When planning a trip to explore the natural wonders of the United States, you might be surprised to learn that not every state has a national park. Out of 63 national parks in the U.S. National Park System, some states are left without one, which might make you curious about which states lack these iconic outdoor destinations.
What states have no National Park? There are actually 20 states in the United States that do not have a national park. These include Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin.
As you venture through these states without national parks, don’t worry, there are still plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors and immerse yourself in the local ecosystems. Each state boasts its own hidden gems, including state parks, nature reserves, national historic sites and scenic byways, which provide a rich and diverse array of landscapes for you to discover.
By familiarizing yourself with the 20 states that don’t have a national park, you’ll be equipped to make informed decisions when planning your next adventure. In doing so, you may just uncover some lesser-known natural treasures that are well-worth exploring.
What States Have No National Park?
While many states in the United States boast one or more incredible national parks, there are still some that don’t have any. In this section, we will focus on the states without national parks and the main reasons for this phenomenon. It’s essential to remember that even though a state may not have a national park, it doesn’t mean that it lacks beautiful landscapes and natural attractions worth exploring.
List of States
Here’s a list of states that do not have national parks:
- Alabama
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Georgia
- Illinois
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Louisiana
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Mississippi
- Nebraska
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New York
- Oklahoma
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- Vermont
- Wisconsin
Even though these states don’t have national parks, they still have various state parks, national monuments, historic sites, and other protected areas that showcase their unique landscapes, flora, and fauna. So, when planning your next adventure, don’t overlook these states simply because they lack a national park—a diverse range of experiences still awaits you.
Idaho would also be on this list but for the tiny bit of Yellowstone National Park that crosses into the state.
Alternative Attractions
While some states in the U.S. may not have any national parks, there is still a wealth of alternative attractions that you can visit and enjoy. In this section, we’ll focus on four types of attractions: National Monuments, State Parks, National Forests, and Wildlife Refuges.
National Monuments
National Monuments offer you the opportunity to explore unique and interesting landscapes. For instance, if you find yourself in Kansas, consider visiting the Monument Rocks National Natural Landmark. This stunning geological formation will leave you in awe of its beauty.
State Parks
Without national parks in certain states, State Parks often become the highlights. In Iowa, take the chance to visit Maquoketa Caves State Park. Here, you can explore the caves and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Heading over to Massachusetts, make sure to stop by Great Falls Park for a scenic hike with stunning river views.
National Forests
National Forests provide you with vast expanses of preserved wilderness, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. In Idaho, the Salmon-Challis National Forest is a must-visit. This massive forest includes the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness, where you can truly immerse yourself in nature and experience a sense of solitude.
Wildlife Refuges
If you’re interested in wildlife watching and conservation, Wildlife Refuges should be at the top of your list. In Louisiana, there are numerous refuges where you can spot birds and other wildlife in their natural habitats. The state is known for its rich birdlife, so make sure to bring your binoculars and enjoy the show!
Reasons for Not Having National Parks
Lack of Federal Land
One reason for not having national parks in some states is the lack of federal land. National parks are designated and managed by the federal government, and they typically exist on federally owned and managed lands. In states where there is limited federal land, it may be more challenging to establish a national park. As you plan your travels, it’s essential to keep in mind that the availability of federally managed lands may impact the presence of national parks in various regions.
Population Density
Another factor that can contribute to the absence of national parks in certain states is population density. Highly populated areas make it less likely for large, undeveloped natural spaces to be preserved and designated as federal parks. As a result, states with higher population densities might not have national parks within their borders. When exploring densely populated states, it’s important to consider that urban development and increased population may have influenced the lack of national park presence.
Natural and Historical Significance
Lastly, the natural and historical significance of an area plays a crucial role in determining whether it can be designated as a national park. National parks are designed to preserve unique, ecologically or culturally significant sites. Some states may not have areas that meet these criteria for designation as a national park. While planning your adventures, remember that national parks are typically established to protect and showcase these extraordinary places and not all states may have suitable locations for this distinction.
Benefits of National Parks
Tourism and Economy
Visiting national parks can be a significant boost to your local and national economy. For every dollar taxpayers invest in the National Park Service (NPS), approximately $10 is returned to the U.S. economy. In 2019, U.S. parks generated $41.7 billion in economic output and supported over 340,000 jobs. By visiting these parks, you contribute to local businesses, such as hotels, restaurants, and shops. Furthermore, parks often collaborate to build partnerships with nearby communities, enhancing economic and tourism opportunities.
Conservation and Wildlife
National parks play a crucial role in preserving the natural environment, protecting wild habitats, and conserving native species. As a visitor, you can witness diverse ecosystems and unique wildlife, all within the protected confines of a park. The NPS and other organizations work tirelessly to ensure the conservation of these national treasures through various educational, scientific, and management programs.
By visiting a national park, you become one of the many people supporting conservation efforts. The parks aim to balance the needs of visitors with the protection of natural resources, taking measures to ensure minimal impact on the environment. For instance, visitor centers provide information on eco-friendly practices, maintaining trails, and minimally invasive camping.
In summation, your visit to a national park not only benefits the economy and tourism, but also contributes to crucial conservation work, helping to preserve these natural wonders for the enjoyment of future generations.
US National Parks by State
Here is a list of the 63 current National Parks by state: For more information, see the US National Parks Service.
Alaska National Parks
Denali National Park, Alaska
Gates of the Arctic National Park, Alaska
Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska
Katmai National Park, Alaska
Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska
Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska
Lake Clark National Park, Alaska
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, Alaska
American Samoa National Parks
National Park of American Samoa, American Samoa
Arizona National Parks
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
Saguaro National Park, Arizona
Arkansas National Parks
Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas
California National Parks
Channel Islands National Park, California
Death Valley National Park, California and Nevada
Joshua Tree National Park, California
Kings Canyon National Park, California
Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
Pinnacles National Park, California
Redwood National Park, California
Sequoia National Park, California
Yosemite National Park, California
Colorado National Parks
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado
Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado
Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado
Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Florida National Parks
Biscayne National Park, Florida
Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
Everglades National Park, Florida
Hawaii National Parks
Haleakala National Park, Hawaii
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii
Idaho National Parks
Yellowstone National Park, Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming
Kentucky National Parks
Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky
Indiana National Parks
Indiana Dunes National Park
Maine National Parks
Acadia National Park, Maine
Michigan National Parks
Isle Royale National Park, Michigan
Minnesota National Parks
Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota
Missouri National Parks
Gateway Arch National Park, Missouri
Montana National Parks
Glacier National Park, Montana
Yellowstone National Park, Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming
Nevada National Parks
Death Valley National Park, California and Nevada
Great Basin National Park, Nevada
New Mexico National Parks
Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico
White Sands National Park, New Mexico
North Dakota National Parks
Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota
North Carolina National Parks
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee
Ohio National Parks
Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
Oregon National Parks
Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
South Carolina National Parks
Congaree National Park, South Carolina
South Dakota National Parks
Badlands National Park, South Dakota
Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota
Tennessee National Parks
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee
Texas National Parks
Big Bend National Park, Texas
Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas
Utah National Parks
Arches National Park, Utah
Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
Canyonlands National Park, Utah
Capitol Reef National Park, Utah
Zion National Park, Utah
Virgin Islands National Parks
Virgin Islands National Park, Virgin Islands
Virginia National Parks
Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Washington National Parks
Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
North Cascades National Park, Washington
Olympic National Park, Washington
West Virginia National Parks
New River Gorge National Park, West Virginia
Wyoming National Parks
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Yellowstone National Park, Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming
Advocacy and Future Possibilities
Current Proposals
As you may know, there are currently 20 states in the United States without a national park. Advocacy groups and conservation organizations have been working to identify locations suitable for the establishment of new national parks in these states. Some of these proposals include creating parks to protect unique landscapes, wildlife habitats, and cultural landmarks. It is important that you stay informed about new developments and support initiatives that will protect and preserve the natural beauty of your state.
Related Articles
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- Guide To The Mighty 5 Utah National Parks
Public Support
Public support plays a crucial role in advocating for the creation of new national parks. You can participate in discussions, attend public meetings, and join environmental groups in your state to show your support for the establishment of new parks. Additionally, you can contribute by:
- Signing petitions that call for the establishment of new national parks in your state
- Supporting local and national advocacy groups working towards the parks’ creation
- Contacting your state and federal representatives to express your support for new parks
- Follow news and social media to stay informed on any developments or opportunities to participate in support actions.
Remember, your voice and active engagement in the advocacy process can make a difference in the future of national parks in your state and the United States.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which states have the most National Parks?
California has the most with nine national parks, followed by Alaska with eight national Parks, and Utah with five.
What are the most visited national Parks?
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited
What is the least visited National Park?
Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve in Alaska is the least visited national park, receiving approximately 11,000 visitors per year, due to its remote location and challenging accessibility.
How Many National Parks Are There?
There are currently 63 national parks in the United States.
What was the first National Park?
Yellowstone National Park was the very first NP in the world, dating back to 1872.
Is there a National Park named after a President?
Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota is named after the 26th president of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt, in honor of his dedication to preserving the natural beauty of the country.
Frank Foley
Frank is the Head Hubby, Daddy, and Fix-It Guy of the Roving Foleys clan. He ia an avid traveler and has spent over 5 years traveling full time with his family. he loves helping others learn about the RV life. He has also traveled in Europe, Asia, and Australia with his wife Grainne.