US national park system
The United States National Park System is a collection of national parks, monuments, battlefields, historical parks, recreation areas, and more that are overseen by the National Park Service. The system was created in 1916 with the passage of the National Park Service Organic Act, and it has grown to include 423 units as of 2021. The national parks themselves are some of the most visited and well-known destinations in the country, attracting millions of visitors each year.
Number of national parks in the US
As mentioned, there are currently 423 units in the United States National Park System. Of these, 63 are designated as national parks. National parks are areas set aside for their natural beauty, unique geological features, or cultural significance. They are considered the highest level of protection for public lands in the United States.
Ranking US states by number of national parks
With so many units in the National Park System, it’s no surprise that some states have more national parks than others. In fact, the number of national parks in a state can be a point of pride for residents and a major draw for tourists. Here is a ranking of US states by the number of national parks within their borders:
Top 5 US states with the most national parks
- California – 9 national parks
- Alaska – 8 national parks
- Utah – 5 national parks
- Colorado – 4 national parks
- Arizona – 3 national parks
Overview of national parks in each of the top 5 states
Arizona: Grand Canyon, Petrified Forest, and more
Arizona’s three national parks are all unique and well worth a visit. The Grand Canyon, one of the most famous and visited national parks in the world, is a mile-deep canyon carved by the Colorado River. The Petrified Forest is home to a stunning array of petrified wood, colorful badlands, and ancient petroglyphs. Finally, Saguaro National Park protects large saguaro cactus forests, a symbol of the American West.
California: Yosemite, Joshua Tree, and more
California has the most national parks of any state, and they are all spectacular. Yosemite National Park is home to towering granite cliffs, waterfalls, and giant sequoias. Joshua Tree National Park is known for its otherworldly rock formations and spiky, twisted Joshua trees. Finally, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks protect some of the largest trees in the world.
Colorado: Rocky Mountain and more
Rocky Mountain National Park is Colorado’s most famous national park, with towering peaks, alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife. However, the state’s other national parks are also worth exploring. Great Sand Dunes National Park protects the tallest sand dunes in North America, while Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is home to some of the steepest cliffs in the country.
Alaska: Denali, Glacier Bay, and more
Alaska has more national parks than any other state besides California. Denali National Park is the most famous, with its namesake mountain towering over the tundra. Glacier Bay National Park protects a stunning fjord and the surrounding wilderness. Finally, Kenai Fjords National Park is home to glaciers, whales, and seabirds.
Utah: Zion, Bryce Canyon, and more
Utah’s national parks are all located in the southern part of the state, and they are all stunning. Zion National Park is known for its towering sandstone cliffs, hanging gardens, and narrow slot canyons. Bryce Canyon National Park protects a series of amphitheaters filled with colorful hoodoos. Finally, Arches National Park is home to over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, as well as other stunning rock formations.
Conclusion: US national parks are a treasure for all to enjoy
The US national parks are some of the most beautiful and unique places in the country, and they are enjoyed by millions of visitors every year. Whether you prefer towering mountains, otherworldly rock formations, or stunning natural vistas, there is a national park that will capture your imagination. And with 423 units in the National Park System, there is always something new to discover.