National Parks List By State

Printable National Parks List By State

Our National Parks List by State is the perfect resource for travelers, educators, and nature enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re mapping out a cross-country road trip or simply exploring parks close to home, this easy-to-use guide helps you keep track of all 400+ national park sites across the U.S. Organized by state and ready to print, itโ€™s an essential companion for checking off visits, learning about protected landmarks, or teaching students about America’s natural and historical treasures.

What Are National Parks?

National parks are more than just vast expanses of untouched wilderness; they are sanctuaries for both nature and humanity. These protected areas serve as living museums, showcasing the diverse ecosystems, geological formations, and wildlife that define our planet’s natural beauty. With their breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity, national parks invite visitors to reconnect with the earth, offering a respite from the frenetic pace of modern life. Printable National Parks maps allow adventurers to navigate these stunning terrains easily, ensuring that every hidden trail and scenic overlook is just a step away.
The significance of national parks extends beyond recreational opportunities; they play a crucial role in conservation efforts. By safeguarding critical habitats and promoting sustainable tourism, national parks help mitigate the impacts of climate change and habitat destruction. They also foster a sense of stewardship in visitors, encouraging them to appreciate and protect the natural world. As we continue to face environmental challenges, the role of national parks in preserving biodiversity and educating future generations becomes increasingly vital, making each visit an opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue about our planetโ€™s future.

Printable List of National Parks by State

U.S. National Parks List by State

  • Acadia National Park

  • Yellowstone National Park

  • Grand Canyon National Park

  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park

  • Zion National Park

  • Rocky Mountain National Park

  • Olympic National Park

  • Joshua Tree National Park

  • Glacier National Park

  • Shenandoah National Park

Alaska National Parks

  • Denali National Park

  • Gates of the Arctic National Park

  • Kenai Fjords National Park

  • Wrangell-St. Elias National Park

  • Kobuk Valley National Park

  • Glacier Bay National Park

  • Lake Clark National Park

  • Arctic National Wildlife Refuge

  • Noatak National Preserve

  • Aniakchak National Monument

American Samoa National Parks

National Park of American Samoa

Arizona National Parks

  • Grand Canyon National Park

  • Saguaro National Park

  • Petrified Forest National Park

  • Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument

  • Canyon de Chelly National Monument

  • Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

  • Tonto National Monument

  • Walnut Canyon National Monument

  • Montezuma Castle National Monument

  • Chiricahua National Monument

Arkansas National Parks

  • Hot Springs National Park

  • Buffalo National River

  • Petit Jean State Park

  • Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

  • Arkansas Post National Memorial

  • Central High School National Historic Site

  • Little Rock Central High School NHS

  • Fort Smith National Historic Site

  • Pea Ridge National Military Park

  • The President William Jefferson Clinton Birthplace Home NHS

California National Parks

  • Yosemite National Park

  • Sequoia National Park

  • Kings Canyon National Park

  • Joshua Tree National Park

  • Channel Islands National Park

  • Death Valley National Park

  • Lassen Volcanic National Park

  • Pinnacles National Park

  • Point Reyes National Seashore

  • Redwoods National and State Parks

Colorado National Parks

  • Rocky Mountain National Park

  • Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

  • Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

  • Mesa Verde National Park

  • Dinosaur National Monument

  • Curecanti National Recreation Area

  • Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument

  • Colorado National Monument

  • Camp Hale – Continental Divide National Scenic Trail

  • Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site

Florida National Parks

  • Everglades National Park

  • Dry Tortugas National Park

  • Biscayne National Park

  • Big Cypress National Preserve

  • Canaveral National Seashore

  • Gulf Islands National Seashore

  • Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve

  • Fort Matanzas National Monument

  • Big Cypress Swamp

  • Apalachicola National Forest

Hawaii National Parks

  • Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

  • Haleakalฤ National Park

  • Kalaupapa National Historical Park

  • Pu’uhonua o Hลnaunau National Historical Park

  • Papahฤnaumokuฤkea Marine National Monument

  • Kฤซlauea Point National Wildlife Refuge

  • Molokai Island’s Kalaupapa Peninsula

  • Diamond Head State Monument

  • Manana Island (Rabbit Island)

  • Niสปihau Island

Idaho National Parks

  • Yellowstone National Park (partly in Idaho)

  • Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve

  • Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument

  • City of Rocks National Reserve

  • Nez Perce National Historical Park

  • Minidoka Internment National Historic Site

  • Sawtooth National Recreation Area

  • Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge

  • Shoshone Falls Park

  • Coeur d’Alene National Forest

The U.S. National Parks

The U.S. National Parks
The U.S. National Parks

Now that youโ€™ve seen a snapshot of the national parks in each state, letโ€™s break it down with a brief overview of each one, state-by-state.

National Parks in Alaska

Home to North America’s highest peak, Denali National Park and Preserve offers an awe-inspiring wilderness that captivates adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. Spanning over six million acres, this vast expanse is not just a haven for climbers; itโ€™s a sanctuary for diverse wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves, and caribou. Visitors can explore the park via limited roads or embark on guided tours for a more immersive experience. The stunning landscapes change dramatically with the seasons, providing endless opportunities for photography, hiking, and even winter sports.

Katmai National Park and Preserve

Famed for its spectacular brown bear population, Katmai National Park and Preserve is a must-visit for wildlife lovers. The parkโ€™s Brooks Falls is a premier location to witness these majestic creatures as they fish for salmon during the summer months. Beyond bear watching, Katmai boasts incredible volcanic landscapes and serene lakes that provide a backdrop for hiking and kayaking. For those interested in the geological wonders of Alaska, the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes showcases the dramatic aftermath of a massive volcanic eruption, reminding visitors of natureโ€™s powerful forces.

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve

Glacier Bay National Park
Glacier Bay National Park

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve presents an extraordinary opportunity to witness the dynamic interplay between glaciers and marine ecosystems. The park is renowned for its stunning tidewater glaciers that calve into vibrant blue waters, creating a spectacle that draws photographers and cruise-goers alike. Kayaking through the bay allows visitors to get up close to icebergs and observe seals and whales in their natural habitat. The rich history of the Tlingit people adds cultural depth to this already breathtaking landscape, making it a place where nature and heritage intertwine beautifully.

Kenai Fjords National Park

Kenai Fjords National Park is a breathtaking blend of fjords, glaciers, and rich marine life that showcases Alaska’s dramatic coastal scenery. Visitors can embark on boat tours to explore the stunning coastline, where sheer cliffs meet icy waters teeming with sea otters, puffins, and orcas. The park’s Exit Glacier is easily accessible for hikers looking to experience the beauty of glacial formations up close. As you traverse the trails, youโ€™ll witness firsthand the effects of climate change on these majestic ice masses, prompting reflection on our relationship with nature.

National Parks in Washington

National Parks in Washington
National Parks in Washington

Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier National Park, with its iconic snow-capped peak, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Towering at 14,411 feet, this stratovolcano offers breathtaking vistas and a diverse ecosystem, ranging from lush forests to alpine meadows bursting with wildflowers in the summer. Beyond its stunning landscapes, the park is a living laboratory, showcasing geological processes and climate impacts. Whether you’re hiking the Skyline Trail or embarking on a challenging climb to the summit, each experience reveals the parkโ€™s intricate beauty and ecological significance.

North Cascades National Park

North Cascades National Park is a hidden gem on the National Parks List by State. Known for its jagged peaks and deep valleys, it boasts over 300 glaciers, making it one of the most rugged and remote parks in the U.S. The park’s diverse terrain provides an array of recreational opportunities, from intense backcountry hiking to serene kayaking on pristine lakes. Wildlife thrives here, including elusive species like the mountain goat and black bear, offering visitors a rare glimpse into natureโ€™s untouched realm.

Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a microcosm of ecosystems, showcasing everything from temperate rainforests to rugged coastlines. Its unique biodiversity is not just visually stunning but also critical for conservation efforts, as it harbors species found nowhere else on Earth. Hikers can traverse the enchanting Hoh Rain Forest or discover the tide pools of Rialto Beach, each location presenting an opportunity to connect with nature on a deeper level. The park’s diverse climatic zones foster an adventure for every type of explorer, ensuring that each visit is a fresh journey into the heart of Washington’s natural wonders.

Best National Parks for Kids

Exploring national parks can be a thrilling adventure for kids, offering not just scenic beauty but also educational experiences. Here are some of the best national parks that cater specifically to young explorers:

  • Yosemite National Park: With its towering granite cliffs and cascading waterfalls, Yosemite captivates kids’ imaginations. The park offers a Junior Ranger program that encourages children to learn about nature through fun activities.

  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park: This park is a treasure trove of biodiversity, making it perfect for budding naturalists. Families can embark on easy hiking trails, and kids will love spotting wildlife like deer and black bears. Plus, the parkโ€™s interactive visitor centers provide engaging exhibits.

  • Yellowstone National Park: Home to geysers and hot springs, Yellowstone is an outdoor science lab for kids. They can witness the wonders of geothermal activity while participating in ranger-led programs that explain the park’s unique ecosystem. Donโ€™t forget to grab a Printable National Parks guide for fun facts and scavenger hunts!

How to Plan a National Parks Trip

Planning a trip to the national parks can be exciting, but itโ€™s important to be prepared so you can enjoy the adventure fully. Start by checking a National Parks List by State to find parks that match your interestsโ€”whether you love mountains, lakes, or spotting wildlife. Choose parks based on how easy they are to get to, the best times to go, and the activities you want to try like hiking, kayaking, or taking photos.

  • Create a Flexible Itinerary: Make a plan, but leave room for unexpected fun. Some of the best moments happen when you explore freely.

  • Book Accommodations Early: Hotels and lodges near national parks fill up fast during busy seasons. Book ahead to get the best spots.

  • Pack Smart: Be ready for different types of weather and terrain. Bring layered clothes, strong shoes, and a daypack with essentials.

  • Engage with Park Rangers: Join ranger-led programs. They share great info about the parkโ€™s nature and history you wonโ€™t find in books.

 

Ijaz

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