US National Parks

The United States National Park System includes 63 protected areas designated as national parks, often called "America's Best Idea." These parks preserve the nation's most spectacular natural wonders, diverse ecosystems, and significant historical sites for future generations.

From the towering peaks of Denali to the deep canyons of the Grand Canyon, from the vast wilderness of Yellowstone to the underwater wonders of Biscayne, these parks represent the incredible diversity of American landscapes. They serve as sanctuaries for wildlife, repositories of natural history, and destinations for millions of visitors each year.

The National Park Service, established in 1916, manages these parks along with hundreds of other protected sites. The first national park was Yellowstone, established in 1872, while the newest is New River Gorge, designated in 2020.

National Parks Map

U.S. National Parks aren’t evenly spread. The West is packed. California and Utah cluster many icons (Yosemite, Zion, Bryce), while Alaska holds vast, remote parks like Denali and Wrangell–St. Elias.

Rockies & Southwest concentrate variety. From red-rock arches and slot canyons to high alpine peaks and the towering dunes of Great Sand Dunes. The Midwest and Great Plains have fewer parks. But standouts such as Badlands and Gateway Arch protect unique prairie and cultural landscapes.

The East features forested mountains: Great Smoky Mountains, Shenandoah, and Acadia—plus Florida’s water-world of Everglades, Biscayne, and Dry Tortugas. Beyond the mainland expands the story with Hawai‘i Volcanoes, Haleakalā, American Samoa’s rainforests, and the Virgin Islands’ coral reefs.

Quick Facts About US National Parks

Highest Point

Denali
20,310 feet

Lowest Point

Death Valley
-282 feet

States Without Parks

15 states
have no National Parks

US National Parks

National Parks Map

National Parks Directory

Quick Facts About US National Parks

Oldest Park

Newest Park

Largest Park

Smallest Park

Most Visited

Least Visited

Deepest Lake

Highest Point

Lowest Point

States Without Parks