List of National Parks in USA State Wise 2026
As of January 1, 2026, there are 63 National Parks in the USA, officially protected and managed by the National Park Service (NPS). These parks safeguard millions of acres of land and water, preserving critical ecosystems, rare plant species, and iconic wildlife such as bison, wolves, grizzly bears, alligators, and desert bighorn sheep. From the geysers of Yellowstone—the world’s first national park—to the glaciers of Alaska and the tropical waters of the Florida Keys, each park tells a unique story of nature’s power and resilience.
Beyond conservation, national parks play a vital role in outdoor recreation, education, and sustainable tourism. Millions of visitors explore these protected areas every year through hiking, camping, wildlife watching, photography, rafting, and scenic drives. Many US national parks are also recognised globally as UNESCO World Heritage Sites or Biosphere Reserves, highlighting their international ecological importance.
In this guide, you’ll find a state-wise list of national parks in USA (2026), along with key insights into their locations, history, and significance—making it a complete reference for travellers, students, and nature enthusiasts alike.
What is a National Park in the USA?
A National Park in the United States is a federally protected area designated to conserve natural landscapes, wildlife, ecosystems, and significant geological or historical features. These parks are managed by the National Park Service (NPS), an agency of the U.S. Department of the Interior, which was established in 1916 to preserve America’s natural heritage while allowing public enjoyment in a responsible manner.
Unlike other public lands, national parks receive the highest level of protection under U.S. law. Activities such as mining, logging, hunting, and private land development are strictly prohibited. The primary goal is conservation — ensuring that ecosystems remain intact and wildlife can thrive with minimal human interference. At the same time, regulated tourism is encouraged to promote environmental education and appreciation of nature.
National Parks are different from other protected areas in the USA:
- National Monuments are designated by presidential proclamation and often protect specific landmarks or cultural sites.
- National Forests allow controlled resource use such as logging, grazing, and recreation.
- State Parks are managed by individual states and vary in protection levels.
- National Parks, however, prioritise ecosystem preservation over commercial use.
Many U.S. national parks also hold deep cultural and Indigenous significance, protecting sacred landscapes, archaeological sites, and historic trails. Together, they represent America’s commitment to conservation, public access, and environmental stewardship—preserving wild spaces not just for today, but for generations to come.
Total National Parks in the USA 2026
As of 2026, the United States has 63 officially designated National Parks, making it one of the largest and most diverse national park systems in the world. These parks are spread across 30 states and two U.S. territories, collectively protecting millions of acres of land and water across North America and the Pacific.
The U.S. National Park system covers an extraordinary range of ecosystems. From the geothermal basins of Yellowstone and the granite cliffs of Yosemite, to the Arctic tundra of Alaska, the coral reefs of Florida, and the volcanic landscapes of Hawaii, each park preserves a distinct natural environment. Together, they safeguard some of the planet’s most iconic geological formations and wildlife habitats.
State-Wise List of National Parks in the USA
One of the most interesting aspects of the U.S. National Park system is how national parks are distributed across different states and regions, each protecting a distinct landscape and ecosystem. While some states have only one national park, others—especially those with vast wilderness areas—host multiple parks covering millions of acres.
Unlike many countries, national parks in the USA are not evenly spread. Large western states and Alaska dominate the list due to their expansive public lands, low population density, and diverse geography. Eastern states tend to have fewer national parks, but they often protect biologically rich forests, river valleys, and historic landscapes.
Below is the updated state-wise list of national parks in the USA (2026). Each section highlights the national parks located within a state, along with their defining natural features.
National Parks in Alaska
Alaska has the highest number of national parks in the United States, protecting some of the planet’s last truly untouched wilderness areas. These parks preserve massive glaciers, Arctic tundra, volcanic landscapes, fjords, and vast river systems. Wildlife here includes brown bears, grizzly bears, wolves, moose, caribou, and millions of migratory birds.
| National Park | Year Established | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Denali National Park & Preserve | 1917 | Home to Denali (Mount McKinley), North America’s highest peak; tundra ecosystem and large mammals |
| Wrangell–St. Elias National Park & Preserve | 1980 | Largest national park in the USA; glaciers, mountain ranges, and historic mining areas |
| Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve | 1980 | Tidewater glaciers, fjords, whales, and rich marine biodiversity |
| Katmai National Park & Preserve | 1980 | World-famous brown bears and salmon runs; Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes |
| Kenai Fjords National Park | 1980 | Coastal fjords, glaciers, seabird colonies, and marine mammals |
| Lake Clark National Park & Preserve | 1980 | Volcanic landscapes, pristine lakes, and brown bear habitat |
| Kobuk Valley National Park | 1980 | Great Kobuk Sand Dunes; remote Arctic wilderness |
| Gates of the Arctic National Park & Preserve | 1980 | Completely roadless park; Brooks Range mountains and Arctic rivers |
National Parks in American Samoa
American Samoa is home to one of the most unique national parks in the United States, known for its pristine tropical landscapes and deep cultural significance. Located in the South Pacific, this park protects lush rainforests, volcanic mountains, coral reefs, and traditional Samoan villages, offering a rare blend of natural beauty and living Polynesian culture.
| National Park | Year Established | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| National Park of American Samoa | 31 October 1988 | Tropical rainforests, coral reefs, volcanic peaks, and traditional Samoan culture |
National Parks in Arizona
Arizona’s national parks protect some of the most dramatic desert and canyon landscapes in the United States. Shaped by millions of years of geological activity and erosion, these parks showcase colourful rock formations, fossilised forests, deep river gorges, and rich desert biodiversity.
| National Park | Year Established | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Grand Canyon National Park | 1919 | One of the world’s largest and deepest canyons; carved by the Colorado River |
| Petrified Forest National Park | 1962 | Ancient fossilised trees, colourful badlands, and prehistoric petroglyphs |
| Saguaro National Park | 14 Oct 1994 | largest and most impressive cacti you’ll see anywhere on earth, beautiful desert landscapes |
National Parks in Arkansas
Arkansas may have only one national park, but it holds significant historical and geological importance. The park reflects the unique way natural resources and human history intersect in the United States.
| National Park | Year Established | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Hot Springs National Park | 1921 | Natural thermal springs; historic bathhouses and forested mountain setting |
National Parks in California
California has one of the highest numbers of national parks in the USA, reflecting its extraordinary geographic and ecological diversity. From towering granite cliffs and ancient giant sequoias to deserts, volcanoes, rugged coastlines, and offshore islands, California’s national parks protect some of the most iconic landscapes in North America.
| National Park | Year Established | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Yosemite National Park | 1890 | Granite cliffs, giant sequoias, waterfalls, and alpine meadows |
| Sequoia National Park | 1890 | Home to the world’s largest trees, including General Sherman |
| Kings Canyon National Park | 1940 | Deep glacial canyon and high Sierra wilderness |
| Death Valley National Park | 1994 | Hottest, driest, and lowest place in North America |
| Joshua Tree National Park | 1994 | Mojave–Colorado desert ecosystems and iconic Joshua trees |
| Channel Islands National Park | 1980 | Five remote islands with endemic species and marine ecosystems |
| Pinnacles National Park | 2013 | Volcanic rock formations and California condor habitat |
| Redwood National and State Parks | 1968 | Tallest trees on Earth and coastal redwood forests |
| Lassen Volcanic National Park | 1916 | Active geothermal features, volcanoes, and alpine lakes |
National Parks in Colorado
Colorado’s national parks showcase the dramatic beauty of the Rocky Mountains and the unique ecosystems shaped by wind, water, and elevation. From snow-capped peaks and alpine tundra to vast dune fields, these parks protect some of the most striking high-altitude landscapes in the United States.
| National Park | Year Established | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Rocky Mountain National Park | 1915 | Alpine tundra, snow-covered peaks, and the Continental Divide |
| Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve | 2004 | Tallest sand dunes in North America, backed by mountain ranges |
| Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park | 21 Oct 1999 | steepest cliffs, oldest rock, and craggiest spires in North America |
| Mesa Verde National Park | 29 Jun 1906 | It’s known for its well-preserved Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings |
National Parks in Florida
Florida’s national parks protect some of the most unique and fragile ecosystems in the United States. From vast subtropical wetlands to coral reefs and remote island forts, these parks are vital for preserving marine life, bird habitats, and coastal biodiversity.
| National Park | Year Established | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Everglades National Park | 1934 | Largest subtropical wilderness in the USA; wetlands, alligators, and wading birds |
| Biscayne National Park | 1980 | Coral reefs, mangrove forests, and clear coastal waters |
| Dry Tortugas National Park | 1992 | Historic Fort Jefferson and vibrant marine ecosystems |
National Parks in Hawaii
Hawaii’s national parks protect some of the most geologically active and culturally significant landscapes in the United States. Shaped by volcanic activity and surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, these parks preserve lava fields, craters, tropical forests, and ancient Hawaiian heritage.
| National Park | Year Established | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park | 1916 | Active volcanoes, lava tubes, and dramatic volcanic landscapes |
| Haleakalā National Park | 1961 | Massive volcanic crater, alpine ecosystems, and sunrise viewpoints |
National Parks in Indiana
Indiana is home to one nationally designated park that protects a remarkable stretch of Lake Michigan shoreline and one of the most biologically diverse areas in the Midwest. Originally preserved as a national lakeshore, this park highlights the successful transition of a recreational and conservation area into full national park status.
| National Park | Year Established | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Indiana Dunes National Park | 15 Feb 2019 | Lake Michigan shoreline, towering sand dunes, wetlands, forests, and high biodiversity |
National Parks in Kentucky
Kentucky’s national park is world-famous for its underground landscapes rather than towering mountains or vast forests. It protects one of the most extensive cave systems on the planet, offering a unique perspective on natural conservation.
| National Park | Year Established | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Mammoth Cave National Park | 1941 | World’s longest known cave system; karst landscapes and underground rivers |
National Parks in Maine
Maine is home to one of the most scenic coastal national parks in the United States. Its park protects rugged shorelines, granite peaks, dense forests, and rich marine ecosystems along the Atlantic coast.
| National Park | Year Established | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Acadia National Park | 1919 | Rocky Atlantic coastline, Cadillac Mountain, and coastal forests |
National Parks in Michigan
Michigan’s national park protects a remote island ecosystem in the heart of Lake Superior. Known for its isolation and pristine wilderness, this park is a haven for wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts seeking solitude.
| National Park | Year Established | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Isle Royale National Park | 1940 | Remote island wilderness; wolves, moose, and freshwater ecosystems |
National Parks in Minnesota
Minnesota’s national park preserves a unique combination of freshwater ecosystems, forests, and historic waterways. It provides opportunities to explore both natural and cultural history in the northern Midwest.
| National Park | Year Established | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Voyageurs National Park | 1975 | Water-based wilderness; interconnected lakes and historic fur-trade routes |
National Parks in Montana
Montana’s national parks protect some of the most iconic Rocky Mountain landscapes in the United States. Vast wilderness, glaciers, and diverse wildlife make these parks critical for both conservation and recreation.
| National Park | Year Established | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Glacier National Park | 1910 | Majestic mountains, alpine meadows, glaciers, and abundant wildlife including grizzly bears and mountain goats |
National Parks in Nevada
Nevada is home to national parks that showcase some of the most striking desert landscapes in the United States. These parks preserve rugged canyons, unique rock formations, and arid ecosystems.
| National Park | Year Established | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Great Basin National Park | 1986 | Mountainous desert landscapes, ancient bristlecone pines, Lehman Caves, and the Wheeler Peak alpine zone |
National Parks in New Mexico
New Mexico’s national parks showcase the dramatic desert landscapes and ancient cultural history of the American Southwest. These parks combine striking geology with archaeological and ecological significance.
| National Park | Year Established | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Carlsbad Caverns National Park | 1930 | Extensive limestone caves, underground chambers, and bat colonies |
| White Sands National Park | 2019 | Vast gypsum sand dunes, unique desert ecosystems, and recreational opportunities |
National Parks in North Carolina
North Carolina’s national parks protect portions of the Appalachian Mountains and the Atlantic coastline, preserving forests, rivers, and barrier islands with rich biodiversity.
| National Park | Year Established | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Great Smoky Mountains National Park | 1934 | UNESCO World Heritage Site; ancient mountains, diverse forests, and abundant wildlife |
National Parks in North Dakota
North Dakota’s national park protects some of the most unique badlands and fossil-rich landscapes in the United States. It preserves both natural and cultural history.
| National Park | Year Established | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Theodore Roosevelt National Park | 1978 | Badlands, prairies, bison herds, and historic sites associated with President Roosevelt |
National Parks in Ohio
Ohio has one national park that preserves a combination of industrial history, river landscapes, and wildlife habitat, highlighting the state’s natural and cultural heritage.
| National Park | Year Established | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Cuyahoga Valley National Park | 2000 | Forested river valley, waterfalls, wildlife, and historic canals |
National Parks in Oregon
Oregon’s national parks protect diverse landscapes ranging from rugged coastlines and volcanic peaks to deep river canyons. These parks highlight the state’s geological activity and temperate forest ecosystems.
| National Park | Year Established | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Crater Lake National Park | 1902 | Deepest lake in the USA, formed in a volcanic caldera; surrounding forests and cliffs |
National Parks in South Dakota
South Dakota’s national parks protect iconic landscapes of the Great Plains, Badlands, and Black Hills, combining natural beauty with historical and cultural significance.
| National Park | Year Established | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Badlands National Park | 1978 | Eroded buttes, pinnacles, and prairie ecosystems; fossil-rich landscapes |
| Wind Cave National Park | 1903 | One of the world’s longest caves; boxwork formations and bison herds |
National Parks in Tennessee
Tennessee’s national park protects portions of the Appalachian Mountains and preserves forests, rivers, and wildlife while also being a hub for recreation and research.
| National Park | Year Established | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Great Smoky Mountains National Park | 1934 | UNESCO World Heritage Site; mist-covered mountains, diverse forests, and abundant wildlife |
National Parks in Texas
Texas’ national parks protect diverse landscapes, ranging from deserts and canyons to coastal wetlands and forested hills. They highlight the state’s ecological variety and historical significance.
| National Park | Year Established | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Big Bend National Park | 1944 | Chihuahuan Desert, Rio Grande River, canyons, and mountain wilderness |
| Guadalupe Mountains National Park | 1972 | Home to the highest peak in Texas; desert landscapes and fossilized reef formations |
National Parks in Utah
Utah is renowned for its red rock landscapes, canyons, and desert ecosystems, making it one of the most geologically spectacular states in the U.S. Its national parks preserve unique formations, arches, and vast wilderness areas.
| National Park | Year Established | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Arches National Park | 1971 | Over 2,000 natural stone arches and sandstone formations |
| Bryce Canyon National Park | 1928 | Hoodoos—distinctive spire-shaped rock formations |
| Canyonlands National Park | 1964 | Deep canyons, mesas, and river valleys of the Colorado Plateau |
| Capitol Reef National Park | 1971 | Waterpocket Fold—a nearly 100-mile-long wrinkle in the Earth’s crust |
| Zion National Park | 19 Nov 1919 | Utah’s First National Park, towering cliffs, narrow canyons, and vibrant desert landscapes |
National Parks in Virginia
Virginia’s national park preserves coastal and forested landscapes with rich biodiversity and historical significance, blending natural beauty with American heritage.
| National Park | Year Established | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Shenandoah National Park | 1935 | Blue Ridge Mountains, Skyline Drive, waterfalls, and deciduous forests |
National Parks in Washington
Washington’s national parks protect a wide range of mountain, forest, and coastal ecosystems, showcasing the state’s natural diversity from glaciers to temperate rainforests.
| National Park | Year Established | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Mount Rainier National Park | 1899 | Active volcano, glaciers, subalpine meadows, and old-growth forests |
| North Cascades National Park | 1968 | Rugged mountains, glaciers, and vast wilderness areas |
| Olympic National Park | 1938 | Temperate rainforests, coastline, and alpine ecosystems |
National Parks in Wyoming
Wyoming’s national parks protect iconic landscapes of the Rocky Mountains and Yellowstone ecosystem, combining geothermal wonders, wildlife, and dramatic natural scenery.
| National Park | Year Established | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Yellowstone National Park | 1872 | World’s first national park; geothermal features, geysers, hot springs, and diverse wildlife |
| Grand Teton National Park | 1929 | Dramatic mountain peaks, alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife |
Oldest and Newest National Parks in USA
The history of the U.S. National Park System spans over 150 years, reflecting the country’s commitment to preserving natural and cultural heritage. From the earliest protection of Yellowstone to modern parks preserving fragile ecosystems, the evolution of national parks shows how conservation priorities have expanded over time.
- Oldest National Park: Yellowstone National Park
- Year Established: 1872
- Location: Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho
- Key Features: The world’s first national park; famous for geothermal features, geysers like Old Faithful, hot springs, and diverse wildlife, including bison, grizzly bears, and wolves.
- Significance: Yellowstone set the global precedent for protecting natural landscapes for future generations, inspiring national parks worldwide.
- Newest National Park: New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
- Year Established: 2020
- Location: West Virginia
- Key Features: Scenic gorge, New River, rock climbing, hiking, and rich Appalachian biodiversity.
- Significance: This park highlights modern conservation priorities, focusing on protecting recreational landscapes and river ecosystems while supporting outdoor activities.
Famous National Parks in the USA
While every U.S. national park has its own ecological and cultural significance, some have become globally renowned for their unique landscapes, wildlife, and visitor experiences. These iconic parks attract millions of travellers each year and are symbols of America’s natural heritage.
- Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming, Montana, Idaho): The first national park in the world, Yellowstone is famous for geysers, hot springs, and abundant wildlife. Visitors can witness Old Faithful, roaming bison, and vast geothermal features.
- Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona): Home to the world-famous Grand Canyon, this park offers dramatic vistas, the Colorado River, and layered rock formations millions of years old. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Yosemite National Park (California): Known for granite cliffs, waterfalls, and giant sequoias, Yosemite attracts climbers, hikers, and photographers worldwide. Iconic landmarks include El Capitan and Half Dome.
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee/North Carolina): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is renowned for misty mountains, old-growth forests, and biodiversity. The park is the most visited in the U.S., with abundant wildlife and historic structures.
- Zion National Park (Utah): Famous for towering red sandstone cliffs, canyons, and hiking trails, Zion showcases the dramatic landscapes of the American Southwest.
- Everglades National Park (Florida): The largest subtropical wilderness in the U.S., Everglades protects wetlands, alligators, manatees, and migratory birds. It is crucial for climate resilience and biodiversity.
Importance of National Parks
National Parks in the USA are far more than scenic destinations—they play a critical role in conservation, research, recreation, and cultural preservation. Their significance can be understood across multiple dimensions:
- Wildlife Conservation: National parks provide safe habitats for endangered and native species, including grizzly bears, bison, wolves, bald eagles, and desert tortoises. Protecting these species ensures ecological balance and biodiversity.
- Ecosystem Protection: By preserving forests, wetlands, deserts, mountains, and rivers, national parks maintain entire ecosystems. These areas regulate water cycles, prevent soil erosion, and help mitigate the impacts of climate change.
- Scientific Research and Education: National parks serve as natural laboratories for studying wildlife, geology, and climate. They also offer educational opportunities for schools, universities, and visitors to learn about conservation and environmental stewardship.
- Recreation and Tourism: Millions of visitors explore U.S. national parks each year. Activities such as hiking, wildlife viewing, camping, kayaking, and photography contribute to physical well-being, eco-tourism, and the local economy.
- Cultural and Historical Preservation: Many parks protect historic structures, indigenous heritage sites, and ancient cultural landscapes. Parks like Mesa Verde and Canyon de Chelly preserve centuries-old Native American dwellings and artefacts.
- Inspiration and Mental Well-being: National parks provide spaces for solitude, adventure, and connection with nature, inspiring creativity, mindfulness, and appreciation for the environment.
