Resources Archives - More Than Just Parks | National Parks Guides https://morethanjustparks.com/category/resources/ Start Your National Park Adventure Today Tue, 31 Dec 2024 17:17:32 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.2 https://morethanjustparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/cropped-MTJP500px-50x50.png Resources Archives - More Than Just Parks | National Parks Guides https://morethanjustparks.com/category/resources/ 32 32 155417817 COMPLETE National Parks List 2024 (Printable MAP + By State) https://morethanjustparks.com/list-of-national-parks-by-state/ https://morethanjustparks.com/list-of-national-parks-by-state/#comments Tue, 31 Dec 2024 17:15:53 +0000 https://morethanjustparks.com/?p=20874 A list of all 63 national parks by state in alphabetical order, a free printable national park map, national parks checklist, & more.

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Article Overview: List of National Parks by State, National Parks Map

The National Parks are one of America’s greatest treasures, best exports, and most incredible success stories. They are home to a wide diversity of special landscapes that have been set aside for all time by the United States. In this article we’ve compiled a complete US national parks list including the names of all 63 national parks.

You’ll also find free printable national park lists, national park checklists, national park maps, and more. For each national park on the list we’ve included basic information including its location, date established, size, up to date visitation statistics, and a few of the best things to do.

Beyond that we’ve included links to helpful articles for each of the listed national parks which include things like guides, maps, best hikes, places to stay, guidebooks, things to do, and more.


Table of Contents: List of National Parks by State & National Parks Maps

Table of Contents: List of National Parks by State & National Parks Maps


What Are National Parks?

The mission of the National Park Service is to “preserve unimpaired the natural and cultural resources and values of the National Park System for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations”.

Essentially this means that national parks should look the same 100 years from now as they do today. To that end, activities that would alter national parks in any way (mining, drilling, logging, etc) are prohibited.

Compare this to national forests for example where logging is permitted, hunting is allowed, oil can be drilled, etc. because national forests are managed under a technical rule called “multiple use”. That’s just a fancy way of saying they are managed for both preservation purposes (like the national parks) AND resource purposes.

For the sake of this national parks list, I will only be including the 63 national parks to make things simple. Chances are good that if you’re planning a national parks road trip with friends these are the places you’re most likely to go.


How Many National Parks Are There in the US?

What a lot of people don’t know is that there are actually 423 national park sites (or national park units) in the US which sounds like a lot. Here’s where things gets tricky.

That 423 number encompasses a plethora of important sites like national preserves, national monuments, national historic sites, and national memorials to name a few, but not all of these sites are technically national parks.

So, at the end of the day, there are only 63 official national parks in the US. Maybe we’ll get another soon! On this national parks list only the 63 official national parks will be included.


Newest National Park | Oldest National Park | Largest National Park | Smallest National Park | Most Visited | Least Visited | Alphabetical National Parks List | All 63 National Parks | By State | Download


National Parks Maps

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Maps of the National Parks

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National Parks Map / Map of the National Parks

Printable Checklist of the National Parks

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List of US National Parks (Alphabetical)

Click for National Parks by State instead


1. Acadia National Park

Location: Maine
Established: February 26, 1919
Size: 49,071.40 acres
Visitation: 4,069,098 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guide / Map / Hikes / Guidebook / Where to Stay / Video / Facts / Things to Do / Summer / Winter
Things To Do: The Bowl Trail, Precipice Trail, Bass Harbor Lighthouse
*Reservations required

acadia national park bass harbor lighthouse
Acadia National Park

READ: Best East Coast National Parks


2. National Park of American Samoa

Location: American Samoa
Established: October 31, 1988
Size: 8,256.67 acres
Visitation: 8,495 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Facts
Things To Do: Mount ‘Alava Trail, Pola Island Trail

american samoa national park
American Samoa National Park (NPS)

3. Arches National Park

Location: Utah
Established: November 12, 1971
Size: 76,678.98 acres
Visitation: 1,806,865 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Things to Do / Hikes / Map / Guidebook / Where to Stay / Facts / Road Trip
Things To Do: Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch, Devils Garden, Tower Arch
*Reservations required

arches national park utah
Arches National Park

4. Badlands National Park

Location: South Dakota
Established: November 10, 1978
Size: 242,755.94 acres
Visitation: 1,224,226 (2021)
Resources: Map / Guidebook / Guide / Things to Do / Hikes / Where to Stay / Video / Facts
Things To Do: Notch Trail, Bison Viewing, Castle Trail

big badlands overlook badlands national park south dakota
Badlands National Park | List of National Parks

5. Big Bend National Park

Location: Texas
Established: June 12, 1944
Size: 801,163.21 acres
Visitation: 581,220 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map | Guidebook | Where to Stay | Facts | Things to Do | Hikes
Things To Do: Saint Elena Canyon, Window Trail, Lost Mine Trail

big bend national park texas
Courtesy NPS | National Parks List

6. Biscayne National Park

Location: Florida
Established: June 28, 1980
Size: 172,971.11 acres
Visitation: 705,665 (2021)
Resources: Facts | Things to Do
Things To Do: Boating, Snorkeling, Scuba

biscayne national park florida
Courtesy NPS | National Parks List

7. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Location: Colorado
Established: October 21, 1999
Size: 30,779.83 acres
Visitation: 308,910 (2021)
Resources: Things to Do | Where to Stay | Facts
Things To Do: Rim Rock Trail, South Rim Road, Fishing

black canyon of the gunnison national park colorado
Black Canyon of the Gunnison | National Parks List

8. Bryce Canyon National Park

Location: Utah
Established: February 25, 1928
Size: 35,835.08 acres
Visitation: 2,104,600 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map | Guidebook | Road Trip | Where to Stay | Facts | Things to Do
Things To Do: Wall Street, Navajo Loop Trail, Inspiration Point

sunrise inspiration point, bryce canyon national park
Inspiration Point | National Parks List

9. Canyonlands National Park

Location: Utah
Established: September 12, 1964
Size: 337,597.83 acres
Visitation: 911,594 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map | Guidebook | Where to Stay | Things to Do | Hikes | Road Trip | Facts
Things To Do: Upheaval Dome, Green River Overlook, Mesa Arch

mesa arch canyonlands national park
Mesa Arch | National Parks List

10. Capitol Reef National Park

Location: Utah
Established: December 18, 1971
Size: 241,904.50 acres
Visitation: 1,405,353 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map / Guidebook / Things to Do / Where to Stay / Facts / Road Trip
Things To Do: Cassidy Arch, Hickman Bridge, Capitol Gorge

hickman bridge, capitol reef national park utah
Hickman Bridge

11. Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Location: New Mexico
Established: May 14, 1930
Size: 46,766.45 acres
Visitation: 349,244 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Facts | Things to Do
Things To Do: Cave Tours, Natural Entrance Hike, Bat Viewing

carlsbad caverns national park new mexico
Courtesy NPS

12. Channel Islands National Park

Location: California
Established: March 5, 1980
Size: 249,561.00 acres
Visitation: 319,252 (2021)
Resources: Where to Stay | Facts
Things To Do: Inspiration Point, Ferry Tour, Anacapa Island

scuba diving channel islands national park california
Courtesy NPS

13. Congaree National Park

Location: South Carolina
Established: November 10, 2003
Size: 26,692.60 acres
Visitation: 215,181 (2021)
Resources: Things to Do | Facts
Things To Do: Congaree River Blue Trail, Bluff Trail, Birding

congaree national park south carolina
Courtesy NPS

14. Crater Lake National Park

Location: Oregon
Established: May 22, 1902
Size: 183,224.05 acres
Visitation: 647,751 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Things to Do | Facts | Map
Things To Do: Rim Drive, Wizard Island Ferry, Watchman Peak

crater lake national park oregon
Crater Lake

15. Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Location: Ohio
Established: October 11, 2000
Size: 32,571.88 acres
Visitation: 2,575,275 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guidebook | Things to Do | Facts
Things To Do: Brandywine Falls, Towpath Trail, Blue Hen Falls

cuyahoga valley national park ohio
Courtesy NPS | National Parks List

16. Death Valley National Park

Location: California
Established: October 31, 1994
Size: 3,408,395.63 acres
Visitation: 1,146,551 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guide / Map / Guidebook / Things to Do / Facts / Camping / Where to Stay / Video
Things To Do: Badwater Basin, Zabriskie Point, Eureka Dunes, Artists Palette

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Furnace Creek | National Parks List

17. Denali National Park

Location: Alaska
Established: February 26, 1917
Size: 4,740,911.16 acres
Visitation: 229,521 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map | Guidebook | Facts | Things to Do
Things To Do: Denali Park Road, Wildlife Viewing, Thorofare Ridge Trail

denali national park alaska
Courtesy NPS | National Parks List

18. Dry Tortugas National Park

Location: Florida
Established: October 26, 1992
Size: 64,701.22 acres
Visitation: 83,817 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guide | Facts
Things To Do: Fort Jefferson, Snorkeling, Ferry Ride

dry tortguas national park florida
Courtesy NPS | National Parks List

19. Everglades National Park

Location: Florida
Established: May 30, 1934
Size: 1,508,938.57 acres
Visitation: 942,130 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guide | Map | Things to Do | Guidebook | Facts
Things To Do: Shark Valley, Anhinga Trail, Kayaking

everglades national park florida
Courtesy NPS | National Parks List

20. Gates of the Arctic National Park

Location: Alaska
Established: December 2, 1980
Size: 7,523,897.45 acres
Visitation: 7,362 (2021) 63/63 – Least Visited
Our Favorite Resources: Guide | Facts | Map
Things To Do: Wildlife Viewing, Flightseeing

gates of the arctic national park alaska
Courtesy NPS | National Parks List

21. Gateway Arch National Park

Location: Missouri
Established: February 22, 2018
Size: 91 acres (Smallest)
Visitation: 1,145,081 (2021)
Resources: National Parks Ranked (it’s last) | Facts
Things To Do: Ride the Elevator

gateway arch national park missouri
Courtesy NPS | National Parks List

22. Glacier National Park

Location: Montana
Established: May 11, 1910
Size: 1,013,126.39 acres
Visitation: 3,081,656 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map / Guidebook / Things to Do / Hikes / Where to Stay / Itinerary / Facts
Things To Do: Going to the Sun Road, Swiftcurrent Lake, Grinnell Glacier Trail
*Reservations required

grinnell glacier, things to do glacier national park
Courtesy NPS | National Parks List

23. Glacier Bay National Park

Location: Alaska
Established: December 2, 1980
Size: 3,223,383.43 acres
Visitation: 89,768 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guide | Facts
Things To Do: Boat Tour, Bartlett Cove, Whale Watching

glacier bay national park alaska
Courtesy NPS | National Parks List

24. Grand Canyon National Park

Location: Arizona
Established: February 26, 1919
Size: 1,201,647.03 acres
Visitation: 4,532,677 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map / Guidebook / Things to Do / Hikes / Best Views / Closest Cities / South Rim / North Rim / Where to Stay / Winter / Facts
Things To Do: Mather Point, Bright Angel Trail, Cape Royal, Desert View Watchtower

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Cape Royal | National Parks List

25. Grand Teton National Park

Location: Wyoming
Established: February 26, 1929
Size: 310,044.36 acre
Visitation: 3,885,230 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guide / Maps / Guidebook / Hikes / Things to Do / Where to Stay / Video / Facts
Things To Do: Snake River Overlook, Schwabacher Landing, Oxbow Bend, Phelps Lake

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Snake River Overlook | National Parks List

26. Great Basin National Park

Location: Nevada
Established: October 27, 1986
Size: 77,180.00 acres
Visitation: 144,875 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map | Facts | Things to Do
Things To Do: See the Glacier, Ancient Bristlecone Forest, Lehman Caves

great basin national park nevada
Great Basin National Park | National Parks List

27. Great Sand Dunes National Park

Location: Colorado
Established: September 24, 2004
Size: 107,345.73 acres
Visitation: 602,613 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map / Guidebook / Things to Do / Where to Stay / Facts
Things To Do: Star Dune, Sand Lakes, Mosca Pass

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Great Sand Dunes National Park | National Parks List

28. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Location: Tennessee, North Carolina
Established: June 15, 1934
Size: 522,426.88 acres
Visitation: 14,161,548 (2021) – #1 Most Visited
Our Favorite Resources: Map / Guidebook / Guide / Things to Do / Hikes / Where to Stay / Video / Facts
Things To Do: Cades Cove, Clingman’s Dome, Wildlife Viewing

mingus mill - more than just parks
Mingus Mill | National Parks List

29. Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Location: Texas
Established: October 15, 1966
Size: 86,367.10 acres
Visitation: 243,291 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map | Facts
Things To Do: Guadalupe Peak, Salt Basin Dunes, Devil’s Hall Trail

guadalupe mountains national park texas
Guadalupe Mountains National Park | National Parks List

30. Haleakala National Park

Location: Hawaii
Established: July 1, 1961
Size: 33,264.62 acres
Visitation: 853,181 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guide / Things to Do / Guidebook / Map / Where to Stay / Video / Facts
Things To Do: Haleakala Crater, Waimoku Falls, Pipiwai Trail
*Reservations required

haleakala national park bamboo forest maui, hawaii
Bamboo Forest | National Parks List

31. Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

Location: Hawaii
Established: August 1, 1916
Size: 325,605.28 acres
Visitation: 1,262,747 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guide / Map / Guidebook / Things to Do / Where to Stay / Video / Facts
Things To Do: Crater Rim Road, Thurston Lava Tube, Kilauea Crater

hawaii volcanoes national park things to do
Kilauea Crater | National Parks List

32. Hot Springs National Park

Location: Arkansas
Established: March 4, 1921
Size: 5,554.15 acres
Visitation: 2,162,884 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Things to Do | Facts
Things To Do: Bathhouse Row, Display Spring, Grand Promenade

hot springs national park arkansas
Courtesy NPS | National Parks List

33. Indiana Dunes National Park

Location: Indiana
Established: February 15, 2019
Size: 15,349.08 acres
Visitation: 3,177,210 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Facts | Things to Do
Things To Do: Dunes Succession Trail, Portage Lakefront & Riverwalk, Birding

national parks near chicago, indiana dunes national park, beach, lake michigan-1848559.jpg
Courtesy NPS

34. Isle Royale National Park

Location: Michigan
Established: April 3, 1940
Size: 571,790.30 acres
Visitation: 25,844 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map | Facts | Things to Do
Things To Do: Ferry Ride, Rock Harbor, Scoville Point

isle royale national park michigan
Courtesy NPS

35. Joshua Tree National Park

Location: California
Established: October 31, 1994
Size: 795,155.85 acres
Visitation: 3,064,400 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guide / Hikes / Things to Do / Map / Guidebook / Where to Stay / Video / Facts
Things To Do: Warren Peak, Cholla Cactus Garden, Jumbo Rocks

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Joshua Tree National Park

36. Katmai National Park

Location: Alaska
Established: December 2, 1980
Size: 3,674,529.33 acres
Visitation: 24,764 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guide | Map | Facts
Things To Do: Bear Viewing, Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, Flightseeing

katmai national park brooks falls
Courtesy NPS

37. Kenai Fjords National Park

Location: Alaska
Established: December 2, 1980
Size: 669,650.05 acres
Visitation: 411,782 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map / Guidebook / Facts / Things to Do
Things To Do: Exit Glacier, Harding Ice Field, Boat Tour

kenai fjords national park exit glacier
Exit Glacier | Kenai Fjords National Park

38. Kings Canyon National Park

Location: California
Established: March 4, 1940
Size: 461,901.20 acres
Visitation: 562,918 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Things to Do | Facts | General Grant Tree
Things To Do: General Grant Tree, Generals Highway, Backpacking

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General Grant Tree | Kings Canyon National Park

39. Kobuk Valley National Park

Location: Alaska
Established: December 2, 1980
Size: 1,750,716.16 acres
Visitation: 11,540 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guide | Facts
Things To Do: Flightseeing, Guided Tours

kobuk valley national park alaska
Courtesy NPS

40. Lake Clark National Park

Location: Alaska
Established: December 2, 1980
Size: 2,619,816.49 acres
Visitation: 18,278 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guide | Map
Things To Do: Wildlife Viewing, Fishing, Flightseeing

lake clark national park alaska
Courtesy NPS

41. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Location: California
Established: August 9, 1916
Size: 106,589.02 acres
Visitation: 359,635 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map | Facts | Things to Do
Things To Do: Bumpass Hell, Manzanita Lake, Devastated Area

Manzanita Lake, Lassen Volcanic National Park California
Manzanita Lake

42. Mammoth Cave National Park

Location: Kentucky
Established: July 1, 1941
Size: 54,016.29 acres
Visitation: 515,774 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map | Facts | Things to Do
Things To Do: Cave Tours

mammoth cave kentucky national parks
Courtesy NPS

43. Mesa Verde National Park

Location: Colorado
Established: June 29, 1906
Size: 52,485.17 acres
Visitation: 548,477 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map | Things to Do | Where to Stay | Facts
Things To Do: Cliff Palace, Long House, Balcony House

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Cliff Palace

44. Mount Rainier National Park

Location: Washington
Established: March 2, 1899
Size: 236,381.64 acres
Visitation: 1,670,063 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map / Guidebook / Hikes / Things to Do / Paradise / Facts / Where to Stay
Things To Do: Mt Fremont Lookout, Skyline Trail, Pinnacle Peak
*Reservations required

pinnacle peak trail, mount rainier national park washington
Mount Rainier National Park | National Parks List

For some amazing Mt. Rainier facts including the time a guy landed a plane on the summit, check out our post: 10+ (AMAZING) Mount Rainier National Park Facts You Probably Didn’t Know.


45. New River Gorge National Park

Location: West Virginia
Established: December 27, 2020
Size: 7,021 acres
Visitation: 1,682,720 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map | Guidebook | Facts | Things to Do
Things To Do: Rafting, Long Point Trail, Bridgewalk

About This National Park

America’s newest National Park is West Virginia’s first and it’s a beauty! New River Gorge has lots of great recreational opportunities including rafting, kayaking, fishing, canoeing, hiking, and more.

The fall foliage here is magnificent with bright reds, oranges, and yellows filling the gorge.

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New River Gorge

46. North Cascades National Park

Location: Washington
Established: October 2, 196
Size: 504,780.94 acres
Visitation: 17,855 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map / Guidebook / Where to Stay / Things to Do / Best Hikes / Facts
Things To Do: Diablo Lake, Maple Pass, Blue Lake

north cascades national park washington mt shuksan
Mt Shuksan

47. Olympic National Park

Location: Washington
Established: June 29, 193
Size: 922,649.41 acres
Visitation: 2,718,925 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guide / Map / Guidebook / Things to Do / Hikes / Where to Stay / Video
Things To Do: Ruby Beach, Hurricane Ridge, Hoh Rainforest, Mount Storm King

grand lake olympic national park washington
Obstruction Point

48. Petrified Forest National Park

Location: Arizona
Established: December 9, 1962
Size: 221,390.21 acres
Visitation: 590,334 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guidebook | Where to Stay | Facts
Things To Do: Blue Mesa, Painted Desert, Crystal Forest Trail

petrified forest national park arizona
Courtesy NPS

49. Pinnacles National Park

Location: California
Established: January 10, 2013
Size: 26,685.73 acres
Visitation: 348,857 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Things to Do | Facts
Things To Do: Bear Gulch, Condor Viewing, Climbing

lower bear gulch pinnacles national park california
Courtesy NPS

50. Redwood National Park

Location: California
Established: October 2, 1968
Size: 138,999.37 acres
Visitation: 435,879 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Things to Do / Hikes / Guide / Map / Guidebook / Where to Stay / Photos / Facts / Near San Francisco
Seasons: Winter / Spring / Fall
Things To Do: Stout Grove, Lady Bird Johnson Grove, Avenue of the Giants

lady bird johnson grove
Lady Bird Johnson Grove

51. Rocky Mountain National Park

Location: Colorado
Established: January 26, 1915
Size: 265,807.24 acres
Visitation: 4,434,848 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guide / Map / Guidebook / Hikes / Things to Do / Where to Stay / Video / Facts
Things To Do: Elk Viewing | Dream, Nymph, Emerald Lakes Trail | Sky Pond
*Reservations required

emerald lake rocky mountain national park colorado
Dream Lake | List of National Parks

52. Saguaro National Park

Location: Arizona
Established: October 14, 1994
Size: 92,867.42 acres
Visitation: 1,079,786 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guide / Hikes / Things to Do / Map / Guidebook / Where to Stay / Video / Facts
Things To Do: Wassen Peak Trail, Desert Ecology Nature Trail, Signal Hill Petroglyphs

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Saguaro National Park | List of National Parks

53. Sequoia National Park

Location: California
Established: September 25, 1890 (#2)
Size: 404,062.63 acres
Visitation: 1,059,548 (2021)
My Favorite Resources: Map / Guidebook / Things to Do / Hikes / Facts / Where to Stay / General Sherman Tree
Things To Do: Big Trees Trail, Congress Trail, Moro Rock

big trees trail sequoia national park california
Big Trees Trail

54. Shenandoah National Park

Location: Virginia
Established: December 26, 1935
Size: 200,192.09 acres
Visitation: 1,592,312 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map | Guidebook | Things to Do | Facts
Things To Do: Skyline Drive, Dark Hollow Falls, Old Rag Mountain
*Reservations required

shenandoah national park virginia
Courtesy NPS | List of National Parks

55. Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Location: North Dakota
Established: November 10, 1978
Size: 70,446.89 acres
Visitation: 796,085 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guide / Things to Do / Video / Facts
Things To Do: Oxbow Overlook, Cannonball Creations, Wildlife Viewing

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Theodore Roosevelt National Park | List of National Parks

56. Virgin Islands National Park

Location: US Virgin Islands
Established: August 2, 1956
Size: 15,052.33 acres
Visitation: 323,999 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guide | Things to Do | Map | Guidebook | Video | Facts
Things To Do: Reef Bay Trail, Maho Bay, Trunk Bay

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Cruz Bay | List of National Parks

57. Voyageurs National Park

Location: Minnesota
Established: April 8, 1975
Size: 218,222.35 acres
Visitation: 243,042 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map / Guide / Things to Do / Camping / Where to Stay / Video / Facts
Things To Do: Locator Lake Trail, Ellsworth Rock Garden, Grassy Bay Cliffs

Kabetogama Lake Overlook Voyageurs National Park
Voyageurs National Park | List of National Parks

58. White Sands National Park

Location: New Mexico
Established: December 20, 2019
Size: 146,344.31 acres
Visitation: 782,469 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Facts | Things to Do
Things To Do: Interdune Boardwalk, Dune Life Nature Trail, Dune Sledding

white sands national park new mexico
Courtesy NPS | List of National Parks

59. Wind Cave National Park

Location: South Dakota
Established: January 9, 1903
Size: 33,970.84 acres
Visitation: 709,001 (2021
Our Favorite Resources: Things to Do | Video | Facts | Map
Things To Do: Natural Entrance Tour, Fairgrounds Tour, Rankin Ridge Trail

wind cave national park natural entrance tour
Wind Cave | List of National Parks

60. Wrangell St. Elias National Park

Location: Alaska
Established: December 2, 1980
Size: 13.2 million acres (#1) – Largest
Visitation: 50,189 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guide | Map | Guidebook | Facts
Things To Do: Flightseeing, Fishing, Wildlife Viewing

wrangell st elias national park alaska
Courtesy NPS

61. Yellowstone National Park

Location: Wyoming
Established: March 1, 1872 (#1) – Oldest
Size: 2,219,790.71 acres
Visitation: 4,860,242 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map / Guidebook / Things to Do / Hikes / Facts / Airports / Where to Stay / Itinerary / Fall
Things To Do: Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic, Lamar Valley

geyser basin, things to do yellowstone national park
List of National Parks | Courtesy NPS

62. Yosemite National Park

Location: California
Established: October 1, 1890
Size: 761,747.50 acres
Visitation: 3,287,595 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map / Guidebook / Facts / Where to Stay / Things to Do / Best Hikes / Fall
Things To Do: Glacier Point, Tunnel View, Half Dome
*Reservations required

tunnel view yosemite national park california
Tunnel View | List of National Parks

63. Zion National Park

Location: Utah
Established: November 19, 1919
Size: 147,242.66 acres
Visitation: 5,039,835 (2021)
My Favorite Resources: Guide | Things to Do | Hikes | Map | Guidebook | Where to Stay | Road Trip | Itinerary
Things To Do: The Narrows, Angels Landing, Lava Point, Big Bend
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Canyon Overlook

List of National Parks by State


Alaska National Parks

Alaska is home to 8 national parks making it the state with the second most national parks in the country. However, as mentioned earlier, it has more national park land area than any state by a long shot.

  1. Denali National Park, Alaska
  2. Gates of the Arctic National Park, Alaska
  3. Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska
  4. Katmai National Park, Alaska
  5. Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska
  6. Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska
  7. Lake Clark National Park, Alaska
  8. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, Alaska

Interested in Alaska’s jaw-dropping national parks? Read: How to Visit All 8 Epic Alaska National Parks

glacier bay national park alaska, list of national parks by state
Glacier Bay National Park | List of National Parks by State

American Samoa National Parks

There is only one national park in American Samoa.

Located in the South Pacific, American Samoa is the furthest national park from the US mainland and the only US national park south of the equator. Flights to this tropical paradise typically range over $2,000.

  1. National Park of American Samoa
american samoa national park
(courtesy NPS)

Arizona National Parks

There are three national parks in Arizona.

  1. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
  2. Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
  3. Saguaro National Park, Arizona
sunset grand canyon national park
Grand Canyon National Park

National Monuments Ranked: ALL 128 US National Monuments Ranked (Best to Worst)


Arkansas National Parks

There is one national park in Arkansas.

  1. Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas
hot springs national park arkansas
(courtesy NPS)

California National Parks

California is home to 9 national parks making it the state with the most national parks in America.

  1. Channel Islands National Park, California
  2. Death Valley National Park, California & Nevada
  3. Joshua Tree National Park, California
  4. Kings Canyon National Park, California
  5. Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
  6. Pinnacles National Park, California
  7. Redwood National Park, California
  8. Sequoia National Park, California
  9. Yosemite National Park, California
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Redwood National Park | List of National Parks by State

Colorado National Parks

There are four national parks in Colorado.

  1. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado
  2. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado
  3. Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado
  4. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Colorado National Parks: These 4 Colorado National Parks Will Blow Your Mind


Florida National Parks

  1. Biscayne National Park, Florida
  2. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
  3. Everglades National Park, Florida

RELATED: ALL of Florida’s National Parks RANKED 2021 (+ video)

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Florida National Parks List

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Hawaii National Parks

  1. Haleakala National Park, Hawaii
  2. Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii

RELATED: ALL of Hawaii’s National Parks RANKED 2021 (+ video)

hawaii volcanoes national park
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Idaho National Parks

  1. Yellowstone National Park, Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming
yellowstone national park

Indiana National Parks

  1. Indiana Dunes National Park
national parks near chicago, indiana dunes national park, beach, lake michigan-1848559.jpg
(courtesy NPS)

Kentucky National Parks

  1. Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky
mammoth cave kentucky national parks

Maine National Parks

  1. Acadia National Park, Maine
acadia national park bass harbor lighthouse

Michigan National Parks

  1. Isle Royale National Park, Michigan
isle royale national park michigan

Minnesota National Parks List

  1. Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota
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Northern Lights over Voyageurs | List of National Parks

Missouri National Parks

  1. Gateway Arch National Park, Missouri
gateway arch national park
(courtesy wikimedia)

Montana National Parks

  1. Glacier National Park, Montana
  2. Yellowstone National Park, Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming
grinnell glacier, things to do glacier national park
(courtesy NPS)

Nevada National Parks

  1. Death Valley National Park, California and Nevada
  2. Great Basin National Park, Nevada
great basin national park nevada

New Mexico National Parks

  1. Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico
  2. White Sands National Park, New Mexico
white sands national park new mexico
(courtesy NPS)

North Dakota National Parks

  1. Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota
riverbend overlook theodore roosevelt national park north dakota

North Carolina National Parks

  1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee
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Ohio National Parks

  1. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
cuyahoga valley national park ohio
Cuyahoga Valley National Park (courtesy nps)

Oregon National Parks

  1. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
crater lake national park oregon

South Carolina National Parks

  1. Congaree National Park, South Carolina
congaree national park south carolina
(courtesy NPS)

South Dakota National Parks

  1. Badlands National Park, South Dakota
  2. Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota
big badlands overlook sunrise

Tennessee National Parks

  1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee
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Texas National Parks

rio grande river, texas, big bend national park-1581917.jpg
(courtesy NPS) | List of National Parks
  1. Big Bend National Park, Texas
  2. Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas

Utah National Parks

Utah is home to 5 national parks referred to as “the mighty 5”.

  1. Arches National Park, Utah
  2. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
  3. Canyonlands National Park, Utah
  4. Capitol Reef National Park, Utah
  5. Zion National Park, Utah

RELATED: ALL of Utah’s MIGHTY 5 National Parks RANKED 2021 (+ video)

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Zion National Park Utah | List of National Parks

US Virgin Islands National Parks

  1. Virgin Islands National Park, Virgin Islands
virgin islands national park trunk bay sunset

Virginia National Parks

  1. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
shenandoah national park virginia
(courtesy NPS)

Washington National Parks

Washington is home to 3 national parks which are among the best in the world.

  1. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
  2. North Cascades National Park, Washington
  3. Olympic National Park, Washington
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Olympic National Park | National Parks by State List

West Virginia National Parks

  1. New River Gorge National Park, West Virginia
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Wyoming National Parks

  1. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
  2. Yellowstone National Park, Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming
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Printable List of the National Parks

Download a simple printable list of national parks below.

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Download and print this national parks list below

Download this Printable List of National Parks in alphabetical order (by park): PDF | JPG


Plain Printable Checklist of National Parks (Alphabetical)

printable checklist of national parks
Download this printable national parks checklist

Download this Printable Checklist of National Parks in alphabetical order: PDF | JPG


US National Parks List: Newest National Parks

  1. New River Gorge National Park
  2. White Sands National Park
  3. Indiana Dunes National Park
  4. Gateway Arch National Park
  5. Pinnacles National Park
  6. Great Sand Dunes National Park
  7. Congaree National Park
  8. Cuyahoga Valley National Park
  9. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
  10. Death Valley National Park

US National Parks List: Oldest National Parks

  1. Yellowstone National Park
  2. Sequoia National Park
  3. Yosemite National Park
  4. Mount Rainier National Park
  5. Crater Lake National Park
  6. Wind Cave National Park
  7. Mesa Verde National Park
  8. Glacier National Park
  9. Rocky Mountain National Park
  10. Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

States Without Any National Parks

  1. Alabama
  2. Connecticut
  3. Delaware
  4. Georgia
  5. Iowa
  6. Illinois
  7. Kansas
  8. Louisiana
  9. Maryland
  10. Massachusetts
  11. Mississippi
  12. Nebraska
  13. New Jersey
  14. New York
  15. New Hampshire
  16. Oklahoma
  17. Pennsylvania
  18. Rhode Island
  19. Vermont
  20. Wisconsin

Alphabetical 63 National Parks Checklist by State

  1. Acadia National Park, Maine
  2. National Park of American Samoa, American Samoa
  3. Arches National Park, Utah
  4. Badlands National Park, South Dakota
  5. Big Bend National Park, Texas
  6. Biscayne National Park, Florida
  7. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado
  8. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
  9. Canyonlands National Parks, Utah
  10. Capitol Reef National Park, Utah
  11. Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico
  12. Channel Islands National Park, California
  13. Congaree National Park, South Carolina
  14. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
  15. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
  16. Death Valley National Park, California
  17. Denali National Park, Alaska
  18. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
  19. Everglades National Park, Florida
  20. Gates of the Arctic National Park, Alaska
  21. Gateway Arch National Park, Missouri
  22. Glacier National Park, Montana
  23. Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska
  24. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
  25. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
  26. Great Basin National Park, Nevada
  27. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado
  28. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee
  29. Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas
  30. Haleakala National Park, Hawaii
  31. Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii
  32. Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas
  33. Indiana Dunes National Park, Indiana
  34. Isle Royale National Park, Michigan
  35. Joshua Tree National Park, California
  36. Katmai National Park, Alaska
  37. Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska
  38. Kings Canyon National Park, California
  39. Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska
  40. Lake Clark National Park, Alaska
  41. Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
  42. Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky
  43. Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado
  44. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
  45. New River Gorge National Park, West Virginia
  46. North Cascades National Park, Washington
  47. Olympic National Park, Washington
  48. Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
  49. Pinnacles National Park, California
  50. Redwood National Park, California
  51. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
  52. Saguaro National Park, Arizona
  53. Sequoia National Park, California
  54. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
  55. Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota
  56. Virgin Islands National Park, US Virgin Islands
  57. Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota
  58. White Sands National Park, New Mexico
  59. Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota
  60. Wrangell St. Elias National Park, Alaska
  61. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
  62. Yosemite National Park, California
  63. Zion National Park, Utah

List of National Parks FAQ

How many national parks are in the US?

There are currently 63 official national parks in the US.

What is the newest national park?

Established in 2020, the newest national park in the US is New River Gorge National Park in West Virginia.

What is the oldest national park?

Established in 1872, Yellowstone is the oldest national park in the world.

Is there a national park in every state?

No, not every state has a national park. Currently 20 states do not yet have a national park: Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, & Wisconsin.

What state has the most national parks?

The state with the most national parks is California with 9.

What is the largest national park?

The largest national park is Wrangell St. Elias National Park (13.2 million acres).

What is the smallest national park?

The smallest national park is Gateway Arch National Park (91 acres)


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See Our Full National Park Rankings

We actually ranked ALL 63 National Parks from best to worst in a separate article. If you’re curious how the parks stacked up, click here!


The National Parks System

The national park system is full of incredible places that constitute the all-important natural and cultural heritage of the United States.

These special places, from Gettysburg National Military Park to Yosemite National Park, are of immense importance and are equally deserving of preservation and administration that fits their unique place in the story of this country.

So whether your favorite national park service unit is a national park, a national monument, a national recreation area, or any other type of designation, the point is they’re all important, but there’s only 63 congressionally-designated “national parks”.

voyageurs campfire, list of national parks by state
A campfire at Voyageurs National Park | National Parks Listed by State

Why Listen to Us About the National Parks?

You should probably know that we don’t just make this stuff up out of thin air. We’ve spent our entire adult lives exploring and filming America’s national parks and public lands.

We’ve worked with the National Park Service, the Department of Interior, and the U.S. Forest Service for years creating films on important places and issues.

Our work has been featured in leading publications all over the world and even some people outside of our immediate family call us experts on the national parks.

pattiz brothers badlands national park south dakota
Jim (left) and Will (right) of More Than Just Parks

We’re Jim Pattiz and Will Pattiz, collectively known as the Pattiz Brothers.

Our goal here at More Than Just Parks is to share the beauty of America’s national parks and public lands through stunning short films in an effort to get Americans and the world to see the true value in land conservation.


And a bonus! Tips for Visiting a National Park


Permit Systems and Reservations

Check to see if the national park you’re visiting has a permit or reservation system in place before visiting. As parks become increasingly crowded more has to be done to safeguard them which means controlling the hundreds of millions of people who visit these places each year.

Popular national parks with reservation systems of some kind include Yosemite, Yellowstone, Zion, Rocky Mountain, Glacier, Arches, Acadia, Denali, and more.

Want Less Crowds? Try a National Forest!

Try visiting a national forest while you’re on your trip to avoid the crowds. There are 155 national forests in America, many of which are equally as beautiful as the national parks they neighbor and only see a fraction of the visitors.

For example, try the Flathead National Forest next to Glacier National Park, the Bridger-Teton next to Grand Teton, and the Dixie which borders nearly all of the Utah National Parks.

Practice Safety, Seriously

National parks are amazing but wild places so it is essential to practice basic safety while visiting them. Every year people die while vacationing in national parks. This is easily avoided by:

  • Sticking to trails
  • Checking the weather before going out on a hike
  • Maintaining a safe distance between wildlife which means at least 25 yards from most wildlife and 100 yards from predators
  • Avoid ledges with steep drop offs

More Helpful Information on the National Parks

List of National Monuments: Ultimate List of National Monuments (Alphabetical + By State)
How Many National Parks: How Many National Parks Are There Exactly (Detailed Guide)
Best National Parks Ranked: ALL 63 US NATIONAL PARKS RANKED By Experts
Best National Monuments: All 128 US National Monuments Ranked (Best to Worst)
Largest National Parks: 15 Largest National Parks in the United States (+ Full List)
Most Visited National Parks: Top 10 Most Visited US National Parks
Least Visited National Parks: Top 10 Least Visited National Parks
Best East Coast National Parks: Top 10 Best East Coast National Parks Ranked
Best National Park Road Trips: 10 Best National Park Road Trips

The post COMPLETE National Parks List 2024 (Printable MAP + By State) appeared first on More Than Just Parks | National Parks Guides.

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https://morethanjustparks.com/list-of-national-parks-by-state/feed/ 18 20874 COMPLETE National Parks List 2024 (+ Printable MAP) List of all 63 national parks by state, in alphabetical order, a free printable national park map, national parks checklist, & more. list,map,National Parks,List of National Parks by state national-parks-map2 national-parks-map national-park-checklist-map-more-than-just-parks1 national-parks-map-framed-morethanjustparks2 national-parks-map-wooden-hanger-morethanjustparks national-parks-map-print-morethanjustparks4 framed-national-parks-checklist-map-morethanjustparks national-parks-map2-border national-parks-map2 national-parks-map-blue-square2 national-parks-map-blue-square2B usa-national-parks-map-green-square3 national-parks-map-rainbow-square2 national-parks-checklist-3500 national-parks-checklist3B acadia national park bass harbor lighthouse american-samoa-national-park-nps1 DSC00039 DSC07852 big-bend-national-park-nps1 biscayne-national-park-nps1 (NPS) black-canyon-gunnison sunrise bryce canyon national park mesa arch canyonlands national park hickman bridge, capitol reef national park utah carlsbad-caverns-nps scuba diving channel islands national park california congaree crater lake national park oregon cuyahoga-valley-national-park-nps death valley national park denali national park alaska dry-tortugas-nps1 best national parks to escape winter Things to Do in Everglades National Park (NPS) gates-of-the-arctic-national-park (NPS) gateway-arch-national-park-nps1 grinnell-glacier-nps5 (NPS) glacier-bay-whale2 sunset grand canyon national park JAPL7646 great basin national park nevada sanddunes_landscape4 mingus_mill_gsmnp _DSC6190 haleakala national park bamboo forest hawaii volcanoes national park kilauea crater hot-springs-national-park-nps1 indiana-dunes-state-park-beach-lake-michigan-1848559 isle royale national park michigan joshua-tree-national-park1 katmai-national-park-nps (NPS) kenai-fjords-national-park-exit-glacier1 general grant tree kings canyon national park california kobuk-valley-national-park1 (NPS) lake clark national park alaska (NPS) Manzanita Lake, Lassen Volcanic National Park California Manzanita Lake, Lassen Volcanic National Park California mammoth-cave1 mesa-verde-cliff-palace1 DSC05873 new-river-gorge-national-park1 north cascades national park mt shuksan grand lake olympic national park washington petrified-forest-national-park-nps6 lower bear gulch pinnacles national park california lady bird johnson grove JAPL9549 DSC05464 big trees trail sequoia national park california shenandoah_entrance DSC04071 francis bay from america hill ruins virgin islands national park st john Kabetogama Lake Overlook Sunset white-sands-national-park-nps3 wind-cave-national-park1 wrangell-st-elias-autumn1 geyser-basin-yellowstone-nps1 (NPS) tunnel view yosemite national park california zion national park more than just parks glacier-bay-national-park-alaska1 american-samoa-national-park-nps1 sunset grand canyon national park hot-springs-national-park-nps1 lady bird johnson grove JAPL8670 best national parks to escape winter Things to Do in Everglades National Park (NPS) CPR_7946 yellowstone_01 Yellowstone National Park in May indiana-dunes-state-park-beach-lake-michigan-1848559 mammoth-cave1 acadia national park bass harbor lighthouse isle royale national park michigan Northern Lights over Voyageurs National Park gatewayarch grinnell-glacier-nps5 (NPS) great basin national park nevada white-sands-national-park-nps2 theodore-roosevelt1 Great Smoky Mountains Road cuyahoga-valley-national-park-nps crater lake national park oregon congaree big-badlands-sunrise1 mingus_mill_gsmnp rio-grande-river-texas-big-bend-national-park-1581917 zion national park more than just parks virgin islands national park trunk bay sunset shenandoah_entrance grand lake olympic national park washington DSC07233 JAPL7646 list-of-national-parks checklist-of-national-parks national-parks-list1 voyageurfire pattiz-brothers-badlands1 More Than Just Parks Co-Founders Jim & Will Pattiz
8 EPIC Kansas National Parks (in Photos + Helpful Tips) 2023 https://morethanjustparks.com/kansas-national-parks/ https://morethanjustparks.com/kansas-national-parks/#respond Wed, 11 Sep 2024 18:13:38 +0000 https://morethanjustparks.com/?p=17965 Historic forts, historic explorers, beautiful prairies, the fastest mail service in the Old West, and so much more await you in Kansas!

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kanasas national parks
Dorothy Gale may have left Kansas for the Wonderful Land of Oz, but we’re going to show you what’s wonderful about the land of Kansas.

Article Summary: Kansas National Parks

Kansas National Parks! While Dorothy & Toto might not be in Kansas anymore there’s no reason why you can’t be there. As a matter of fact, More Than Just Parks is going to give you 8 compelling reasons why you should consider Kansas when planning your next roadtrip.

And More Than Just Parks is your one-stop-shop when it comes to learning everything you’ll need to know about America’s national parks.

We’ve got expert guides, beautiful photos, helpful tips, breathtaking films and so much more.

I’ve been to so many of these amazing places since retiring from teaching in 2018. Did I mention that I taught history? I spent a lifetime teaching about the history behind these momentous sites. Then I got to see them firsthand. And now I’m sharing the stories of these incredible places with you. It doesn’t get any better than that!

While Kansas has many national park sites, I should note that it doesn’t actually have any congressionally designated “National Parks.” Nonetheless, there are a whole host of amazing Kansas National Park Service sites to visit.

Kansas National Parks
Kansas City, Missouri, downtown skyline with Union Station. (Shutterstock-Sean Pavone)

What Is A National Park?

We get asked that question a lot because there’s a difference between a “national park” and a “national park site.” To help you understand that difference you might want to check out our article titled: What Is A National Park Really?

If you’re planning to visit the Sunflower State then one book I highly recommend is: Kansas Bucket List Adventure Guide: Explore 100 Offbeat Destinations You Must Visit!

We’ve got historic forts, famous explorers, beautiful prairies, the fastest mail service in the Old West, and so much more await you in Kansas!

Are you ready to dive in? Let’s go!

Brown v Board of Education National Historic Site | Kansas National Parks
First Lady Michelle Obama tours the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site in Topeka, Kan., May 16, 2014. Stephanie Kyriazis, Chief of Interpretation and Education, leads the tour. (Official White House Photo by Chuck Kennedy)


Kansas National Parks


1. Brown V. Board Of Education National Historic Site

The Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site is located in Topeka, Kansas. It commemorates the landmark U.S. Supreme Court case of Brown v. Board of Education.

The case was brought by a group of African American families who argued that segregation in public schools was inherently unequal and violated the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which guarantees equal protection under the law.

The history of the case began in 1951 when a young African American girl named Linda Brown was denied enrollment in an all-white school near her home in Topeka.

Her father, Oliver Brown, along with a group of other African American families, sued the Topeka Board of Education, arguing that segregation in public schools was a violation of the 14th Amendment.

Kansas National Parks
The U.S. Supreme Court decision in Brown v. Board of Education (1954) is one of the most pivotal opinions ever rendered by that body. (Courtesy of NPS)

The Court Declared Segregation To Be Unconstitutional

The case was consolidated with similar cases from other states and became known as Brown v. Board of Education. The case was heard by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1954, and on May 17th of that year, the Court issued a unanimous decision declaring segregation in public schools to be unconstitutional.

The decision was a landmark moment in the Civil Rights Movement and has had far-reaching effects on the struggle for equality in the United States.

The Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site was established in 1992 to commemorate the landmark case and to educate visitors about its significance in American history.

The site includes a museum that features interactive exhibits and educational programs, as well as the restored Monroe School, one of the all-black schools that was involved in the case.

Today, the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site is an important place of remembrance and reflection, and serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and justice in the United States.

Monroe Elementary School is a national historic site as part of Brown v. Board of Education | Kansas National Parks
Former Monroe Elementary SchoolBrown v. Board of Education Historic Site – Topeka – Kansas – USA | Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

CHECK OUT: 10 BEST Civil Rights Sites In America


Take A Deeper Dive

Believe it or not, I was one of those guys who sat in class taking notes and, when the professor threw out the name of what sounded like an interesting book, I not only wrote it down, I went out and purchased it. Yes, I am that guy which is why I ended up teaching history.

Now while I promised no homework, there’s a wonderful book about the landmark Supreme Court decision for those of you who are interested in taking a deeper dive.

Written by Richard Kluger, it’s titled Simple Justice: The History of Brown v. Board of Education and Black America’s Struggle for Equality. It’s a modern classic!

RELATED: 45 Best National Parks Books (Great Gifts For Park Lovers)


2. Fort Larned National Historic Site

Fort Larned National Historic Site was established in 1859, as a military post along the Santa Fe Trail, a major trade route between Missouri and Santa Fe, New Mexico.

The fort was named after Colonel Benjamin F. Larned, who was a Quartermaster General during the Mexican-American War. The initial purpose of the fort was to protect travelers and freight along the Santa Fe Trail, as well as to maintain peaceful relations with the Plains Indians.

During the Civil War, the fort was used as a supply depot for Union troops and as a base for campaigns against the Confederate Army. After the war, the fort resumed its original mission of protecting travelers and maintaining relations with the Plains Indians.

Over the years, Fort Larned played an important role in the settlement of the West. The fort served as a hub of activity for soldiers, traders, immigrants, and Plains Indians, and it played a pivotal role in the shaping of the American West.

In 1964, the fort was designated as a National Historic Site by the United States government, in recognition of its historical and cultural significance.

Fort Larned National Historic Site | Kansas National Parks
With nine beautifully restored buildings Fort Larned National Historic Site gives you a chance to experience military life on the Santa Fe Trail. Established on the vast prairie in western Kansas, troops stationed at Fort Larned protected mail coaches, freighters and other Trail traffic. As the site of an Indian Agency, Fort Larned also was instrumental in maintaining friendly relations with Plains Indians. (Courtesy of the National Park Service)

The Fort Was Home To A Famous Civil War General

The fort was home to a diverse population, including soldiers, civilians, and Native Americans. The fort was also home to a number of notable figures, including General William T. Sherman, who served as the commander of the fort in the early 1860s.

In 1878, the fort was officially decommissioned and the buildings were sold to private individuals. However, several of the original buildings were preserved and are now open to the public as part of the Fort Larned National Historic Site.

Visitors can tour the restored buildings and learn about the history of the fort and the people who lived and worked there. The park also offers a variety of educational programs and special events throughout the year.

The fort is a National Historic Landmark and is open to the public year-round. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the restored buildings and learn about the history of the fort and the people who lived and worked there.

Aerial view of Fort Larned
Aerial view of Fort Larned | Courtesy of the National Park Service

CHECK OUT: 10 BEST Civil War Sites In America


3. Fort Scott National Historic Site

Fort Scott was an active military post for over 20 years, and during its active years, the fort served as a supply depot, a military headquarters, and a base of operations for the U.S. Cavalry.

The fort was also used as a base for patrols and expeditions to protect the Santa Fe Trail, which was a vital transportation route for settlers and traders moving westward, and to maintain peace among the various Indian tribes of the Great Plains.

Fort Scott National Historic Site | Kansas National Parks
Schematic of Fort Scott National Historic site | Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

The fort was home to a diverse population, including soldiers, civilians, and Native Americans.

The fort was also home to a number of notable figures, including General Winfield Scott, who served as the commander of the fort in the early 1840s.

Fort Scott Today | Kansas National Parks
The Officers Quarters at the Fort Scott National Historic Site | Courtesy of the NPS

In 1853, the fort was officially decommissioned and the buildings were sold to private individuals. However, several of the original buildings were preserved and are now open to the public as part of the Fort Scott National Historic Site.

Visitors can tour the restored buildings and learn about the history of the fort and the people who lived and worked there. The park also offers a variety of educational programs and special events throughout the year.


RELATED: 10 BEST CIVIL WAR SITES IN AMERICA


4. Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail

From fascinating forts to legendary trails. You can find so much wonderful history when you explore the Kansas National Parks. And that history includes The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail which follows the historic outbound and inbound routes of the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

Commemorating the Lewis & Clark Expedition (1804-06), the Trail connects 16 states (Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, North Dakota, Montana, Idaho, Washington and Oregon).

This trail is administered by the National Park Service. It’s not a hiking trail, but does provide opportunities for hiking, boating and horseback riding at many locations along the route.

Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail | Kansas National Parks
This historic trail encompasses sixteen states and 4,900 miles | Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

What Can I See In Kansas That’s Connected To This Historic Trail

What can I see in Kansas that’s connected to this historic trail? Excellent question. I recommend the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Pavilion. Located at White Cloud, Kansas, it describes the expedition’s passage through the area in 1804 and then again in 1806.

It’s a beautiful open-air pavilion located in Riverfront Park. It was constructed in preparation for the Lewis and Clark bicentennial Commemoration on July 3-4, 2004.

The pavilion contains an interactive touchscreen monitor and interpretive panels with information on the Lewis & Clark expedition, the Missouri River and the Kanza Nation.

While you’re there, I would also recommend a drive along the Frontier Military Historic Byway. It was originally built to move soldiers and supplies. If you travel it today, however, you’ll find various landmarks such as Fort Leavenworth and the John Brown Museum

Decision Point, Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument, MT. On June 2, 1805, the Lewis and Clark Expedition arrived here, at the confluence of the Marias and Missouri rivers. Courtesy of the National Park Service.

RELATED: 12 EPIC OREGON NATIONAL PARKS & MONUMENTS TO VISIT


More Kansas National Parks


5. Nicodemus National Historic Site

Nicodemus National Historic Site is dedicated to preserving the history of one of the first and largest settlements of African Americans in the American West.

The town was founded in 1877 by a group of African Americans who had moved from the South in search of a better life and greater opportunities.

Nicodemus was established as part of the Exoduster Movement, which was a mass migration of African Americans from the South to the West following the end of the Civil War. The town was named after the biblical figure Nicodemus, who symbolized new beginnings and a fresh start for its settlers.

At its peak, Nicodemus was a thriving community with a school, churches, a newspaper, and various businesses. However, the town faced many challenges, including a harsh climate, limited resources, and economic hardship.

Despite these challenges, the residents of Nicodemus remained determined to make their settlement a success, and their efforts helped lay the foundation for other African American communities in the West.

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is C184D661-FCEF-6A39-C91C2631AA115050
Nicodemus Descendants at NICO Visitor Center | Courtesy of the National Park Service (NPS)

Nicodemus In The 20th Century

In the 20th century, the town of Nicodemus declined as many residents moved to other areas in search of greater opportunities. In 1996, Nicodemus was designated as a National Historic Site to commemorate the story of the settlers and their efforts to build a new community in the West.

Today, visitors to the Nicodemus National Historic Site can tour the restored buildings and learn about the history of the town and the lives of its residents.

The site includes the Nicodemus Historical Society Museum, which features exhibits on the history of the town and its residents, as well as the First Baptist Church, which was one of the first African American churches in the West.

Visitors can also take a walking tour of the town to see the remaining structures and learn about the history of this important settlement.

Nicodemus 10th Cavalry Reenactment Troop
Nicodemus 10th Cavalry Reenactment Troop | Courtesy of the NPS

CHECK OUT: 20 BEST Black History Sites In America For You To Visit


6. Pony Express National Historic Trail

The United States Postal Service has announced that we will be paying more for slower mail. Ugh! Perhaps it’s time to dust off an old idea.

From April 3, 1860 until October 26, 1861, the Pony Express delivered messages, newspapers, and mail using relays of horse-mounted riders.

While it was only in operation for 18 months, it reduced the time for messages to travel between the east and west coasts to about 10 days

Pony Express Advertisement | Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

The Pony Express Founders

The three founders of the Pony Express were William Russell, Alexander Majors and William B. Waddell. These three entrepreneurs used a shorted route with riders at relay stations. These stations were about ten miles apart.

The rider coming in could expect a fresh mount [horse] waiting for him and his mail pouch.

With the advent of the telegraph, demand for the Pony Express plummeted. It would last only eighteen months. (Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons)

Pony Express Peak Operations

At the peak of their operations, Russell, Majors and Waddell employed 6,000 men, owned 75,000 oxen, thousands of wagons, and warehouses, plus a sawmill, a meatpacking plant, a bank, and an insurance company.

Of course, technology waits for no one. The Pony Express could not compete with the faster telegraph. It went bankrupt after 18 months.

Jim DeFelice has written a wonderfully entertaining account of the history of the Pony Express. It’s titled West Like Lightning: The Brief, Legendary Ride of the Pony Express. I love stories about the Old American West. This is one book I simply could not put down.

RELATED: 45 Best National Parks Books (Great Gifts For Park Lovers)


Retracing The Pony Express

One hundred and fifty years later, you can visit trail traces, visitor centers, museums, hiking trails, historic structures and forts related to the Pony Express National Historic Trail. This is another of the amazing Kansas National Parks that is definitely worth seeing and experiencing.

The trail crosses eight states following the journey taken by dozens of young riders and hundreds of horses between St. Joseph, Missouri and Sacramento, California.

The best news of all, however, is that you won’t have to change horses every ten miles. There are auto tour routes, GIS interactive maps and a Back-Country Byway.

Or, you can simply use your cellphone (there’s an app for every thing these days!) to chart a course across the Pony Express National Historic Trail.

The Pony Express National Back Country Byway Visitor Information Site on the Pony Express National Historic Trail | Courtesy of the National Park Service

What’s There To Do?

What’s there to do? What isn’t there to do!  You can visit interpretive sites, hike portions of the trail, bike portions of the trail or horseback ride portions of the trail (don’t forget about those fresh mounts). There are also museums to visit.

Trail sites to visit in Kansas include: (1) Marshville Pony Express Barn which now serves as a museum. Go there and learn all about how this operation was run. (2) Hollenberg Pony Express Station which is a restoration of an actual station.

It includes living quarters for the Hollenberg family, a neighborhood grocery store, a tavern, and an unofficial post-office. (3) Marshall’s Ferry which is a historic trails park where you can trod the same ground that the Pony Express riders did.

grand teton national park biking
There’s plenty of fun-filled activities on the Pony Express National Historic Trail

7. Santa Fe National Historic Trail

The Kansas National Parks includes one which played an important role in the Westward Migration.

Westward Ho! Between 1821 and 1880, the Santa Fe Trail was a highway connecting Missouri and Santa Fe, New Mexico. The route was originally pioneered by Missouri trader William Becknell.

Once Bucknell showed how it was done, others decided to follow. By 1825, goods from Missouri were being traded in Santa Fe, as well as other points farther south.

The Old Santa Fe Historic Trail by Frederick Remington | Courtesy of Wikimedia

Two Major Routes | Santa Fe Trail

There were two major routes. Some used the Mountain Route, which offered more dependable water, but required an arduous trip over Raton Pass.

Others took the Cimarron Route. It was shorter and faster, but required knowledge of where the route’s scarce water supplies were located. It you ran out of water then you weren’t likely to survive the journey.

Santa Fe Trail Sculpture | Courtesy of the National Park Service

Here’s An Interesting Fact | Santa Fe Trail

Now here’s an interesting fact. During the Mexican-American War, the U.S. Army actually followed the Santa Fe Trail westward to successfully invade Mexico. The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo ended this war in 1848.

Afterward, the Santa Fe Trail became a national road connecting the more settled parts of the United States to the new southwest territories.

Print shows a scene from the Battle of Monterrey, led by General Zachary Taylor and General William J. Worth, during the Mexican-American War.1855. Courtesy of the Library of Congress.

The Santa Fe Trail Today

Today, the Santa Fe National Historic Trail still extends from western Missouri to Santa Fe, New Mexico. Along the way, there are museums, historic sites, landmarks, and original trail segments.

The Santa Fe Trail today | Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Santa Fe Trail Highlights

If you’re planning a trip then I would recommend that you definitely see the following five sights:

Rabbit Ears Mountain served as a vital landmark for Santa Fe Trail travelers on the Cimarron Route.

Santa Clara Cemetery was a landmark for covered wagon trains and traders going up and down the Santa Fe Trail. It’s now the Wagon Mound National Historic Landmark.

Starvation Peak is a butte that sits at over 7,000 feet, located along Interstate 25 between the town of Pecos and Las Vegas.

Raton Pass which was one of the segments of the Mountain Branch of the Santa Fe Trail. It cut through the snow-capped Sangre de Cristo Mountains, allowing wagons access to the vast western territory.

Santa Fe Spring which was an important water source for Santa Fe Trail travelers heading West.

You may want to do some research before you go, however, as there are other amazing historical and natural sites you may find to be of particular interest to you.

sun, river, trees-3313035.jpg

More Kansas National Parks


8. Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve

Once upon a time, tallgrass prairie once covered roughly 170 million acres of North America. It was the continent’s largest continuous ecosystem. It supported a huge quantity of plants and animals.

Of course, with the settlement of America, farmers discovered that prairie soils are outstanding for crop production. So, they plowed the prairie lands into oblivion for the production of wheat, corn and other crops. 

Tallgrass Prairie welcome sign
Image of Tallgrass Prairie NPRES welcome sign | Courtesy of NPS

What Tallgrass Remains

Today most of these grasslands are gone. What remains, however, is one of Kansas National Parks which gives you an opportunity to experience the incredible beauty of days gone by. It’s located in the Flint Hills region of Kansas.

The Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve protects a small portion of these grasslands. It’s one of the rarest and most endangered ecosystems in the world. And visitors to this scenic wonderland can see the beautiful grasslands which once covered much of America.

The Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve was created by legislation passed on November 12, 1996. It created the 10,894 acre preserve to protect a sample of what was once a vast tallgrass prairie ecosystem.

Enclosed Ranching whereby cattle movements are limited by stone walls, fences or barbed wire means that grasslands which would have otherwise been decimated can be saved instead | Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Stephen F. Jones & Enclosed Ranching

In addition to experiencing these magnificent tallgrasses, visitors can tour a restoration of cattleman Stephen F. Jones‘ ranch called Spring Hill Farm and Stock Ranch.

Stephen F. Jones was a pioneer in what was called “enclosed ranching” whereby cattle movements are limited by stone walls, fences or barbed wire.

Because of his leadership, grasslands which would have otherwise been decimated were saved instead.

Fall wildflowers among the tallgrass prairie
Fall wildflowers among the tallgrass prairie | Courtesy of NPS

A National Historical Landmark District

In 1997, the Jones Ranch was designated a National Historical Landmark District. Today visitors can take tours of his 1881 limestone Second Empire house, the three-story limestone barn, and other outbuildings.

And, while you’re in town, I recommend you take a drive along the 47-miles of the Flint Hills National Scenic Byway on K-177. You’ll marvel at the breathtaking scenery. Just imagine a time when it covered 170 million acres of North America.

CHECK OUT: LIST OF 128 BEST U.S. MONUMENTS RANKED


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GRAND TETON National Park 8K (Visually Stunning 3min Tour)

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GRAND TETON 8K is the culmination of nearly a month spent filming in the spectacular Jackson Hole Valley and the foothills of the Teton Mountain Range. Encompassing nearly 500 square miles, Grand Teton National Park boasts an awe-inspiring array of pristine wilderness, glacial lakes, winding rivers, diverse wildlife, and the magnificent Teton Range.

Journey with More Than Just Parks as we explore a land dominated by towering peaks, apex predators, and majestic beauty. This is Grand Teton. Filmed primarily in stunning UHD 8K.

To make this film happen we spent nearly a month in Grand Teton National Park during June & July. Of all the films we’ve shot this one features the most wildlife. We captured bison, elk, moose, bears, foxes, beavers, and more.

Grand Teton is situated just South of Yellowstone and while it still sees a significant amount of visitors each year it is far less than its northern counterpart. As one of the most stunning mountain ranges in the world Grand Teton is in a class of its own.

Wild & Scenic Rivers, abundant wildlife, jaw-dropping vistas, and high-alpine beauty comprise this western wonderland.


Kansas National Parks FAQ


What makes Kansas so special?

Kansas is known for its vast prairies, rolling hills, and natural beauty. The state has one of the most miles of river than any other state in the Great Plains and is home to the world’s largest contiguous tallgrass prairie.

What are the must-see historic sites in Kansas?

The must-see historic sites in Kansas are the following:
Brown V. Board Of Education National Historic Site
Fort Scott National Historic Site
Fort Larned National Historic Site
Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail
Nicodemus National Historic Site
Seelye Mansion
Coronado Heights
Monuments Rocks National Landmark
Augusta Historic Theater
Geodetic Center of North America


Why Trust Us About Kansas National Parks?


We’re Jim Pattiz and Will Pattiz, collectively known as the Pattiz Brothers (and sometimes the Parks Brothers) and we absolutely LOVE the national parks.

You should probably know that we don’t just make this stuff up out of thin air. We’ve spent our entire adult lives exploring and filming America’s national parks and public lands.

We’ve worked with the National Park Service, the Department of Interior, USDA, and the U.S. Forest Service for years creating films on important places and issues. Our work has been featured in leading publications all over the world and even some people outside of our immediate family call us experts on the national parks.


Meet The Parks Brothers


The Pattiz Brothers are regular contributors to The Weather Channel

Map Of Kansas National Parks


We Hope You’ll Follow Our Journey


The Pattiz Brothers
We’re Jim & Will Pattiz, Co-Founders of More Than Just Parks

Our goal here at More Than Just Parks is to share the beauty of America’s national parks and public lands through stunning short films in an effort to get Americans and the world to see the true value in land conservation. 

We hope you’ll follow our journey through the parks and help us to keep them the incredible places that they are. If you’re interested in joining the adventure then please sign up below! 


Check Out Our Comprehensive Guide

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The Pattiz Brothers in Alaska

I hope you’ve enjoyed learning about some amazing places to visit in Kansas.

If you’re interested in learning more about our national parks then please check out our complete rankings of all 63 of them.


List Of 8 (Must-See) National Park Sites In Kansas

  1. Brown V. Board Of Education National Historic Site
  2. Fort Larned National Historic Site
  3. Fort Scott National Historic Site
  4. Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail
  5. Nicodemus National Historic Site
  6. Pony Express National Historic Trail
  7. Santa Fe National Historic Trail
  8. Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve

Helpful Articles

National Parks: All 63 National Parks Ranked By Experts

National Monuments: Ultimate List Of National Monuments

Landmarks: 25 Famous Bucket List Landmarks In America (MUST-SEE)

Park Rangers: A Brief (& Informative) History Of America’s National Park Rangers

Gifts: 50 BEST National Park Gifts For The National Park Fan In Your Life

Books: 45 BEST National Parks Books

Revolutionary War Sites: 10 BEST Revolutionary War Sites In America

Civil War Sites: 10 BEST Civil War Sites In America

Civil Rights Sites: 10 BEST Civil Rights Sites In America

National Parks In Movies: Look Familiar? 25+ CLASSIC Movies Filmed In The National Parks

Television Shows: Look Familiar? 10+ CLASSIC Television Shows Filmed In The National Parks

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10 AMAZING Facts About Carlsbad Caverns National Park https://morethanjustparks.com/carlsbad-caverns-national-park-facts/ https://morethanjustparks.com/carlsbad-caverns-national-park-facts/#comments Wed, 11 Sep 2024 18:09:52 +0000 https://morethanjustparks.com/?p=48295 We've compiled some fascinating Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts that will enhance the way you interact with this special place!

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Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts
Walkway through the Big Room, Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico. (Shutterstock-Doug Meek)

Article Summary: Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts

Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts! In this article, we provide you with 10 amazing facts about one of America’s most magnificent national parks.

More Than Just Parks is your one-stop-shop when it comes to learning everything you’ll need to know about America’s national parks. We’ve got expert guides, beautiful photos, helpful tips, breathtaking films and so much more.

I’ve been to so many of these amazing places since retiring from teaching in 2018. Did I mention that I taught history? I spent a lifetime teaching about the history behind some of these natural wonders. Then I got to see them firsthand. And now I’m sharing some of the incredible stories about these beautiful places with you. It doesn’t get any better than that!

More Than Just Parks takes a deeper dive with its national park facts. We’ve done our homework so that you’ll get more than you bargained for.

Without further ado, let’s dive in.



Facts About Carlsbad Caverns National Park


Some Basic Facts About Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a national park located in the state of New Mexico. The park covers an area of 46,766 acres and is known for its stunning views, deep canyons, and unique geological formations.

One of the main attractions of Carlsbad Caverns National Park is its network of underground caves and caverns, which are home to a variety of geological formations such as stalactites, stalagmites, and helictites. The park is also home to a number of hiking trails, offering the opportunity to explore the park’s unique and varied terrain.

In addition to its natural beauty, Carlsbad Caverns National Park is also home to a number of cultural and historical sites, including the historic Rattlesnake Springs and the visitor center, which offers exhibits and programs about the park’s natural and cultural history.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a unique and unforgettable experience in one of the most beautiful and unique underground environments in the United States.

Switchbacks descend into the natural entrance of Carlsbad Caverns | Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts
Switchbacks descend into the natural entrance of Carlsbad Caverns | Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts (Courtesy of NPS)

Here Are Some Of The Basic Facts:
  • Location: New Mexico
  • Acreage:  73.07 miles
  • Visitation: 440,691 visitors in 2019
  • Lowest Elevation: Of the three major levels, the deepest is 1,027 feet belowground.
  • Average annual precipitation: The park averages 14.9 inches of annual precipitation
  • When Did It Become A National Park? On October 25, 1923, President Calvin Coolidge created Carlsbad Caverns National Park
Postcard photo of the cafeteria lunchroom at Carlsbad Caverns | Carlsbad Caverns National Parks Facts
Postcard photo of the cafeteria lunchroom at Carlsbad Caverns | Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts (Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons)

CHECK OUT: 20 SURPRISING New Mexico National Park


Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts


Top 5 Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts


1. It’s One Of Over 300 Limestone Caves

If you’re interested in origin stories then one of the most interesting Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts is that Carlsbad Caverns is one of over 300 limestone caves in a fossil reef laid down by an inland sea about 265 million years ago.

As an early visitor to Carlsbad Cavern, you might have entered the cavern inside an old guano mining bucket. (Courtesy of NPS)

CHECK OUT: 10 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In New Mexico


2. Native Americans Knew About The Existence Of The Caves For Possibly Thousands Of Years

For me, one of the most intriguing of the Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts involves that fact that twelve-to-fourteen thousand years ago, American Indians lived in the Guadalupe Mountains.

The Mescalero Apache, Zuni Pueblo, and other groups were well acquainted with the area. Some of their cooking ring sites and pictographs have been found within the present day boundaries of the park.

According to the National Park Service, the Mescalero Apache and the Zuni Pueblo were aware of the existence of a cave in the Carlsbad area that they called Jadnut? udebiga (Home of the Bat) and Asho:sti an alaluckwa (Bat Cave) respectively.

They used the area around the cave entrance for cooking, and there are multiple mescal cooking pits and a cave painting that can be found there.

While there is no evidence that these native peoples explored deep into the cave, they were certainly aware of its existence.

The cave, known as the Bat Cave, is a limestone cave, located in the park and has a rich cultural and historical significance. The cave is protected and not open to the public.

Zuni Pueblo Indians
The Zuni Pueblo Indians were one of the groups reported to have knowledge of the Carlsbad Caverns for hundreds if not thousand of years (Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons)

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3. European Explorers Stumbled On The Entrance To Carlsbad Caverns

By the 1500s, Spanish explorers were passing through present-day west Texas and southeastern New Mexico.

In their explorations, they stumbled upon the gaping mouth of what is now known as Carlsbad Cavern.

While several claim to have been the first to have entered the cave they have been mostly forgotten by history.

Several Europeans claim to have been the first to have entered the caverns, but their names have been lost to history | Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts
Several Europeans claim to have been the first to have entered the caverns, but their names have been lost to history | Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts (Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons)

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4. A 16 Year Old Cowboy Is Credited With The First Cave Exploration

Another of the extraordinary Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts is the incredible story of the first credited cave exploration involves a sixteen year old cowboy.

 Jim White was rounding up cattle one evening when he spotted smoke from a wildfire off in the distance. He went into high alert. Fires could be just as devastating then as they are now.

White rode closer to see what was happening. How big was it? Was it moving quickly? What direction was it burning? White rode to the fire so he could report back to camp with the most accurate information possible.

Jim White
Jim White was the discoverer of Carlsbad Caverns | Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts (Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons)

He Saw Thousands Of Free-Tailed Bats

As White approached the cave, however, he realized that it wasn’t smoke he was seeing. It was bats. Thousands-upon-thousands of Brazilian free-tailed bats.

Mexican (or Brazilian) Free-Tailed Bats
Mexican (or Brazilian) Free-Tailed Bats, Tadarida brasiliensis, emerging from Carlsbad Caverns | Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Jim White was a cowboy, miner, and explorer who discovered the cave in Carlsbad Caverns National Park in the early 20th century.

He constructed a ladder which he anchored at the mouth of the cave and descended using only one hand while his other hand held his only light source. After sixty feet, he landed on the cave floor, and his light barely penetrated the darkness surrounding him.

White’s exploration of the cave continued for many years, and he is responsible for naming many of the features which are associated with the caverns today such as “Devil’s Armchair,” “Devil’s Den,” and the “Witch’s Finger.”

He also discovered many other caves in the area, which he explored and mapped. White’s discoveries and explorations helped to open up the cave to the public and increased interest in the area.

Devil's Spring in Carlsbad Caverns | Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts
Devil’s Spring in Carlsbad Caverns | Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts (Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons)

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5. The Largest Cave In Carlsbad Caverns Is Over 100 Miles

One of my favorite Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts is that, since 1984, explorers have mapped over 145 miles of passages and have pushed the depth of the cave to 1,604 feet (489 m).

As of July 2019, Lechuguilla is one of the ten longest caves in the world (one of the four longest in the United States) and the second deepest limestone cave in the country.

The Pearlsian Gulf in Lechuguilla Cave
The Pearlsian Gulf in Lechuguilla Cave | Courtesy of NPS
A Fascinating Backstory

The cave has a fascinating backstory. According to the National Park Service, Lechuguilla Cave was known until 1986 as a small, fairly insignificant historic site in the park’s backcountry. Small amounts of bat guano were mined from the entrance passages for a year under a mining claim filed in 1914.

The historic cave contained a 90-foot entrance pit which led to 400 feet of dry, dead-end passages.

The cave was visited infrequently after mining activities ceased. However, in the 1950s, cavers heard wind roaring up from the rubble-choked floor of the cave. Although there was no obvious route, different people concluded that cave passages must lay below the rubble.

A group of Colorado cavers gained permission from the National Park Service and began digging in 1984.

The breakthrough, into large walking passages, occurred on May 26, 1986.

What followed has become some of the world’s most exciting cave exploration in one of the finest known caves on the planet.

July 2019 map of Lechuguilla Cave
A July 2019 map of Lechuguilla Cave | Courtesy of NPS

Rescue in Lechuguilla Cave

In 2014, a National Park Service volunteer caving team entered Lechuguilla Cave inside Carlsbad Caverns National Park, with the purpose of performing re-rigging and replacement of 20-year-old ropes that park cavers use for exploration in the Boulder Falls area of the cave.

Shortly after the team descended into the cave, one of the members became ill, suspected to be due to heat exhaustion and dehydration.

The team leader, Andy Armstrong, called for rescue assistance and a three-member rescue team responded: Carlsbad Caverns cave technicians Stan Allison and Shawn Thomas, and a caver/paramedic from Carlsbad Fire Department.

They descended 180-feet into the cave and administered intravenous fluids to the stricken caver, J.L. Gomez, a Carlsbad Caverns volunteer.

After receiving three bags of IV fluid and resting for many hours, Gomez improved enough to make the 180-foot ascent out of the cave with limited help from the team.

He was able to hike back to his vehicle with the other team members unassisted and no further medical treatment was required.

 Lechuguilla Cave
A caver prepares to rappel into Lechuguilla Cave in Carlsbad Caverns National Park | Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts (Courtesy of NPS)

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Top 10 Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts


6. Carlsbad Caverns Has A Bat Flight Program

Just when you thought we couldn’t come up with any more unbelievable Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts we’ve come up with another one. Carlsbad Caverns has a wonderful Bat Flight Program. It runs from late May through October.

No reservations are required for this program which takes place at the Bat Flight Amphitheater, located at the Natural Entrance to Carlsbad Cavern.

You’ll be treated to a Ranger talk beforehand. And then you’ll see the main event around sunset, which is when thousands of bats begin their daily exit from the caverns in search of insects to eat. 

Bat Flight Program | Carlsbad Caverns Facts
Each evening during the summer, Brazilian free-tailed bats emerge from Carlsbad Cavern in search of food. (Courtesy of NPS)

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7. The Big Room In Carlsbad Caverns Is The largest Accessible Cave Chamber In North America

Another truly intriguing of the Carlsbad Caverns National Parks Facts is that Carlsbad Caverns include a large limestone chamber, named simply the Big Room, which is almost 4,000 feet long, 625 feet wide, and 255 feet high at its highest point.

The Big Room is the largest chamber in North America and the thirty-first largest in the world.

The Big Room | Carlsbad Caverns Facts
You can see a variety of cave formations along the Big Room Trail. (Courtesy of NPS)

CHECK OUT: Helpful List Of National Parks By State (With Printable Map)


8. A Wide Variety Of Wildlife Can Be Found At Carlsbad

Another of the extraordinary Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts is that there are 67 mammal species, 357 bird species, 5 fish species, and 55 amphibian and reptile species found in Carlsbad Caverns National Park.

Mammals that can be found living in Carlsbad Caverns National Park include: cougars, coyotes, foxes, wolves, bobcats, otters, weasels, badgers, skunks, bats, and shrews.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts
Doll’s Theater in Carlsbad Caverns | Courtesy of NPS

9. Visitors To The Caverns Can See The Wonders Of The Lower Cave

Longfellow's Bathtub
Cave pools can be found throughout the Big Room trail, but none are as large or deep as Longfellow’s Bathtub | Courtesy of the NPS

One of the most popular tours at Carlsbad Caverns is the Lower Cave Tour.

Visitors can see the evidence left behind from the 1924 National Geographic Expedition and other explorations.

Highlights of this tour include “The Rookery,” with countless nests of cave pearls, the “Colonel Boles Formation,” and an incredible diversity of cave formations.

Included in the tour is a descent of sixty feet of ladders and a knotted rope to hang onto as you slowly walk backward down a slope at the tour entrance.


10. There Are Some Rare Microbes That Haven’t Been Discovered Anywhere Else In The World

One of my favorite Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts is one of the least known. There are some rare microbes that haven’t been discovered anywhere else in the world.

In Lechuguilla Cave, scientists are researching clusters of extremophile microbes, which are thought to be a possible cure for cancer.

Rare, rock eating (chemolithoautotrophic) bacteria are also believed to occur in the cave.

Lechuguilla Cave | Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts
Lechuguilla Cave | Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Why Trust Us About Carlsbad Caverns National Park?


We’re Jim Pattiz and Will Pattiz, collectively known as the Pattiz Brothers (and sometimes the Parks Brothers) and we absolutely LOVE the national parks.

You should probably know that we don’t just make this stuff up out of thin air. We’ve spent our entire adult lives exploring and filming America’s national parks and public lands.

We’ve worked with the National Park Service, the Department of Interior, USDA, and the U.S. Forest Service for years creating films on important places and issues. Our work has been featured in leading publications all over the world and even some people outside of our immediate family call us experts on the national parks.

The Pattiz Brothers
More Than Just Parks Co-Founders Jim & Will Pattiz

Meet The Parks Brothers


The Pattiz Brothers are regular contributors to The Weather Channel

Map Of Carlsbad Caverns


List Of Carlsbad Caverns Facts

  1. It’s One Of Over 300 Limestone Caves
  2. Native Americans Knew About The Existence Of The Caves For Possibly Thousands Of Years
  3. European Explorers Stumbled On The Entrance To Carlsbad Caverns
  4. A 16 Year Old Cowboy Is Credited With The First Cave Exploration
  5. The Largest Cave In Carlsbad Caverns Is Over 100 Miles
  6. Carlsbad Caverns Has A Bat Flight Program
  7. The Big Room In Carlsbad Caverns Is The largest Accessible Cave Chamber In North America
  8. A Wide Variety Of Wildlife Can Be Found At Carlsbad
  9. Visitors To The Caverns Can See The Wonders Of The Lower Cave
  10. There Are Some Rare Microbes That Haven’t Been Discovered Anywhere Else In The World

We Hope You’ll Follow Our Journey


Pattiz Brothers
The Pattiz Brothers

Our goal here at More Than Just Parks is to share the beauty of America’s national parks and public lands through stunning short films in an effort to get Americans and the world to see the true value in land conservation.

We hope you’ll follow our journey through the parks and help us to keep them the incredible places that they are. If you’re interested in joining the adventure then sign up below!


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https://morethanjustparks.com/carlsbad-caverns-national-park-facts/feed/ 2 48295 Shutterstock_127554758 Walkway through the Big Room, Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico. (Shutterstock-Doug Meek) Carlsbad-Caverns-1-NPS-1 image-57 Carlsbad-Caverns-2-NPS Zuni-Pueblo-Wikimedia Portrait Portrait image-62 image-63 image-64 Carlsbad-Biggest-Cave-NPS image-67 image-69 Carlsbad-Bat-Flight-Prgoram-NPS image-69 image-244 image-70 image-72 pattiz-brothers-badlands1 More Than Just Parks Co-Founders Jim & Will Pattiz Will-and-Jim-Acadia-National-Park Loading
7+ EPIC National Parks Near Long Beach You’ll Love (Photos + Guide) https://morethanjustparks.com/national-parks-near-long-beach/ https://morethanjustparks.com/national-parks-near-long-beach/#respond Wed, 11 Sep 2024 18:07:07 +0000 https://morethanjustparks.com/?p=40586 National Parks Near Long Beach include beautiful parks, magnificent scenery, breathtaking trees, amazing wildlife and so much more.

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queen mary 2, long beach, california-171869.jpg
Long Beach, California | National Parks Near Long Beach

Article Summary: National Parks Near Long Beach

National Parks near Long Beach. There’s so much more to the great state of California than the Queen Mary.

In this article, we’ll familiarize you with the incredible national parks that are within a day’s drive of downtown Long Beach.

I’ve been to so many of these amazing places since retiring from teaching in 2018. Did I mention that I taught history? I spent a lifetime teaching about the history behind these momentous sites. Then I got to see them firsthand. And now I’m sharing the stories of these incredible places with you. It doesn’t get any better than that!

Long Beach is a great place to live on the Pacific Coast and offers plenty of community events, convenient access to beaches, incredible entertainment, and more.

And it’s home to some amazing national parks which are within a day’s drive (or less) of the city.

National Parks Near Long Beach
Aerial panoramic view of the Long Beach coastline, harbor, skyline and Marina in Long Beach with Palm Trees. (Shutterstock-Ingus Kruklitis)

So, What Is A National Park?

We get asked that question a lot because there’s a difference between a “national park” and a “national park site.” To help you understand that difference you might want to check out our article titled: What Is A National Park Really?

Now let’s go ahead and share those 7+ reasons why you’ll want to make that day’s drive from Long Beach to one of these amazing places.

Death Valley National Park Facts
Sunset from Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Death Valley National Park, California. (Shutterstock)


Best National Parks Near Long Beach


1. Channel Islands National Park

Distance From Long Beach: It’s 104 miles from Long Beach to the Channel Islands National Park. There are four travel options.

Resources: Where to Stay

Channel Islands National Park is located off the coast of California, encompassing five of the eight Channel Islands.

The park was established in 1980 to protect the unique natural and cultural resources of the islands, which are home to a diverse range of plant and animal species, including many that are found nowhere else in the world.

The Chumash people, who have lived on the Channel Islands for thousands of years, have a rich cultural history that is tied to the land and sea. They used the resources of the islands to sustain themselves and developed a complex society with unique traditions, arts, and beliefs.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Channel Islands were used for agriculture, ranching, and military purposes, and many of the native species and ecosystems were impacted by human activity. In the mid-20th century, concerns about the preservation of the islands led to the creation of a national park to protect their unique resources.

Inspiration Point is one of the Channel Island Things to do for the best views, as it looks out over the other islands with bright blue seas surrounding it.
Inspiration Point, Anacapa Island | Channel Islands National Park (Shutterstock/Joseph Sohm)

The Channel Islands Today

Today, Channel Islands National Park encompasses over 249,000 acres of land and sea, including a variety of habitats, from rocky cliffs and sandy beaches to deep-sea canyons and kelp forests.

The park is home to a wide range of plant and animal species, including the island fox, the spotted skunk, and the bald eagle, as well as many rare and endangered species.

The park also provides opportunities for visitors to experience the rich cultural and natural history of the Channel Islands, including hiking, camping, kayaking, and wildlife watching.

National Parks Near Long Beach
Potato Harbor, Santa Cruz, Channel Islands National Park. (Shutterstock-Bram Reusen)

About This National Park Near Long Beach

The Channel Islands National Park is a collection of five islands off the coast of Southern California. It includes Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel, and Santa Barbara islands.

The park is known for its unique and diverse ecosystems, including beaches, cliffs, kelp forests, and maritime caves. It’s also home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including endemic species found nowhere else on Earth.

Visitors to Channel Islands National Park can engage in a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including:

  1. Hiking: There are several trails for visitors to explore, offering scenic views and opportunities to see wildlife.
  2. Camping: The park has several designated camping areas for visitors to spend the night and experience the natural beauty of the islands.
  3. Kayaking: The protected waters around the islands are perfect for kayaking, allowing visitors to explore the coastline and observe marine life.
  4. Snorkeling: The clear waters around the islands provide an excellent opportunity for snorkeling, with a rich variety of marine life to observe.
  5. Wildlife viewing: The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including seals, sea lions, and several species of whales and birds.
  6. Boating: Visitors can also take boat tours around the islands to see the unique landscapes and wildlife from the water.
  7. History & Culture: The islands have a rich cultural history, with evidence of human habitation dating back over 10,000 years. Visitors can learn about the Chumash people and the history of the islands at the park’s museum.
National Parks Near Long Beach
Coast of Santa Cruz Island, Channel Islands National Park. (Shutterstock-Bram Reusen)

RELATED: 6 AMAZING National Parks Near San Diego You’ll Love


2. Death Valley National Park

Distance From Long Beach: Four hours & 19 minutes via US-395 N.

Resources: Guide / Map / Guidebook / Things to Do / Facts / Camping / Where to Stay

Death Valley National Park is located in the Mojave Desert in California and Nevada and was established as a national park in 1994.

The park is known for its extreme and diverse landscape, including the lowest point in North America (Badwater Basin, which lies 282 feet below sea level), towering mountain ranges, and vast sand dunes.

The history of Death Valley is rich and varied. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area was inhabited by the Timbisha Shoshone people for thousands of years.

The area was later explored by Spanish missionaries and soldiers in the 18th and 19th centuries, and in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it became a popular destination for miners and settlers who were seeking their fortunes during the California Gold Rush.

National Parks Near Long Beach
Natural Bridge, Death Valley National Park

The Park Has A Fascinating History Of Human Settlement, Mining & Transportation

Death Valley also has a fascinating history of human settlement, mining, and transportation. In the late 19th century, the area was a hub of mining activity, and several boomtowns, including Furnace Creek and Rhyolite, emerged.

The area was also an important stop along the 20-Mule Team Borax route, which was used to transport borax from the mines in Death Valley to the railhead at Mojave.

Today, Death Valley National Park encompasses over 3 million acres of land and includes a diverse range of habitats, from lush oases and canyons to barren salt flats and sand dunes.

The park is home to a wide range of plant and animal species, including the iconic desert bighorn sheep, and provides visitors with opportunities to experience the rugged beauty of the Mojave Desert, including hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.

National Parks Near Long Beach
Sunset from Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Death Valley National Park, California. (Shutterstock-

Things To Do In Death Valley

Here are some of the top things to do in the park:

  1. Explore Badwater Basin: Visit the lowest point in North America, Badwater Basin, and walk on the salt flats that cover much of the basin.
  2. Take a scenic drive: Drive along scenic routes like the Artist’s Drive and Artist’s Palette, which offer stunning views of the park’s colorful landscapes.
  3. Visit the Furnace Creek Visitor Center: Learn about the history and geology of Death Valley at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center, which has exhibits, maps, and information about the park.
  4. Hike in the park: Death Valley has many trails that range from easy to strenuous, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the park’s diverse landscapes.
  5. Star gaze: Death Valley has some of the clearest skies in the world, making it an ideal place for stargazing. Visitors can attend ranger-led programs or visit one of the park’s designated stargazing areas.
  6. Visit historic sites: Explore the history of Death Valley by visiting historic sites like the Harmony Borax Works, Rhyolite Ghost Town, and Scotty’s Castle.
  7. Enjoy outdoor recreation: Death Valley has many opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, camping, horseback riding, and wildlife watching.
  8. Visit the park in spring: Death Valley is at its most beautiful in the spring, when the wildflowers are in bloom and the landscape is dotted with vibrant colors.
natural bridge death valley national park california
Death Valley National Park | National Parks Near Long Beach

RELATED: Death Valley National Park


Check Out Our Death Valley Video


This is More Than Just Parks visually stunning Death Valley Video | Check it out!

MTJP | Death Valley: In the remote far reaches of the Mojave Desert lies the largest national park in the continental United States. Hidden here in the hottest place on earth is another world full of diverse life and colorful landscapes. Join us as we take life to the extreme and explore Death Valley.

Filmed primarily in 8K. To make this film we spent weeks in California’s (& Nevada’s) Death Valley National Park, mostly in February and March when the temperatures are more manageable. We traversed hundreds of miles hiking most of the parks trails to capture the park like never before.

As the largest park in the contiguous United States, Death Valley is massive – over 3 million acres! We visited destinations like: Eureka Dunes, The Racetrack Playa, Mesquite Dunes, Zabriskie Point, Charcoal Kilns, Aguereberry Point, Badwater Basin, Darwin Falls, and more.

If you’re visiting the park be sure to check out our full Death Valley National Park Guide!


3. Joshua Tree National Park

Distance From Long Beach: Two hours & 30 minutes via CA-91 E.

Joshua Tree National Park is located in southeastern California and was established as a national monument in 1936 and as a national park in 1994.

The park is named after the iconic Joshua trees, which are found in the park’s unique and diverse landscape.

The history of Joshua Tree National Park goes back thousands of years, when the Pinto Culture, Serrano, and Cahuilla people lived in the area and used the resources of the land to sustain themselves.

The park’s unique landscape, including its towering rock formations, was formed by millions of years of geological activity and erosion.

National Parks Near Long Beach
Fall in Joshua Tree

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the area was used for mining, ranching, and farming, and several small communities, including Joshua Tree and Twentynine Palms, emerged.

The park’s popularity as a recreational destination grew in the 1920s and 1930s, and the area was designated as a national monument in 1936 to protect its unique landscape and resources.

Today, Joshua Tree National Park encompasses over 790,000 acres of land and includes two distinct desert ecosystems, the Mojave Desert and the Colorado Desert.

The park is home to a wide range of plant and animal species, including the iconic Joshua tree, the desert tortoise, and the rattlesnake, and provides visitors with opportunities to experience the unique beauty of the desert, including hiking, camping, and rock climbing.

National Parks Near Long Beach
Joshua Tree National Park in California. The cloudy sunset was shot just after a big storm. (Shutterstock-AndrePagaPhoto)

If you’re visiting the park be sure to check out our full Joshua Tree National Park Guide.


Things To Do In Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree National Park offers a range of outdoor recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some popular things to do in the park:

  1. Rock Climbing: Joshua Tree is known for its climbing opportunities, with thousands of routes for climbers of all skill levels.
  2. Hiking: There are several hiking trails that offer a variety of experiences, from easy walks to challenging backcountry treks.
  3. Stargazing: The park is one of the best places in Southern California for stargazing, due to its clear, dark skies.
  4. Wildlife Watching: Joshua Tree is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, coyotes, and roadrunners.
  5. Scenic Drives: Take a scenic drive through the park to enjoy its unique landscapes, including Joshua tree forests, desert plains, and rock formations.
  6. Photography: With its dramatic landscapes and unique rock formations, Joshua Tree is a popular destination for photographers.
  7. Camping: Joshua Tree offers several campgrounds for those who want to spend the night in the park.
  8. Ranger-led Programs: The park offers a variety of ranger-led programs, including walks, talks, and campfire programs, to help visitors learn about the park’s history and natural resources.
  9. Visiting the Oasis Visitor Center: The Oasis Visitor Center is a great place to learn about the park and its resources, with interactive exhibits and a gift shop.
Cottonwood Springs Oasis at Joshua Tree National Park | National Parks Near Long Beach
Cottonwood Springs Oasis at Joshua Tree National Park | National Parks Near Los Angeles

Check Out Our Joshua Tree Video


This is More Than Just Parks visually stunning Joshua Tree Video | Check it out!

MTJP | Joshua Tree is the culmination of nearly a month spent exploring Joshua Tree National Park. We chose Joshua Tree because of its unique landscape. Its immense boulder piles, colorful cactus fields, endless desert expanses, and one-of-a-kind Joshua trees make for a spectacular setting.

This film was shot entirely in 4K. We decided to capture this film during the winter months to spare ourselves from the extreme temperatures of Summer. Joshua Tree is home to some of the darkest skies in the United States and as such we chose to feature the stars heavily.

Filming locations include: Skull Rock, Arch Rock, Keys View, Wall Street Mill, Cholla Cactus Garden, Jumbo Rocks, Cottonwood Springs, & more.


More National Parks Near Long Beach


4. Pinnacles National Park

Distance From Long Beach: Five hours & 26 minutes via I-5 N.

Pinnacles National Park is known for its unique geology and diverse array of wildlife, as well as its extensive hiking and rock climbing opportunities.

The park is located in the Gabilan Range of the California Coast Ranges and is home to a series of towering rock formations known as the Pinnacles. These towering formations are the result of volcanic activity that occurred over 23 million years ago, followed by millions of years of erosion that carved the rock into its current shape.

Visitors to the park can explore a variety of trails that wind through the rugged landscape, offering views of the towering rock formations, scenic vistas, and diverse wildlife.

Some of the most popular hikes in the park include the High Peaks Trail, which takes visitors to the top of the tallest peaks in the park, and the Balconies Cave Trail, which takes visitors through a series of caves and crevices in the rocks.

In addition to its stunning geology, Pinnacles National Park is also home to a rich array of wildlife, including California condors, black-tailed deer, and several species of bats. The park is also a popular destination for rock climbing and offers a range of climbing routes for climbers of all abilities.

National Parks Near Long Beach
Things to Do In Pinnacles National Park (Shutterstock/Kelly VanDellen)

RELATED: 10 [EPIC] Things To Do At Pinnacles National Park


5. The Queen Mary

Distance From Long Beach: 8 minutes via Queens Way.

We’re More Than Just Parks so we’re giving you more than just parks.

Since our focus in this article is Long Beach why not explore one of the grandest ships of all time.

The Queen Mary’s creation and launch was nothing if not extraordinary and her story is rich with history, elegance and grandeur. From the time her construction began in 1930 in Clydebank, Scotland, the Queen Mary was destined to stand in a class all her own.

Despite suffering economic setbacks during the Great Depression, which stalled construction on the ship for several years, Cunard Line spared no expense on building the Queen Mary – which was originally known as job #534.

On May 27, 1936, the Queen Mary departed from Southampton, England embarking on her maiden voyage. She boasted five dining areas and lounges, two cocktail bars and swimming pools, a grand ballroom, a squash court and even a small hospital.

The Queen Mary had set a new benchmark in transatlantic travel, which the rich and famous considered as the only civilized way to travel. She quickly seized the hearts and imaginations of the public on both sides of the Atlantic, representing the spirit of an era known for its elegance, class and style. (Source: The Queen Mary)

The Queen Mary | National Parks Near Long Beach
The Queen Mary anchored in Long Beach, California | National Parks Near Long Beach

Things To See & Do

The Queen Mary nearby attractions and tours offer everything from state-of-the-art rides to walks through historic neighborhoods. Experience world class attractions in Greater Los Angeles. You’ll also find an array of unique shops featuring souvenirs, one-of-a-kind treasures, clothing, memorabilia, historic documents, artwork, and more.

From the ship’s groundbreaking construction and royal launch as the most luxurious and technologically advanced ocean liner at the time, to her duty as a troopship during World War II, to her golden days of the 1950s, to her earning the nickname, the “haunted ship,” the Queen Mary’s history is full of action, adventure, romance and paranormal activity.

Now you can explore the ship from bow to stern, inside and out, and hear unique stories, facts and insights about the Queen Mary from expert tour guides. (Source: The Queen Mary Tours & Exhibits)  

Aerial view of the Queen Mary | National Parks Near Long Beach
Aerial view of the Queen Mary | National Parks Near Long Beach (Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons)

6. & 7. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

Distance From Long Beach: Five hours & 14 minutes via I-5 N.

Sequoia National Park was established on September 25, 1890, making it our country’s second oldest national park. 

Kings Canyon was established fifty years later on March 4, 1940.

Together, these two parks offer a truly unique experience for travelers looking to experience some of America’s most amazing natural wonders.

Sequoia National Park | National Parks Near Long Beach
A couple of hikers on the Big Trees Trail in Sequoia National Park | National Parks Near Long Beach

The Tallest Trees In The World
general sherman tree sequoia national park california
The General Sherman Tree is at the north end of Giant Forest | National Parks Near Long Beach

Of course, you’re going to want to be sure to visit the two stars of these two parks. The General Sherman Tree is the world’s largest tree, measured by volume. It stands 275 feet (83 m) tall, and is over 36 feet (11 m) in diameter at the base. It’s located in Sequoia National Park.

The General Grant Tree is located in Grant Grove in Kings Canyon National Park. The General Grant Tree is the second-largest tree in the world, standing 267 feet tall, and nearly 29 feet wide at the base.

RELATED: General Grant Tree: Everything You Need To Know About The World’s Second Tallest Tree

Of course, these two iconic two trees are named after the two victorious Civil War Generals Ulysses S. Grant and William T. Sherman.

RELATED: General Sherman Tree: Everything You Need To Know About The World’s Largest Tree


8. Yosemite National Park

Distance From Long Beach: Five hours & 27 minutes via CA-99 N.

Yosemite National Park has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The land was originally home to indigenous tribes such as the Miwok and Paiute, who lived in harmony with the natural environment and revered the iconic features of the park, such as Half Dome and El Capitan.

In 1864, President Abraham Lincoln signed the Yosemite Grant, which protected the area as a public trust and marked the beginning of the national park system. This was the first time in history that a government set aside land for preservation and public use.

Over the years, Yosemite National Park became a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year. In the early 20th century, the park’s infrastructure was developed, including roads, lodges, and campgrounds, to accommodate the growing number of tourists.

However, despite its popularity, Yosemite National Park has faced its share of challenges, including pollution, overuse, and damage to the natural environment. In the 1960s and 1970s, a movement to protect the park’s resources led to the creation of the Wilderness Act and the National Environmental Policy Act, which established new standards for environmental protection.

Today, Yosemite National Park continues to be one of the most visited national parks in the country, drawing visitors from all over the world to experience its stunning scenery, unique geology, and diverse wildlife. The park remains an important symbol of conservation and a testament to the power of preservation and public ownership.

Yosemite National Park | National Parks Near Long Beach
Yosemite National Park | National Parks Near Long Beach

It is by far the grandest of all the special temples of Nature I was ever permitted to enter.

-John Muir

Things To Do At Yosemite

Yosemite National Park offers a wide range of activities and experiences for visitors of all ages and interests. Here are some popular things to do in the park:

  1. Hiking: Yosemite is a hiker’s paradise, with hundreds of miles of trails that wind through pristine wilderness, past waterfalls and lakes, and up to panoramic vistas. Some popular hikes include the Yosemite Falls Trail, Half Dome, and El Capitan.
  2. Rock Climbing: Yosemite is one of the world’s premier destinations for rock climbing, with its iconic granite cliffs offering challenging routes for both beginner and experienced climbers.
  3. Scenic Drives: Yosemite Valley is a beautiful destination in and of itself, but the park also offers several scenic drives that offer stunning views of the park’s diverse landscapes, including Tioga Road, Glacier Point Road, and the Mariposa Grove.
  4. Wildlife Watching: Yosemite is home to a wide range of wildlife, including black bears, deer, coyotes, and mountain lions. Visitors can also see birds of prey such as hawks and eagles, and many species of fish in the park’s streams and rivers.
  5. Photography: Yosemite is a photographer’s dream, with its breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife offering endless opportunities for capturing stunning images.
  6. Camping: Yosemite has 13 campgrounds located throughout the park, offering a unique way to experience the park’s wilderness.
  7. Rafting and Kayaking: The Merced River that flows through Yosemite Valley is a popular spot for rafting and kayaking in the summer months.
  8. Winter Sports: Yosemite is also a popular winter destination, with opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
Yosemite Firefall
Yosemite National Park (Shutterstock)

If you want to learn more about this amazing park, then check out 10+ (AMAZING) Yosemite National Park Facts You Probably Didn’t Know


List Of National Parks Near Long Beach

  1. Channel Islands National Park
  2. Death Valley National Park
  3. Joshua Tree National Park
  4. Pinnacles National Park
  5. The Queen Mary
  6. Sequoia National Park
  7. Kings Canyon National Park
  8. Yosemite National Park

National Parks Near Long Beach FAQ


What national parks are closest to Los Angeles?

In order nearest to farthest, here are estimated travel times, mileage and routes to five parks in easy reach of Los Angeles.
Joshua Tree National Park. 2 hours, 20 minutes (131 miles) via Interstate 10 East
Sequoia National Park
Yosemite National Park
Zion National Park
Grand Canyon National Park

How many national parks are there in Los Angeles?

7 Amazing National Parks Near Los Angeles, California.

Why is Long Beach so famous?

The city is known for its waterfront attractions, including the permanently docked RMS Queen Mary and the Aquarium of the Pacific. Long Beach also hosts the Grand Prix of Long Beach, an IndyCar race and the Long Beach Pride Festival and Parade.


Why Trust Us About National Parks Near Long Beach?


We’re Jim Pattiz and Will Pattiz, collectively known as the Pattiz Brothers (and sometimes the Parks Brothers) and we absolutely LOVE the national parks.

You should probably know that we don’t just make this stuff up out of thin air. We’ve spent our entire adult lives exploring and filming America’s national parks and public lands.

We’ve worked with the National Park Service, the Department of Interior, USDA, and the U.S. Forest Service for years creating films on important places and issues. Our work has been featured in leading publications all over the world and even some people outside of our immediate family call us experts on the national parks.


Meet The Parks Brothers


The Pattiz Brothers are regular contributors on The Weather Channel

Map Of National Parks Near Long Beach


List Of National Parks Near Long Beach

  1. Channel Islands National Park
  2. Death Valley National Park
  3. Joshua Tree National Park
  4. Pinnacles National Park
  5. Sequoia National Park
  6. Kings Canyon National Park
  7. Yosemite National Park

We Hope You’ll Follow Our Journey


The Pattiz Brothers
More Than Just Parks Co-Founders Jim & Will Pattiz

Our goal here at More Than Just Parks is to share the beauty of America’s national parks and public lands through stunning short films in an effort to get Americans and the world to see the true value in land conservation. 

We hope you’ll follow our journey through the parks and help us to keep them the incredible places that they are. If you’re interested in joining the adventure then please sign up below! 


Related Articles

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https://morethanjustparks.com/national-parks-near-long-beach/feed/ 0 40586 7+ EPIC National Parks Near Long Beach You'll Love (Photos + Guide) National Parks Near Long Beach include beautiful parks, magnificent scenery, breathtaking trees, amazing wildlife and so much more. Channel Islands National Park,Death Valley National Park,Joshua Tree National Park,Kings Canyon National Park,Pinnacles National Park,Sequoia National Park,The Queen Mary,Yosemite National Park,National Parks Near Long Beach queen-mary-2-long-beach-california-171869 Shutterstock_1532317412 Aerial panoramic view of the Long Beach coastline, harbour, skyline and Marina in Long Beach with Palm Trees. (Shutterstock-Ingus Kruklitis) Shutterstock_127674680 Sunset from Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Death Valley National Park, California. (Shutterstock- Inspiration Point Channel Islands Joseph Sohm Inspiration Point, Anacapa Island | Channel Islands National Park (Shutterstock/Joseph Sohm) Shutterstock_626578139 Potato Harbor, Santa Cruz, Channel Islands National Park. (Shutterstock-Bram Reusen) Shutterstock_626578103 Coast of Santa Cruz Island, Channel Islands National Park. (Shutterstock-Bram Reusen) DSC08380 Shutterstock_127674680 Sunset from Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Death Valley National Park, California. (Shutterstock- DSC08380 fall in joshua tree national park Shutterstock_1564546156 Joshua Tree National Park in California. The cloudy sunset was shot just after a big storm. (Shutterstock-AndrePagaPhoto) cottonwood springs oasis sunset joshua tree national park things-to-do-pinnacles-national-park-shutterstock_1581888301courtesyKelly-vanDellen Things to Do In Pinnacles National Park (Shutterstock/Kelly VanDellen) The Queen Mary | National Parks Near Long Beach Aerial view of the Queen Mary | National Parks Near Long Beach Sequoia National Park | National Parks Near Long Beach general sherman tree sequoia national park california Yosemite National Park | National Parks Near Long Beach Shutterstock_794426770 Firefall | Things To Do Yosemite National Park (Shutterstock/Gregory B Cuvelier) pattiz-brothers-badlands1 More Than Just Parks Co-Founders Jim & Will Pattiz Loading
5 EPIC National Parks Near Dallas You’ll Love (Photos + Guide) https://morethanjustparks.com/national-parks-near-dallas/ https://morethanjustparks.com/national-parks-near-dallas/#respond Wed, 11 Sep 2024 18:07:06 +0000 https://morethanjustparks.com/?p=30330 National Parks near Dallas include amazing wildlife, beautiful parks, magnificent scenery, spectacular landscapes and so much more.

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Dallas, Texas | National Parks Near Dallas

Article Summary: National Parks Near Dallas

National Parks near Dallas. There’s so much more to the Lone Star State than the Dallas Cowboys. In this article, More Than Just Parks goes deep in the heart of Texas.

I’ve been to so many of these amazing places since retiring from teaching in 2018. Did I mention that I taught history? I spent a lifetime teaching about the history behind these momentous sites. Then I got to see them firsthand. And now I’m sharing the stories of these incredible places with you. It doesn’t get any better than that!

Dallas is home to more than a dozen neighborhoods and districts that each have their own distinct vibe and attractions. From spectacular museums and performing arts venues in the Arts District, to the buzzing nightlife of live music at cool bars in Deep Ellum, Dallas has a place for everyone.

It’s also a place that has some amazing national parks within a day’s driving distance.

National Parks Near Dallas
Sotol Vista Overlook (shutterstock/paul leong) | Things to Do Big Bend National Park

So, What Is A National Park?

We get asked that question a lot because there’s a difference between a “national park” and a “national park site.” To help you understand that difference you might want to check out our article titled: What Is A National Park Really?

If you’re planning a trip to the Lone Star State then one book that I highly recommend is: Texas Bucket List Adventure Guide: Explore 100 Offbeat Destinations You Must Visit!

Now let’s go ahead with 5 wonderful reasons why you’ll want to hop in your car and make a day’s drive from Dallas to one of these truly amazing places.

National Parks Near Dallas
Canoeing at Big Bend National Park (NPS)


Best National Parks Near Dallas


1. Big Bend National Park

Distance From Dallas: Seven hours and 39 minutes (535 miles) via I-20 W.

It’s a full day’s drive from Dallas to Big Bend National Park, but well worth the trip. This magnificent park, which is often referred to as Texas “gift to the nation,” is famous for its natural resources and recreational opportunities. It’s also rich in cultural history.

Big Bend National Park is a vast wilderness that encompasses over 800,000 acres of land and is one of the largest national parks in the country.

The park is known for its diverse landscape, which includes rugged mountain ranges, sprawling deserts, and scenic canyons, as well as the Rio Grande, which forms its southern boundary. It’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, camping, backpacking, rock climbing, and river trips.

National Parks Near Dallas
South Rim Trail (shutterstock/JiroTX) | Things to Do Big Bend National Park

RELATED: 12 AMAZING Facts About Big Bend National Park


Check Out The Chisos Mountains

One of the main attractions of Big Bend National Park is the Chisos Mountains, which rise abruptly from the surrounding desert floor and provide a stunning backdrop for visitors. The park is also home to a variety of unique plant and animal species, including black bears, mountain lions, and numerous bird species.

In addition to its natural beauty, Big Bend National Park has a rich cultural history, with evidence of human habitation dating back over 10,000 years. The park is home to several ancient Native American rock art sites and the ruins of early homesteads, stagecoach stops, and military outposts.

Whether you’re looking for an adventure in the great outdoors or simply want to escape to a peaceful and scenic destination, Big Bend National Park has something to offer everyone.

big bend national park texas | National Parks Near Dallas
Big Bend National Park is a hiker’s paradise. More than 150 miles of desert and mountains trails to explore. (Photo courtesy of the National Park Service)

2. Big Thicket National Preserve

Distance From Dallas: Approximately four hours (267 miles) via I-45 S.

Big Thicket National Preserve covers over 100,000 acres of land and is one of the most biologically diverse regions in the country.

The preserve is named after the “Big Thicket,” a dense thicket of forest, wetlands, and prairies that provide habitat for a wide variety of plant and animal species.

The Big Thicket is home to a unique mixture of species from both the eastern and western parts of the United States, including many rare and endangered species. Some of the notable plant species found in the preserve include carnivorous pitcher plants, giant cane, and the purple pitcher plant.

National Parks Near Dallas
Kayakers in a cypress-tupelo slough between Cooks and Scatterman Lakes | Courtesy of NPS

The Park Is A Valuable Habitat For Wildlife

The Big Thicket also provides a valuable habitat for wildlife, including numerous species of birds, such as the red-cockaded woodpecker, and mammals, like the American black bear and the Texas pine snake.

The preserve is also a popular destination for outdoor recreation, with opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, fishing, and canoeing.

In addition to its biological diversity, the Big Thicket has a rich cultural history, with evidence of human habitation dating back thousands of years. The preserve is home to several historic sites, including cemeteries, churches, and homesteads, as well as the locations of important events in the state’s history, such as the “Wild Horse Desert” and the “Steamboat Era.”

National Parks Near Dallas
Big Thicket National Preserve. (Shutterstock-Jeffrey M. Frank)

RELATED: 18 SURPRISING New Mexico National Parks


3. Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Distance From Dallas: Seven hours and 32 minutes (508 miles) via I-20 W.

It’s a long car drive from Dallas, but it’s a magnificent national park. In 2022, Guadalupe Mountain National Park celebrates its 50th year as a national park. You can join the celebration with some wonderful hikes and backpacking trails where you will be treated to the beauty of the American Southwest.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park covers over 80,000 acres of land and is known for its stunning scenic beauty and unique geological features.

The park is home to the highest peak in Texas, Guadalupe Peak, which rises to an elevation of 8,751 feet and provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The park is also known for its impressive fossilized reef system, which was once part of an ancient sea and is now preserved in the form of towering cliffs and canyons.

National Parks Near Dallas
El Capitan, under storm clouds, in Guadalupe Mountains National Park. (Shutterstock-LHBLLC)

RELATED: 10 FASCINATING Facts About Guadalupe Mountains National Park


The Park Is Home To A Diverse Array Of Plant & Animal Life

In addition to its geological wonders, Guadalupe Mountains National Park is home to a diverse array of plant and animal species, including many species that are unique to the area. Some of the notable species found in the park include black bears, pronghorns, and various bird species, such as the peregrine falcon.

The park offers numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, backpacking, camping, rock climbing, and scenic drives. The park is also home to several historic sites, including the ruins of an old mining town, as well as the remnants of a Butterfield Overland Mail stagecoach station.

Whether you’re an avid hiker, a nature lover, or simply someone looking for a beautiful and peaceful escape, Guadalupe Mountains National Park has something to offer everyone. With its unique combination of scenic beauty, geological wonders, and rich cultural history, it is truly one of the crown jewels of the national park system.

National Parks Near Dallas
(shutterstock/Jon Manjeot)

More National Parks Near Dallas


4. Hot Springs National Park

Distance From Dallas: Four hours and 22 minutes (287 miles) via I-30 E.

Hot Springs National Park is a protected area located in Hot Springs, Arkansas. The park was established in 1921 to preserve the unique geothermal hot springs that have been sought after for their therapeutic properties for thousands of years.

The hot springs in Hot Springs National Park have been used for healing and relaxation by Native American tribes for centuries, and by the late 19th century, the city of Hot Springs had become a popular destination for people seeking the health benefits of the hot springs.

The arrival of railroads and improved transportation helped to spur the growth of the city and its reputation as a health resort.

As the popularity of the hot springs grew, concerns arose about the exploitation and commercialization of the resources. In 1832, the federal government set aside a portion of the hot springs for public use, and in 1877, the Hot Springs Reservation was established to protect the hot springs from private development and to ensure public access to the thermal waters.

National Parks Near Dallas
Hot Springs National Park (Shutterstock-Kelly vanDellen)

In 1921, the Hot Springs Reservation was renamed Hot Springs National Park and was officially established as the country’s 18th national park. Today, Hot Springs National Park is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year who come to soak in the hot springs, enjoy the natural beauty of the park, and learn about the rich history of the area.

The park offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing, as well as a range of cultural and historical resources, including the Fordyce Bathhouse, which served as a hub of activity and entertainment during the early 20th century, and the Grand Promenade, a historic walkway that offers stunning views of the park and the city of Hot Springs.

National Parks Near Dallas
Waterfall at Hot Springs

RELATED: 6 SURPRISING Oklahoma National Parks


5. Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge

Distance From Dallas: Approximately eight hours (543 miles) via I-35 S.

Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area located in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas. The refuge was established in 1946 to provide habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife, and to conserve the unique natural resources of the region.

Laguna Atascosa covers over 97,000 acres and includes a diverse range of habitats, including freshwater marshes, tidal flats, dunes, and coastal prairies.

This variety of habitats provides a home for a wide range of wildlife, including over 400 species of birds, as well as threatened and endangered species such as the ocelot and the Gulf Coast jaguarundi.

National Parks Near Dallas
Altamira Oriole in the Laguna Atascosa Wildlife Refuge in Texas. (Shutterstock-Wildnerdpix)

An Important Stopover For Migratory Birds

The refuge is also an important stopover for migratory birds, including waterfowl, shorebirds, and neo-tropical migrants. The refuge provides habitat for nesting, resting, and feeding during these birds’ long journeys between their breeding and wintering grounds.

In addition to its wildlife and habitat, Laguna Atascosa is also significant for its cultural and historical resources. The refuge encompasses lands that were once used by the indigenous Karankawa people, and by Spanish and Mexican settlers.

Today, the refuge provides opportunities for wildlife observation, fishing, hunting, and environmental education, and is a popular destination for birdwatching and wildlife photography.

Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge is a unique and valuable resource, and plays a critical role in the conservation of the Rio Grande Valley’s diverse wildlife and habitats.

By protecting and managing these important natural resources, the refuge helps to ensure the survival of a wide range of species and contributes to the preservation of the region’s rich cultural and ecological heritage.

Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge
Spanish Dagger (Yucca treculeana) growing in grassland at Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge showing Gulf coastal grassland and prairie habitat. (Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons)

RELATED: 16 SURPRISING Texas National Parks


National Parks Near Dallas FAQ


What is the closest national forest to Dallas?

The closest national forests to Dallas are Angelina National Forest in East Texas and Ouachita National Forest in Oklahoma. There are lots of hiking and backpacking opportunities in both, but it’s a drive. And of course Texas has many great state parks that are day-trip distance from Dallas.


Why Trust Us About National Parks Near Dallas?


We’re Jim Pattiz and Will Pattiz, collectively known as the Pattiz Brothers (and sometimes the Parks Brothers) and we absolutely LOVE the national parks.

You should probably know that we don’t just make this stuff up out of thin air. We’ve spent our entire adult lives exploring and filming America’s national parks and public lands.

We’ve worked with the National Park Service, the Department of Interior, USDA, and the U.S. Forest Service for years creating films on important places and issues. Our work has been featured in leading publications all over the world and even some people outside of our immediate family call us experts on the national parks.


Meet The Parks Brothers


The Pattiz Brothers are regular contributors to The Weather Channel

Map Of National Parks Near Dallas


List Of National Park Sites Near Dallas

  1. Big Bend National Park
  2. Big Thicket National Preserve
  3. Guadalupe Mountains National Park
  4. Hot Springs National Park
  5. Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge

To Learn More About The Lone Star State:


  1. Official Guide to Texas State Parks and Historic Sites: New Edition by Laurence Parent.
  2. Texas Bucket List Adventure Guide: Explore 100 Offbeat Destinations You Must Visit by John Mallon.
  3. Lone Star: A History Of Texas And The Texans by T.R. Fehrenbach.
  4. History of Texas: A Captivating Guide to Texas History, Starting from the Arrival of the Spanish Conquistadors in North America through the Texas Revolution to the Present by Captivating History.

We Hope You’ll Follow Our Journey


The Pattiz Brothers
More Than Just Parks Co-Founders Jim & Will Pattiz

Our goal here at More Than Just Parks is to share the beauty of America’s national parks and public lands through stunning short films in an effort to get Americans and the world to see the true value in land conservation.

We hope you’ll follow our journey through the parks and help us to keep them the incredible places that they are. If you’re interested joining the adventure, sign up below!


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https://morethanjustparks.com/national-parks-near-dallas/feed/ 0 30330 dallas-texas-city-1740681 sotol-vista-overlook-big-bend-national-park-shutterstock_304185956courtesy-Paul-Leong Sotol Vista Overlook (shutterstock/paul leong) | Things to Do Big Bend National Park mariscal-canyon-big-bend-national-park-nps_ Canoeing at Big Bend National Park (NPS) south-rim-trail-big-bend-national-park-shutterstock_1022694904courtesy-JiroTX South Rim Trail (shutterstock/JiroTX) | Things to Do Big Bend National Park big bend national park texas | National Parks Near Dallas image-181 Shutterstock_733751281 Big Thicket National Preserve. (Shutterstock-Jeffrey M. Frank) Shutterstock_222036586 El Capitan, under storm clouds, in Guadalupe Mountains National Park. (Shutterstock-LHBLLC) shutterstock_391735615-guadalupe-mountains-national-park-courtesyJon-Manjeot (shutterstock/Jon Manjeot) Shutterstock_1591025452 Hot Springs National Park (Shutterstock-Kelly vanDellen) Waterfall,At,Hot,Springs,National,Park Shutterstock_503001517 Altamira Oriole in the Laguna Atascosa Wildlife Refuge in Texas. (Shutterstock-Wildnerdpix) Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge pattiz-brothers-badlands1 More Than Just Parks Co-Founders Jim & Will Pattiz Loading
15 AMAZING Facts About Glacier National Park (Sure to Surprise) https://morethanjustparks.com/glacier-national-park-facts/ https://morethanjustparks.com/glacier-national-park-facts/#respond Wed, 11 Sep 2024 18:00:41 +0000 https://morethanjustparks.com/?p=52030 Here are some fascinating Glacier National Park Facts including interesting stats & wild stories about Montana's premiere national park.

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Glacier National Park Facts (Courtesy NPS)

Article Summary: Glacier National Park Facts

Glacier National Park Facts! In this article, More Than Just Parks provides you with 15 amazing facts about one of America’s most magnificent national parks.

More Than Just Parks is your one-stop-shop when it comes to learning everything you’ll need to know about America’s national parks. We’ve got expert guides, beautiful photos, helpful tips, breathtaking films and so much more.

I’ve been to so many of these amazing places since retiring from teaching in 2018. Did I mention that I taught history? I spent a lifetime teaching about the history behind some of these natural wonders. Then I got to see them firsthand. And now I’m sharing some of the incredible stories about these beautiful places with you. It doesn’t get any better than that!

More Than Just Parks takes a deeper dive with its national park facts. We’ve done our homework so that you’ll get more than you bargained for.

Without further ado, let’s dive in.

Glacier National Park Facts
Iceberg Lake, Glacier National Park (NPS)

Table Of Contents: Glacier National Park Facts

Glacier National Park Facts


Facts About Glacier National Park


Some Basic Facts About Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a national park located in the state of Montana, on the border with Canada. It is known for its stunning landscape, which includes towering mountains, forests, lakes, and glaciers. The park covers over 1 million acres and is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves, mountain goats, and elk.

One of the main attractions of the park is the Going-to-the-Sun Road, a scenic roadway that crosses the park and provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The park also has numerous hiking trails, including the famous Highline Trail, which takes hikers along the crest of a ridge with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

In addition to its natural beauty, Glacier National Park has a rich cultural history. It is home to the Blackfeet Nation, who have lived in the area for thousands of years and continue to have a strong presence in the park. The park also has a number of historic lodges and buildings, including the historic Belton Chalet and the Lake McDonald Lodge.

Overall, Glacier National Park is a must-see destination for anyone interested in nature and outdoor recreation. It is a place of breathtaking beauty and a testament to the power of the natural world.

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Glacier National Park | Glacier National Park Facts (Courtesy of NPS)

About Glacier National Park

Before we get to all of the wonderful things that you can do at Glacier, let’s begin with a short history lesson. Don’t roll your eyes. I promise it will be short and remember I don’t give any homework. After all I’m retired. And grading homework was never that much fun anyway.

As for Glacier, it officially became a national park in 1910. Fast forward to 2019 [I told you the lesson would be brief] and Glacier National Park is the 10th most visited park, making this one of the most popular national parks to visit in the United States.

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Logan Pass at Glacier National Park | Glacier National Park Facts

Looking for things to do in Glacier National Park on your next trip? Check out our article: 15 EPIC Things to Do in GLACIER National Park (Photos + Map) 2022


Here Are Some Basic Facts About Glacier

  • Location: Montana
  • Acreage: The country’s 10th national park, Montana’s Glacier preserves 1 million acres of glacier-carved peaks and valleys, pristine turquoise lakes and streams, and dense ancient forests for all to enjoy. 
  • Visitation:  Glacier National Park in the United States attracted a total of approximately three million visitors in 2021.
  • Highest Elevation: Mt. Cleveland is the park’s tallest peak, listed at 10,466 feet.
  • Lowest Elevation: The lowest is the Middle Fork River near West Glacier at 3,215′.
  • Average annual precipitation: In the driest corners of the park, along the northeast and northwest edges, rainfall averages 23 inches (58.4 cm) a year, while the lowlands of the west side receive about 30 inches (76.2 cm) of precipitation on average.
  • When Did It Become A National Park? On May 11, 1910, President William Howard Taft signed a bill into law establishing Glacier National Park. 
swiftcurrent lake, many glacier, glacier national park
Glacier National Park | Glacier National Park Facts (Courtesy of NPS)

CHECK OUT: 8 AMAZING Alaska National Parks (Helpful Guide For Visiting)


Glacier National Park Facts


Top 5 Glacier National Park Facts


1. The Earliest Peoples To Inhabit Glacier Were The Kootenai

If you’re interested in origin stories then one of the most fascinating Glacier National Parks Facts involves the Kootenai.

10,000 years ago Native Americans known as the Kootenai made their seasonal rounds in the landscape that is now Glacier National Park. 

The Kootenai people lived along the Kootenai River in Idaho, Montana, and British Columbia.

They were hunter-gatherers, and salmon was an important staple to their diets. They built winter villages of cone-shaped houses made from wooden poles and rush mats.

Kootenai Family in 1907 | Glacier National Park Facts
Kootenai Family in 1907 – Courtesy of Library of Congress

2. Lewis & Clark Enjoyed Spectacular Views Of Glacier National Park

If you’re interested in stories about famous explorers then one of the more interesting Glacier National Park Facts is that, according to their records, while Lewis & Clark never actually set foot in Glacier National Park, they did enjoy spectacular views of the land.

Legend also has it that the Corps of Discovery’s encounter with the Piegan Indians led to a fifty years of distrust between the Blackfeet and all whites irrespective of their intentions.

It’s also worth noting that this was the only time during the two explorers historic journey that they actually were forced to take lives in order to defend themselves.

One of the Corps of Discovery got into a scuffle with a Piegan who grabbed his gun. Reuben Field pursued him and wrestled his gun away from the man at which point Field was forced to draw his knife and stab the man to death.

If you’re interested in taking a deeper dive and learning more about the remarkable explorations of Lewis & Clark then I recommend: Undaunted Courage: Meriwether Lewis, Thomas Jefferson, and the Opening of the American West by Stephen Ambrose.

logan pass, glacier national park facts
(Courtesy of NPS)

CHECK OUT: 25 Bucket List Famous Landmarks In America (MUST-SEE)


3. A Man Who Lived Among The Native Americans Christened The St. Mary Lakes

I love stories about the interesting people who became a part of the history of America’s national parks. In the case of Glacier, one of these people was a man by the name of Hugh Monroe.

According to the National Park Service, in 1817, Monroe came out of Edmonton House. His assignment was to learn the Blackfeet language and assure future trades at Edmonton House.

Hugh Monroe had no idea that this job would change his life. He was only seventeen years old when he was adopted by the Blackfeet people.

Later, Monroe married a Blackfeet woman, Sinopah, and together they raised a family.

It was through Monroe’s good reputation and history with the tribe which the way was paved for other whites to come into the area.

going to the sun road
Going-To-The-Sun Road | Glacier National Park Facts

The First Caucasian To Discover St. Mary Lake

Historians believe that Monroe may have been the first Caucasian to discover the St. Mary Lakes. As a matter of fact, he may have been the first Caucasian to see Glacier National Park.

Between 1836 and 1845, Monroe held a ceremony to name the lakes at Glacier after the Virgin Mary.

He christened the St. Mary Lakes, which is another one of the fascinating Glacier National Park Facts.

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Wild Goose Island Overlook | Courtesy NPS

4. A Railroad Tycoon Helped To Establish Glacier National Park

The Great Northern Railway was the first, and for decades, the only major transportation system to bring people to Glacier National Park.

Another incredible Glacier National Park Fact is that James J. Hill, president of the Great Northern Railway, and his son Louis, were among the earliest supporters of a national park.

The Hill’s were enthusiastic advocates for the preservation of Glacier’s lands.

They funded and led a public relations campaign to convince Congress to designate this area as a national park. Congress agreed and President William Howard Taft signed the bill into law on May 11, 1910.

Glacier National Park Facts
Backcountry campers fixing dinner at Cracker Lake, Glacier National Park | Courtesy of NPS

See America First

James J Hill understood that the Great Northern could not grow and prosper unless their were interesting places for passengers to travel.

Louis Hill, who was a passionate advocate for America’s public lands, led a campaign to encourage Americans to “See America First.”

Up on the mountains of Glacier National Park the air is laden with the fragrance of pine and hemlock that grow tall and stately in the valleys and on the mountain sides, or it blows to you alive with vigor from illimitable space above the taller peaks. Your eyes view a region of beauty at your feet, your ears hear the music of a primitive world and heed the silence of great places. Life is different in Glacier National Park-you can freshen up there.

-advertising brochure from the see america first campaign

People traditional traveled to Europe for summer vacations, but the Hills believed that they could give Americans an opportunity to have a comparable vacation experience while remaining in the United States.

glacier national park
Glacier National Park

While visitors can now travel to Glacier by car, they can still ride the rails too.

Travelers can take Amtrak’s Empire Builder from the Midwest to East, ride through the Marias Pass at the highest point on the railroad’s route and stop at Beltron Depot to visit the park.

CHECK OUT: 11 FASCINATING Crater Lake National Park Facts


5. Glacier National Park Helped To Give Birth To “Parkitecture”

One of my favorite Glacier National Park Facts is that, as part of his “See America First” campaign, Louis Hill wanted to rival Europe’s Swiss Alps.

To do this he adopted the design features of Swiss Chalets as part of the accommodations offered at Glacier National Park.

Hill spent $200,000 to build a chain of hotels that were what he referred to as “chalet colonies.”

In doing so, Glacier National Park helped give birth to what became known as “Parkitecture.” It was an innovative new design which would transform the park into what Hill and his supporters called the “American Alps.”

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Many Glacier Hotel on Swiftcurrent Lake in Glacier National Park (shutterstock/kit leong)

Louis Hill took great pains to ensure that the lodges were built to last, even taking a break as the manager of the Great Northern to focus on making sure the design and construction of the Glacier Park Lodge.

Once the hotel was up Hill ushered visitors into the park and into his lodge where then, as today, folks enjoy amazing scenery both from the lodge and through Jammer bus tours, hiking and other activities.


Other Glacier Park Lodges include:

Lake McDonald Lodge: Located on the shores of Lake McDonald this lodge is one of the most popular in the park. Lake McDonald Lodge offers lodge rooms and cabins.

Silver Wolf Log Chalets: Located just minutes from the park’s west entrance, Silver Wolf Lodge offers a quiet retreat from kids, noise and everyday routine.

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Lake McDonald Lodge, Glacier National Park, Montana | Glacier National Park Facts (shutterstock/kit leong)

Top 10 Glacier National Park Facts


6. A Cattle Queen Was One Of The Early Visitors To Glacier National Park

Just when you thought we couldn’t come up with any more unbelievable Glacier National Park Facts we’ve come up with another one. One of the most interesting people to become a part of the Glacier National Park story was the “Cattle Queen of Montana.”

Mrs. Elizabeth Collins, wife of rancher Nathaniel Collins of Choteau, Montana, became the first woman to ride the train with her cattle from western Montana to Chicago and may have also been the first Caucasian woman to see the spectacle that would become Glacier National Park.

Collins came from a small farm town in Iowa. In a man’s world, she came to Montana where she gained employment as a mining camp cook before becoming a miner herself.

Mrs. Collins went back to ranching, but a couple of years later got “gold fever” and headed for the Klondike. Eventually she returned to Choteau where she tended her sick husband until he died. Finally, the “Cattle Queen” sold her ranch and moved to California.

Elizabeth Collins
Elizabeth Collins – Courtesy of NPS

Here’s A Glacier National Park Fun Fact

Now here’s a fun fact. There was a 1954 movie titled, The Cattle Queen of Montana starring Barbara Stanwyck and Ronald Reagan.

Though the film’s title may have been inspired by the real life story of Elizabeth Collins, the film itself was the story of a defiant female rancher Sierra Nevada Jones (Barbara Stanwyck) who swept into Montana, received a hostile welcome from a tribe of Native Americans after attacking her cattle and leaving her father dead.

If you’re interested in learning about the real “Cattle Queen of Montana,” however, then I recommend: The Cattle Queen of Montana by Charles Wallace and Elizabeth Smith Collins.

Cattle Queen Of Montana | Glacier National Park Facts
Cattle Queen Of Montana | Glacier National Park Facts (Courtesy of Rotten Tomatoes)

CHECK OUT: 10 EPIC Montana National Parks Worth Visiting


7. An Influential Editor & Conservationist Nicknamed Glacier The “Crown Of The Continent”

One of my favorite Glacier National Park Facts involves George Bird Grinnell: America’s First Environmentalist.

Grinnell was the editor of Forest and Stream magazine. He first came to Glacier National Park in 1885. He would return for the rest of his life.

Grinnell gave the park its nickname: the “crown of the continent.”

Now how many folks actually have a national park landmark named after them? George Bird Grinnell had three!

As one of the first Americans to visit and record his impressions of Glacier, Grinnell would have the honor of having a glacier, a lake and a mountain named after him.

George Bird Grinnell on trek across glacier
George Bird Grinnell on trek across glacier | Courtesy of NPS

From the time he first dreamt of it becoming a national park in 1891, he worked tirelessly to gather support for this idea. Grinnell’s editorials in Forest and Stream, as well as his efforts to lobby political leaders such as Theodore Roosevelt and William Howard Taft, would finally bear fruit when Glacier became a national park in 1910.

To learn more about George Bird Grinnell, I recommend: Grinnell: America’s Environmental Pioneer and His Restless Drive to Save the West by John Taliaferro.

grinnell glacier overlook, glacier national park
Grinnell Overlook at Glacier National Park | Glacier National Park Facts

Learn More About The Greatest Environmentalist You’ve Never Heard Of: George Bird Grinnell – America’s First Environmental Activist


8. Glacier National Park Features An Engineering Marvel

Stephen Mather, who became the first direction of the National Park Service, wanted to have a road built in Glacier National Park. It would be not just any road however. It would be an engineering marvel.

Between 1921 and 1933, when the entire length of Going-to-the-Sun Road was opened to the public, it cost $2.5 million, 490,000 pounds of explosives and three lives to build – built by men armed with shovels, hammers, hemp climbing ropes and explosives, according to the April 1937 issue of Pacific Builder and Engineer.

It is one of the world’s most dramatic roadways.

Since its dedication, millions of motorists have passed through the entrance gates and ventured into the park’s wild interior, transported on a two-lane roadway to an otherworldly landscape.

going to the sun road, glacier national park itinerary, montana
Going-to-the-Sun Road was designed to blend into its mountain setting | Glacier National Park Facts (Courtesy of NPS)

9. The World’s First International Peace Park Is At Glacier

Another truly amazing Glacier National Park Fact is that it’s the world’s first international peace park.

In 1932, Waterton Lakes National Park (Alberta, Canada) was combined with the Glacier National Park (Montana, United States) to form the world’s first International Peace Park.

trail of the cedars, glacier national park hikes
Trail of the Cedars (Courtesy of NPS)

What Is An International Peace Park?

So, what is an International Peace Park? A “Park for Peace” is a special designation that may be applied to any of the three types of Transboundary Conservation Areas, and is dedicated to the promotion, celebration and/or commemoration of peace and cooperation.

According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Parks for Peace can serve several purposes.

They may celebrate the endurance of peace and the commemoration of peace in a region: for instance, Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park is a good example of a Park for Peace established to celebrate longstanding peaceful relations between Canada and the USA. 

The Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, meaning that it is a place of special significance to the world.


10. The Night Of The Grizzlies Changed How People Interacted With Bears At Glacier

One of the most compelling Glacier National Park Facts concerns an event in park history which became known as The Night Of The Grizzlies.

Before I relate the fateful events of that night, it’s important to know that before 1967 the park made it easy to get much closer to grizzly bears than the National Park Service recommends today.

At a matter of fact, in a practice that was popularized by Yellowstone National Park and used in other western parks, the bears regularly visited sources of human food while visitors watched these huge animals tear apart trash dumps.

Grizzly Bear
Grizzly Bears were considered a form of entertainment at Glacier National Park | Glacier National Park Facts (Courtesy of NPS)

Things Changed On August 12, 1967

On the afternoon of August 12, 1967, seven young park employees set off on long hikes for overnight camping. That night, Julie Helgeson, at a campsite near Granite Park Chalet, was attacked and killed by a grizzly; Roy Ducat was severely mauled.

That same night Michele Koons was also killed by a grizzly while camping at Trout Lake; Paul Dunn and three other campers escaped by climbing trees.

For everyone involved, it was an unforgettable night of crisis, intense fear, bravery and, ultimately, grief. But it was also a night that marked a watershed moment for bear management, a night that many would later say, “changed everything.”

So, what’s the moral of this story? Seeing a bear in the wild is a special treat for any visitor to a national park. While it is an exciting moment, it’s important to remember that bears in national parks are wild and can be dangerous.

Their behavior is sometimes unpredictable. Although rare, attacks on humans have occurred, inflicting serious injuries and death as was evidence in Glacier National Park by the tragic events of August 12, 1967.

It’s important to stay safe around bears which is why the National Park Service provides a helpful website for doing just that.

Check Out This Helpful Website In The Event That You See A Bear In A National Park


Top 15 Glacier National Park Facts


11. The Mountain Goat Is The Official Symbol Of Glacier National Park

Now here’s another one of those interesting Glacier National Park Facts. Often considered the official mascot of Glacier National Park, mountain goats are some of the most popular sights in this spectacular Montana national park.

Also known as Rocky Mountain Goats (Oreamnos americanus), these fascinating hoofed mammals are endemic to the high mountains of western North America.

In Glacier National Park, you can find mountain goats pretty much everywhere at higher elevations, above the tree line and on steep cliffs.

Mountain Goats are the official mascot at Glacier National Park | Glacier National Park Facts (Courtesy of NPS)

12. The Number Of Glaciers At Glacier National Park Is Shrinking

Glacier National Park is home to 26 glaciers, down from approximately 150 in 1850.

That number is expected to continue its rapid decline as climate changes shrink their size, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).

Of the existing glaciers, the largest is Harrison Glacier, at 1.6 million square meters.

By 2030, however, Glacier may no longer be home to any glaciers.

best hikes glacier national park
Glacier National Park | Courtesy of NPS

13. The Going To The Sun Road Appeared In The Classic Film The Shining

If you’re a film buff then this Glacier National Park Fact is one you’ll most certainly enjoy.

Going-to-the-Sun Road is shown in the opening credits of the 1980 film The Shining.

You can see aerial flybys of Wild Goose Island. Jack Torrance (portrayed by Jack Nicholson) is traveling along the north shore of Saint Mary Lake, through the East Side tunnel and onward, going to a mountain resort hotel for his job interview as a winter caretaker.

going to the sun road, things to do glacier national park
Glacier National Park Facts

If You Want To Learn More About Which National Parks Played Cameo Roles In Some Of America’s Best Loved Films Then Check Out: Look Familiar? 25+ CLASSIC Movies Filmed In The National Parks


14. There Are 762 Lakes In Glacier National Park

If you enjoy spending time on the water then here’s another of those Glacier National Park Facts that you will appreciate.

There are 762 lakes in Glacier National Park. Of these, 131 are named.

The largest lake in the park is Lake McDonald, at 9.4 miles long, 1.5 miles wide, and 464 feet deep. While Lake McDonald isn’t considered a prime fishing lake, visitors flock to catch a sight of the many wild animals that live along its shore, including moose, black bears, and mule deer.

The park is also home to 2,865 miles of streams, the longest of which is Upper McDonald Creek at 25.8 miles.

lake mcdonald glacier national park, montana national park
Lake McDonald at Glacier National Park | Glacier National Park Facts (Courtesy NPS)

15. Glacier Features 71 Species Of Mammals, 276 Species Of Birds & 1,990 Total Species Of Plants

If you love seeing the flora and the fauna then we’ve saved the best of the Glacier National Park Facts for last.

Plant and animal species thrive in Glacier National Park, with 71 species of mammals, 276 species of birds, and 1,990 total species of plants documented.

Wildlife tours are popular among visitors, and sightings are frequent in the warmer spring and summer months.

Glacier Lily at Glacier National Park
Glacier Lily at Glacier National Park | Courtesy of NPS

Why Trust Us About Glacier National Park?


We’re Jim Pattiz and Will Pattiz, collectively known as the Pattiz Brothers (and sometimes the Parks Brothers) and we absolutely LOVE the national parks.

You should probably know that we don’t just make this stuff up out of thin air. We’ve spent our entire adult lives exploring and filming America’s national parks and public lands.

We’ve worked with the National Park Service, the Department of Interior, USDA, and the U.S. Forest Service for years creating films on important places and issues. Our work has been featured in leading publications all over the world and even some people outside of our immediate family call us experts on the national parks.

The Pattiz Brothers
More Than Just Parks Co-Founders Jim & Will Pattiz

Meet The Parks Brothers


The Pattiz Brothers are regular contributors to The Weather Channel

Map Of Glacier National Park


List Of Glacier National Park Facts

  1. The Earliest Peoples To Inhabit Glacier Were The Kootenai
  2. Lewis & Clark Enjoyed Spectacular Views Of Glacier National Park
  3. A Man Who Lived Among The Native Americans Christened The St. Mary Lakes
  4. A Railroad Tycoon Helped To Establish Glacier National Park
  5. Glacier National Park Helped To Give Birth To “Parkitecture”
  6. A Cattle Queen Was One Of The Early Visitors To Glacier National Park
  7. An Influential Editor & Conservationist Nicknamed Glacier The “Crown Of The Continent”
  8. Glacier National Park Features An Engineering Marvel
  9. The World’s First International Peace Park Is At Glacier
  10. The Night Of The Grizzlies Changed How People Interacted With Bears At Glacier
  11. The Mountain Goat Is The Official Symbol Of Glacier National Park
  12. The Number Of Glaciers At Glacier Is Shrinking
  13. The Going To The Sun Road Appeared In The Classic Film The Shining
  14. There Are 762 Lakes In Glacier National Park
  15. Glacier Features 71 Species Of Mammals, 276 Species Of Birds & 1,990 Total Species Of Plants

We Hope You’ll Follow Our Journey


Pattiz Brothers
The Pattiz Brothers

Our goal here at More Than Just Parks is to share the beauty of America’s national parks and public lands through stunning short films in an effort to get Americans and the world to see the true value in land conservation.

We hope you’ll follow our journey through the parks and help us to keep them the incredible places that they are. If you’re interested in joining the adventure then please sign up below!


Tips for Visiting Glacier National Park (or any national park)


Permit Systems and Reservations

Check to see if the national park you’re visiting has a permit or reservation system in place before visiting. As parks become increasingly crowded more has to be done to safeguard them which means controlling the hundreds of millions of people who visit these places each year.

Popular national parks with reservation systems of some kind include Yosemite, Yellowstone, Zion, Rocky Mountain, Glacier, Arches, Acadia, Denali, and more.

Want Less Crowds? Try a National Forest!

Try visiting a national forest while you’re on your trip to avoid the crowds. There are 155 national forests in America, many of which are equally as beautiful as the national parks they neighbor and only see a fraction of the visitors.

For example, try the Flathead National Forest next to Glacier National Park, the Bridger-Teton next to Grand Teton, and the Dixie which borders nearly all of the Utah National Parks.

Practice Safety, Seriously

National parks are amazing but wild places so it is essential to practice basic safety while visiting them. Every year people die while vacationing in national parks. This is easily avoided by:

  • Sticking to trails
  • Checking the weather before going out on a hike
  • Maintaining a safe distance between wildlife which means at least 25 yards from most wildlife and 100 yards from predators
  • Avoid ledges with steep drop offs

Best Things to Do Glacier NP: 15 Epic Things to Do at Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park Itinerary: Ultimate 3 Day Glacier National Park Itinerary

Glacier National Park Hikes: 15 Best Hikes in Glacier National Park

Montana National Parks: 10 Amazing Montana National Parks to Visit

Grand Teton Hikes: 18 EPIC Grand Teton National Park Hikes (Photos + Guide)

Grand Teton Guide: Grand Teton National Park Ultimate Guide

Things to Do Grand Teton: 17 EPIC Things to Do Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton Maps: The Best Maps for Grand Teton National Park

Things to Do Yellowstone: 15 BEST Things to Do Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone Facts: 10 AMAZING Yellowstone National Park Facts

Best Airports Near Yellowstone: The BEST Airports Near Yellowstone National Park

The Wyoming National Parks: 10 EPIC Wyoming National Parks: The Complete Guide (+ Photos)


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20 MUST-SEE Ohio Landmarks (Expert Guide + Photos) https://morethanjustparks.com/ohio-landmarks/ https://morethanjustparks.com/ohio-landmarks/#respond Wed, 11 Sep 2024 17:49:03 +0000 https://morethanjustparks.com/?p=69970 Ohio Landmarks feature incredible places, iconic memorials, fascinating museums, epic monuments and so much more.

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Ohio Landmarks

Article Summary: Ohio Landmarks

Ohio Landmarks. More Than Just Parks has 20 incredible must-see sites for you to visit.

There’s so much more to this exciting place than the Ohio State Buckeyes. In this article, we’ll familiarize you with the incredible landmarks located in the Buckeye State.

We’ve got incredible places, iconic memorials, fascinating museums, epic monuments and so much more.

We’re going to give you our list of the Top 20 Landmarks In Ohio.


So, What Is A Landmark?

Well, it’s a place of a special character or special historical or aesthetic interest or value as part of the development, heritage, or cultural characteristics of a city, state, or nation.”

Why visit these places? Because landmarks connect us to the past. Through visiting these wonderful places where history occurred we find our roots. It allows us to feel like we are a part of something much bigger than ourselves.

And, speaking of history, did I mention that I taught the subject? I spent a lifetime teaching about the history behind many of these amazing sites. Then I got to see them firsthand. And now I’m sharing the fascinating stories of these places with you. It doesn’t get any better than that!

So, without further ado, let’s dive in.

Ohio Landmarks
Downtown Cleveland skyline from the lakefront in Ohio. (Shutterstock-f11photo)


Ohio Landmarks


Some Fascinating Facts About Ohio

Here are some interesting facts about Ohio:

  1. Ohio is the 34th largest state in the United States, with a total area of 44,825 square miles.
  2. The capital city of Ohio is Columbus, which is also the largest city in the state.
  3. Ohio became the 17th state in the United States on March 1, 1803.
  4. The name Ohio comes from the Iroquois word “ohi-yo,” which means “great river.”
  5. The Ohio River forms the state’s southern border and is 981 miles long.
  6. Cleveland, Ohio, was the first city in the world to be lit by electric streetlights in 1879.
  7. The Wright Brothers, who are credited with inventing and building the world’s first successful airplane, were born and raised in Dayton, Ohio.
  8. Akron, Ohio, is the rubber capital of the world, and is home to companies such as Goodyear, Firestone, and General Tire.
  9. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is located in Cleveland, Ohio.
  10. Ohio is also known for producing many U.S. Presidents, including Ulysses S. Grant, Rutherford B. Hayes, James A. Garfield, Benjamin Harrison, William McKinley, William Howard Taft, and Warren G. Harding.
Ohio Landmarks
A view of a picturesque red, white and blue Ohio Bicentennial Barn that was painted in 2003 in Vinton County, Ohio. (Shutterstock-The American Explorer)

At More Than Just Parks, we’re excited to share our list of the Top 20 Ohio Landmarks. And we’re kicking off our list at #20 with the Cincinnati Music Hall.


Top 20 Ohio Landmarks


20. Cincinnati Music Hall

The Cincinnati Music Hall was built in the late 19th century and has been a center for music and cultural events in the city ever since.

The idea for the Music Hall was first proposed in the mid-1870s by a group of local musicians and arts patrons who felt that Cincinnati needed a grand concert hall. The city government agreed to provide the land for the building, and a competition was held to select an architect.

The winning design was submitted by Samuel Hannaford, a local architect who also designed several other notable buildings in Cincinnati.

Construction on the Music Hall began in 1877 and was completed in 1878. The building was originally called the “Music Hall and Exposition Building,” as it was also used for trade shows and other events.

Ohio Landmarks

Cincinnati Music Hall | Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons


It Become A Focal Point For Cincinnati’s Cultural Life

The Music Hall quickly became a focal point for Cincinnati’s cultural life. The building was home to the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra and the Cincinnati Opera, as well as a number of other musical and theatrical groups. Over the years, the Music Hall has hosted many famous performers, including: Enrico Caruso, Duke Ellington, and Yo-Yo Ma.

The Music Hall underwent several renovations and updates in the early 20th century to keep up with changing tastes and technologies. In the 1920s, the building was equipped with air conditioning and a new sound system.

In the 1950s, it underwent a major renovation that included the addition of new dressing rooms, rehearsal spaces, and administrative offices.

Today, the Cincinnati Music Hall is recognized as a National Historic Landmark and continues to be one of the city’s most important cultural institutions. It underwent a $143 million renovation that began in 2016 and was completed in 2017, restoring the building to its former glory while also incorporating modern amenities and accessibility features.

Ohio Landmarks
The Cincinnati Music hall spot lighted during the opening night of the spring season. (Shutterstock-Berry Medley)

19. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Our next Ohio landmark is an amazing place where visitors will have a chance to experience the Garden’s state-of-the-art greenhouses, witness rare and endangered desert plants, and learn about the Garden’s conservation and research work that protects desert plants for future generations.

At #19 on our list of the Best Ohio Landmarks is the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.

The Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and it is considered one of the top botanical gardens in the country.

The history of the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens dates back to the late 19th century. In 1884, the City of Columbus purchased land for a new park on the east side of the city.

The park was named Franklin Park, in honor of Benjamin Franklin, and it quickly became a popular destination for residents of Columbus.

In 1895, the City of Columbus hired landscape architect William J. Burns to design a new conservatory for the park. Burns’ design called for a large, glass-enclosed building that would house exotic plants and flowers from around the world.

Construction on the conservatory began in 1895 and was completed in 1897. The building featured a series of greenhouses, each with a different climate and plant collection. The conservatory quickly became a popular attraction, drawing visitors from across the region.

Butterflies at the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens | Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons


Over The Years, It Has Undergone Several Renovations & Updates

Over the years, the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens underwent several renovations and updates. In the 1920s, a new wing was added to the building, and in the 1950s, a large palm house was constructed.

In 1989, a major renovation project was launched to restore the conservatory to its original splendor. The project included the restoration of many of the conservatory’s original features, as well as the construction of several new buildings and garden spaces.

Today, the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is a popular attraction for visitors to Columbus. The conservatory features a wide variety of plant collections, including tropical plants, orchids, and bonsai trees.

It also hosts a number of events and educational programs throughout the year, including art exhibits, gardening workshops, and children’s activities.

Ohio Landmarks
Butterflies at the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens | Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

18. National Museum of the US Air Force

At our next Ohio landmark, visitors can view multiple galleries focusing on the various eras of military aviation and Air Force history, including the early years, World War I, World War II, Korea, Southeast Asia, the Cold War and the present.

At #18 on our list of the Best Ohio Landmarks is the National Museum of the US Air Force.

The National Museum of the United States Air Force is the largest and oldest military aviation museum in the world, and it features a vast collection of aircraft and related artifacts from throughout the history of the United States Air Force.

The museum was founded in 1923 as the Army Air Corps Museum, and it was initially located at Langley Field in Virginia. The museum’s collection grew steadily over the years, and in 1954, it was relocated to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio.

The new museum was renamed the United States Air Force Museum, and it was housed in a series of temporary buildings on the base.

Ohio Landmarks

Memphis Belle Boeing B-17 at the National Museum of the US Air Force | Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons


Plans Were Made For A Permanent Museum Building

In the early 1960s, plans were developed for a new, permanent museum building. Construction on the new building began in 1965, and the museum was officially dedicated in 1971. The new building was designed to be a modern, state-of-the-art facility, with a large central exhibit hall and a variety of smaller galleries.

Over the years, the museum’s collection continued to grow, with new aircraft and artifacts being added on a regular basis. The museum also underwent several renovations and updates, including the addition of a new Space Gallery in 2003.

Today, the National Museum of the United States Air Force is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ohio, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. The museum’s collection includes more than 360 aircraft, as well as numerous missiles, spacecraft, and other artifacts.

The museum also features a variety of exhibits, including interactive displays, films, and hands-on activities. In addition, the museum hosts a number of special events throughout the year, including air shows and lectures by experts in aviation history.

Ohio Landmarks
XB-70 Valkyrie, National Museum of the US Air Force, Dayton, Ohio | Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

17. The Ohio Statehouse

Our next Ohio landmark was built in the Greek Revival style, a type of design based on the buildings of ancient Greece and very popular in the U.S. during the early and mid 1800s. At #17 on our list of the Best Ohio Landmarks is The Ohio Statehouse.

The Ohio Statehouse is the seat of government for the state of Ohio and is located in downtown Columbus, Ohio, USA. The building is an important symbol of Ohio’s political history and has been a center of political activity in the state since its construction in the mid-19th century.

The Ohio Statehouse was designed by architect Nathan B. Kelly and construction began in 1839. The building was completed in 1861, but the Civil War delayed its formal dedication until 1869.

The Ohio Statehouse was constructed in a Greek Revival style and was built using local materials, including limestone and sandstone from nearby quarries.

Ohio Landmarks

Ohio Statehouse with Plaque | Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons


It Was The Site Of The Lincoln-Douglas Debates

Throughout its history, the Ohio Statehouse has been the site of many important political events. In 1856, the building was the site of the famous Lincoln-Douglas debates, in which Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas debated the issue of slavery. During the Civil War, the Ohio Statehouse was used as a barracks and a hospital for Union soldiers.

The Ohio Statehouse underwent several renovations and updates in the years that followed the war. In the 1880s, a new dome was added to the building, which became one of the most recognizable features of the Ohio Statehouse. In the early 20th century, the building underwent a major restoration, which included the addition of new wings and a new entrance.

Today, the Ohio Statehouse is open to the public and serves as a center of government activity in Ohio. Visitors can take guided tours of the building, which include visits to the governor’s office, the legislative chambers, and the rotunda.

The building also houses a number of important works of art and historical artifacts, including a statue of William McKinley, the 25th President of the United States and former governor of Ohio.

Ohio Landmarks
The Ohio Statehouse, the state capitol building and seat of government for the U.S. state of Ohio. (Shutterstock-Leonid Andronov)

16. Armstrong Air & Space Museum

We move from the seat of Ohio’s government to the incredible story of the first man to walk on the moon. At #16 on our list of the Best Ohio Landmarks is the Neil Armstrong Air & Space Museum which is located in Wapakoneta, Ohio.

This incredible place is dedicated to the life and accomplishments of Astronaut Neil Armstrong who was the first human to walk on the Moon. The museum also celebrates Ohio’s contributions to space exploration and aviation.

Exhibit of Neil Armstrong Spacewear | Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons



A Group Of Local Residents Wanted To Honor Armstrong’s Achievements

It was founded in 1972, shortly after Neil Armstrong’s historic Apollo 11 mission, by a group of local residents who wanted to honor Armstrong’s achievements and inspire future generations of space explorers. The museum was built in Wapakoneta, Armstrong’s hometown, and features exhibits and artifacts related to his life and career.

The Armstrong Air & Space Museum was expanded in 1985 to include additional exhibits on aviation and space exploration. The museum features a variety of interactive displays, including simulators, models, and educational exhibits designed to engage visitors of all ages.

The museum’s most notable exhibit is a replica of the Gemini VIII spacecraft, the mission in which Armstrong served as the command pilot. The museum also features a Lunar Module simulator that allows visitors to experience what it was like to land on the moon.

In addition to its exhibits, the Armstrong Air & Space Museum hosts a variety of educational programs and events throughout the year, including lectures, workshops, and summer camps.

Armstrong Air & Space Museum | Ohio Landmarks
Armstrong Air & Space Museum | Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Neil Armstrong

Neil Armstrong (1930-2012) was the first person to walk on the moon. He was born in Ohio and had a passion for flying from a young age. After serving in the Korean War as a naval aviator, he became a test pilot and was selected as a NASA astronaut in 1962.

Armstrong first went to space in 1966 as the command pilot of the Gemini 8 mission, which completed the first docking of two spacecraft in orbit. However, he is most famous for his role as commander of the Apollo 11 mission in 1969, which aimed to land humans on the moon.

On July 20, 1969, Armstrong, along with fellow astronaut Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin, became the first humans to walk on the moon. Armstrong famously said the words, “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind,” as he stepped onto the lunar surface.

After his career as an astronaut, Armstrong served as a professor of engineering at the University of Cincinnati and also as a member of the investigation into the 1986 Challenger space shuttle disaster. He was a highly respected figure in the space community and is remembered as a hero of space exploration.

Neil Armstrong | Ohio Landmarks
Neil Armstrong | Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.”

-neil armstrong

Top 15 Ohio Landmarks


15. Thomas Edison Birthplace Museum

We’re on to the Top 15 Ohio Landmarks. And there’s so many incredible sites to see! We move from the story of the first man to walk on the Moon to the story of the man who illuminated our world.

At #15 is the Thomas Edison Birthplace Museum in Milan, Ohio.

The Thomas Edison Birthplace Museum is a museum located in Milan, Ohio. The museum is housed in the home where Edison was born on February 11, 1847.


Thomas Edison

Thomas Edison is considered one of the most prolific inventors in history and is best known for his contributions to the development of the electric light bulb, phonograph, and motion picture camera. Edison held over 1,000 patents for his inventions.

He began his career as a telegraph operator and later became interested in inventing. In 1877, he invented the phonograph, a device that could record and reproduce sound. The following year, he invented the incandescent light bulb, which revolutionized the way people lived and worked by providing a reliable source of artificial light.

Edison went on to invent many other devices, including the motion picture camera, the alkaline storage battery, and the carbon microphone. He also made important contributions to the development of the electric power industry and was a co-founder of General Electric.

Edison was a prolific inventor who was known for his relentless work ethic and determination. He once famously said, “Genius is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration.”

His contributions to science and technology have had a lasting impact on the world.

Ohio Landmarks

Thomas Edison and the perfected-phonograph-group in 1888 | Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons


The Edison Home Fell Into Disrepair

The Edison family lived in the home until 1854 when they moved to Port Huron, Michigan. The home fell into disrepair until 1906 when it was purchased by a group of local citizens who formed the Edison Birthplace Association to preserve the home as a museum.

The home was extensively restored and opened to the public in 1947 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Edison’s birth.

The museum features exhibits on Edison’s life and inventions, including telegraphs, phonographs, and light bulbs. It also includes a research library with a collection of books and documents related to Edison and his work.

Ohio Landmarks
Illustration of Edison and the light bulb. (Shutterstock-delcarmat)

Over the years, the Thomas Edison Birthplace Museum has undergone several renovations and expansions to accommodate the growing number of visitors. In 1995, the museum added a visitor center and gift shop to enhance the visitor experience.

Today, the Thomas Edison Birthplace Museum is an important attraction for visitors interested in learning about the life and work of Thomas Edison, one of the most influential inventors in history. The museum is open to the public and offers guided tours, educational programs, and events throughout the year.

Thomas Edison Birthplace Museum | Historic Sites In Ohio
Thomas Edison Birthplace Museum | Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

14. National Museum Of The United States Air Force

At #14 on our list of the Best Ohio Landmarks is a place which showcased the history and artifacts of one of the most important branches of the military. It’s the National Museum of the United States Air Force. The museum is the oldest and largest military aviation museum in the world.

The museum was established in 1923 as the Army Aeronautical Museum, located at McCook Field in Dayton, Ohio. The museum’s collection grew over the years, and in 1949, the museum was moved to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, where it is still located today.

The museum was renamed the National Museum of the United States Air Force in 1961 and underwent a major expansion in 1971. The museum’s collection now includes more than 360 aircraft and missiles, as well as thousands of other historical artifacts, documents, and photographs related to the history of the Air Force.

The National Museum of the United States Air Force | Ohio Landmarks
The National Museum of the United States Air Force | Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

The Museum Is Divided Into Several Galleries

The National Museum of the United States Air Force is divided into several galleries that cover different aspects of Air Force history, including: the early years of aviation, World War II, the Cold War, and space exploration. The museum also includes a Presidential Gallery, which displays aircraft that were used by U.S. presidents.

The museum offers a variety of exhibits and programs that are designed to educate and inspire visitors of all ages. Visitors can take guided tours, attend educational programs, and participate in hands-on activities. The museum also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including air shows, concerts, and special exhibits.

Today, the National Museum of the United States Air Force is an important attraction for aviation enthusiasts, military historians, and anyone interested in the history of the United States Air Force. The museum’s collection and exhibits continue to inspire visitors with the Air Force’s legacy of innovation, courage, and dedication.

Ohio Landmarks

National Museum of the United States Air Force | Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons


13. Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail

We go from a place which celebrates the men and women who fly the skies to an historic trail which follows the route first taken by Lewis & Clark. At #13 on our list of the Best Ohio Landmarks is the Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail.

The expedition was led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, and its goal was to explore the western portion of the Louisiana Territory, which had recently been acquired by the United States from France, and to find a water route to the Pacific Ocean.

During their journey, Lewis and Clark encountered various indigenous tribes, as well as stunning landscapes, and documented their findings in journals, maps, and sketches.

The trail covers approximately 4,900 miles, passing through 11 states, and offers a glimpse into the history of the American West, including the story of the first people who lived there and the natural beauty of the region.

Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail | Ohio Landmarks
Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail at Decision Point (Courtesy of the National Park Service) | Historic Sites In Ohio

It’s Part Of The National Trails System Act

The Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail was officially established by Congress in 1978 as a part of the National Trails System Act.

Today, the trail is managed by the National Park Service and is designated as a National Historic Trail, which means that it is protected as a cultural and historical resource for future generations to enjoy.

It offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, boating, and camping, as well as educational programs and events that allow visitors to learn about the rich history of the region.

Ohio Landmarks
Lewis & Clark National Historical Park (Shutterstock-Zack Frank)

What Can I See In Ohio That’s Connected To Lewis & Clark

Places of interest to visit in Ohio include:

  1. Campus Martius Museum-Founded in 1788 by Rufus Putnam, Marietta, Ohio, was the first settlement established in the Northwest Territory.  The stockade was known as Campus Martius, so named because it put settlers and soldiers alike in mind of the Fields of Mars, a training ground once used by ancient Roman legions.  
  2. Eulett Center-The Eulett Center takes its name from Charles A. Eulett, a teacher and naturalist from Adams County who advocated for the protection of local prairies and grasslands in the 1960s and 70s. The nature preserve protects 20,000 acres of pristine forestlands, prairies, ravines, and slopes.
  3. Historic Fort Steuben-It’s a reconstructed military fort located in Steubenville, Ohio, along the Ohio River. The Reconstruction of Fort Steuben began shortly after 1986, 200 years after the fort’s initial creation, and was led by the Old Fort Steuben Project. (Source: NPS)
Map of the Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail | Ohio Landmarks
Lewis & Clark Trail Map (Courtesy of the National Park Service) | Ohio Landmarks

12. Hopewell Culture National Historic Park

At #12 we have an amazing place which preserves and interprets the archaeological remains of the Hopewell culture, a pre-Columbian indigenous culture that flourished in the area from about 200 BCE to 500 CE. It’s the Hopewell Culture National Historic Park located in Ross County, Ohio.

The park is centered around the Mound City Group, a group of 23 earthen mounds and earthworks that were built by the Hopewell people. Visitors can explore the mounds and earthworks on foot, and there is also a visitor center with exhibits that provide information about the Hopewell culture and its history.

The Hopewell people lived in the Ohio River Valley between 100 BCE and 500 CE and are known for their impressive earthworks, sophisticated trade networks, and complex social systems.

Hopewell Culture National Historic Park | Ohio Landmarks
The park’s visitor center at Mound City Group (Courtesy of the NPS)

Some Of The Largest & Most Impressive Earthworks Built By The Hopewell People

The Hopewell Culture National Historic Park is home to some of the largest and most impressive earthworks built by the Hopewell people, including the Great Circle, which is a large circular earthwork that measures more than 1,000 feet in diameter.

The park also includes several burial mounds, geometric earthworks, and a visitor center with exhibits and educational programs.

The park’s exhibits and educational programs explore the Hopewell culture’s social and economic systems, their artistic and religious practices, and their relationship with the natural world. Visitors can take guided tours of the earthworks and participate in educational programs that offer hands-on learning opportunities.

Today, the Hopewell Culture National Historic Park is an important attraction for visitors interested in learning about the ancient cultures that once inhabited the Ohio River Valley. The park’s earthworks and artifacts continue to inspire visitors with their beauty, complexity, and historical significance.


11. National Veterans Memorial and Museum

Our next Ohio landmark shares numerous stories that are told of the sacrifices of servicemen and women and their families, presenting military history in a dynamic, participatory experience through photos, letters and personal effects, multimedia presentations and interactive exhibits.

At #11 on our list of the Best Ohio Landmarks is the National Veterans Memorial and Museum.

The National Veterans Memorial and Museum (NVMM) is located in Columbus, Ohio. It’s the first museum in the United States dedicated to honoring all veterans and their families.

The idea for the museum was initially proposed in 2012 by former Ohio Governor Ted Strickland and former Columbus Mayor Michael Coleman, who wanted to create a space that would celebrate the contributions of all veterans and provide a place for healing and reflection.


Construction Began In 2015

Construction of the museum began in 2015, and the building was designed by architect Allied Works. The museum was officially opened to the public on October 27, 2018. The museum’s design is meant to reflect the experiences of veterans and their families, with a circular shape meant to represent unity and the circular nature of military service.

The exhibits inside the museum cover a wide range of topics related to the experiences of veterans, including their training, service, and return home. The museum also features a “Remembrance Gallery,” where visitors can leave messages and mementos honoring veterans.

The NVMM has been recognized for its innovative design and approach to honoring veterans. In 2019, it received the Project of the Year award from the Ohio Valley Chapter of the Construction Management Association of America, and in 2020, it was named one of Time Magazine’s 100 Greatest Places in the World.

Overall, the NVMM has quickly become an important part of the veteran community, both in Ohio and across the country, as a place for education, healing, and reflection on the sacrifices and contributions of those who have served in the armed forces.

Ohio Landmarks
National Veterans Memorial and Museum, Columbus, OH. (Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons)

Top 10 Ohio Landmarks


10. James A. Garfield National Historic Site

We’re on to the Top 10 Best Ohio Landmarks. Did you know that more of our country’s presidents come from Ohio than from any other state? Eight of 45 American presidents were elected from the Buckeye State, earning Ohio the nickname “the Mother of Presidents.”

It’s therefore fitting that, at #10 on our list of the Best Ohio Landmarks, is the James A. Garfield National Historic Site.


James A. Garfield

James A. Garfield served as Brigadier General in the Civil War. President Abraham Lincoln, however, felt that Garfield could be of greater use to the Union cause in Congress.

So, being a good soldier, Garfield resigned his commission in 1862 to serve eighteen years in Congress. He became the leading Republican in the House of Representations.

In 1880, Garfield was nominated for the presidency. He defeated his Democratic opponent, another former Civil War General named Winfield Scott Hancock, by a mere 10,000 votes.

Historians consider Garfield to have been a “brilliant maybe.” He was committed to political reform and hemispheric cooperation. Sadly, on July 2nd, 1881, he was struck by an assassin’s bullet.

Garfield spent two and a half months in a slow, agonizing decline before dying on September 19, 1881.

To learn more about this fascinating individual I recommend reading Destiny of the Republic: A Tale of Madness, Medicine and the Murder of a President by Candice Millard.

James A. Garfield National Historic Site
James A. Garfield National Historic Site (Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons) | Ohio Landmarks

Things To Do At The James A. Garfield National Historic Site

The site offers a variety of activities and attractions that are designed to educate and inspire visitors of all ages. Here are some of the things to do at the James A. Garfield National Historic Site:

  1. Take a guided tour of the Garfield home – Visitors can take a guided tour of the Garfield home, which has been restored to its 1880s appearance. The tour provides an intimate look at the home where President Garfield lived and worked before his assassination in 1881.
  2. Explore the grounds and gardens – The Garfield site features several acres of grounds and gardens that visitors can explore. The grounds include a carriage house, a barn, and a windmill, as well as several gardens that are maintained by the site’s staff.
  3. Visit the visitor center – The visitor center features exhibits that explore the life and legacy of President Garfield. Visitors can view artifacts from Garfield’s life and career, as well as interactive exhibits that offer a deeper understanding of his presidency and his impact on American history.
  4. Attend a special event – The Garfield site hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, including living history programs, lectures, and musical performances. Visitors can check the site’s calendar of events to find out what’s happening during their visit.
  5. Explore the surrounding area – The Garfield site is located in the heart of Lake County, Ohio, which offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors. From wineries and breweries to parks and beaches, Lake County has something for everyone.
James A. Garfield National Historic Site
Library at the James A. Garfield National Historic Site (Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons) | Ohio Landmarks

9. Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial

We move from one of the more celebrated sites in the state of Ohio to a site which celebrates one of the heroes of the War of 1812.

At #9 on our list of the Best Ohio Landmarks is Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial.

Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial | Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons


The War Of 1812

The War of 1812 was a conflict between the United States and Great Britain that took place from 1812 to 1815. The war was primarily fought over issues related to trade, maritime rights, and territorial expansion. It was also influenced by tensions between the United States and Great Britain that had been simmering since the American Revolution.

One of the primary causes of the war was British interference with American trade. The British had been seizing American ships and impressing American sailors into service on British warships. The United States also had territorial ambitions, and many Americans believed that Canada would be easy to conquer.

Initially, the war did not go well for the United States, with American forces suffering several defeats on land and at sea. However, the tide of the war began to turn in 1813, when American forces won a series of naval battles on the Great Lakes and successfully defended the city of Baltimore against a British attack.

The war continued for several more years, with both sides suffering significant casualties and incurring significant economic costs. However, by 1814, both sides were eager to end the conflict. In December 1814, the two sides signed the Treaty of Ghent, which ended the war and restored pre-war boundaries.

Although the war ended in a stalemate and did not result in any significant territorial gains for the United States, it did have several important consequences. The war cemented the United States’ independence from Great Britain and established the nation as a major world power.

Ohio Landmarks
Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

See The Monument Which Honors Oliver Hazard Perry

Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial commemorates the Battle of Lake Erie, which took place during the War of 1812.

The monument was built to honor the victory of American naval forces, led by Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry, over the British in the battle, and to symbolize the lasting peace between the United States, Canada, and Great Britain.

The memorial consists of a 352-foot-tall Doric column, which is the third tallest stone column in the world, and offers panoramic views of Lake Erie and the surrounding islands. The monument also features a museum that showcases the history of the War of 1812 and the Battle of Lake Erie, as well as the peace that followed.

Visitors to Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial can take a guided tour of the monument, learn about the battle and its significance through interactive exhibits and displays, and climb to the top of the column for breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

The memorial is also a popular spot for picnics, bird-watching, and hiking, and is a symbol of American patriotism and international peace.

Ohio Landmarks
Inside the rotunda at the Peace Memorial | Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

8. Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument

In compiling our list of the Best Ohio Landmarks we were particularly impressed by some of history’s unsung heroes. One example is Oliver Hazard Perry. Another is Charles Young.

At #8 on our list of the Best Ohio Landmarks is the Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument.


A Truly Extraordinary Life

Born as a slave during the American Civil War, Charles Young lived a truly extraordinary life. He was the first African American to graduate from a white high school in Ohio. In 1884, Young defied the odds winning an appointment to West Point though a competitive military examination.

After confronting the racism which was unfortunately typical of his era, he emerged as only the third African American to graduate from America’s most prestigious military academy.

As a former history teacher and a lifelong history buff, I love to include book recommendations for those of you who are interested in taking a deeper dive.

In the case of Charles Young, I heartily recommend Black Officer in a Buffalo Soldier Regiment: The Military Career of Charles Young by Brian G. Shellum.

Ohio Landmarks
Members of the Colonel Charles Young Foundation pose with the new highway sign for the roadway re-dedication. (Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons)

Captain Of An All Black Regiment

Young served as a cavalry officer. He then became the captain of an all-black regiment at San Francisco’s Presidio. Young’s career path would take an interesting turn when managing the national parks became the responsibility of the U.S. Army beginning in 1891.

This was before the creation of a unified system of national parks or the establishment of an elite cadre of park rangers.

By 1903, the U.S. Military was providing protection at America’s parks. Young was assigned to take his troops to Sequoia and General Grant (what is now Sequoia National Park and a small portion of Kings Canyon National Park).

It was during the summer of 1903 that he made history by becoming the acting superintendent of the these two parks. He was the first African-American to hold such a position.

Kings Canyon National Park
Tributary of Kings river on Kings Canyon National Park scenic view. On Highway 180 in California, United States of America. Located in southern Sierra Nevada, bordered by Sequoia National Park. (Shutterstock-Benny Marty)

Things To Do At The Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument

Young was sidelined from active duty during World War One due to health issues, but returned to command after the war. He would earn the rank of colonel. Young died unexpectedly, however, in 1922.

As the National Park Service notes, Charles Young overcame stifling inequality to become a leading figure in the years after the Civil War when the United States emerged as a world power.

His work ethic, academic leadership, and devotion to duty provided a strong base for his achievements in the face of racism and oppression.

His long and distinguished career as a commissioned officer in the United States Army made him a popular figure of his time and a role model for generations of new leaders.

Visitors to the site can take a guided tour of the Charles Young Home. Here you can learn more about the incredible story of this remarkable man.

Two men being interviewed by people holding microphones and cameras
Former Secretary of the Interior, Ken Salazar (blue suit, right center), and former NPS Director, Jon Jarvis (green suit, left center), being interviewed inside of the house during the April 2013 dedication of the park. Courtesy of the National Park Service

7. First Ladies National Historic Site

At #7 is a site which celebrates some of the most influential women in American history. It’s the First Ladies National Historic Site.

The site honors the contributions of America’s First Ladies and preserves the history of the role of the First Lady in American political and social life. It is the only site of its kind in the United States.

The site is located in the former home of William McKinley’s Ida Saxton McKinley, who served as First Lady during McKinley’s presidency from 1897 to 1901. The house has been restored to its late 19th-century appearance and features exhibits and displays that explore the lives and legacies of America’s First Ladies.

Visitors to the First Ladies National Historic Site can take a guided tour of the McKinley home and explore exhibits that highlight the accomplishments and contributions of the First Ladies.

Exhibits feature objects, photographs, and documents from the lives of the First Ladies, including their contributions to American society, their advocacy for important causes, and their personal stories.

First Ladies National Historic Site | Ohio Landmarks
First Ladies National Historic Site in Canton, Ohio (Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons)

America’s Most Influential First Lady

If you’re someone who follows sports then you’re likely familiar with rankings. As a long-time resident of Georgia, I assure you that I do follow sports especially college football.

In college football and almost everything else, most rankings tend to change over time. And yet the woman considered by many knowledgeable experts to be America’s Most Influential First Lady hasn’t changed over time.

After the scrutiny of three expert opinion surveys over twenty years, Eleanor Roosevelt is still ranked first among all other women who have served as America’s First Ladies, according to an expert opinion poll conducted by the Siena (College) Research Institute (SRI).


America’s Longest Serving First Lady

Eleanor Roosevelt served as First Lady for over 12 years. She played an active role in advising her husband and was the first first lady to hold her own press conferences.

Mrs. Roosevelt also championed causes, such as Women’s Rights, and supported programs, such as the one which gave African Americans the opportunity to become fighter pilots during World War Two.

Eleanor Roosevelt was the first first lady to remain an influential political force after her husband’s death. She served as Chair of the United Nations Commission on Human Rights.

If you’re interested in learning more about this remarkable First Lady then I recommend Eleanor Roosevelt, Fighter for Justice: Her Impact on the Civil Rights Movement, the White House, and the World by Ilene Cooper.

Eleanor Roosevelt
Eleanor Roosevelt – America’s Most Influential First Lady (Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons)

6. The Fallen Timbers Battlefield and Fort Miamis National Historic Site

Our next Ohio landmark commemorates an 18th century battle. At #6 on our list of the Best Ohio Landmarks is The Fallen Timbers Battlefield and Fort Miamis National Historic Site.

The Fallen Timbers Battlefield and Fort Miamis National Historic Site is located in Maumee, Ohio, and commemorates the Battle of Fallen Timbers, which took place on August 20, 1794. The battle was fought between the United States and a confederation of Native American tribes, led by the Shawnee chief Blue Jacket and the Miami chief Little Turtle.

The conflict between the United States and Native American tribes had been ongoing since the American Revolution, but tensions reached a boiling point in the early 1790s when the United States attempted to expand westward into Native American territory.

In response, the confederation of tribes formed an alliance and launched a series of attacks on American settlements in the Ohio River Valley.

Ohio Landmarks

Fallen Timbers Battlefield and Fort Miamis National Historic Site | Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons


General Anthony Wayne Led American Forces Against The Native Tribes

In 1794, General Anthony Wayne led a force of American soldiers, known as the Legion of the United States, into the Ohio territory to confront the Native American tribes. The two sides met in battle on the banks of the Maumee River, near a stand of fallen trees, which became known as the Battle of Fallen Timbers.

The battle was a decisive victory for the United States, and it marked the end of the Native American resistance to American expansion in the Ohio territory. Following the battle, General Wayne ordered the construction of Fort Miamis near the site of the battle, to secure American control over the region.

Today, the Fallen Timbers Battlefield and Fort Miamis National Historic Site is operated by the National Park Service and includes a visitors center, museum, and hiking trails. The site is an important reminder of the complex history of the American West and the ongoing struggle between Native American tribes and the United States government over land and resources.

Ohio Landmarks
Fallen Timbers Battlefield and Fort Miamis National Historic Site | Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Top 5 Historic Sites In Ohio


5. William Howard Taft National Historic Site

We’re on to the Top 5. Since Ohio is home to more presidents than any other state we thought it fitting to include another presidential site on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Ohio. At #5 we have the William Howard Taft National Historic Site.

While he is not considered a great president, he’s most certainly considered a large one. Weighing in at upwards of 330 pounds, William Howard Taft was the largest man ever to hold the office.

Taft had studied law and served in several minor appointive offices until 1887, when he was named to fill the unfinished term of a judge of the superior court of Ohio.

From 1892 to 1900 he served as a judge of the United States Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals. So far, nothing he did brought him any special distinction, but that was about to change.

William Howard Taft National Historic Site | Ohio Landmarks
William Howard Taft National Historic Site (Courtesy of Wikimedia)

Governor OF The Philippines & Secretary Of War

In 1901, Taft became the first civilian governor of the Philippines under President William McKinley. His administration of the Philippines was considered a success.

In 1904, Taft returned to Washington to serve as Theodore Roosevelt’s secretary of war. Four years later, Roosevelt endorsed him for the presidency. He was elected in 1908.

During his tenure in office, William Howard Taft signed the first tariff revision since 1897; established a postal savings system; formed the Interstate Commerce Commission; and prosecuted over 75 antitrust violations, far more than pursued by the famed “trust- buster” Theodore Roosevelt.


10th Chief Justice Of The Supreme Court

Did you know that William Howard Taft was the only president to also serve on the Supreme Court? He was the 10th Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.

Visitors will take a trip back in time as the home is decorated in Victorian-era style, which it was during the years that William Howard Taft lived in the house.

To learn more about this fascinating figure check out The William Howard Taft Presidency by Lewis L. Gould.


Things To Do At The William Howard Taft National Historic Site

I recommend beginning at the Taft Education Center. It’s the park’s only visitor center. There you can see the film, William Howard Taft, Public Servant.

It’s approximately 15 minutes and covers the life and legacy of Taft and his career as a judge and a politician from the local level through the federal ranks. 

There’s also a gift shop with souvenirs and an assortment of Taft and presidential-related books.

From there you can take a ranger-guided tour of the birthplace and home to the nation’s 27th President.

Ohio Landmarks
William Howard Taft National Historic Site Home. (Shutterstock-Jeffrey M. Frank)

4. Pro Football Hall Of Fame

We haven’t forgotten about those of you who love sports. Did you know that the 2023 edition of the Super Bowl, which saw the Kansas City Chiefs emerge victorious against the Philadelphia Eagles was watched by 113 million viewers in the United States.

In Ohio you can visit the place which celebrates professional football. At #4 on our list of the Best Ohio Landmarks is the Pro Football Hall Of Fame.

Pro Football Hall of Fame
The Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio | Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

The Pro Football Hall of Fame honors the greatest players, coaches, and contributors to the sport of American football. It is considered the premier institution for preserving and showcasing the history of the game, and attracts visitors from around the world.

Some of the things to see and do at the Pro Football Hall of Fame include:

  1. Hall of Fame Gallery: Visitors can view the bronze busts of all the inducted members of the Hall of Fame, as well as learn about their careers and achievements.
  2. Interactive Exhibits: The museum features interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience what it’s like to play professional football, including simulations, virtual reality experiences, and more.
  3. Artifacts and Memorabilia: The Hall of Fame has a large collection of artifacts and memorabilia related to the sport, including game-worn jerseys, historic photographs, and more.
  4. Enshrinement Ceremony: The Hall of Fame hosts an annual Enshrinement Ceremony, where new inductees are honored and their busts are unveiled.
  5. Events and Programs: The museum offers various events and programs throughout the year, including educational programs, youth camps, and more.
Ohio Landmarks
The Vince Lombardi Trophy at the Pro Football Hall of Fame | Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

3. Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Just because we’re More Than Just Parks that doesn’t mean that we’ve forgotten about parks. At #3 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Ohio is Ohio’s only national park – Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

You may have driven, fished, hiked, rode horseback, skied or swam in a national park, but did you ever travel through it by train? All Aboard the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad!

Visitors to this national park can experience its natural wonders onboard a train as it winds its way through the Cuyahoga Valley and along the Cuyahoga River.

The trip by train provides passengers the opportunity to possibly spot eagles, deer, beavers, and herons in their natural habitat. It’s a great way to travel!

Cuyahoga Valley National Park | Ohio Landmarks
You can take a scenic train ride at the Cuyahoga Valley National Park | Historic Sites In Ohio – Courtesy of the National Park Service (NPS)

Hiking At Cuyahoga

Of course you don’t have to travel by train. There are over 125 miles of hiking trails available too. These trails range from nearly-level to more challenging, and pass through various habitats including woodlands, wetlands, and old fields.

If you’re looking to do some serious hiking then I would recommend picking up a copy of the Trail Guide Handbook: Cuyahoga Valley National Recreation Area. It’s an excellent resource which will enable you to make the most of your hiking experiences while at Cuyahoga.

Hiking at Cuyahoga Valley National Park | Ohio Landmarks
There are over 125 miles of hiking trails at the Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Other Things To Do At Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Popular attractions and activities include:

  1. Beaver Marsh where you will enjoy exceptional scenery and wildlife. It’s one of the park’s most popular destinations.
  2. Brandywine Falls which is a magnificent 60-foot waterfall that’s accessed by boardwalk.
  3. The Ritchie Ledges are a geologic wonder. The trail around The Ledges is 2.2 miles and connects to a larger network of trails in the Virginia Kendall Area.
  4. Blue Hen Falls is a 15-foot waterfall. To get there you will hike 1.5 miles (one way) from Boston Mill Visitor Center.
  5. The Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail is accessible by biking, walking or even wheelchair.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park also offers boating, fishing and horseback riding trails too.

Ohio Landmarks
Everett Covered Bridge, Cuyahoga Valley National Park (Shutterstock-Kenneth Keifer)

2. Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame

We’ve gone from pro football to presidents, first ladies and so much more. But are you ready to shake, rattle and roll? Our runner-up at #2 on our list of the Best Ohio Landmarks is the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame & Museum.

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is a museum and cultural institution located in Cleveland, Ohio, that honors and celebrates the history of rock and roll music. The idea for the museum was first proposed in the early 1980s by Ahmet Ertegun, the founder of Atlantic Records, and a group of music industry executives.

The museum officially opened in 1995, after years of planning and fundraising. The building, designed by renowned architect I.M. Pei, is located on the shores of Lake Erie and features a striking geometric design that has become an iconic symbol of the city of Cleveland.

Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame & Museum | Historic Sites In Ohio
Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame & Museum | Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

The Museum Features A Vast Collection Of Artifacts

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame honors and celebrates the history and cultural significance of rock and roll music through a variety of exhibits, displays, and interactive experiences. The museum features a vast collection of artifacts, including musical instruments, stage costumes, and handwritten lyrics, that tell the stories of the most influential and iconic figures in rock and roll history.

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame also honors the artists who have made significant contributions to the genre through induction into the Hall of Fame. Induction into the Hall of Fame is considered one of the highest honors in the music industry and is determined by a committee of music industry professionals and historians.

Since its opening, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Cleveland, attracting millions of visitors from around the world each year. The museum has also played an important role in promoting and preserving the history of rock and roll music and continues to inspire and influence new generations of musicians and fans.


1. Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park

We’ve featured the first man to walk on the Moon as well as the United States Air Force, but our #1 Ohio Landmark celebrates the two men which first made manned-flight possible. More Than Just Parks #1 Ohio Landmark Is The Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park.

Growing up you were probably taught that “two wrongs don’t make a right.” But did you know that “two Wrights could make one fabulous airplane?”

All joking aside, on a cold, windy morning on December 17, 1903, history was made. It was at the sandy dunes of Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, that two Ohio brothers changed the world.

These two intrepid brothers, named Orville and Wilbur Wright, built and successfully tested the first airplane, the Wright Flyer 1. They were early pioneers of flight who faced tremendous obstacles.

The Wrights were ridiculed as cranks and fools. As award-winning author and historian David McCullough notes:

I don’t think they were ever happier in their lives than they were living in the extreme hardships of Kitty Hawk. The attacks of mosquitos, the winds, the struggle they had against the elements. But they loved it.”

Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park | Ohio Landmarks
Entrance sign for the Wright-Dunbar Interpretive Center and Aviation Trail Visitor Center and Museum (Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons)

They Had The Wright Stuff

Before experimenting with airplanes, the Wright brothers ran a bicycle shop in Dayton, Ohio. In 1900, the brothers traveled from Ohio to Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, to begin a series of flight experiments which would rewrite the history of aviation.

While their historic flight lasted only 12 seconds it was nevertheless the first flight in history in which a machine carrying a man had raised itself by its own power into the air in full flight, had sailed forward without reduction of speed, and had finally landed at a point as high as that from which it started.

One book I would definitely recommend is The Wright Brothers by Pulitzer Prize Winning Author David McCullough.

Historic Sites In Ohio
The Wright Brothers | Historic Sites In Ohio (Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons)

Without the Wright brothers’ invention, Charles Lindbergh and Amelia Earhart would not have made their solo trans-Atlantic flights until much later. Aircraft would not have been as effective in the world wars, and jet and rocket engines would have been developed later as well. The Wright Flyer is also an antecedent to the space shuttle.”

-U.S. Department of the Interior, First Flight: The Wright Brothers and the Invention of the Airplane, by Tom Crouch

Things To Do At The Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park

The Wright-Dunbar Interpretive Center is one of two visitor centers operated by the park in Dayton, Ohio. It’s located just west of downtown Dayton. Visitors can go there and learn the amazing story of Orville and Wilbur Wright.

The Center also celebrates the achievements of Paul Laurence Dunbar. Dunbar was an American poet, novelist, and short story writer. He was born in Dayton, Ohio, on June 27, 1872, to parents who had been enslaved in Kentucky before the American Civil War.

Dunbar went on to become one of the first influential African-American poets in American literature.

You can purchase this gifted writer’s complete works. The Life And Works Of Paul Laurence Dunbar: Containing His Complete Poetical Works, His Best Short Stories, Numerous Anecdotes And A Complete Biography Of The Famous Poet is a great way to learn more about this amazing man while experiencing his incredibly body of work.

Wright-Dunbar Interpretive Center | Ohio Landmarks
Visitors enter the Wright-Dunbar Interpretive Center (Courtesy of the NPS)

Visit The Site Where Aviation History Began

There is a second interpretative center. It’s the Huffman Prairie Interpretive Center. It’s located northeast of downtown Dayton, next to the Wright Patterson Air Force Base and the National Museum of the Air Force.

While you’re there you’ll have the opportunity to visit the site where aviation history began.

At Huffman Prairie Flying Field you can explore the area and view a replica hangar that is very similar to the one which the Wrights used to house their airplanes. 

You can also tour a replica of the bike shop that the Wright Brothers operated. It’s part of Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park.

Visitors can step back in time and tour the bike shop where the Wrights fixed bicycles and refined their mechanical ingenuity to develop the world’s first practical airplane.

And there’s Carillon Historical Park. It’s a 65-acre open-air history museum you can learn about the history of Dayton, Ohio. There you can view the world’s first practical airplane, the 1905 Wright Flyer III.

Huffman Prairie Flying Field | Ohio
At Huffman Prairie Flying Field you can see the replica rail and catapult system used by the Wrights to propel their airplanes at takeoff (Courtesy of the NPS)

Map Of Ohio Landmarks


List Of Ohio Landmarks

  1. Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park
  2. Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame
  3. Cuyahoga Valley National Park
  4. Pro Football Hall Of Fame
  5. William Howard Taft National Historic Site
  6. The Fallen Timbers Battlefield and Fort Miamis National Historic Site
  7. First Ladies National Historic Site
  8. Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument
  9. Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial
  10. James A. Garfield National Historic Site
  11. National Veterans Memorial and Museum
  12. Hopewell Culture National Historical Park
  13. Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail
  14. National Museum Of The United States Air Force
  15. Thomas Edison Birthplace Museum
  16. Armstrong Air & Space Museum
  17. The Ohio Statehouse
  18. National Museum of the US Air Force
  19. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
  20. Cincinnati Music Hall

Why Trust Us About Ohio Landmarks?


We’re Jim Pattiz and Will Pattiz, collectively known as the Pattiz Brothers and we absolutely LOVE the national parks.

You should probably know that we don’t just make this stuff up out of thin air. We’ve spent our entire adult lives exploring and filming America’s national parks and public lands.

We’ve worked with the National Park Service, the Department of Interior, USDA, U.S. Forest Service, and more for years creating films on important places and issues. Our work has been featured in leading publications all over the world and even some people outside of our immediate family call us experts on the national parks.

And, in 2018, our father – having spent a lifetime teaching history – joined us so that he could help us to tell the stories behind these amazing places.


Meet The Parks Brothers


The Pattiz Brothers are regular contributors to The Weather Channel

We Hope You’ll Follow Our Journey


The Pattiz Brothers
We’re Jim & Will Pattiz, Co-Founders of More Than Just Parks

Our goal here at More Than Just Parks is to share the beauty of America’s national parks and public lands through stunning short films in an effort to get Americans and the world to see the true value in land conservation.

We hope you’ll follow our journey through the parks and help us to keep them the incredible places that they are. If you’re interested in joining the adventure then sign up below!


To learn more about the difference between the various National Park Service designations check out our article that explains everything!

Cuyahoga Valley National Park Facts: 10 FASCINATING Facts About Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Ohio National Parks: 10 EPIC Ohio National Parks Worth Visiting

The post 20 MUST-SEE Ohio Landmarks (Expert Guide + Photos) appeared first on More Than Just Parks | National Parks Guides.

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https://morethanjustparks.com/ohio-landmarks/feed/ 0 69970 Ohio Landmarks Shutterstock_599342579 Downtown Cleveland skyline from the lakefront in Ohio. (Shutterstock-f11photo) Shutterstock_629865623 A view of a picturesque red, white and blue Ohio Bicentennial Barn that was painted in 2003 in Vinton County, Ohio. (Shutterstock-The American Explorer) image-100 Shutterstock_710368891 The Cincinnati Music hall spot lighted during the opening night of the spring season. (Shutterstock-Berry Medley) image-102 image-150 image-103 image-151 image-104 Shutterstock_1757911301 The Ohio Statehouse, the state capitol building and seat of government for the U.S. state of Ohio. (Shutterstock-Leonid Andronov) image-105 image-198 image-290 image-106 Shutterstock_1672191082 image-199 image-200 image-107 Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail | Ohio Landmarks Trail,Through,Forest,At,Lewis,And,Clark,National,And,State Lewis & Clark National Historical Park (Shutterstock-Zack Frank) Map of the Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail | Ohio Landmarks Hopewell Culture National Historic Park | Ohio Landmarks image-152 James A. Garfield National Historic Site James A. Garfield National Historic Site image-111 image-410 image-411 image-242 Shutterstock_1785348647 Tributary of Kings river on Kings Canyon National Park scenic view. On Highway 180 in California, United States of America. Located in southern Sierra Nevada, bordered by Sequoia National Park. (Shutterstock-Benny Marty) Two men being interviewed by people holding microphones and cameras First Ladies National Historic Site | Ohio Landmarks image-180 image-113 image-153 William Howard Taft National Historic Site | Ohio Landmarks Shutterstock_49803127 William Howard Taft National Historic Site Home. (Shutterstock-Jeffrey M. Frank) Pro Football Hall of Fame image-648 Cuyahoga Valley National Park | Ohio Landmarks mountaineering-man-trail-455338 The,Everett,Covered,Bridge,Crosses,Furnace,Run,In,Ohio’s,Cuyahoga Everett Covered Bridge, Cuyahoga Valley National Park (Shutterstock-Kenneth Keifer) image-204 Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park | Ohio Landmarks image-646 Wright-Dunbar Interpretive Center | Ohio Landmarks Huffman Prairie Flying Field | Ohio pattiz-brothers-badlands1 More Than Just Parks Co-Founders Jim & Will Pattiz Loading
10 FANTASTIC Facts About White Sands National Park https://morethanjustparks.com/white-sands-national-park-facts/ https://morethanjustparks.com/white-sands-national-park-facts/#respond Wed, 11 Sep 2024 17:42:36 +0000 https://morethanjustparks.com/?p=61980 White Sands National Park Facts includes some fascinating facts and incredible stories about one of New Mexico's premier national parks.

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White Sands National Park Facts
White Sands National Park (Shutterstock-sunsinger)

Article Summary: White Sands National Park Facts

White Sands National Park Facts! In this article, we provide you with 10 surprising facts about one of America’s most magnificent national parks.

More Than Just Parks is your one-stop-shop when it comes to learning everything you’ll need to know about America’s national parks. We’ve got expert guides, beautiful photos, helpful tips, breathtaking films and so much more.

I’ve been to so many of these amazing places since retiring from teaching in 2018. Did I mention that I taught history? I spent a lifetime teaching about the history behind some of these natural wonders. Then I got to see them firsthand.

And now I’m sharing some of the incredible stories about these beautiful places with you. It doesn’t get any better than that!

More Than Just Parks takes a deeper dive with its national park facts. We’ve done our homework so that you’ll get more than you bargained for.

Without further ado, let’s dive in.

White Sands National Park Facts
White Sands National Park | Courtesy of NPS

Facts About White Sands National Park


Some Basic Facts About White Sands National Park

White Sands National Park is located in southern New Mexico and is known for its vast expanse of white gypsum sand dunes. The park was established in 1933 and covers over 275 square miles. The white sands are the result of gypsum deposits that were formed when an ancient sea evaporated.

Over time, the gypsum deposits were covered by sand and then exposed again by natural forces, creating the unique landscape of the park.

  • Location: New Mexico
  • Acreage: 145,800 acres
  • Visitation: White Sands National Park is the most visited NPS site in New Mexico, visited by 782,469 people in 2021.
  • Elevation: The elevation at White Sands is 4,235 feet.
  • Climate: June through August, daytime temperatures average 95ºF (35ºC), with some days reaching as high as 110ºF (38º). Evenings are much cooler, ranging from 50-65ºF (10-18ºC).
  • When Did It Become A National Park? White Sands was established as a national monument in 1933 and re-desginated as a national park in 2019.
White Sands National Park Facts
Storms and sunsets combine to create spectacular skies at White Sands National Park | Courtesy of NPS

White Sands National Park Facts


Top 5 White Sands National Park Facts


1. The First People Came To The Park Over 10,000 Years Ago

As a retired history teacher and lifelong history buff, I have always been fascinated with origin stories. Who were the earliest peoples and where did they come from?

For me, one of the more interesting White Sands National Park Facts is that over 10,000 years ago the first people came in search of food, water, and shelter.

According to the National Park Service, little is known about these first people because so much of their culture was not preserved in the archaeological record. However, we do know that the first groups to enter the Tularosa Basin were exceptional stone tool makers and hunters.

They used stone from the nearby mountains craft intricate spear, projectile points, known as the Folsom and Plano traditions. Evidence of Paleoindian occupation in the form of projectile points and other stone tools have been found in the Tularosa Basin associated with ancient shorelines, streams, and hill top rises above playas where they could track the movements of game animals drinking from watering holes below.

For 2,000 years, until the end of the most recent glacial period, Paleoindian groups hunted big game through the lush grasslands, using hand-thrown spears. (Courtesy of NPS)

2. Hearth Mounds Represent The Most Amazing Evidence Of Human Occupation At White Sands

Another of the fascinating White Sands National Park Facts has to do with the story of the hearth mounds.

The hearth mounds found in the First State National Historical Park are unique archaeological sites that provide valuable insights into the lives of the people who lived in the area thousands of years ago.

The hearth mounds are the remains of fires that were built by prehistoric peoples, and they contain charcoal and ash that have been preserved over time. These mounds are surrounded by other artifacts, such as tools and pottery, that were used by these ancient people.

The dune hearth mounds in the park are particularly significant because they are the result of a chemical reaction between gypsum, heat, and moisture. When gypsum is heated to a certain temperature, it turns into plaster of Paris, which hardens when moisture is added. This process cements the hearth features in place, preserving them for thousands of years.

Radiocarbon dating methods have been used to date the charcoal found in these hearth mounds, and they have been found to range from the middle of the Archaic period to recent history. This means that the hearth mounds provide a chronological record of human occupation in the area over a period of several thousand years.

These hearth mounds are an important part of the archaeological heritage of the park, and they offer a unique opportunity to learn about the lives of ancient people and how they interacted with their environment.

White Sands National Park Facts
Archaic sites such as this one provide clues of ancient culture and life in the Tularosa Basin (Courtesy of NPS)

3. A Beautiful Spanish Maiden Is Reported To Haunt The Dunes At White Sands

The most intriguing White Sands National Park Fact which I came across in my research has to do with the legend of a Spanish maiden who is said to haunt the glistening dunes.   

The Legend of Pavla Blanca is a fictional story that is said to be based on a real event, but it has been passed down through time as a tale and is not historically accurate.

The story is about a Spanish conquistador named Hernando de Luna, who is ambushed and killed by Apaches, and his betrothed, Mañuela, who sets out to find him but is never seen again. The legend says that Mañuela’s ghost haunts the Great White Sands and can be seen in the form of a ghostly figure, dressed in a flowing white wedding gown, appearing in the dunes after sunset.

The legend is popular among people with imagination who strolling in the silent shimmering dunes after a fiery sunset, may be fortunate enough to witness for themselves the unusual sight. But it is important to note that the story is a legend and not a true historical event. Some people believe in the legend and find it fascinating, while others view it as a fanciful tale.

White Sands National Park Facts
White Sands National Park

4. The Park Was Part Of A “Salt War”

Another of the fascinating White Sands National Park Facts has to do with the story of a “Salt War.”

The “Salt War” which took place in the late 1800s. At that time, the area around the park was a vast desert and the only source of salt for the region was a salt lake located within the park. The salt lake was a vital resource for the local population, and it was used for both human consumption and as a preservative for food.

However, the salt lake soon became the center of a dispute between the local population and the federal government, which claimed ownership of the land and the salt. The local population, consisting of ranchers, farmers, and Native Americans, refused to relinquish control of the salt lake and began to extract salt illegally.

This led to a series of confrontations, known as the “Salt War” between the local population and the federal government, which lasted for several years.

The conflict eventually came to an end when the government agreed to lease the salt lake to the local population for a nominal fee. The Salt War of White Sands National Park is a reminder of the importance of natural resources to human society and the potential for conflict when those resources are scarce.

white sands national park new mexico
White Sands National Park

5. The History Of White Sands National Park Is Closely Tied To The History Of The American Frontier

White Sands National Park has a rich history that is closely tied to the American frontier. In the 1800s, the area became part of the American Frontier, famously romanticized as the Wild West.

However, the story of the Tularosa Basin, where the park is located, is better told by the lives of the people who settled the land and raised their families.

In the 1880s, a brief period of heavy rainfall supported the return of lush grasslands in the Tularosa Basin, which attracted the attention of goat, sheep, and cattle grazers, predominately from Texas, seeking to make their fortune in livestock.

Large cattle drives pushed into the Tularosa Basin, and family homesteaders were establishing ranches throughout the basin. For sixty years, ranching was the dominant economy of the Tularosa Basin.

White Sands National Park Facts
White Sands National Park Visitor Center | Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

The Most Prominent Ranchers In The Area

Several ranches were homesteaded on White Sands National Park before it was established, including Walters Ranch, Watson Ritch Ranch and the Lucero family ranches on the Lake Lucero shoreline.

The Lucero family, which were among the most prominent ranchers in the area, had several ranches on the south shore of the lake that would eventually come to bear their name.

In 1940, the National Park Service took over ownership of the Lucero family properties with the appropriation of Lake Lucero and Alkali Flat.

Today, the remnants of the Lucero family legacy are still evident on the landscape, such as stock pens, watering trough, a water well, and a fallen windmill, which visitors can experience on a ranger-led tour to Lake Lucero during the year’s cooler months.

White Sands National Park Facts
The wooden posts of a historic corral still standing at the Lake Lucero southern family ranch. Photo taken by park staff in 1976. (Courtesy of NPS)

Top 10 White Sands National Park Facts


6. White Sands Has The Largest Gypsum Dune Field In The World

Another of the fascinating White Sands National Park Facts has to do with the white sands.

White Sands National Park is home to the largest gypsum dune field in the world. The gypsum sand forms as a result of rainwater and snowmelt that dissolve the gypsum from nearby mountains and flow into the Tularosa Basin.

Evaporation causes selenite crystals to form and strong winds break these crystals into small grains that form the gypsum sand dunes. The gypsum is naturally clear but appears white due to the reflection of sunlight on the crystals’ scratches.

White Sands National Park Facts
Girls on hiking trip on the mountain desert, Blue sky with clouds in the background. Plants and shrubs growing on sand dunes. White Sands National Monument, New Mexico. (Shutterstock-Margaret.Wiktor)

7. Many Species Make Their Home At The Park

Another amazing Whites Sands National Park Fact has to do with the park’s wildlife. You wouldn’t expect there to be a lot given the prevalence of the white sands. But you would be wrong.

Many species of mammals make their home in White Sands National Park, including foxes, rodents, coyotes, bobcats, badgers, rabbits, and porcupines.

There are seven species of amphibians and one species salamander at White Sands National Park.

White Sands National Park has recorded over 220 recorded species of birds, including wrens, mockingbirds, larks and ravens, as well as larger species like roadrunners and raptors. Learn more about the most commonly seen birds in the park.

There are even fish! The White Sands pupfish is the only species of fish endemic to the Tularosa Basin, and it is the only fish found in White Sands National Park. It has dark eyes, silver scales, and grows from 1.75 inches to 2.5 inches in length. (Source: NPS)

White Sands National Park Facts
The White Sands pupfish is a unique fish found nowhere else in the world. (Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons)

8. The Sand Remains Cool Despite The Weather

If you have spent any time on a beach in the summer then you’re likely to reminder to bring your sandals. The hot sand can scorch one’s feet, but not at White Sands National Park.

The White Sands National Park’s gypsum sand is known for being pleasant to the feet. It is unique because it does not absorb heat from the sun as silica sand does, making it a cool surface to walk on even on hot days. This makes it a perfect place to visit during summer.

White Sands National Park Facts
Dunes from the Alkali Flat trail at White Sands National Monument. (Shutterstock-Nagel Photography)

9. White Sands Sits On One Of The Largest Military Bases In The U.S.

Just when you thought that we couldn’t come up with more fascinating White Sands National Park Facts we do.

White Sands National Park sits on one of the largest military bases in the United States, the White Sands Missile Range.

The park shares its land with the missile range and the U.S. government uses most of the 275 square miles as a missile testing site. As a result, only a small section of the park is available for visitors to enjoy.

It’s important to check the schedule of the missile test range before planning a visit to the park.

White Sands is both a national park and a missile range | White Sands National Park Facts
White Sands is both a national park and a missile range | White Sands National Park Facts (Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons)

White Sands National Park is a popular location for photographers and cinematographers due to its unique and striking white dunes.

The park has been used as a filming location for over 40 movies, documentaries, music videos, and TV commercials. Due to its distinctive appearance and remote location, it has been a sought after location for many film and video productions.

Visitors to the park may recognize some of the iconic locations from films and TV shows that have been shot here.

Among the films that have had scenes shot at the park are the following:

  • Transformers (2007)
  • Independence Day (1996)
  • Hang ‘Em High (1968)
  • The Mule (2018)
  • Young Guns II (1990)
  • The Man Who Fell to Earth (1976)
  • Tank Girl (1995)

Why Trust Us About White Sands National Park?


We’re Jim Pattiz and Will Pattiz, collectively known as the Pattiz Brothers (and sometimes the Parks Brothers) and we absolutely LOVE the national parks.

You should probably know that we don’t just make this stuff up out of thin air. We’ve spent our entire adult lives exploring and filming America’s national parks and public lands.

We’ve worked with the National Park Service, the Department of Interior, USDA, and the U.S. Forest Service for years creating films on important places and issues. Our work has been featured in leading publications all over the world and even some people outside of our immediate family call us experts on the national parks.

The Pattiz Brothers
More Than Just Parks Co-Founders Jim & Will Pattiz

Meet The Parks Brothers


The Pattiz Brothers are regular contributors to The Weather Channel

Map Of White Sands National Park


List Of White Sands National Park Facts

  1. The First People Came To The Park Over 10,000 Years Ago
  2. Hearth Mounds Represent The Most Amazing Evidence Of Human Occupation At White Sands
  3. A Beautiful Spanish Maiden Is Reported To Haunt The Dunes At White Sands
  4. The Park Was Part Of A “Salt War”
  5. The History Of White Sands National Park Is Closely Tied To The History Of The American Frontier
  6. White Sands Has The Largest Gypsum Dune Field In The World
  7. Many Species Make Their Home At The Park
  8. The Sand Remains Cool Despite The Weather
  9. White Sands Sits On One Of The Largest Military Bases In The U.S.
  10. White Sands Is A Popular Locations For Photographers & Filmmakers

We Hope You’ll Follow Our Journey


Pattiz Brothers
The Pattiz Brothers

Our goal here at More Than Just Parks is to share the beauty of America’s national parks and public lands through stunning short films in an effort to get Americans and the world to see the true value in land conservation. 

We hope you’ll follow our journey through the parks and help us to keep them the incredible places that they are. If you’re interested in joining the adventure then please sign up below! 


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https://morethanjustparks.com/white-sands-national-park-facts/feed/ 0 61980 Shutterstock_1065474704 White Sands National Monument New Mexico. (Shutterstock-sunsinger) image-275 image-459 image-460 image-462 white sands national park white-sands-national-park-nps1 image-276 image-465 Shutterstock_692488387 Girls on hiking trip on the mountain desert, Blue sky with clouds in the background. Plants and shrubs growing on sand dunes. White Sands National Monument, New Mexico. (Shutterstock-Margaret.Wiktor) image-478 Shutterstock_123300241 Dunes from the Alkali Flat trail at White Sands National Monument. (Shutterstock-Nagel Photography) image-480 pattiz-brothers-badlands1 More Than Just Parks Co-Founders Jim & Will Pattiz Will-and-Jim-Acadia-National-Park Loading
15 (GIANT) Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks Facts You Probably Didn’t Know https://morethanjustparks.com/sequoia-kings-canyon-national-parks-facts/ https://morethanjustparks.com/sequoia-kings-canyon-national-parks-facts/#comments Wed, 11 Sep 2024 17:41:10 +0000 https://morethanjustparks.com/?p=14125 Here's some giant facts about Sequoia Trees plus the Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks that you probably didn't know.

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big trees trail sequoia national park california
Big Trees Trail at Sequoia National Park | Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park Facts

Article Summary: Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park Facts

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park Facts! In this article, More Than Just Parks provides you with 15 amazing facts about two of America’s most magnificent national parks.

More Than Just Parks is your one-stop-shop when it comes to learning everything you’ll need to know about America’s national parks. We’ve got expert guides, beautiful photos, helpful tips, breathtaking films and so much more.

I’ve been to so many of these amazing places since retiring from teaching in 2018. Did I mention that I taught history? I spent a lifetime teaching about the history behind some of these natural wonders. Then I got to see them firsthand. And now I’m sharing some of the incredible stories about these beautiful places with you. It doesn’t get any better than that!

More Than Just Parks takes a deeper dive with its national park facts. We’ve done our homework so that you’ll get more than you bargained for.

Without further ado, let’s dive in.

Kings Canyon & Sequoia National Park Facts
Mt. Whitney | Sequoia National Park

Table Of Contents: Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park Facts

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park Facts


1. Basic Facts About the Parks

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks are truly a land of giants.

Sequoia National Park is an American national park in the southern Sierra Nevada east of Visalia, California. The park was established on September 25, 1890, and today protects 404,064 acres of forested mountainous terrain.

Encompassing a vertical relief of nearly 13,000 feet, the park contains the highest point in the contiguous United States, Mount Whitney, at 14,505 feet above sea level.

Kings Canyon National Park features terrain similar to Yosemite Valley, and is home to the largest remaining grove of sequoia trees in the world.

Located next to Sequoia National Park, Kings Canyon Park is composed of two distinct areas – Grant Grove (home to the General Grant tree, also known as “the Nation’s Christmas Tree”) and Cedar Grove.

Kings Canyon is also home to Redwood Canyon, the largest remaining grove of sequoia trees in the world.

sequoia national park california
Sequoia National Park

CHECK OUT: 20 BEST California National Parks Ranked

Sequoia and Kings National Parks, which, administered as one park, present a Sierra scene that complements and emphasizes the beauties and wonders seen by so many millions in Yosemite.

-The National Parks, Freeman Tilden

2. Native Americans Of The Southern Sierras Were The Earliest Peoples To Inhabit Sequoia & Kings Canyon

If you enjoy origin stories as much as I do then the first of our Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park Facts is one you’ll find particularly interesting.

Beginning in the 19th century, there were two distinct groups of people who occupied the southern Sierra Nevada. In the higher mountains and along the western foothills there lived hunters and gatherers who we know today as the Monache or Western Mono.

West of the Monache in the lowest foothills and across the Great Central Valley were the other major group – the Yokuts.

What’s particularly fascinating is that along the high peaks of the Sierra Range, different Native American groups established a fairly intricate network of trading relationships, which not only brought them into contact with one another, but also allowed them to trade a variety of critically important trading items.

These items included: salt, pine nuts, mineral paints, obsidian as well as other important items. Other commodities traded included: fresh and saltwater shells, acorns, manzanita berries and bear skins.

Yokut man
Native Americans were able to inhabit and establish important trading relationships in what is today Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks – Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

CHECK OUT: 11 AMAZING Facts About Acadia National Park


3. The First Americans To Explore The Area Were Trappers

One of my favorite Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park Facts involves the first Americans to explore the area.

Jedediah Smith was an American clerk, transcontinental pioneer, frontiersman, hunter, trapper, author, cartographer, mountain man and explorer of the Rocky Mountains, the Western United States, and the Southwest during the early 19th century.

In 1827, while working as a trapper and pursuing the numerous beaver to be found in the San Joaquin Valley, Smith is reported to have succeeded in crossing the mountains in the vicinity of the Stanislaus River which is east of what is today Stockton, California.

Smith may have been one of the first if not the first American to actually set foot in what is today Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks.

In 1832-33, a party which included Ewing Young and J.J. Warner were trapping along the Kings River.

Joseph Redderford led a party in 1833-34 across the Sierra into Yosemite country and proceeded along the western foothills of the Sierra.

beetle rock sequoia national park
Beetle Rock | Sequoia National Park

CHECK OUT: 10 AMAZING Facts About Badlands National Park


4. The Brewer Expedition Gave People Their First Detailed Understanding Of The Area

For Sequoia & Kings Canyon to become national parks, people needed to know which lands were there and why they were so important.

The California Geological Survey was created by the state legislature in 1860.

Four years later, William Brewer, thirty-two at the time and a graduate of the Yale Scientific School, was tasked with leading a survey of this area.

Brewer’s mandate was to focus on the largest remaining blank spot on the map of California which encompassed the high country of the southern Sierra.

Brewer led his men into the mountains and camped just west of modern Grant Grove.

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park Facts
Sequoia National Park

The Snow Group

Brewer’s expedition would make some incredible discoveries. On June 28, 1864, Brewer climbed and named Mount Silliman after the son of one of his Yale professors.

He and his team encountered what they believed to be the highest mountains in the United States. Brewer called these newly discovered mountains the “Snow Group.”

It was from the upper slopes of Mount Brewer, named for William Brewer, that Brewer and Clarence King and their companions first beheld the lofty peak which they then and there hailed as the highest of the Sierra and named in honor of their chief, Josiah Dwight Whitney, Mount Whitney.

Mount Whitney is the highest mountain in the contiguous United States and the Sierra Nevada, with an elevation of 14,505 feet.

William Brewer would go on to write an amazing account of his expedition titled: Such a Landscape!: A Narrative of the 1864 California Geological Survey Exploration of Yosemite, Sequoia & Kings Canyon from the Diary, Field Notes, Letters & Reports.

His assistant, Clarence King, would go on to become the first director of the United States Geological Survey from 1879 to 1881. Nominated by Republican President Rutherford B. Hayes, King was noted for his exploration of the Sierra Nevada mountain range.

Mt. Whitney | Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park Facts
Mt. Whitney | Sequoia National Park

Such a landscape! A hundred peaks in sight over thirteen thousand feet–many very sharp–deep canyons, cliffs in every direction almost rival Yosemite, sharp ridges inaccessible to man, on which human foot has never trod–all combined to produce a view of sublimity of which is rarely equaled, one which few are privileged to behold.

-william brewer

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park Facts


Another of our amazing Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park Facts involves the man who many consider to have been the “Father of the National Parks.”

In 1873, John Muir, the famous naturalist, visited Kings Canyon and was impressed by its similarity to the terrain of the Yosemite Valley. “A rival to the Yosemite,” wrote Muir.

John Muir was born in Scotland and raised in Wisconsin. He came to California in 1869 and discovered the Yosemite area which he popularized in his writings.

As the National Park Service notes, Muir’s passion for nature brought him to every continent except Antarctica. He experienced fantastic adventures – climbing a 100-foot tree in a thunderstorm, inching across a narrow ice bridge in Alaska, and spending a night in a blizzard on Mt. Shasta. Muir transformed his adventures into articles and books which sparked peoples interest in nature.

His tireless advocacy helped create several national parks including: Sequoia (1890), Mount Rainier (1899) and Grand Canyon (1908). John Muir has been called the “Father of the National Parks.”

Jim Pattiz in Sequoia
More Than Just Parks Co-Founder Jim Pattiz in Sequoia National Park

John Muir & Mount Whitney

Now here’s an interesting fact about John Muir. During his exploits in California, Mount Whitney caught his attention.

Mount Whitney is the highest mountain in the contiguous United States and the Sierra Nevada, with an elevation of 14,505 feet.

In 1873 Muir decided to climb the mountain, but mistakenly climbed Mount Langley instead which was a half dozen miles to the south of Whitney. Muir recognized his error, however, and attempted to follow the ridge toward his destination.

This is where the story gets interesting. He found himself trapped by nightfall at 13,000 feet in his shirt sleeves. Muir only managed to survive by forcing himself to dance in order to keep want. He literally danced the night away.

Undaunted, Muir returned a few days later. John Muir made his first ascent of Whitney on October 21, 1873.

Muir was the first person to climb Whitney from the east via what is today known as the Mountaineers Route. He had attempted to summit via the southwest, as those before him, but had retreated to Independence after a cold night out, returning to summit by this new route.

The top of Mount Whitney
The top of Mount Whitney – Courtesy of NPS

CHECK OUT: 10+ AMAZING JOHN MUIR FACTS | America’s Greatest Conservationist


6. A Journalist Would Play An Indispensable Role In The Creation Of Sequoia National Park

One of my favorite Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks involves the story of a man who was a true visionary. Without him, it’s conceivable that Sequoia National Park would not have come into existence.

George W. Stewart came from a new generation of westerners. He saw the California landscape in ways far different than did the emigrants of his father’s generation. In 1872, only fifteen years old, Stewart moved to Tulare County, where he soon found a vocation that would occupy much of his life—journalism.

Stewart called for a state law to prohibit the cutting of giant sequoias. Nothing concrete came of the suggestion, but Stewart had chosen sides in a battle that was just beginning. As a native Californian, he had convinced himself that Big Trees had higher uses than being converted into fence posts and shingles.

Featured in the picture (l to r) are George Welch (foreman for construction of Colony Mill Road in 1903), George Stewart (Visalia Delta), Congressman Henry E. Barbour (Fresno), Superintendent John White (standing), Stephen Mather (1st director of the National Park Service), Bertha Mather McPherson (Mather's daughter), Ben Maddox (Visalia Times).
Featured in the picture (l to r) are George Welch (foreman for construction of Colony Mill Road in 1903), George Stewart (Visalia Delta), Congressman Henry E. Barbour (Fresno), Superintendent John White (standing), Stephen Mather (1st director of the National Park Service), Bertha Mather McPherson (Mather’s daughter), Ben Maddox (Visalia Times). We cannot positively identify the woman on the far right. (Courtesy of NPS)

George Stewart teamed up with others, including General John F. Miller who was seeking election to the U.S. Senate in 1880, to introduce legislation setting apart a certain tract of land in the State of California as a “public park.”

He kept the issue before the public and worked to create a consensus. His efforts helped lead to H.R. 11570 which became the legislation establishing Sequoia National on September 25, 1890, making it our country’s second national park.

giant forest museum sequoia national park
Giant Forest Museum | Sequoia National Park

7. Sequoia Had The First African American Superintendent Of A National Park

For almost 30 years, I taught high school history. What impressed me most about the field of history are the amazing stories of men and women whose contributions changed the course of human events. In doing so, they helped to bring about the world we have today. 

The people we know, however, are relatively few when compared to the ones we don’t. When you start to do a little digging, you begin to realize that the stories of the ones we don’t know anything about can be just as interesting.

A case in point is Colonel Charles Young.

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park Facts
Kings Canyon National Park. (Shutterstock-Anna A Tarasenko)

He Lived A Truly Extraordinary Life

Born as a slave during the American Civil War, Charles Young lived a truly extraordinary life. He was the first African American to graduate from a white high school in Ohio.

In 1884, Young defied the odds winning an appointment to West Point through a competitive military examination. 

After confronting the racism which was typical of his era, Young emerged as only the third African American to graduate from West Point–America’s most prestigious military academy. 

Young served as a cavalry officer. He then became the captain of an all-black regiment at San Francisco’s Presidio. Young’s career path would take an interesting turn when managing the national parks became the responsibility of the U.S. Army beginning in 1891.

Young was captain of al all-black regiment
Young was captain of al all-black regiment | Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Superintendent Of Sequoia & General Grant National Parks

Young served as a cavalry officer. He then became the captain of an all-black regiment at San Francisco’s Presidio. Young rose through the military ranks to become one of the most respected leaders of his time.

His career path would take an interesting turn, however, when managing the national parks became the responsibility of the U.S. Army beginning in 1891. 

Young was assigned to take his troops to Sequoia and General Grant (what is now Sequoia National Park and a small portion of Kings Canyon National Park).

Colonel Charles Young Foundation
The Colonel Charles Young Foundation CEO, Renotta Young and Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument superintendent, Dr. Joy Kinard, pose together in front of the Colonel Young Tree. (Courtesy of the NPS)

Success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which he has overcome while trying to succeed.

-Booker T. Washington

No Poaching On His Watch

Poaching had become a problem in the parks given their limited supervision. As a result of Young’s leadership, however, there was no poaching reported at Sequoia or General Grant during his tenure as superintendent.

In commemoration, a Sequoia Tree would be named in his honor.

Young spent one summer as an acting superintendent at Sequoia/Kings Canyon before being reassigned as a military attache in Haiti. He then served in the same position in Liberia.

Kings Canyon National Park Facts
Tributary of Kings river on Kings Canyon National Park scenic view. On Highway 180 in California, United States of America. Located in southern Sierra Nevada, bordered by Sequoia National Park. (Shutterstock-Benny Marty)

Charles Young Earns The Rank Of Colonel

Young was sidelined from active duty during World War One due to health issues, but returned to command after the war. He would earn the rank of colonel. Young died unexpectedly, however, in 1922.

Given his distinguished service, he was the fourth soldier to be buried in Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors.

To learn more about this extraordinary American, I recommend: Black Officer in a Buffalo Soldier Regiment: The Military Career of Charles Young by Brian G. Shellum.

Sequoia & Kings Canyon Facts include Charles Young who was only the fourth soldier buried at Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors.
Charles Young died unexpectedly in 1922. He would be the fourth soldier to be buried in Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors. (Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons)

CHECK OUT: 20 BEST Black History Sites In America For You To Visit


8. Sequoia Was The First Park Created To Protect A Living Organism

Just when you thought we couldn’t come up with another surprising Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park Fact, we do!

If you’ve read Jonathan Swift’s classic, Gulliver’s Travels, or Travels into Several Remote Nations of the World, it’s the story of Lemuel Gulliver who journeys to four amazing lands.

While his most famous voyage was to Lilliput (ergo the “Lilliputians” or “Little People”) in one of Gulliver’s other journeys, he travels to the land of Brobdingnag where a blade of grass is as tall as a tree.

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park Facts include Sequoia trees which are among the largest in the world.
Travel to Sequoia National Park to see the mighty trees and you’ll feel like Lemuel Gulliver in Brobdingnag. (Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons)

CHECK OUT: General Sherman Tree – Everything You Need To Know About The Largest Tree In The World


You, Too, Can Experience What Gulliver Did

You don’t have to travel to Brobdingnag to experience what Gulliver did. Travel to Sequoia National Park where the trees are so tall and so amazing that you’ll feel like a Lilliputian in this land of the giants.

These massive Sequoia trees actually grow between 5,000 and 8,000 feet in elevation.

How is this possible you might ask? At Sequoia, the winters are relatively mild which makes it a perfect natural habitat for these incredible specimens to grow and thrive.

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park Facts include Sequoia trees which are among the largest in the world.
These amazing Sequoia trees tower over humans which makes Sequoia National Park an incredible place to visit | Sequoia Trees Facts

The sequoias belong to the silences of the millenniums. Many of them have seen a hundred human generations rise, give off their little clamors and perish. They seem indeed to be forms of immortality standing here among the transitory shapes of time.

-Edwin Markham

9. A Photographer Helped To Expand Sequoia National Park

If a picture’s worth a thousand words then how many acres might it be worth?

In America, the 1920s were known as the “Jazz Age.” It was a time of economic prosperity, cultural transformation and bootleg gin. It was also a time when women were making themselves felt in society.

Cover of a 1922 edition of F. Scott Fitzgerald's book Tales of the Jazz Age, painted by John Held, Jr.
Cover of a 1922 edition of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s book Tales of the Jazz Age, painted by John Held, Jr. – Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Women Gained The Right To Vote

With the passage of the 19th amendment, women cast their first ballot for president in 1920. Their entrance into the workforce in increasing numbers signaled a battle for social liberation and equal rights.

Women gained the right to vote in 1920
Women gained the right to vote in 1920 | Courtesy of Wikimedia

One of these women would be Susan Priscilla Thew. In August of 1923, she decided to explore the wilderness of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.

A preservationist at heart, Susan Thew wanted to share the magic of these parks with a wider audience so she brought along a camera to capture some iconic images.

Susan Thew & her husband
Susan Thew & her husband – Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Her Pictures Made A Difference

Susan Thew originally came to California to escape the harsh winters of her native Ohio. Soon she fell in love with the Sierra Nevada range.

Learning of efforts to create a greater Sequoia National Park, she contacted Colonel John R. White, the park’s superintendent. She then proposed the idea of promoting the park to a wider audience.

Thus began the incredible travels of Susan Thew. Just as John Muir stirred peoples souls with his inspiring stories of the wonders of nature, Susan brought those wonders to life through her incredible photographs.

She covered hundreds of miles traversing some of the most rugged territory throughout the United States.


She Influenced Ansel Adams

A project which would take her several summers culminated in a beautiful publication titled, “The Proposed Roosevelt-Sequoia National Park.” Her intended audience were the members of Congress. It was for them that she managed to convey a sense of what made these lands so special.

Through her efforts, Congress was able to pass a bill enlarging the park’s boundaries to include the Great Western Divide, the Kaweah Peaks, the Kern Canyon, and the Sierra Crest.

Susan Thew’s bold approach influenced Ansel Adams. In 1940, Adams also created a portfolio of stunning images for distribution among members of Congress. Like Susan Thew, Ansel Adams efforts contributed to success in passing a bill creating Kings Canyon National Park.

Sequoia & Kings Canyon Facts include Ansel Adams who was influenced by Susan Thew.
Susan Thew’s efforts influenced Ansel Adams. He also created a portfolio of stunning images for distribution among members of Congress. This helped to bring about legislation creating Kings Canyon National Park. (Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons)

CHECK OUT: 8 BEST National Parks Near San Francisco To Visit

If you are weary with the battle, either of business or the greater game of life, and would like to find your way back to sound nerves and a new interest in life, I know of no better place than the wild loveliness of some chosen spot in the High Sierra in which, when you have lost your physical self, you have found your mental and spiritual re-awakening.

-Susan Thew

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park Facts


10. Sequoia Is Home To The Tallest Mountain In The Lower 48 States

Remember that wonderful song from The Sound Of Music which Julie Andrews sings? Yes, I know, there were so many of them. The one I have in mind is “Climb Every Mountain.”

Well, if you’re ready for adventure and like to climb mountains then Sequoia’s got one waiting for you. As mentioned earlier, Mount Whitney is the highest mountain in the contiguous United States. It has an elevation of 14,505 feet and a view at the top that’s simply breathtaking.

The mountain’s west slope is located in Sequoia National Park. The southern terminus of the John Muir Trail is where the summit is located. 

From the peak of Mount Whitney, you can see the incredible majesty of the Sierra Nevada range and look down into the beautiful Owens Valley. This magnificent mountain is the highest point of the Great Basin Divide.

Mount Whitney
If you’re ready to climb every mountain then there’s one waiting for you at Sequoia National Park. Mount Whitney is the highest mountain in the contiguous United States. (Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons)

The mountains are calling and I must go.

-John Muir

11. Sequoia Is Home To The Largest Tree On Earth

You probably didn’t see General Sherman march through Georgia, but you have the opportunity to see his namesake at Sequoia National Park.

William Tecumseh Sherman was five foot eleven inches tall. The General Sherman Tree is much, much taller.

As a matter of fact, it’s the world’s largest tree, measured by volume. It stands 275 feet tall, and is over 36 feet in diameter at the base. Sixty feet above its base, the Sherman Tree is 17.5 feet in diameter. It’s a real “skyscraper.”

general sherman tree sequoia national park california
The General Sherman Tree is the world’s largest.

CHECK OUT: General Sherman Tree – Everything You Need To Know About The Largest Tree In The World


12. Over 95% Of Sequoia & Kings Canyon Are Wilderness

If you’re someone who likes to get away from it all then you’ll be thrilled by our next Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park Fact. Over 95% of Sequoia and Kings Canyon are actually wilderness areas.

Thanks to the efforts of Susan Thew and others over the years, Congress expanded Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks to 1,353 square miles.

I’m a historian by background and training so perhaps a little history would be helpful. In September of 1964, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Wilderness Act.

This act made the preservation and protection of wild places a national priority. Today, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks currently protect over 808,000 acres of designated wilderness in addition to 29,500 acres of proposed wilderness.

President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the historic Wilderness Act, which protected large areas of Sequoia and Kings Canyon as well as many other places
In 1964, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the historic Wilderness Act, which protected large areas of Sequoia and Kings Canyon as well as many other places. (Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons)

CHECK OUT: Is It Time For Another Bipartisan Era Of Environmental Activism?


Conservation is ethically sound. It is rooted in our love of the land, our respect for the rights of others, our devotion to the rule of law.

-President Lyndon B. Johnson

13. Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks Feature Over 800 Miles Of Trails

To paraphrase Nancy Sinatra, “These parks are made for walking. That’s just what they do.”

And, if walking’s what you do then check out the John Muir Trail. It’s a 221-mile trail stretching from Yosemite Valley to Mount Whitney.

It passes through what many backpackers say is the finest mountain scenery in the United States. It’s a land of 13,000-foot and 14,000-foot peaks, of lakes in the thousands, and of canyons and granite cliffs. The John Muir Trail is also a land blessed with the mildest, sunniest climate of any major mountain range in the world.

And the best part of all is that it travels through Kings Canyon and into Sequoia so you get two parks for the price of one.

If you’re a hiker then know that the best hiking season is from July to September when the weather is sunny and dry. Permits are not required for day kikes unless you’re planning to hike Mount Whitney. Consider going in the early morning or evening hours to escape the heat of the day.

sequioa national park california
The Congress Trail in the Snow

14. George W. Bush Was The First President Ever To Stay At Sequoia & Kings Canyon While In Office

The average male has 25% body fat. As President, George W. Bush had a a body fit of 14%. How did he do it? According the the White House, he worked on an elliptical machine two days a week, lifted weights two days a week, ran an average of four miles four days each week and did regular stretching exercises.

George W. Bush was clearly one of our more physically fit presidents while in office. When jogging became too difficult as a result of knee surgeries, he later took up mountain biking. This man did not shy away from rugged physical exercise even on the hottest of days.

He was also the first president to visit Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks while in office. While there, he took a walking tour of Moro Rock in Sequoia National Park on May 1, 2001.

George W. Bush on a walking tour at Moro Rock | Courtesy of the White House

15. Sequoia & Kings Canyon Have The Deepest Canyon In America

Another one of my favorite Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks Facts has to do with a canyon. In fact it’s the deepest canyon in the United States and it’s located in Kings Canyon.

The Kings River Canyon drops 8,200 feet from high in the Sierra to the San Joaquin Valley. It’s deeper than Hell’s Canyon on the Snake River in Idaho and the Grand Canyon in Arizona.

Kings River Canyon | Photo courtesy of Ansel Adams
Kings River Canyon | Photo courtesy of Ansel Adams (Wikimedia Commons)

If you’re planning a visit then you ought to check out both the Kings River Canyon and the Kings River.

The Kings Wild and Scenic River includes the entire Middle and South Forks and six miles of the Kings River. It flows through Kings Canyon National Park and the Sequoia and Sierra National Forests.

Beginning in glacial lakes above timberline, the river flows by deep, steep-sided canyons, over falls and cataracts, eventually becoming an outstanding whitewater rafting river in its lower reaches in Sequoia National Forest. Geology, scenery, recreation, fish, wildlife and history are all significant aspects.

And I’ve saved the best news for last because, believe it or not, you don’t need to hike this one. You can drive right down to the bottom of the canyon on the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway, which links the park’s main visitor centers of Grant Grove and Cedar Grove.

Along the way, you will also pass through the Giant Sequoia National Monument of the Sequoia National Forest, pass Hume Lake and several hiking trails.

Kings Canyon Gorge | Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park Facts
Imagine a canyon deeper than the Grand Canyon depicted above. Kings Canyon features the deepest canyon in the USA. (Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons)

16. Sequoia & Kings Canyon Are Great Places For Mountaineering

If you like to climb then Sequoia and Kings Canyon have much to offer you. As a matter of fact, these parks are a climbers paradise. Similar to Yosemite, these rock formations are nothing short of amazing.

Whether you’re just starting out or an experienced climber, there’s something for everyone. Climbs range from easy to extremely challenging-without the crowds and distractions of better known climbing areas. Popular routes include the Obelisk and Grand Sentinel.

Come prepared to spend the night, however, as most climbs include at least a day’s hike in.

Sequoia & Kings Canyon Facts
If you enjoy mountain climbing then check out Sequoia and Kings Canyon. It’s got climbs for beginning, intermediate and experienced climbers. (Courtesy of Wikimedia) | Sequoia & Kings National Park Canyon Facts

Why Trust Us About Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks?


We’re Jim Pattiz and Will Pattiz, collectively known as the Pattiz Brothers (and sometimes the Parks Brothers) and we absolutely LOVE the national parks.

You should probably know that we don’t just make this stuff up out of thin air. We’ve spent our entire adult lives exploring and filming America’s national parks and public lands.

We’ve worked with the National Park Service, the Department of Interior, USDA, and the U.S. Forest Service for years creating films on important places and issues. Our work has been featured in leading publications all over the world and even some people outside of our immediate family call us experts on the national parks.

The Pattiz Brothers
More Than Just Parks Co-Founders Jim & Will Pattiz

Meet The Parks Brothers


The Pattiz Brothers are regular contributors to The Weather Channel

Map Of Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks


15 Facts About Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

  1. Native Americans Of The Southern Sierras Were The Earliest Peoples To Inhabit Sequoia & Kings Canyon
  2. The First Americans To Explore The Area Were Trappers
  3. The Brewer Expedition Gave People Their First Detailed Understanding Of The Area
  4. Kings Canyon Was First Made Popular By John Muir
  5. A Journalist Would Play An Indispensable Role In The Creation Of Sequoia National Park
  6. Sequoia/Kings Canyon had the first African American superintendent (acting) of a national park
  7. Sequoia was the first park created to protect a living organism
  8. A Photographer Helped To Expand Sequoia National Park
  9. Sequoia is home to the tallest mountain in the lower 48 states
  10. Sequoia is home to the largest tree on earth
  11. Over 95% of Sequoia & Kings Canyon are wilderness
  12. Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks Feature Over 800 Miles Of Trails
  13. George W. Bush Was The First President Ever To Stay At Sequoia & Kings Canyon While In Office
  14. Sequoia & Kings Canyon Have The Deepest Canyon In America
  15. Sequoia/Kings Canyon Are Great Places For Mountaineering

We Hope You’ll Follow Our Journey


Pattiz Brothers
The Pattiz Brothers

Our goal here at More Than Just Parks is to share the beauty of America’s national parks and public lands through stunning short films in an effort to get Americans and the world to see the true value in land conservation. 

We hope you’ll follow our journey through the parks and help us to keep them the incredible places that they are. If you’re interested in joining the adventure then please sign up below! 


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9 BEST NATIONAL PARKS NEAR JACKSONVILLE (Guide + Photos) https://morethanjustparks.com/best-national-parks-near-jacksonville/ https://morethanjustparks.com/best-national-parks-near-jacksonville/#respond Wed, 11 Sep 2024 17:40:15 +0000 https://morethanjustparks.com/?p=38835 National Parks Near Jacksonville goes from the marsh lands & gator-filled swamps of the Everglades to the underwater world of Biscayne.

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everglades national park florida
A gator crosses a trail at Everglades National Park in Florida (Courtesy of NPS)

Article Summary: National Parks Near Jacksonville

National Parks near Jacksonville. There’s so much more to this beautiful state than Disneyworld. In this article, we’ll familiarize you with the incredible national park sites that are within a six hour drive of Jacksonville, Florida.

There are 9 national park sites for you to see on your next visit to the Sunshine State.

I’ve been to so many of these amazing places since retiring from teaching in 2018. Did I mention that I taught history? I spent a lifetime teaching about the history behind these momentous sites. Then I got to see them firsthand. And now I’m sharing the stories of these incredible places with you. It doesn’t get any better than that!

Jacksonville boasts the largest urban park system in the nation, it is 4x the size of the island of Manhattan! 80,000 acres of parks, including 7 State Parks, 2 National Parks, a National Preserve, 400 City Parks and Gardens and an Arboretum.

National Parks Near Jacksonville
Closeup of a map of Jacksonville Florida with red pin. (Shutterstock-zimmytws)

So, What Is A National Park?

We get asked that question a lot because there’s a difference between a “national park” and a “national park site.” To help you understand that difference you might want to check out our article titled: What Is A National Park Really?

If you’re planning a trip to San Jose then you might want to pick up a copy of Secret San Jose: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure by Cassie Kifer.

Now let’s go ahead with 9 reasons why you’ll want to make a drive of six hours (or less) from Jacksonville to visit one of these amazing places.

National Parks Near Jacksonville
Long Pine Key Lake at Sunset, Everglades National Park, Florida, USA. Everglades National Park is a U.S. National Park in Florida that protects the southern 20 percent of the original Everglades. (Shutterstock-Jay Yuan)


Best National Parks Near Jacksonville


1. Everglades National Park

Distance From Jacksonville: Five hours & 33 minutes via I-95 South & Florida’s Turnpike.

Everglades National Park was established in 1947 and covers an area of over 1.5 million acres, making it the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States. The park is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, many of which are found nowhere else in the world.

The Everglades are a vast wetland ecosystem that consists of slow-moving rivers, sawgrass marshes, mangrove forests, and hardwood hammocks. The park is also a critical habitat for numerous threatened and endangered species, including the American alligator, the manatee, and the endangered Florida panther.

Visitors to the park can enjoy a range of activities, including hiking, bird watching, fishing, and boating. There are also several ranger-led programs available, including guided walks, canoe trips, and educational programs.

In addition to its natural beauty and diverse wildlife, the Everglades is also an important cultural and historical site, with a rich history dating back thousands of years to the indigenous peoples who once lived in the area. Today, the park continues to be a source of inspiration and a symbol of conservation for people around the world.

National Parks Near Jacksonville
Long Pine Key Lake at Sunset, Everglades National Park, Florida, USA. Everglades National Park is a U.S. National Park in Florida that protects the southern 20 percent of the original Everglades. (Shutterstock-Jay Yuan)

CHECK OUT: 11 SURPRISING Everglades National Park Facts


2. Biscayne National Park

Distance From Jacksonville: Five hours & 35 minutes via I-95 South & Florida’s Turnpike.

Biscayne National Park was established in 1980 and covers an area of over 172,000 acres, including the southern portion of Biscayne Bay, its surrounding mangrove forests, and the offshore barrier reefs.

The park is unique in that 95% of its area is covered by water, making it the largest marine park in the National Park System. It is a popular destination for boaters, snorkelers, and scuba divers, who come to explore the vibrant coral reefs, mangrove forests, and shipwrecks in the park’s crystal-clear waters.

Visitors to the park can also enjoy a range of land-based activities, including hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. The park is home to a variety of plant and animal species, including manatees, sea turtles, and numerous bird species.

In addition to its natural beauty and rich marine life, Biscayne National Park also has a rich cultural history, with evidence of human habitation in the area dating back thousands of years. Today, the park continues to be an important source of recreation and a symbol of conservation for people around the world.

Biscayne National Park | National Parks Near Jacksonville
Biscayne National Park | National Parks Near Orlando (Courtesy of NPS)

Best Things to Do at Biscayne National Park

Scuba Diving is one of Biscayne National Park’s primary activities as 90% of the park is underwater. The reefs here are no stranger to the adverse effects of climate change as the entire ecosystem is under threat.

Boating is another great way to see and explore the park. Biscayne is full of beautiful mangrove swamps which are best viewed by kayak or canoe.

RELATED: 11 EPIC Florida National Parks Worth Visiting

Canoeing Biscayne National Park Florida
Canoeing in Biscayne National Park, Florida (Courtesy of NPS)

CHECK OUT: 15 AMAZING Facts About Biscayne National Park


3. Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve

Distance From Jacksonville: 19 minutes via Florida 115-S & Fort Caroline Rd.

The Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve was established to preserve the natural and cultural resources of the Timucuan region, which encompasses over 46,000 acres of wetlands, forests, and coastal habitats.

The preserve is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including alligators, river otters, and many species of birds, as well as several threatened and endangered species. The area also contains numerous archaeological sites that provide insight into the rich cultural history of the Timucuan people, who lived in the region for thousands of years before European contact.

Visitors to the Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve can participate in a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, canoeing, and wildlife viewing. The park also offers several historic sites to visit, including the Kingsley Plantation, Fort Caroline National Memorial, and the Ribault Club.

The Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve is managed by the National Park Service and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of northern Florida.

Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve | National Parks Near Jacksonville
Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve | Florida National Near Jacksonville (courtesy NPS)

Things To Do

Theodore Roosevelt Area – This 600 acre natural area features great hiking trails amongst a wonderful hardwood forest.

Kingsley Plantation – This 19th century plantation tells the history of the plantation era on Fort George Island from the perspective of the folks who owned enslaved people as well the enslaved people themselves.

If you’re looking to make the most of your Florida adventure then I recommend Florida Bucket List Adventure Guide & Journal: Explore 50 Natural Wonders You Must See!  It’s truly the ultimate dreamland for free spirits whose soul craves deep connection with nature.

Florida National Parks
Theodore Roosevelt Area | National Parks Near Jacksonville

More National Parks Near Jacksonville


4. Big Cypress National Preserve

Distance From Jacksonville: 5 Hours & 35 minutes via I-95 S. & Florida’s Turnpike.

The Big Cypress National Preserve was established in 1974 to preserve the unique wetland ecosystem of the Big Cypress Swamp, which covers more than 729,000 acres of cypress trees, sawgrass prairies, and mangrove forests.

The preserve is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including the American alligator, the Florida panther, and the West Indian manatee, as well as hundreds of species of birds, reptiles, and mammals. The area is also an important water resource, providing essential recharge for the Biscayne Aquifer, which supplies drinking water to millions of people in South Florida.

Visitors to the Big Cypress National Preserve can participate in a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, camping, hunting, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The preserve also offers several scenic drives and scenic overlooks, as well as several ranger-led programs, including swamp walks and canoe trips.

The Big Cypress National Preserve is managed by the National Park Service and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those interested in exploring the unique ecosystems of South Florida.

Big Cypress National Preserve Florida
Big Cypress National Preserve | National Parks Near Jacksonville (Courtesy of NPS)

Highlights

Go Hiking – There are lots of great hikes in the Big Cypress National Preserve. The Kirby Storter Boardwalk is a great entry level quick hike that gives visitors a beautiful glimpse into the preserve.

Canoeing – Perhaps the best way to soak in the scenery Big Cypress National Preserve is via canoe. For everything you need to know about canoeing including where to put in and safety tips visit the Big Cypress NPS canoeing page.

Birding – Big Cypress is home to nearly 200 bird species which makes it a popular spot for birders.

Big Cypress National Preserve Florida
The Kirby Storter Boardwalk in Big Cypress National Preserve | Florida National Parks (courtesy NPS)

5. Canaveral National Seashore

Distance From Jacksonville: One hour and 50 minutes via I-95 S.

Canaveral National Seashore is a protected area located on a barrier island on the east coast of Florida, near the city of Titusville.

The seashore was established in 1975 to preserve the unique natural and cultural resources of the area, including over 24 miles of pristine Atlantic Ocean beach, dunes, marshes, and pine flatwoods.

The area has a rich cultural history, including evidence of thousands of years of human habitation by various indigenous groups, including the Timucuan and Seminole people.

During the 20th century, the area was used for military training, and later as a launch site for NASA’s space program, including the Apollo missions to the moon.

Visitors to Canaveral National Seashore can participate in a variety of recreational activities, including camping, hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The seashore also offers several historic sites to visit, including the historic Playalinda Beach and the Eldora State House, a former hotel that served as a military barracks during World War II.

canaveral national seashore | national parks near jacksonville
Canaveral National Seashore Rocket Launch | National Parks Near Jacksonville

RELATED: Miami To Key West Drive: Everything You Need To See


Things to do

Rocket Launch Viewing – Cape Canaveral is one of the best places in the world to watch a rocket blast off into space. As such, the national seashore draws millions of folks for this very reason every year.

Windy Castle Trail – The Windy Castle Trail is a great way to experience the flora and fauna of the region. Be sure to pack mosquito repellent as there is a very high chance you will encounter some on the trail.


6. Fort Matanzas National Monument

Distance From Jacksonville: 56 minutes via I-95 S.

Fort Matanzas National Monument is a historic fort located on Rattlesnake Island, near St. Augustine, Florida. It was built by the Spanish in 1742 to protect the southern approach to St. Augustine and to provide a line of defense against potential attacks by sea.

The fort was named after the Matanzas River, which means “slaughters” in Spanish, and was so named because of the brutal slaughter of French Huguenot settlers by the Spanish in 1565.

The fort was built by the Spanish under the command of Governor Manuel de Montiano, who wanted to secure the southern approach to St. Augustine from potential attacks by sea.


The Fort Played A Significant Role In The History Of Florida

The fort played a significant role in the history of Florida and the American South. During the 18th century, the fort was used to protect St. Augustine and its inhabitants from pirate raids and foreign military incursions.

In 1763, Florida became a British colony and the fort was occupied by the British army. However, the fort was retaken by the Spanish in 1783 and remained under Spanish control until 1821 when Florida became a territory of the United States.

In 1924, Fort Matanzas was declared a National Monument, and in 1933 it was placed under the jurisdiction of the National Park Service.

The fort was restored in the 1930s as part of the New Deal program, and today it is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world to learn about the history of the fort and the Spanish colonial period in Florida.

Fort Matanzas National Monument | National Parks Near Jacksonville
Fort Matanzas National Monument | National Parks Near Jacksonville

Things To See & Do There

Tour the Coquina Watchtower – The focal point of the park is the 18th century watchtower. Touring this amazing piece of history is something you have to do if you visit the park.

Nature Trail – The nature trail is another great and easy activity. The trail features all of the local flora and fauna and gives visitors an idea of what the ecosystem is like.

If you love history as much as I do then I recommend History of Florida: A Captivating Guide to the People and Events That Shaped the History of the Sunshine State.


Still More National Parks Near Jacksonville


7. Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

Distance From Jacksonville: 50 minutes via I-95 S.

Castillo de San Marcos National Monument is the oldest masonry fort in the United States and one of the most significant historical landmarks in Florida.

The fort was constructed by the Spanish in the late 17th century, starting in 1672, as a means of protecting St. Augustine from potential attacks by sea. The fort was named after St. Mark the Evangelist, the patron saint of Spain.

Throughout its history, Castillo de San Marcos played a significant role in the political and military events of the region. During the colonial period, it was used to protect Spanish colonial settlements in Florida and to maintain Spanish control over the region.

In 1763, Florida became a British colony, and Castillo de San Marcos was occupied by the British army. However, the fort was retaken by the Spanish in 1783 and remained under Spanish control until 1821, when Florida became a territory of the United States.

In 1924, Castillo de San Marcos was declared a National Monument, and in 1933 it was placed under the jurisdiction of the National Park Service.

The fort was restored in the 1930s as part of the New Deal program, and today it is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world to learn about the history of the fort and the Spanish colonial period in Florida.

castillo de san marcos florida national parks
Castillo de San Marcos National Monument | National Parks Near Jacksonville

8. De Soto National Memorial

Distance From Jacksonville: Four hours via US-301 S & I-75 S.

The De Soto National Memorial commemorates the landing of Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto and his expedition in the area in 1539, and their subsequent journey through the southeastern United States in search of gold and other riches.

Hernando de Soto was a Spanish explorer and conquistador who is best known for his exploration of the southeastern United States and for being the first European to encounter the Mississippi River. In 1539, he led an expedition of over 600 men from Cuba to the Florida coast, where they established a base camp and began their journey into the interior of the continent.

De Soto and his men traveled through what is now Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas, and Louisiana, encountering numerous Native American tribes and making contact with the indigenous people of the southeastern United States. The expedition was characterized by its brutal treatment of the indigenous peoples, and it had a profound impact on the culture and history of the region.

The De Soto National Memorial was established in 1948 to commemorate the landing of Hernando de Soto and his expedition in Florida and to educate the public about the impact of their journey on the indigenous peoples of the southeastern United States.

The park features a visitor center with exhibits on the history of the expedition and its impact, as well as a reconstructed Indian village that provides a glimpse into the lives of the indigenous peoples of the region.

de soto national memorial florida
A reenactment of Hernando de Soto’s arrival at De Soto National Memorial | National Parks Near Jacksonville

9. Fort Caroline National Memorial

Distance From Jacksonville: 20 minutes via FL-115 S. & Fort Caroline Rd.

Fort Caroline National Memorial commemorates the French colonial settlement of Fort Caroline, which was established by French explorer René Goulaine de Laudonnière in 1564.

Fort Caroline was one of the first European settlements in what is now the United States, and it was established by the French as a base for exploring and colonizing the region. The fort was named after King Charles IX of France and was intended to serve as a center for trade, religion, and diplomacy with the native peoples of the region.

However, the fort was soon caught up in the conflict between the French and Spanish for control of the southeast United States. In 1565, a Spanish force under the command of Pedro Menéndez de Avilés attacked and destroyed Fort Caroline, killing most of its inhabitants and effectively ending the French presence in the region.

The Fort Caroline National Memorial was established in 1950 to commemorate the French colonial settlement of Fort Caroline and to educate the public about the history of the fort and the early European exploration and colonization of the southeastern United States.

The park features a visitor center with exhibits on the history of Fort Caroline and the French colonial period in Florida, as well as a reconstructed Timucuan Indian village that provides a glimpse into the lives of the indigenous peoples of the region.

Fort Caroline National Memorial Florida
Fort Caroline National Memorial | National Parks Near Jacksonville

National Parks Near Jacksonville FAQ


What national parks are in Jacksonville?
The following national park sites are in the Jacksonville area:

Everglades National Park
Biscayne National Park
Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve
Big Cypress National Preserve
Canaveral National Seashore
Fort Matanzas National Monument
Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
De Soto National Memorial

What is so special about Jacksonville?

Jacksonville boasts the largest urban park system in the nation, it is 4x the size of the island of Manhattan! 80,000 acres of parks, including 7 State Parks, 2 National Parks, a National Preserve, 400 City Parks and Gardens and an Arboretum. The Timucuan Ecological and Historical Preserve covers 46,000 acres.


Why Trust Us About National Parks Near Jacksonville?


We’re Jim Pattiz and Will Pattiz, collectively known as the Pattiz Brothers (and sometimes the Parks Brothers) and we absolutely LOVE the national parks.

You should probably know that we don’t just make this stuff up out of thin air. We’ve spent our entire adult lives exploring and filming America’s national parks and public lands.

We’ve worked with the National Park Service, the Department of Interior, USDA, and the U.S. Forest Service for years creating films on important places and issues. Our work has been featured in leading publications all over the world and even some people outside of our immediate family call us experts on the national parks.


Meet The Parks Brothers


The Pattiz Brothers are regular contributors to The Weather Channel

Map Of National Parks Near Jacksonville

List Of National Park Sites Near Jacksonville

  1. Everglades National Park
  2. Biscayne National Park
  3. Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve
  4. Big Cypress National Preserve
  5. Canaveral National Seashore
  6. Fort Matanzas National Monument
  7. Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
  8. De Soto National Memorial
  9. Fort Caroline National Memorial

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We Hope You’ll Follow Our Journey


The Pattiz Brothers
More Than Just Parks Co-Founders Jim & Will Pattiz

Our goal here at More Than Just Parks is to share the beauty of America’s national parks and public lands through stunning short films in an effort to get Americans and the world to see the true value in land conservation. 

We hope you’ll follow our journey through the parks and help us to keep them the incredible places that they are. If you’re interested in joining the adventure then please sign up below! 

The post 9 BEST NATIONAL PARKS NEAR JACKSONVILLE (Guide + Photos) appeared first on More Than Just Parks | National Parks Guides.

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