US National Parks

The United States has 63 national parks, managed by the National Park Service (NPS). In addition to national parks, the NPS oversees over 400 sites including national monuments, national seashores, national recreation areas, and more.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee and North Carolina is consistently the most visited national park, attracting over 12 million visitors annually. It is free to enter, which contributes to its high visitation numbers.

Many popular national parks now require timed entry reservations, especially during peak season. Parks like Yosemite, Zion, Rocky Mountain, and Glacier require advance reservations. Always check the official NPS website (nps.gov) before your visit.

The America the Beautiful — National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass costs $80 per year and grants access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites, including all national parks. It is a great value if you plan to visit more than 2-3 fee-charging parks in a year.

It depends on the park. Spring and fall are generally the best times to visit most parks to avoid summer crowds. Desert parks like Death Valley and Joshua Tree are best in winter and spring. Parks like Yellowstone and Grand Teton are spectacular in summer for wildlife viewing.

Pets are generally allowed in national parks but with significant restrictions. They must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. Pets are often restricted from trails, backcountry areas, and inside buildings. Always check individual park rules before bringing pets.