Least Visited National Parks in the United States
When you think of national parks, popular spots like Zion and Yosemite might be top of mind. However, there are more than 400 sites in the US National Park System, with 63 earning the official national park designation. Travelers increasingly prioritize camping and hiking destinations as a means to reconnect with nature.
2022 national park crowd forecasts anticipate remarkable attendance numbers again as travelers seek outdoor experiences amidst breathtaking natural landscapes. If you’re looking for tranquility, consider exploring lesser-known parks instead of busier locations like the Great Smoky Mountains, Yellowstone, or Rocky Mountain National Park. These underrated parks offer fewer visitors and stunning scenic views, allowing for a more intimate experience with nature while promoting conservation and sustainability.
Top 10 Least Visited National Parks
10. Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, Alaska
2021 visitors: 89,768
Great for: Wildlife, Scenery, Photography
Glacier Bay’s icy wilderness attracts adventure travelers seeking dramatic landscapes and incredible wildlife. Spot orcas, humpback whales, and harbor porpoises as you take in the stunning views of seven tidewater glaciers flowing into the sea of icebergs.
9. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
2021 visitors: 83,817
Great for: History, Scenery, Diving
The name may be misleading; although Dry Tortugas contains just 143 acres of land, 99% of this national park is water. A rare combination of historic sites, diverse bird populations, and pristine waters makes it an exceptional destination. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, consider activities like snorkeling at coral reefs or birdwatching along the coastline.
8. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, Alaska
2021 visitors: 83,817
Great for: Wildlife, Scenery, History
As the largest national park in the US, Wrangell-St. Elias offers expansive wilderness and astounding wildlife sightings. Explore dramatic mountain ranges and historic mining sites amid 13.2 million acres of untouched nature. Keep in mind that backpacking requires meticulous planning, and summer is the best time to visit to experience all it has to offer.
7. Isle Royale National Park, Michigan
2021 visitors: 25,844
Great for: Scenery, Wildlife, Hiking
Isle Royale provides diverse experiences from granitic landscapes to underwater adventures. You can hike along 165 miles of trails or scuba dive to explore some of the best-preserved shipwrecks in the United States. This national park is an excellent location for encountering moose in their natural habitat.
6. Katmai National Park & Preserve, Alaska
2021 visitors: 24,764
Great for: Wildlife, Photography, Scenery
Known for its incredible bear watching opportunities, Katmai National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Bears gather at Brooks Camp to feast on salmon during the summer. Don’t miss the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, a unique geological feature resulting from a massive eruption.
5. Lake Clark National Park and Preserve, Alaska
2021 visitors: 18,278
Great for: Wildlife, Scenery, Hiking
This remote park features tundra-covered hills, glaciers, and Alaska’s largest lakes. Visitors can indulge in a fantastic variety of outdoor activities, from fishing to hiking, and even observe unique wildlife in its natural habitat.
4. North Cascades National Park, Washington
2021 visitors: 18,278
Great for: Scenic Views, Hiking, Photography
Despite its proximity to Seattle, North Cascades remains an off-the-beaten-path destination. With over a thousand square miles of wild terrain, visitors can explore beautiful trails leading to breathtaking vistas. Activities include hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting, all while enjoying solitude amidst stunning landscapes.
3. Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska
2021 visitors: 11,540
Great for: Hiking, Camping, Flightseeing
Famous for its spectacular Arctic sand dunes, Kobuk Valley offers an intriguing desert-like environment within a tundra setting. The park is notable for its ancient caribou crossings and stunning landscapes that make for exceptional hiking and camping experiences.
2. National Park of American Samoa
2021 visitors: 8,495
Great for: Snorkeling, Wildlife, Culture
Encompassing pristine volcanic and marine environments, this park is a unique treasure in the South Pacific. Visitors can dive into vibrant coral reefs, enjoy exceptional wildlife viewing, and immerse themselves in the rich Samoan culture.
1. Gates Of The Arctic National Park & Preserve, Alaska
2021 visitors: 7,362
Great for: Wilderness Exploration, Wildlife, Scenic Views
In the absence of roads or trails, Gates Of The Arctic National Park remains one of the last true wilderness areas. Visitors can experience unspoiled nature, wildlife, and striking landscapes while navigating a terrain entirely north of the Arctic Circle.
This article highlights lesser-known national parks brimming with natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and serene environments. Explore these hidden gems for a refreshing and environmentally mindful outdoor experience.
