8 Uncrowded National Parks

Parks like Grand Canyon and Yellowstone get a ton of attention, but there are other national parks close to these iconic ones that are just as striking but missing one thing: the crowds. Here are a few of our favorite uncrowded parks and why you should stop.

Great Basin National Park, Nevada

Hike or drive to the second highest peak in Nevada and see some of the world’s oldest trees at this park on the Nevada-Utah border that hardly anyone knows about.

Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado

Described as the pyramids of North America, the ancient ruins at this national park hold the early stories of our nation. Here are the top 10 reasons to go.

Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona

Hear the sound of silence when you look out at the stunning Painted Desert and walk through 100-room ancient pueblos at this national park in Arizona where solitude rules.

Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky

A half-day drive from America’s most visited park, find peace and quiet underground at this national park.
Parks like Grand Canyon and Yellowstone get a ton of attention, but there are other national parks close to these iconic ones that are just as striking but missing one thing: the crowds. Here are a few of our favorite uncrowded parks and why you should stop.

North Cascades National Park, Washington

In this national park, the only way to reach the unique town of Stehekin is by foot, boat, or plane. Find out why you should go.

Channel Islands National Park, California

Home to eight unique mammal species found only on the islands, including the island fox and deer mouse, you’ll find solitude and beauty on these islands off the coast of Ventura.

Capitol Reef National Park, Utah

You can pick your own fruit in this national park’s aromatic orchards before spending the day exploring its sandstone formations, all without having to sit in traffic clogging nearby national parks.

Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota

See bison without the crowds of Yellowstone and wild horses that were introduced to North America by the Spanish in the 1500s in this magnificent national park that’s off the radar.