This comprehensive guide to the national parks of the United States covers all lands managed by the National Park Service or “NPS.” This country is home to an extensive network of national sites that protect and preserve the country’s natural wonders and cultural heritage sites.
As of 2023, the National Park Service oversees a total of 85 million acres of land, including 425 designated national park units.
Let’s take a closer look at the types of National Park Service sites, how many there are, what they protect, and what makes each one special!
National Parks
There are 63 national “parks” in the United States. These are designated areas of land that are protected and preserved for their unique natural, cultural, or recreational resources.
While most people associate national “parks” with nature and recreation, there are two parks created to preserve cultural sites, or, as Teddy Roosevelt called them, “The works of man.”
These two parks are Mesa Verde National Park, preserving around 5,000 archeological sites, and Gateway Arch, preserving the structure that symbolizes westward expansion.
*In my humble opinion, this is a little bit of a stretch, but go see it anyways!
The United States National Parks are, most often, where nature’s grandeur meets adventure. From the majestic peaks of Yosemite to the breathtaking canyons of the Grand Canyon, our national parks offer a highlight reel of our country’s diverse lands.
Discover wildlife, wilderness, and vast playgrounds of outdoor activities. With a legacy of conservation and natural beauty, these parks invite you to witness the wonders of the outdoors.
These parks range in size from the tiny Gateway Arch to the massive Wrangell-St. Elias National Park in Alaska, which covers over 13 million acres!
Whether hiking iconic trails, marveling at cascading waterfalls, or witnessing wildlife in their natural habitats, United States National Parks promise unforgettable experiences for all nature enthusiasts.
The scope of their impact, at least to me, is immeasurable…divine.
National Monuments
In addition to national parks, the United States has over 120 national monuments. These protected areas are designated by the president or Congress and are set aside to protect important cultural, historical, or scientific features.
These iconic sites stand as testaments to the nation’s heritage. Each holds a unique story waiting to be uncovered.
From the towering Devil’s Tower to the ancient cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde, these monuments encapsulate the essence of America’s past and present.
With diverse landscapes and captivating landmarks, these preserved treasures invite exploration and discovery. Immerse yourself in the legacy, diversity and story of this great nation.
National monuments can range from a single rock formation, such as the Devils Tower in Wyoming, to vast areas of wilderness, such as the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument in Utah.
Pro Tip: Many of our National Monuments have extensive stories, recreational opportunities and educational value. When your favorite national parks are dense with visitors, do a quick search for one of our monuments. Escape the crowds, use your park pass, and have a fresh kind of fun!
National Preserves
National preserves are a type of protected area that are managed by the National Park Service and are set aside to preserve unique natural, cultural, or scientific resources. The laws surrounding activity on the preserves are different from those of national parks. Additionally, many of the preserves surround or encompass national parks and monuments.
These preserved areas offer a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking pristine landscapes and unique ecosystems. From the sprawling Big Cypress National Preserve to the vast wilderness of Little River Canyon, these protected havens showcase the raw essence of nature.
Experience the thrill of encountering diverse wildlife. Trek through untouched trails. Immerse yourself in landscapes teeming with natural wonders.
There are currently over 20 national preserves in the United States, including the Big Thicket National Preserve in the piney woods of east Texas and the vast expanse of the Mojave Desert in California. Half of the National Preserves are in Alaska.
United States National Preserves extend our public, recreational lands while preserving delicate ecosystems. To the adventure enthusiast, they are an extension of our playground!
National Historical Parks
National historical parks are designated areas that protect and preserve important sites in American history. One of our favorite national historic sites is Fort Davis National Historic Site which protects a frontier military post. Like many historical parks, there is plenty of hiking, excitement, and education surrounding this post.
Each site tells a vivid tale of the nation’s past. From Gettysburg to Independence Hall, these parks encapsulate pivotal moments and remarkable legacies.
Immerse yourself in the stories of great leaders, historic events, and cultural milestones that shaped the nation. Step back in time as you wander through meticulously preserved landmarks, museums, and heritage sites.
There are currently close to 140 national historic parks and sites. This includes another one of our local favorites: the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park!
United States National Historic Parks offer an enriching journey through American history, inviting all of us to witness the echoes of the past and connect them to our present day.
National Battlefield Parks
National battlefield parks are designated areas that protect and preserve important sites in American military history. I will say, these NPS sites will weight heavily on your hearts as you imagine the violence and loss that fell on these grounds.
These sites bear witness to pivotal moments in the nation’s history, preserving the legacy of valor and sacrifice.
From Gettysburg to Palo Alto, these hallowed grounds honor the bravery and commemorate the struggles that shaped the country.
Step onto these historic battlefields and immerse yourself in stories of resilience, courage, and sacrifice. Learn about the battles, and explore the issues from a modern lens.
There are currently over 20 national battlefield parks in the United States, including the Antietam National Battlefield in Maryland and the Vicksburg National Military Park in Mississippi.
United States National Battlefields stand as monuments to the nation’s past, inviting reflection and reverence for the sacrifices made for freedom and unity.
National Memorials
National memorials are designated areas that commemorate important people, events, or ideals in American history.
These tributes honor pivotal moments and revered figures in American history. From the solemn majesty of the Lincoln Memorial to the iconic stature of Mount Rushmore, these monuments stand as testaments to the nation’s heritage.
Each memorial tells a profound story, commemorating leaders, events, and ideals that have shaped the country’s identity. Experience the solemnity and grandeur of these hallowed sites, offering moments of reflection and reverence.
There are currently over 30 national memorials in the United States, including the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. and the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial in the same city.
United States National Memorials invite visitors to pay homage, fostering a deep connection to the nation’s past and the enduring values that define its spirit.
National Parkways
National parkways are designated scenic roads that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
From the captivating vistas of the Blue Ridge Parkway to the coastal charm of the Natchez Trace Parkway, these roadways offer a journey through natural splendor and rich history.
There are currently over 20 national parkways in the United States, including the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia and North Carolina and the Natchez Trace Parkway in Tennessee, Mississippi, and Alabama.
United States National Parkways provide a gateway to explore the nation’s beauty. They invite travelers to revel in breathtaking views, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures along these scenic byways.
The United States is home to a vast network of national parks, monuments, preserves, historical parks, battlefield parks, memorials, and parkways that protect and preserve the country’s unique and diverse natural and cultural heritage.
Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or just looking for a scenic drive, there’s a national park in the United States that has something for everyone.
