Acadia is full of breathtaking natural beauty and limitless outdoor activity, nestled on the wild coast of Maine. There is something for everyone to do in Acadia, from hiking and bicycling on more than 120 miles of trails to swimming and boating in the park’s pristine lakes and ponds.
Find Things to do at National Parks for Your Next Adventure
Visiting a national park is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse oneself in the natural environment and learn about its wondrous features. Whether you’re looking for the mighty peaks of the Rocky Mountains or the breathtaking scenery of the Grand Canyon, America’s national parks have you covered.
Of course, there’s more to national parks than scenic landscapes. They’re vital to our efforts to keep our natural resources and ecosystems safe. Many plant and animal species found in parks are critically endangered or threatened. National parks play a crucial role in ensuring the long-term viability of these species and the ecosystems in which they thrive, making them a valuable legacy gift to future generations.
National parks serve multiple purposes, including environmental protection, economic development, and social welfare. The tourist and outdoor recreation sectors benefit greatly from the billions of dollars in annual revenue generated by America’s national parks. The natural environment and time spent outside have been linked to improved physical and mental health, both of which can be facilitated by visits to national parks.
In that case, why go to a national park? National parks are great places to go if you want to learn about the environment, take in some breathtaking scenery, or do any combination of the two. Get your camera and your spirit of exploration ready, since a trip to a national park is an adventure you won’t soon forget.
National parks offer a wide variety of experiences for visitors. There are countless things to do in national parks, and the list becomes longer with each park’s unique set of features. The following are some of the most popular options:
HIKING & BACKPACKING
Many national parks provide trails that visitors can use to experience the park’s natural beauty up close and personal.
ROCK CLIMBING & BOULDERING
Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado and Joshua Tree in California offer excellent rock climbing and bouldering.
KAYAKING, RAFTING & FISHING
Acadia National Park in Maine and Olympic National Park in Washington are great places to go kayaking, rafting, and fishing.
WILDLIFE VIEWING
Many national parks are excellent places to view wildlife, such as bears, wolves, bison, birds, and many others.
CAMPING
Guests of several national parks can pitch a tent and spend the night under the stars in designated camping areas.
PHOTOGRAPHY
The incredible variety of landscapes and wildlife make national parks a popular attraction for photographers.
EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS
Many parks have ranger-led tours and programs to help visitors learn about the park’s history and natural features.
SCENIC DRIVES
Some national parks offer scenic drives so visitors can see the sights without leaving the comfort of their own vehicles.
Explore All of the National Park Locations
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American Samoa National Park, located in the center of the South Pacific, is a place of stunning natural beauty and deep cultural heritage. The park is a haven for those who enjoy being outside, with its beautiful beaches, clean waterways, and verdant woodlands.
Southeast Utah is home to Arches National Park, which is famous for its red rock landscapes and more than 2,000 natural sandstone arches. From hiking and camping to rafting, there are numerous reasons Arches National Park is exceptional.
Derived from the Lakota words “mako sica,” which translate to “bad lands,” this stretch of jagged canyons and buttes has traditionally been a harsh environment to travel through. Nowadays, Badlands National Park holds unique geological formations and fossils from ancient wildlife.
Big Bend National Park is a site of breathtaking natural beauty and boundless opportunities for outdoor adventure. It is situated in the middle of West Texas. Hikers, rock climbers, and people who simply like nature will find the park to be a veritable paradise due to the area’s rough mountains, deep valleys, and different ecosystems.
Biscayne National Park, which can be found to the south of Miami, is a haven for people who enjoy water sports such as snorkeling and diving. The park is a veritable underwater paradise thanks to its extensive coral reefs, mangrove forests, and miles upon miles of sandy beaches.
The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a place of natural beauty and geological spectacle, and it may be found in the western part of Colorado. The park is a paradise for hikers and rock climbers because of its deep canyon, its narrow canyon, and its towering cliffs.
Bryce Canyon National Park is a destination of astounding natural beauty and geological marvel, and it can be found in the southern part of the state of Utah. The park is a haven for rock climbers, hikers, and nature lovers thanks to its hoodoos, spires, and towering cliffs.
Canyonlands National Park is a breathtaking park that can be found in the southeast corner of Utah and is an absolute must-see location for everyone who enjoys being outside, going on hikes, and discovering new places.
Are you looking for a unique outdoor adventure that will take your breath away? Look no further than Capitol Reef National Park. Located in south-central Utah, this stunning park is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature, hiking, and exploring.
Carlsbad Caverns National Park in the southeast corner of New Mexico is a place that is both a natural wonder and a geological spectacle because of its many underground caves and caverns.
Channel Islands National Park is a region of remarkable natural beauty thanks to its rough coastline, deep gorges, various ecosystems and wide variety of landscapes, some of which include steep cliffs, sandy beaches, and deep valleys.
With its towering trees, deep canyons, and diverse ecosystems, Congaree National Park is a place of stunning natural beauty and a variety of landscapes, including old-growth forests, deep canyons, and swamps.
With its towering trees, deep canyons, and diverse ecosystems, Congaree National Park is a place of stunning natural beauty and a variety of landscapes, including old-growth forests, deep canyons, and swamps.
The Cuyahoga River is the centerpiece of the park, running through the heart and providing a home for a variety of plant and animal species. Visitors can explore the river on foot or by kayak, taking in the stunning views and diverse ecosystems.
Death Valley National Park, located in eastern California and western Nevada, is a place of stunning natural beauty and endless outdoor adventure. The park is home to a variety of must-see features.
Are you an adventure seeker looking for your next big challenge? Look no further than Denali National Park located in beautiful Alaska. With its towering peaks, deep forests, and endless outdoor adventures, the park is a paradise for hikers, climbers, and nature lovers.
Dry Tortugas National Park is home to a variety of stunning landscapes, including crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, and tropical forests. The park’s diverse ecosystems offer a range of habitats for a variety of plant and animal species.
Everglades National Park is a unique and stunning national park located in southern Florida. The park is home to a variety of ecosystems and is popular with outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like hiking, birdwatching, and boating.
Gates of the Arctic National Park is a stunning and unique national park located in the Arctic Circle in northern Alaska. The park is home to a variety of ecosystems, including tundra, forests, and mountains, and offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy.
Gateway Arch National Park is a stunning national park located in the heart of St. Louis, Missouri. The park is home to a variety of activities and experiences for visitors of all ages.
Glacier National Park is a stunning national park located in Montana, along the border with Canada. The park is home to a variety of ecosystems, including glaciers, forests, and alpine meadows, and offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy.
Glacier Bay National Park is a stunning national park located in the panhandle of southeastern Alaska. The park is home to a variety of ecosystems, including glaciers, forests, and marine environments, and offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy.
Grand Canyon National Park is a stunning national park located in Arizona that’s home to the Grand Canyon, a deep and breathtaking canyon carved by the Colorado River over millions of years. Visitors can enjoy hiking, rafting, and sightseeing.
Grand Teton National Park is a stunning national park located in Wyoming. The park is home to a variety of ecosystems, including forests, alpine meadows, and lakes, and offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy.
Great Basin National Park is a stunning national park located in Nevada. The park is home to a variety of ecosystems, including forests, alpine meadows, and caves, and offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy.
Great Sand Dunes National Park is a national park located in Colorado, home to the tallest sand dunes in North America, and ecosystems like forests, wetlands, and grasslands. Visitors can enjoy sandboarding, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a stunning national park located in the eastern United States, on the border of North Carolina and Tennessee. Visitors can enjoy camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a stunning national park located in Texas. The park is home to a variety of ecosystems, including forests, grasslands, and desert, and offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy.
Haleakala National Park is a stunning national park located on the island of Maui in Hawaii. The park is home to a variety of ecosystems, including forests, grasslands, and desert, and offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a stunning national park located on the island of Hawaii in Hawaii. The park is home to a variety of ecosystems, including forests, grasslands, and desert, and offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy.
Welcome to the heart of natural wonder in Arkansas, Hot Springs National Park. Immerse yourself in the serenity and beauty of hot springs, mountains, and forests, where adventure and relaxation come together in perfect harmony.
Nestled along the southern shore of Lake Michigan, Indiana Dunes National Park is a natural gem that offers breathtaking landscapes and a wealth of outdoor activities. From its rolling sand dunes to its lush forests and pristine beaches, this park is a true feast for the senses.
Nestled in the heart of Lake Superior, Isle Royale National Park is a true wilderness gem. From its rugged terrain and crystal-clear waters to its diverse wildlife and rich cultural history, this park is a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Joshua Tree National Park is a true desert wonderland that offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors. With its towering Joshua trees, awe-inspiring rock formations, and endless skies, this park is a nature lover’s dream come true.
Katmai National Park is a true wilderness wonderland that offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors. With its rugged terrain, crystal-clear waters, and diverse wildlife, this park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Welcome to Kenai Fjords National Park, where towering glaciers, crystal-clear waters, and diverse wildlife come together to create a truly magical experience. This park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a unique and unforgettable adventure for visitors.
Welcome to Kings Canyon National Park, a true gem hidden in the heart of California. With its breathtaking valleys, towering peaks, and diverse wildlife, this park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Welcome to Kobuk Valley National Park, a remote and pristine wilderness located in the heart of Alaska. This park is a true gem, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors who are looking for a true adventure.
Nestled in the heart of Alaska, Lake Clark National Park is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. This park offers a unique and unforgettable experience, with its stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and endless adventure opportunities.
Lassen Volcanic National Park is so scenic because of its unique geological features and diverse landscapes. The park is home to a variety of volcanic features, including geysers, hot springs, fumaroles, and mud pots. These features create a stunning and otherworldly landscape that is unlike anything else in the world.
Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in nature, history, and adventure. This park boasts the world’s largest cave system, and its unique underground landscape is a true marvel to behold.
Welcome to Mesa Verde National Park, where history, culture, and adventure come together in a breathtaking landscape. This park is home to some of the most well-preserved ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings in the world, offering a unique window into the lives of the people who lived here over 700 years ago.
Welcome to Mount Rainier National Park, where stunning natural beauty, adventure, and serenity await you. This park is home to the majestic 14,410-foot Mount Rainier, one of the most iconic peaks in the United States, as well as a diverse range of landscapes and ecosystems.
Welcome to New River Gorge National Park, where excitement, adventure, and breathtaking beauty await you. This park is home to one of the oldest rivers in the world, as well as a diverse range of landscapes and ecosystems.
Welcome to North Cascades National Park, where adventure and natural beauty collide. This park is home to towering peaks, pristine lakes, and breathtaking glaciers, making it the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Nestled in the Pacific Northwest, Olympic National Park is a place of unparalleled natural beauty and diverse landscapes. From its towering peaks and misty rainforests to its rugged coastline and alpine meadows, Olympic National Park is a place that has captured the hearts of visitors for generations.
Nestled in the heart of the American Southwest, Petrified Forest National Park is a place of unparalleled natural beauty and geological wonder. For centuries, visitors have been drawn to this unique landscape, with its colorful hills, towering mesas, and petrified wood that has captivated the imagination for generations.
Nestled in the rolling hills of Central California, Pinnacles National Park is a place of breathtaking beauty and geological wonder. With its towering spires, jagged cliffs, and rich variety of wildlife, Pinnacles National Park is a place that has captivated visitors for generations.
Embark on a journey to the rugged northern coast of California and experience the grandeur of Redwood National Park. Here, where towering redwoods soar towards the sky and pristine beaches stretch endlessly along the horizon, you will be swept away by the park’s stunning beauty and ecological significance.
Perched amidst the majestic Rockies, Rocky Mountain National Park is a place of pure enchantment. With its towering peaks, sparkling streams, and an array of breathtaking wildlife, this park is a true haven for nature lovers.
Nestled in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, Saguaro National Park is a land of rugged beauty and incredible adventure. With its towering cacti, rolling hills, and stunning sunsets, this park is a place like no other.
Nestled in the heart of California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, Sequoia National Park boasts over 400,000 acres of pristine wilderness, featuring towering sequoias, rugged mountains, deep canyons, and lush meadows.
Nestled in the heart of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah National Park’s 200,000 acres of rolling hills, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant forests offer a wealth of unforgettable activities for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Spanning over 70,000 acres of unspoiled wilderness, Theodore Roosevelt National Park honors the legacy of the 26th U.S. president and his profound love for the American West. This captivating destination offers an array of unforgettable activities for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Journey to the idyllic Virgin Islands National Park, a captivating haven of white-sand beaches, lush forests, and vibrant coral reefs nestled in the heart of the Caribbean. A true tropical paradise, offering an array of unforgettable activities for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Voyageurs National Park has a diverse landscape of interconnected waterways, lush forests, and rugged islands nestled along the border of Minnesota and Canada. Spanning over 218,000 acres, Voyageurs National Park offers a unique experience, as more than a third of the park is covered by water.
White Sands National Park is an otherworldly landscape of shimmering white gypsum dunes nestled in the heart of New Mexico’s Tularosa Basin. Encompassing 275 square miles of surreal dunes, White Sands National Park is the world’s largest gypsum dune field.
Wind Cave National Park is a hidden gem featuring one of the world’s longest and most complex cave systems, nestled in the heart of South Dakota’s Black Hills. Wind Cave National Park is world-renowned for its unique boxwork formations and intricate cave patterns, offering a range of unforgettable activities.
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is a vast wilderness encompassing towering mountain ranges, immense glaciers, and untamed rivers, located in the remote expanses of southeastern Alaska. As the largest national park in the United States, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park offers an unparalleled wilderness experience.
The iconic Yellowstone National Park, a diverse landscape of geothermal wonders, lush forests, and abundant wildlife, spanning across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. As the world’s first national park, Yellowstone offers unparalleled wilderness experiences.
Yosemite National Park has a vast landscape of granite cliffs, thundering waterfalls, and lush meadows nestled in the heart of California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains. An unparalleled wilderness experience with a range of unforgettable activities available for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Zion National Park is a vivid landscape of towering sandstone cliffs, narrow slot canyons, and serene desert oases, located in southwestern Utah. Zion National Park offers an unparalleled wilderness experience, providing a range of unforgettable activities for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.