From the towering sequoias of California to the rugged coastlines of Maine; the Artic wilderness of Alaska to the tropical wetlands of the Florida Everglades, the United States’ sixty-three national parks encompass the country’s most iconic landscapes.
On this page is a list of U.S. national parks by state. Use the information in this article to discover more about these remarkable public spaces, or to plan your next trip to see them for yourself.
National Parks List By State
What Is A National Park?
A national park is a protected area, designated by the federal government for the preservation of its natural environment, wildlife, and historical significance. These areas are set aside for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of current and future generations, emphasizing conservation and access to nature.
The inception of the U.S. national park system dates back to 1872 with the establishment of Yellowstone National Park, the first of its kind not only in the United States, but also in the world. This groundbreaking decision sparked a global movement to protect natural wonders, leading to the creation of the National Park Service in 1916.
Today, the state with the most national parks is California, which has nine national parks. Hot on its heels is Alaska, with its eight national parks, and Utah, which has five.
Use the list on this page to explore the amazing national parks of the USA.
Have you been to one (or more!) of these national parks? Tell us about your experience in the comments section – we’d love to hear your views and recommendations!
National Parks In Alaska
Denali National Park and Preserve
Denali National Park and Preserve, centered around the towering Denali / Mount McKinley, is a sprawling wilderness in Alaska’s interior. Its rugged landscape – larger than New Hampshire – encompasses tundra, spruce forests, and glaciers.
Visitors can explore the park through a variety of activities such as hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, and mountaineering.
Denali National Park and Preserve attracts almost 600,000 visitors per year.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Grizzly bear
- Black bear
- Wolf
- Caribou
- Dall sheep
- Arctic ground squirrel
- North American Beaver
- Snowshoe hare
- Arctic fox
- Canada lynx
- Wolverine
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Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve
Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve, located entirely above the Arctic Circle, is one of the most remote and untouched wilderness areas in the United States. Its rugged terrain includes glaciers, mountains, and boreal forests, providing a habitat for a diverse range of wildlife.
Visitors to this vast wilderness can experience solitude, pristine landscapes, and opportunities for backcountry exploration, including hiking, backpacking, and river rafting.
Due to its remote location, Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve is the least visited of all U.S. national parks, typically attracting fewer than 8,000 visitors in a year.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Brown bear
- Black bear
- Musk ox
- Moose
- Caribou
- Dall sheep
- Wolf
- Arctic fox
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Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve
Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, located in southeastern Alaska, is renowned for its stunning glacial landscapes, fjords, and diverse marine life.
Visitors can witness the spectacle of calving glaciers, explore pristine wilderness, and observe a wealth of wildlife.
Activities in the park include whale watching, kayaking, hiking, and camping, offering opportunities for both adventure and solitude amidst the icy wilderness.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Humpback whale
- Minke whale
- Orca (killer whale)
- Bald eagle
- Harbor seal
- Steller sea lion
- Brown bear
- Mountain goat
- Black-tailed deer
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Katmai National Park and Preserve
Katmai National Park and Preserve, located in southern Alaska, is known for its rugged wilderness, stunning landscapes, and abundant wildlife, including its famous grizzly bears.
The park features volcanoes, valleys, and pristine coastlines, offering visitors opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, fishing, and backpacking.
One of Katmai’s most famous attractions is the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, a vast ash flow deposited by the 1912 eruption of Novarupta Volcano.
Katmai is also known for its brown bears, whose salmon-fishing antics are viewed worldwide via National Park Service webcams.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Brown bears (particularly known for salmon fishing)
- Moose
- Wolf
- Caribou
- Red fox
- River otter
- Bald eagle
- Peregrine falcon
- Seals & whales
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Kenai Fjords National Park
Kenai Fjords National Park, located on the Kenai Peninsula in southern Alaska, is known for its stunning fjords, glaciers, and diverse marine life.
With just a single road in the park, many visitors elect to visit via boat or plane to witness calving glaciers, towering peaks, and rich coastal ecosystems.
Wildlife such as whales, sea otters, puffins, and bears can often be spotted in the park’s pristine wilderness.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Humpback whale
- Fin whale
- Orca (killer whale)
- Sea otter
- Harbor seal
- Bald eagle
- Puffin
- Brown & black bears
- Mountain goat
- Moose
- Dall’s porpoise
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Kobuk Valley National Park
Kobuk Valley National Park, located in northwestern Alaska, is characterized by its vast sand dunes, rolling hills, and the Kobuk River.
Parts of the park straddle the Arctic Circle, and therefore experience 24-hour sunlight, or “midnight sun” in the summer, and 24-hour darkness, or “polar night” in the winter.
Kobuk Valley National Park’s unique landscape provides habitat for caribou, wolves, grizzly bears, and other Arctic and Sub-Arctic wildlife.
There are no roads or designated trails within the park, and most visitors arrive by air. Kobuk Valley National Park is one of the least-visited U.S. national parks.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Caribou
- Arctic wolf
- Grizzly bear
- Moose
- Arctic fox
- Dall sheep
- Wolverine
- Arctic ground squirrel
- Canadian lynx
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Lake Clark National Park and Preserve
Lake Clark National Park and Preserve is located in southwest Alaska, around 100 miles south of Anchorage. The park’s diverse landscapes, which include glaciers, volcanoes, lakes, and rivers, are home to a vast number of animals and plants.
The park is also home to an active volcano, Mount Redoubt, which erupted as recently as 2009.
With no roads in the park, visitors must arrive by air or boat.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Brown & black bears
- Moose
- Bald eagle
- Salmon
- Red fox
- Harbor seal
- Dall sheep
- Wolf
- Beluga whale
- River otter
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Wrangell–St. Elias National Park and Preserve
Wrangell–St. Elias National Park and Preserve, located in southeastern Alaska, is the largest national park in the United States.
Covering a staggering 13.2 million acres, Wrangell–St. Elias National Park and Preserve is the size of Yellowstone National Park, Yosemite National Park, and Switzerland combined! (source)
Within the park are the United States’ second-tallest mountain, Mount Saint Elias, and Mount Wrangell, an active volcano.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Grizzly bear & black bear
- Dall sheep
- Moose
- Wolves
- Red fox
- Caribou
- Mountain goat
- Lynx
- Arctic ground squirrel
- Sea otter
- Bald eagle
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National Parks in American Samoa
National Park of American Samoa
The National Park of American Samoa, situated in the South Pacific, consists of tropical rainforests, coral reefs, and pristine beaches spread across the islands of Tutuila, Ofu, Olosega, and Ta‘ū. It is the only US national park in the Southern Hemisphere.
Visitors to the park can experience Samoan culture, explore ancient villages, and hike through lush jungles to secluded beaches.
The park’s marine environment offers opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and observing colorful coral reefs, while land activities include hiking, birdwatching, and learning about local traditions and customs.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Fruit bats (flying foxes)
- Green and hawksbill sea turtles
- Coconut crab
- Reef fish
- Corals
- Spinner dolphins
- Humpback whales
- Many-colored fruit dove
- Pacific pigeon
- White-tailed tropicbird
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National Parks in Arizona
Grand Canyon National Park
Grand Canyon National Park, located in northern Arizona, is home to one of the world’s most famous natural wonders: the Grand Canyon. The steep, layered cliffs of this colossal canyon, carved by the Colorado River, reveal millions of years of geological history.
Visitors can marvel at the canyon’s breathtaking vistas, hike along its rim or down into its depths, and explore its diverse ecosystems. The park offers a variety of activities including hiking, rafting, wildlife viewing, and stargazing.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- California condor
- Rocky Mountain elk
- Desert bighorn sheep
- Peregrine falcon
- Common raven
- Canyon bat
- Kaibab squirrel
- Desert spiny lizard
- Mountain lion
- Desert cottontail
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Petrified Forest National Park
Petrified Forest National Park, located in northeastern Arizona, is known for its stunning fossilized wood and colorful badlands. The northernmost part of the park extends into the Painted Desert, famous for its colorful vistas and prehistoric fossils, including diinonsaur tracks.
Visitors can explore the park’s ancient petrified logs, hike through its painted desert landscape, and learn about its rich geological and cultural history. The park also contains archaeological sites, including remnants of ancient Puebloan dwellings.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Pronghorn
- Coyote
- Bobcat
- Golden eagle
- Great horned owl
- Desert cottontail
- Collared lizard
- Western diamondback rattlesnake
- Gila monster
- Black-tailed jackrabbit
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Saguaro National Park
Saguaro National Park, located in southern Arizona, is named for the iconic saguaro cactus, which dominates its landscape.
The park protects lush desert ecosystems characterized by towering cacti, rocky mountains, and diverse wildlife.
Visitors can hike among the saguaros, explore scenic drives, and learn about the desert’s unique plants and animals.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Gila woodpecker
- Gila monster
- Harris’s hawk
- Desert tortoise
- Kangaroo rat
- Cactus wren
- Black-tailed rattlesnake
- Desert spiny lizard
- Bobcat
- Mountain lion
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National Parks in Arkansas
Hot Springs National Park
Hot Springs National Park, located in central Arkansas, is known for its thermal hot springs and historic bathhouses. The park, which is located next to the city of Hot Springs, was preserved by the government as an area for recreation in 1832, several decades before the establishment of Yellowstone National Park, the world’s first national park.
The park preserves a blend of natural and cultural features, including geothermal springs, forested hillsides, and even historic buildings; the park includes areas of downtown Hot Springs.
Visitors to the park can enjoy soaking in the hot springs, as well as exploring the forest and its wildlife on the park’s hiking trails.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- White-tailed deer
- Eastern gray squirrel
- Raccoon
- North American river otter
- Great blue heron
- Eastern cottontail
- Red-eared slider turtle
- Northern water snake
- Barred owl
- Red-tailed hawk
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National Parks in California
Channel Islands National Park
Channel Islands National Park, located off the coast of southern California, consists of five rugged islands known for their diverse ecosystems and rich marine life. (The remaining three Channel Islands are not included in the park.)
Visitors can explore the islands’ pristine beaches, sea caves, and coastal cliffs, as well as dive or snorkel in the park’s marine sanctuary. The park is home to both the island fox and the island fence lizard; these unique species are found nowhere else on Earth.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Island fox
- California sea lion
- California brown pelican
- Elephant seal
- Blue whale
- Humpback whale
- Bald eagle
- Island fence lizard
- California least tern
- Western gull
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Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park, located in southeastern California, is known for its unique desert landscapes and iconic Joshua trees, which give the park its name.
The park’s rugged terrain features rocky outcrops, canyons, and desert washes, providing habitat for a variety of plant and animal species.
Activities available to visitors include: exploring the park’s hiking trails, rock climbing on its granite formations, and camping beneath the stars in its dark night skies.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Desert bighorn sheep
- Desert tortoise
- Coyote
- Black-tailed jackrabbit
- Kangaroo rat
- Gambel’s quail
- Greater roadrunner
- Desert spiny lizard
- Chuckwalla
- Red-tailed hawk
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Kings Canyon National Park
Kings Canyon National Park, located in the southern Sierra Nevada mountain range of California, is known for its deep canyons, towering peaks, and giant sequoia trees. Bordering Kings Canyon National Park to the south is Sequoia National Park.
Kings Canyon National Park features rugged wilderness, including the deepest canyon in the United States, with opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can explore ancient groves of giant sequoias, including the famous General Grant Tree, the world’s second-largest tree by trunk volume.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Black bear
- Mule deer
- Mountain lion
- Coyote
- California mule deer
- Golden-mantled ground squirrel
- Bobcat
- Gray fox
- Peregrine falcon
- Bald eagle
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Lassen Volcanic National Park
Lassen Volcanic National Park, located in northeastern California, is home to an active volcanic landscape, including boiling springs, mud pots, and steam vents. Four different types of volcano – plug dome, shield, cinder cone, and stratovolcano – can be found within the park.
The park features rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and diverse habitats supporting a variety of plant and animal life.
Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails, marvel at volcanic features, and enjoy camping and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Black bear
- Mountain lion
- Bobcat
- Coyote
- Mule deer
- Red fox
- Porcupine
- Pika
- Golden-mantled ground squirrel
- Bald eagle
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Pinnacles National Park
Pinnacles National Park, located in central California, is known for its dramatic rock formations, caves, and diverse habitats. The park features rugged cliffs, talus caves, and oak woodlands, providing habitat for a variety of wildlife species. Rock-climbing, hiking and birding are just some of the activities available to visitors.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- California condor
- Peregrine falcon
- Western mastiff bat
- Townsend’s big-eared bat
- California quail
- Acorn woodpecker
- Canyon wren
- White-throated swift
- California towhee
- California thrasher
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Redwood National and State Parks
- Size: 139,000 acres / 56,237 km2 (combined area of national and state parks)
- State: California
- Official website: https://www.nps.gov/redw/
Redwood National and State Parks, located along the coast of northern California, are home to some of the tallest trees on Earth—the coast redwoods.
A coast redwood named Hyperion, found in a remote (and undisclosed) part of the Redwood National and State Parks, is believed to be the world’s tallest tree.
The parks feature old-growth forests, lush fern canyons, and pristine rivers.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Roosevelt elk
- Black bear
- Mountain lion
- Bobcat
- Coyote
- Harbor seal
- Gray whale
- Stellar sea lion
- River otter
- Bald eagle
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Sequoia National Park
Sequoia National Park, located in the southern Sierra Nevada mountain range of California, is home to the world’s biggest tree, a giant sequoia (Sequoiadendron giganteum) known as “General Sherman”.
The park also features towering mountains, deep canyons, and diverse ecosystems supporting a variety of plant and animal life.
Visitors can explore groves of giant sequoias, hike among rugged peaks, and enjoy scenic drives through the park’s stunning landscapes.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Black bear
- Mule deer
- Mountain lion
- Coyote
- California mule deer
- Golden-mantled ground squirrel
- Bobcat
- Gray fox
- Peregrine falcon
- Bald eagle
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Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park, located in the Sierra Nevada mountain range of California, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, iconic granite cliffs, and majestic waterfalls.
One of the best-known of all US national parks, Yosemite features deep valleys, ancient giant sequoias, and diverse habitats supporting a wide range of plant and animal species.
Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails, rock climb its famous cliffs, and marvel at landmarks such as Half Dome and Yosemite Falls.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Black bear
- Mule deer
- Coyote
- Gray fox
- Bobcat
- Mountain lion
- Bighorn sheep
- Peregrine falcon
- California condor
- Golden eagle
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Death Valley National Park
The hottest and driest national park in the United States, Death Valley National Park covers parts of both California and Nevada. It is known for its extreme desert environment, including salt flats, sand dunes and rugged mountains.
Despite its harsh conditions, the park is home to a surprising diversity of plant and animal life adapted to desert survival.
Visitors to Death Valley can explore unique geological formations, such as Badwater Basin and Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, and enjoy stargazing opportunities due to its dark skies.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Desert bighorn sheep
- Coyote
- Kit fox
- Kangaroo rat
- Sidewinder rattlesnake
- Chuckwalla
- Greater roadrunner
- Desert tortoise
- Desert kit fox
- Bobcat
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National Parks in Colorado
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, located in western Colorado, is known for its dramatic canyon walls, carved by the Gunnison River over millions of years.
The canyon’s name refers to the fact that, due to its steep rock walls, parts of the canyon see very little daylight.
The park features some of the steepest and narrowest cliffs in North America, providing stunning vistas and challenging rock climbing opportunities.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep
- Mule deer
- Black bear
- Mountain lion
- Bobcat
- Golden eagle
- Peregrine falcon
- Red-tailed hawk
- American pika
- Yellow-bellied marmot
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Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, located in southern Colorado, is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America, rising against the backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
The park features diverse ecosystems, including sand dunes, grasslands, wetlands, and forests, providing habitat for a variety of plant and animal species. Visitors can hike the dunes, splash in Medano Creek, and explore the park’s unique landscapes.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Kangaroo rat
- Desert cottontail
- Kit fox
- Coyote
- Black bear
- Mountain lion
- Prairie falcon
- Golden eagle
- Great horned owl
- Burrowing owl
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Mesa Verde National Park
Mesa Verde National Park, located in southwestern Colorado, preserves the archaeological remains of ancient Puebloan cliff dwellings, which date back over 700 years.
(The Ancestral Puebloans were a prehistoric Native American civilization that inhabited the present-day Four Corners region of the United States, known for their distinctive architecture, including cliff dwellings, and their complex social and cultural practices.)
The park features well-preserved ruins, including cliffside villages such as Cliff Palace and Spruce Tree House, showcasing the ingenuity and cultural achievements of the ancestral Puebloans.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Black bear
- Mule deer
- Coyote
- Bobcat
- Mountain lion
- Golden eagle
- Peregrine falcon
- Red-tailed hawk
- American pika
- Yellow-bellied marmot
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Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park, located in northern Colorado, is known for its stunning alpine landscapes, towering peaks, and diverse ecosystems. The park features over 300 miles of hiking trails, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife, including elk, bighorn sheep, and moose. Visitors can explore scenic drives, hike to alpine lakes and waterfalls, and enjoy outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Rocky Mountain elk
- Mule deer
- Bighorn sheep
- Moose
- Black bear
- Mountain lion
- Coyote
- Golden eagle
- Peregrine falcon
- Red-tailed hawk
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National Parks in Florida
Biscayne National Park
Biscayne National Park, located in southern Florida, encompasses a diverse marine ecosystem including coral reefs, mangrove forests, and shallow coastal waters. The park protects a variety of marine life, including colorful coral reefs, fish, sea turtles, and manatees.
Visitors can explore the park’s underwater wonders through snorkeling, diving, and boat tours, as well as enjoy kayaking, fishing, and birdwatching in the park’s coastal habitats.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- West Indian manatee
- Bottlenose dolphin
- Green sea turtle
- Hawksbill sea turtle
- American crocodile
- Florida manatee
- Brown pelican
- Roseate spoonbill
- American alligator
- American flamingo
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Dry Tortugas National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park, located in the Gulf of Mexico off the coast of Florida, is known for its pristine coral reefs, historic fort, and remote islands.
The park’s centerpiece is Fort Jefferson, a 19th-century coastal fortress surrounded by crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life.
Activities on offer at the park include exploring the fort, snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs, and birdwatching and beachcombing on the park’s secluded islands.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Loggerhead sea turtle
- Green sea turtle
- Hawksbill sea turtle
- West Indian manatee
- Bottlenose dolphin
- Brown pelican
- Magnificent frigatebird
- Sooty tern
- Brown noddy
- Bridled tern
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Everglades National Park
Everglades National Park, located in southern Florida, is the largest tropical wilderness in the United States. The park protects a unique and fragile ecosystem consisting of sawgrass marshes, mangrove forests, and freshwater sloughs, providing habitat for a diverse array of plant and animal species. The park’s waterways can be explored by canoe or kayak, with hiking trails also on offer.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- American alligator
- American crocodile
- West Indian manatee
- Florida panther
- American black bear
- Key deer
- Roseate spoonbill
- Anhinga
- Wood stork
- Bald eagle
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National Parks in Hawaii
Haleakalā National Park
Haleakalā National Park, located on the island of Maui in Hawaii, encompasses the dormant Haleakalā volcano and its surrounding landscapes. The park features otherworldly volcanic terrain, lush rainforests, and unique endemic species found only in Hawaii.
Visitors can hike through volcanic landscapes, watch breathtaking sunrises or sunsets from the summit, and explore the park’s diverse ecosystems and cultural sites.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Hawaiian hoary bat
- Nēnē (Hawaiian goose)
- Hawaiian petrel
- Hawaiian monk seal
- Hawaiian green sea turtle
- Hawaiian crow (ʻalalā)
- Maui parrotbill
- Hawaiian honeycreeper species (ʻiʻiwi, ʻapapane, ʻamakihi)
- Hawaiian thrush (ʻōmaʻo)
- Hawaiian duck (koloa)
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Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, located on the island of Hawaii, is home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa. The park features volcanic landscapes, lava flows, and diverse ecosystems, including rainforests, deserts, and coastal areas.
A visit to the Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park gives you the opportunity to witness the dramatic geological processes of volcanic activity, explore lava tubes and craters, and hike through otherworldly landscapes shaped by volcanic forces.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Hawaiian hoary bat
- Nēnē (Hawaiian goose)
- Hawaiian petrel
- Hawaiian monk seal
- Hawaiian green sea turtle
- Hawaiian crow (ʻalalā)
- Hawaiian honeycreeper species (ʻiʻiwi, ʻapapane, ʻamakihi)
- Hawaiian thrush (ʻōmaʻo)
- Hawaiian duck (koloa)
- Hawaiian coot (ʻalae kea)
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National Parks in Idaho
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park covers parts of Idaho, Montana and Wyoming.
***See entry under National Parks in Wyoming for info***
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National Parks in Indiana
Indiana Dunes National Park
Indiana Dunes National Park, located along the southern shore of Lake Michigan, is known for its scenic sand dunes, beaches, and diverse ecosystems. The park features sandy shores, marshes, woodlands, and prairies, providing habitat for a variety of plant and animal species.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- White-tailed deer
- Red fox
- Eastern cottontail
- Gray squirrel
- American mink
- Raccoon
- Great blue heron
- Bald eagle
- Peregrine falcon
- Eastern box turtle
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National Parks in Kentucky
Mammoth Cave National Park
Mammoth Cave National Park, located in central Kentucky, is home to the world’s longest known cave system, with over 400 miles of explored passageways.
The park features diverse cave formations, underground rivers, and surface landscapes such as forests, hills, and rivers. Visitors can explore the cave’s underground wonders on guided tours, hike scenic trails, and enjoy camping and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- White-tailed deer
- Gray squirrel
- Eastern chipmunk
- Raccoon
- American black bear
- Bobcat
- Wild turkey
- Red-tailed hawk
- Wood duck
- Eastern box turtle
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National Parks in Maine
Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park, located along the coast of Maine, encompasses rugged coastline, granite peaks, and pristine forests. The park features scenic drives, hiking trails, and opportunities for outdoor recreation such as rock climbing, biking, and wildlife watching.
The park’s diverse landscapes include Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the U.S. Atlantic coast, where stunning views of the surrounding islands and ocean can be enjoyed.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- White-tailed deer
- Red fox
- Eastern chipmunk
- Snowshoe hare
- Porcupine
- American marten
- Bald eagle
- Peregrine falcon
- Atlantic puffin
- Harbor seal
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National Parks in Michigan
Isle Royale National Park
Isle Royale National Park, located in Lake Superior, is a remote wilderness archipelago known for its pristine forests, rugged coastline, and abundant wildlife. The park features hiking trails, canoe routes, and opportunities for backcountry camping and boating.
Visitors can explore the island’s natural beauty, observe wildlife such as moose and wolves, and enjoy the solitude and tranquility of this remote wilderness.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Moose
- Gray wolf
- American beaver
- Red fox
- Snowshoe hare
- North American river otter
- Bald eagle
- Common loon
- Canada lynx
- Black bear
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National Parks in Minnesota
Voyageurs National Park
Voyageurs National Park, located in northern Minnesota, is characterized by its interconnected waterways, pristine lakes, and boreal forests. The park offers opportunities for boating, fishing, kayaking, and camping amidst scenic wilderness.
Explore the park’s historic fur trade routes, hike through forested trails, and observe wildlife such as loons, bald eagles, and black bears.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- American black bear
- Gray wolf
- Moose
- White-tailed deer
- North American river otter
- Bald eagle
- Common loon
- Beaver
- Red fox
- Timber wolf
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National Parks in Missouri
Gateway Arch National Park
Gateway Arch National Park, located in St. Louis, Missouri, commemorates the westward expansion of the United States. The park’s centerpiece is the iconic Gateway Arch, a stainless steel monument that stands as a symbol of the nation’s pioneer spirit.
Visitors can ride to the top of the arch for panoramic views of the city and the Mississippi River, explore the museum beneath the arch, and enjoy recreational activities in the surrounding park grounds.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- White-tailed deer
- Eastern gray squirrel
- American robin
- Northern cardinal
- Mallard duck
- Canada goose
- Red-tailed hawk
- American kestrel
- Great horned owl
- Peregrine falcon
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National Parks in Montana
Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park, located in Montana, is renowned for its stunning alpine scenery, glacier-carved valleys, and pristine wilderness. The park features over 700 miles of hiking trails, including the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, which offers breathtaking views of mountains, lakes, and glaciers.
The park’s diverse ecosystems include dense forests, alpine meadows, and rugged peaks, and are home to iconic wildlife such as grizzly bears, mountain goats, and bighorn sheep.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Grizzly bear
- Black bear
- Gray wolf
- Mountain goat
- Bighorn sheep
- Moose
- Elk
- White-tailed deer
- Red fox
- American marten
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Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park covers parts of Idaho, Montana and Wyoming.
***See entry under National Parks in Wyoming for info***
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National Parks in Nevada
Death Valley National Park
Death Valley National Park covers parts of Nevada and California.
***See entry under National Parks in California for info***
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Great Basin National Park
Great Basin National Park, located in eastern Nevada, encompasses a diverse landscape of mountains, caves, and ancient bristlecone pine forests. The park features Wheeler Peak, the second-highest peak in Nevada, as well as Lehman Caves, known for their stunning limestone formations.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Rocky Mountain elk
- Mule deer
- Bighorn sheep
- Mountain lion
- Bobcat
- Coyote
- Golden eagle
- Peregrine falcon
- Red-tailed hawk
- Great horned owl
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National Parks in New Mexico
Carlsbad Caverns National Park
Carlsbad Caverns National Park, located in southeastern New Mexico, is home to more than 100 limestone caves, including Carlsbad Cavern, one of the largest cave systems in the world. The park features spectacular underground chambers, stalactites, and stalagmites, as well as diverse surface habitats such as desert scrubland and canyons. The caves can be explored with ranger-led tours.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Brazilian free-tailed bat
- Cave myotis bat
- Pallid bat
- Townsend’s big-eared bat
- Western pipistrelle bat
- Peregrine falcon
- Red-tailed hawk
- American kestrel
- Black-tailed rattlesnake
- Western diamondback rattlesnake
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White Sands National Park
White Sands National Park, located in southern New Mexico, is known for its vast expanse of white gypsum sand dunes, which cover over 275 square miles of desert landscape.
The park features stunning dune fields, unique plant and animal adaptations, and opportunities for hiking, sledding, and stargazing.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Desert kit fox
- Coyote
- Black-tailed jackrabbit
- Merriam’s kangaroo rat
- White-sided jackrabbit
- Darkling beetle
- Apache pocket mouse
- Greater roadrunner
- Curve-billed thrasher
- Western diamondback rattlesnake
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National Parks in North Carolina
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, straddling the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, is renowned for its ancient mountains, lush forests, and diverse wildlife. The park features over 800 miles of hiking trails, including a section of the Appalachian Trail, as well as scenic drives, waterfalls, and historic sites.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Black bear
- White-tailed deer
- Eastern chipmunk
- Red squirrel
- Eastern cottontail
- Wild turkey
- American black bear
- Eastern box turtle
- Timber rattlesnake
- Peregrine falcon
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National Parks in North Dakota
Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Theodore Roosevelt National Park, located in western North Dakota, preserves the rugged landscapes and wilderness that inspired President Theodore Roosevelt’s conservation efforts.
The park features colorful badlands, scenic river valleys, and abundant wildlife. Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails, scenic drives, and historic sites, and observe wildlife such as bison, elk, and prairie dogs.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- American bison
- Elk
- White-tailed deer
- Pronghorn
- Bighorn sheep
- Coyote
- Bobcat
- Red fox
- Prairie dog
- Golden eagle
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National Parks in Ohio
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Cuyahoga Valley National Park, located in northeastern Ohio, is a green oasis amidst urban and suburban development. The park follows the winding Cuyahoga River and features waterfalls, forests, and historic sites.
There are hiking and biking trails, and visitors can take a scenic train ride along the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- White-tailed deer
- Red fox
- Eastern gray squirrel
- Raccoon
- River otter
- Beaver
- Bald eagle
- Great blue heron
- Wild turkey
- Wood duck
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National Parks in Oregon
Crater Lake National Park
Crater Lake National Park, located in southern Oregon, is home to the stunningly beautiful Crater Lake, the deepest lake in the United States. Formed by the collapse of an ancient volcano, the lake’s deep blue waters are surrounded by towering cliffs and old-growth forests.
The lake’s beauty can be enjoyed from scenic overlooks. Boat trips to Wizard Island, a volcanic cinder cone within the lake, are available during the summer months.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- American black bear
- Roosevelt elk
- Coyote
- Bobcat
- Mountain lion
- Red fox
- Pine marten
- Golden eagle
- Peregrine falcon
- Clark’s nutcracker
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National Parks in South Carolina
Congaree National Park
Congaree National Park, located in central South Carolina, protects the largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the United States. The park features towering bald cypress trees, lush floodplains, and diverse plant and animal life.
Visitors can explore the park’s boardwalks and hiking trails, paddle along the Congaree River, and observe wildlife such as deer, river otters, and migratory birds.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- White-tailed deer
- River otter
- Bobcat
- Coyote
- Raccoon
- Nine-banded armadillo
- Barred owl
- Pileated woodpecker
- Prothonotary warbler
- American alligator
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National Parks in South Dakota
Badlands National Park
Badlands National Park, located in southwestern South Dakota, features striking geological formations, colorful rock layers, and vast grasslands.
The park’s rugged landscape is home to a variety of wildlife, including bison, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Bison
- Bighorn sheep
- Prairie dog
- Coyote
- Black-footed ferret
- American badger
- Pronghorn
- Black-tailed prairie dog
- Burrowing owl
- Golden eagle
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Wind Cave National Park
Wind Cave National Park, located in southwestern South Dakota, is home to one of the longest and most complex caves in the world. The park features unique geological formations, including boxwork, popcorn, and frostwork, as well as a diverse surface landscape of mixed-grass prairie and ponderosa pine forest.
Visitors can explore the cave on guided tours, hike through the park’s above-ground trails, and observe wildlife such as bison, elk, and prairie dogs.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- American bison
- Elk
- Pronghorn
- Coyote
- Black-footed ferret
- Black-tailed prairie dog
- Mountain lion
- Bobcat
- Bald eagle
- Red-tailed hawk
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National Parks in Tennessee
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky National Park covers parts of Tennessee and North Carolina.
***See entry under National Parks of North Carolina for info***
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National Parks in Texas
Big Bend National Park
Big Bend National Park, located in southwestern Texas, encompasses a vast and remote wilderness along the Rio Grande River. The park features dramatic canyons, desert landscapes, and mountain ranges, providing habitat for a variety of plant and animal species. Activities available include hiking trails, rafting or canoeing on the Rio Grande, birdwatching, stargazing, and camping in this rugged and beautiful landscape.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Black bear
- Mountain lion
- Desert bighorn sheep
- Coyote
- Gray fox
- Javelina
- Mexican black bear
- Bobcat
- Greater roadrunner
- Golden eagle
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Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Guadalupe Mountains National Park, located in west Texas, is home to the rugged peaks of the Guadalupe Mountains and the highest point in Texas, Guadalupe Peak. The park features diverse desert and mountain landscapes, including canyons, forests, and fossilized reefs.
The Guadalupe Peak Trail ascends over 3,000 feet / 910 m to the summit of Guadalupe Peak.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Desert bighorn sheep
- Gray fox
- Coyote
- Mountain lion
- Mule deer
- Elk
- Black bear
- Golden eagle
- Peregrine falcon
- Red-tailed hawk
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National Parks in U.S. Virgin Islands
Virgin Islands National Park
Virgin Islands National Park, located on the island of St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands, encompasses pristine beaches, coral reefs, and tropical forests. The park features hiking trails, historic ruins, and opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and beachcombing.
Visitors can explore the underwater marine life, learn about the region’s cultural heritage, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Caribbean.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Green sea turtle
- Hawksbill sea turtle
- Leatherback sea turtle
- Caribbean reef shark
- Nurse shark
- Spotted eagle ray
- Brown pelican
- Magnificent frigatebird
- Laughing gull
- Caribbean hermit crab
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National Parks in Utah
Arches National Park
Arches National Park, located in southeastern Utah, is famous for its stunning natural arches, rock formations, and desert landscapes.
The park features over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, including the iconic Delicate Arch, as well as towering pinnacles, fins, and balanced rocks. Hiking, rock climbing, nature watching and scenic drives are all available in this special part of Utah.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Desert cottontail
- Rock squirrel
- Mule deer
- Desert bighorn sheep
- Coyote
- Black-tailed jackrabbit
- Western rattlesnake
- Peregrine falcon
- Golden eagle
- Red-tailed hawk
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Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park, located in southern Utah, is known for its breathtaking amphitheaters of colorful hoodoos, spire-shaped rock formations, and natural arches. (A hoodoo is a tall, thin spire of rock that protrudes from the bottom of an arid basin or badland, typically formed by erosion and weathering processes over millions of years.)
The park’s unique geology and high elevation provide opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and stargazing. Visitors can explore the park’s scenic viewpoints, hike along its trails, and marvel at the otherworldly landscapes created by erosion and weathering.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Mule deer
- Rocky Mountain elk
- Utah prairie dog
- Yellow-bellied marmot
- Western spotted skunk
- Mountain lion
- Bobcat
- Peregrine falcon
- California condor
- Golden eagle
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Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands National Park, located in southeastern Utah, is characterized by its rugged canyons, mesas, and buttes carved by the Colorado River and its tributaries. The park is divided into four districts, each with its own unique landscapes and recreational opportunities. The park’s backcountry can be explored by hiking and four-wheel driving.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Desert bighorn sheep
- Mule deer
- Coyote
- Black-tailed jackrabbit
- Kangaroo rat
- Kit fox
- Western rattlesnake
- Peregrine falcon
- Golden eagle
- Red-tailed hawk
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Capitol Reef National Park
Capitol Reef National Park, located in south-central Utah, is known for its stunning sandstone formations, colorful cliffs, and rugged desert landscapes.
The park features the Waterpocket Fold, a unique geologic monocline extending for nearly 100 miles, as well as scenic drives, hiking trails, and historic orchards.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Mule deer
- Desert cottontail
- Rock squirrel
- Kit fox
- Coyote
- Western rattlesnake
- Golden eagle
- Peregrine falcon
- Red-tailed hawk
- Great horned owl
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Zion National Park
Zion National Park, located in southwestern Utah, is renowned for its towering sandstone cliffs, narrow slot canyons, and scenic landscapes.
The park features the Zion Canyon, carved by the Virgin River, as well as diverse ecosystems supporting a variety of plant and animal species.
Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails, go rock climbing, canyoneering, or simply enjoy the stunning views of the canyon walls and lush vegetation.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Mule deer
- Desert bighorn sheep
- Rock squirrel
- Desert cottontail
- Kit fox
- Mountain lion
- California condor
- Peregrine falcon
- Golden eagle
- Red-tailed hawk
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National Parks in Virginia
Shenandoah National Park
Shenandoah National Park, located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, is known for its scenic Skyline Drive, which winds along the crest of the mountains and offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and forests.
The park features over 500 miles of hiking trails, including a section of the Appalachian Trail, as well as camping, picnicking, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- White-tailed deer
- Black bear
- Eastern cottontail
- Gray fox
- Bobcat
- Raccoon
- Red-tailed hawk
- Eastern screech owl
- Wild turkey
- Eastern box turtle
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National Parks in Washington
Mount Rainier National Park
Mount Rainier National Park, located in Washington state, is home to the iconic Mount Rainier, an active stratovolcano and the highest peak in the Cascade Range.
Within the park are glaciers, alpine meadows, and old-growth forests, providing habitat for a variety of plant and animal species.
Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails, go camping, wildlife viewing, and climbing, and marvel at the beauty of the mountain and its surrounding landscapes.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Black bear
- Roosevelt elk
- Mountain goat
- Marmot
- Pika
- Red fox
- Cougar
- Northern spotted owl
- Bald eagle
- Peregrine falcon
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North Cascades National Park
North Cascades National Park, located in northern Washington state, is characterized by its rugged mountains, deep valleys, and dense forests.
The park features over 300 glaciers, pristine alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife, including grizzly bears, gray wolves, and bald eagles.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Grizzly bear
- Gray wolf
- Mountain goat
- Black bear
- Cougar
- Bobcat
- Pine marten
- Bald eagle
- Peregrine falcon
- Northern spotted owl
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Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park, located in the Olympic Peninsula of Washington state, encompasses diverse ecosystems, including temperate rainforests, rugged coastline, and alpine meadows.
Within the park are glacier-capped peaks, lush old-growth forests, and pristine rivers, providing habitat for a variety of plant and animal species.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- Roosevelt elk
- Black bear
- Cougar
- Bobcat
- Gray wolf
- Mountain goat
- Bald eagle
- Peregrine falcon
- Northern spotted owl
- Marbled murrelet
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National Parks in West Virginia
New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, located in southern West Virginia, is known for its rugged canyons, whitewater rapids, and scenic overlooks.
The park features the New River Gorge, carved by the New River, as well as historic sites, hiking trails, and opportunities for rock climbing, whitewater rafting (some of the country’s best!), and fishing.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- White-tailed deer
- Black bear
- Eastern cottontail
- Gray fox
- Bobcat
- Raccoon
- Bald eagle
- Peregrine falcon
- Red-tailed hawk
- Wild turkey
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National Parks in Wyoming
Grand Teton National Park
Grand Teton National Park, located in northwestern Wyoming, is known for its towering mountain peaks, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife.
Within the park is the Teton Range, a dramatic skyline of jagged peaks, as well as glacial lakes, alpine meadows, and dense forests. Boat tours can be taken on Jackson Lake.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- American bison
- Elk
- Moose
- Bighorn sheep
- Mountain goat
- Black bear
- Grizzly bear
- Gray wolf
- Coyote
- Bald eagle
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Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park, located primarily in Wyoming but extending into Montana and Idaho, is the world’s first national park and is known for its geothermal features, including geysers, hot springs, and mud pots.
With its diverse ecosystems, which include forests, lakes, and rivers, Yellowstone is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species.
Visitors can explore the park’s iconic attractions, such as Old Faithful and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, and enjoy recreational activities such as hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, and fishing.
Examples Of Animals Found In The Park
- American bison
- Elk
- Moose
- Grizzly bear
- Black bear
- Gray wolf
- Coyote
- Pronghorn
- Bighorn sheep
- Bald eagle
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