free Zion Canyon Shuttle Service. The entrance fee is $35 for a vehicle that is valid for 7 days. The best months to visit this National Park is in March, April, October, and November. Zion National Park is a great place to enjoy sunny skies, fresh air, unique array of plants, and animals. Enjoy, camping, designated backpacking sites, bicycles, canyoneering, climbing, hiking, horseback riding, boating, stargazing, birdwatching with 291 species of birds. All overnight backpacking in the park requires a Wilderness Permit.
Vermont
Appalachian National Scenic Trail
Vermont’s first national park preserves and interprets the historic Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller property. National park is free of charge, but there are fees for guided tours of the Mansion. Late spring and early fall are the prime hiking time for much of the A.T., but the trail is open year round, and each season has something special to offer. There are some enjoyable activities to do like, hiking trails, lodging, and camping. These trails carry you through one of the oldest sustainable managed forests in America.
Virginia
Blue Ridge Parkway
Noted for its scenic beauty. Relax and enjoy the tradition of a lazy drive through the countryside. The best time to drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway is from mid-May to mid-September. Wonderful hiking and wildlife viewing. The parkway, which is America’s longest linear park, runs for 469 miles through 29 Virginia and North Carolina counties, linking Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. A few a things that are here is a campground, lodge, hiking, and restaurants.
Washington
Olympic National Park
Known for lowland forests, glaciated mountain ranges, pristine alpine lakes, sparkling rivers, temperate rain forests (the largest in North America). Vehicle entrance fee is $30.00. The best time to visit Olympic National Park is July through August. This national park has iconic wildlife, and over 50 miles of wilderness coastline. Several different ecosystems, from the dramatic peaks of the Olympic Mountains to old-growth forests. Popular for climbers, hiking, and backpacking trails.
West Virginia
Shenandoah National Park
Five hundred miles of trails, consisting of 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail. You are required to pay an entrance fee in order to access Shenandoah National Park. The best times to visit is September through November and March through May, when the park is at its prettiest. Fall welcomes warm shades throughout the park, putting an autumnal twist on Shenandoah’s panoramic views. Mostly forested, the park features wetlands, rocky peaks, waterfalls, panoramic views, protected wilderness, and preserved human history. The recreational opportunities are lodging, camping, backcountry camping, hiking, bird watching, dining, exhibits, wildlife, biking, fishing, and ranger programs.
Wisconsin
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
Made up of 21 islands, Apostle Islands form a large archipelago with gorgeous views, famous red sandstone sea caves. There is not an entrance fee, but does have expanded amenity fees. There are many things to do such as, hiking, hunting, paddle, sailing, fishing, kayaking, guided tours, scuba diving, lodging, camping, wildlife, and visit the ice caves. Also, birdwatching with more than 240 species of birds.
Wyoming
Yellowstone National Park
The first and largest national park in the U.S and remains one of the country’s most popular. The best months to visit Yellowstone are April, September, and October. It sits on top of a dormant volcano. Yellowstone features dramatic canyons, alpine rivers, lush forests, hot springs, gushing geysers, including its most famous, Old Faithful. It’s also home to hundreds of animal species. With a wilderness recreation area on top of a volcanic hot spot. Mostly in Wyoming, the park spreads into parts of Montana and Idaho. As I’m typing this post, I’m actually wearing a Yellowstone shirt.
conclusion
There are many different national parks, these are the top ones in the 50 different states in the U.S.. There are many educational opportunities at each park. In many of the parks that do not have fees, they accept donations. America The Beautiful Interagency Annual Pass – $80.00. Annual park pass valid at all U.S. National Park and federal lands. Passes cover entrance fees at National Park Service and US Fish and Wildlife sites, as well as Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, US Forest Service, and US Army Corps of Engineers sites. You can do many things at these parks like site seeing and relaxing. We made this list simple because traveling and exploring can be overwhelming as is. Explore more with All Travel Beasts and check out our other blogs.