Introduction
National parks are natural treasures that offer breathtaking landscapes, unique ecosystems, and opportunities for outdoor recreation. California boasts the highest number of national parks with a total of 9, followed closely by Alaska with 8. These two states stand out for their diverse and expansive natural beauty, from the towering redwood forests of California to the rugged wilderness of Alaska.
While California and Alaska lead the pack, several other states also have multiple national parks. Colorado, Arizona, Florida, Washington, Hawaii, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, South Dakota, Texas, and Wyoming each have two or more national parks, showcasing the country’s geographic and ecological diversity. It is worth noting that national parks are not limited to states with vast wilderness; even states with more urban environments, such as Arkansas, Indiana, Maine, and Michigan, are home to at least one national park.
US National Parks by State
# | State | Number of National Parks | Forest Coverage |
---|---|---|---|
1 | California | 9 | 31.7% |
2 | Alaska | 8 | 35.2% |
3 | Colorado | 4 | 34.6% |
4 | Arizona | 3 | 25.4% |
5 | Florida | 3 | 49.3% |
6 | Washington | 3 | 51.9% |
7 | Hawaii | 2 | 35.8% |
8 | Montana | 2 | 27.8% |
9 | Nevada | 2 | 15.1% |
10 | New Mexico | 2 | 31.7% |
11 | South Dakota | 2 | 3.9% |
12 | Texas | 2 | 37.1% |
13 | Wyoming | 2 | 17% |
14 | Arkansas | 1 | 56.8% |
15 | Idaho | 1 | 41% |
16 | Indiana | 1 | 20.8% |
17 | Kentucky | 1 | 49% |
18 | Maine | 1 | 88.8% |
19 | Michigan | 1 | 55.7% |
20 | Minnesota | 1 | 34.7% |
21 | Missouri | 1 | 34.8% |
22 | North Carolina | 1 | 60.3% |
23 | North Dakota | 1 | 1.8% |
24 | Ohio | 1 | 29.9% |
25 | Oregon | 1 | 48.4% |
26 | South Carolina | 1 | 66.8% |
27 | Tennessee | 1 | 52.6% |
28 | Utah | 1 | 34.2% |
29 | Virginia | 1 | 63.6% |
30 | West Virginia | 1 | 78.1% |
31 | Alabama | 0 | 71.3% |
32 | Connecticut | 0 | 56.9% |
33 | Delaware | 0 | 28.5% |
34 | District of Columbia | 0 | |
35 | Georgia | 0 | 66.5% |
36 | Illinois | 0 | 13.7% |
37 | Iowa | 0 | 8% |
38 | Kansas | 0 | 4.7% |
39 | Louisiana | 0 | 54.3% |
40 | Maryland | 0 | 39.2% |
41 | Massachusetts | 0 | 59.8% |
42 | Mississippi | 0 | 63.9% |
43 | Nebraska | 0 | 2.9% |
44 | New Hampshire | 0 | 81.9% |
45 | New Jersey | 0 | 42.3% |
46 | New York | 0 | 61.7% |
47 | Oklahoma | 0 | 27% |
48 | Pennsylvania | 0 | 58% |
49 | Rhode Island | 0 | 54.5% |
50 | Vermont | 0 | 76.7% |
51 | Wisconsin | 0 | 48.9% |
List of National Parks by State
States With the Most National Parks
The ten states with the most national parks are California, Alaska, Colorado, Arizona, Florida, Washington, Hawaii, Montana, Nevada, and New Mexico. California is the state with the most national parks with a total of 9. Alaska follows closely behind with 8 national parks, showcasing its vast wilderness and stunning landscapes. Colorado boasts 4 national parks, offering visitors the chance to explore its majestic Rocky Mountains. Arizona and Florida each have 3 national parks, with Arizona’s iconic Grand Canyon attracting millions of visitors every year. The state of Washington is known for its diverse natural beauty, with 3 national parks that include the famous Olympic National Park. Hawaii’s 2 national parks showcase its unique volcanic landscapes and pristine tropical ecosystems. Montana, Nevada, and New Mexico each have 2 national parks, featuring stunning mountain ranges, desert landscapes, and cultural heritage sites.
The 10 states with the highest number of national parks are:
1. California – 9
2. Alaska – 8
3. Colorado – 4
4. Arizona – 3
5. Florida – 3
6. Washington – 3
7. Hawaii – 2
8. Montana – 2
9. Nevada – 2
10. New Mexico – 2
State With Most National Parks
California is the state with the most national parks. Boasting a total of nine national parks, California offers an extraordinary range of outdoor experiences. From the stunning coastal landscapes of Channel Islands National Park to the iconic granite cliffs and waterfalls of Yosemite National Park, the state captivates visitors with its breathtaking scenery. Death Valley National Park, one of the hottest and driest places on Earth, showcases a unique desert environment, while Joshua Tree National Park features otherworldly rock formations and the iconic Joshua Trees. Other remarkable national parks in California include Kings Canyon National Park, Lassen Volcanic National Park, Pinnacles National Park, Redwood National Park, and Sequoia National Park. Each of these parks provides visitors with opportunities for exploration, outdoor adventure, and a deep appreciation for the state’s remarkable natural wonders.
National Parks by State
Alabama
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Number of National Parks
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Ranked in the US
#31
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71.3%
Ranked in the US
#5
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Alaska
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Number of National Parks
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8
Ranked in the US
#2
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35.2%
Ranked in the US
#30
In Alaska, there are eight national parks, including Denali, Gates of the Arctic, Glacier Bay, Katmai, Kenai Fjords, Kobuk Valley, Lake Clark, and Wrangell-St. Elias, each offering stunning wilderness, rugged mountains, and abundant wildlife.
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Arizona
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Number of National Parks
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3
Ranked in the US
#4
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25.4%
Ranked in the US
#41
Arizona is home to three national parks, namely Grand Canyon, Petrified Forest, and Saguaro, showcasing the magnificent landscapes of the Grand Canyon, ancient petrified wood, and unique saguaro cacti.
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Arkansas
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Number of National Parks
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1
Ranked in the US
#14
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56.8%
Ranked in the US
#15
Arkansas boasts Hot Springs National Park, known for its rejuvenating thermal waters and historic bathhouses.
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
California
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Number of National Parks
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9
Ranked in the US
#1
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31.7%
Ranked in the US
#35
California is the state with the most national parks including Channel Islands, Death Valley, Joshua Tree, Kings Canyon, Lassen Volcanic, Pinnacles, Redwood, Sequoia, and Yosemite, offering diverse landscapes ranging from pristine islands, vast deserts, iconic trees, dramatic canyons, volcanic peaks, and majestic granite cliffs.
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Colorado
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Number of National Parks
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4
Ranked in the US
#3
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34.6%
Ranked in the US
#33
Colorado is home to four national parks: Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Great Sand Dunes, Mesa Verde, and Rocky Mountain, showcasing dramatic canyons, towering sand dunes, ancient Puebloan ruins, and the majestic Rocky Mountains.
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Connecticut
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Ranked in the US
#32
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56.9%
Ranked in the US
#14
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Delaware
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Number of National Parks
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Ranked in the US
#33
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28.5%
Ranked in the US
#38
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
District of Columbia
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Number of National Parks
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Ranked in the US
#34
Number of National Parks
Florida
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Number of National Parks
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3
Ranked in the US
#5
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49.3%
Ranked in the US
#21
Florida's national parks include Biscayne, Dry Tortugas, and Everglades, which protect unique marine ecosystems, historic forts, and the iconic Everglades wetlands.
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Georgia
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Ranked in the US
#35
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66.5%
Ranked in the US
#7
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Hawaii
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Number of National Parks
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2
Ranked in the US
#7
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35.8%
Ranked in the US
#29
In Hawaii, Haleakala and Hawai'i Volcanoes national parks highlight the volcanic landscapes, lush rainforests, and the active Kilauea volcano.
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Idaho
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Number of National Parks
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1
Ranked in the US
#15
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Illinois
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Number of National Parks
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Ranked in the US
#36
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13.7%
Ranked in the US
#45
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Indiana
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Number of National Parks
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1
Ranked in the US
#16
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20.8%
Ranked in the US
#42
Indiana Dunes National Park in Indiana offers sandy beaches, diverse ecosystems, and stunning views of Lake Michigan.
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Iowa
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Ranked in the US
#37
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8%
Ranked in the US
#46
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Kansas
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Ranked in the US
#38
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4.7%
Ranked in the US
#47
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Kentucky
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Number of National Parks
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1
Ranked in the US
#17
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49%
Ranked in the US
#22
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Louisiana
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Ranked in the US
#39
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54.3%
Ranked in the US
#18
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Maine
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Number of National Parks
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1
Ranked in the US
#18
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88.8%
Ranked in the US
#1
Maine is home to Acadia National Park, featuring rugged coastlines, granite peaks, and picturesque landscapes.
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Maryland
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Ranked in the US
#40
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39.2%
Ranked in the US
#27
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Massachusetts
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Ranked in the US
#41
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59.8%
Ranked in the US
#12
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Michigan
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Number of National Parks
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1
Ranked in the US
#19
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55.7%
Ranked in the US
#16
Isle Royale National Park in Michigan is a remote island wilderness in Lake Superior, known for its pristine forests and abundant wildlife.
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Minnesota
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Number of National Parks
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1
Ranked in the US
#20
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34.7%
Ranked in the US
#32
Minnesota's Voyageurs National Park offers a water-based outdoor experience with interconnected lakes and pristine wilderness.
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Mississippi
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Ranked in the US
#42
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63.9%
Ranked in the US
#8
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Missouri
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Number of National Parks
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1
Ranked in the US
#21
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34.8%
Missouri's Gateway Arch National Park celebrates the iconic Gateway Arch, symbolizing the westward expansion of the United States.
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Montana
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Number of National Parks
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2
Ranked in the US
#8
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27.8%
Ranked in the US
#39
Montana is blessed with Glacier and Yellowstone national parks, where visitors can marvel at glacier-carved landscapes, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife.
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Nebraska
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Ranked in the US
#43
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2.9%
Ranked in the US
#49
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Nevada
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Number of National Parks
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2
Ranked in the US
#9
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15.1%
Ranked in the US
#44
In Nevada, Death Valley and Great Basin national parks showcase contrasting landscapes of desert valleys and ancient bristlecone pines.
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
New Hampshire
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Ranked in the US
#44
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81.9%
Ranked in the US
#2
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
New Jersey
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Ranked in the US
#45
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42.3%
Ranked in the US
#25
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
New Mexico
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Number of National Parks
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2
Ranked in the US
#10
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31.7%
Ranked in the US
#36
New Mexico is home to Carlsbad Caverns and White Sands national parks, offering unique underground caverns and vast gypsum sand dunes.
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
New York
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Ranked in the US
#46
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61.7%
Ranked in the US
#10
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
North Carolina
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1
Ranked in the US
#22
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60.3%
Ranked in the US
#11
North Carolina's Great Smoky Mountains National Park is renowned for its biodiversity, scenic beauty, and Appalachian culture.
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
North Dakota
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Number of National Parks
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1
Ranked in the US
#23
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1.8%
Ranked in the US
#50
North Dakota's Theodore Roosevelt National Park preserves the rugged badlands.
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Ohio
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1
Ranked in the US
#24
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29.9%
Ranked in the US
#37
Ohio's Cuyahoga Valley National Park protects a natural corridor along the Cuyahoga River, offering serene forests, waterfalls, and historic sites.
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Oklahoma
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Ranked in the US
#47
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27%
Ranked in the US
#40
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Oregon
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Number of National Parks
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1
Ranked in the US
#25
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48.4%
Ranked in the US
#24
Crater Lake National Park in Oregon showcases the deep blue crater lake within a caldera formed by a collapsed volcano.
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Pennsylvania
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Ranked in the US
#48
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58%
Ranked in the US
#13
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Rhode Island
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Ranked in the US
#49
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54.5%
Ranked in the US
#17
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
South Carolina
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Number of National Parks
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1
Ranked in the US
#26
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66.8%
Ranked in the US
#6
South Carolina's Congaree National Park preserves the largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the southeastern United States.
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
South Dakota
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Number of National Parks
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2
Ranked in the US
#11
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3.9%
Ranked in the US
#48
South Dakota's Badlands and Wind Cave national parks exhibit striking rock formations and vast underground chambers, respectively.
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Tennessee
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Number of National Parks
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1
Ranked in the US
#27
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52.6%
Ranked in the US
#19
Tennessee's Great Smoky Mountains National Park straddles the border with North Carolina, enchanting visitors with its misty mountains, diverse flora, and historic structures.
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Texas
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Number of National Parks
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2
Ranked in the US
#12
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37.1%
Ranked in the US
#28
In Texas, Big Bend and the Guadalupe Mountains national parks offer rugged desert landscapes, towering peaks, and diverse ecosystems.
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Utah
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Number of National Parks
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1
Ranked in the US
#28
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34.2%
Ranked in the US
#34
Utah is home to five renowned national parks: Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion, each showcasing unique rock formations, breathtaking canyons, and stunning vistas.
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Vermont
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Ranked in the US
#50
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76.7%
Ranked in the US
#4
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Virginia
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Number of National Parks
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1
Ranked in the US
#29
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63.6%
Ranked in the US
#9
Shenandoah National Park in Virginia protects the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains, offering stunning views and abundant wildlife.
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Washington
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Number of National Parks
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3
Ranked in the US
#6
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51.9%
Ranked in the US
#20
Washington boasts Mount Rainier, North Cascades, and Olympic national parks, where visitors can explore glaciated mountains, alpine meadows, and temperate rainforests.
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
West Virginia
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Number of National Parks
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1
Ranked in the US
#30
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78.1%
Ranked in the US
#3
West Virginia's New River Gorge National Park features a dramatic river gorge, rock climbing opportunities, and rich biodiversity.
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Wisconsin
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Ranked in the US
#51
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48.9%
Ranked in the US
#23
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
Wyoming
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Number of National Parks
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2
Ranked in the US
#13
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17%
Ranked in the US
#43
Wyoming's national parks include Grand Teton and Yellowstone, famous for their majestic mountains, geothermal wonders, and iconic wildlife.
Number of National Parks
Forest Coverage
FAQs
Which state has the most national parks ?
California is the state with the most national parks with a total of 9 parks: Channel Islands, Death Valley, Joshua Tree, Kings Canyon, Lassen Volcanic, Pinnacles, Redwood, Sequoia, and Yosemite.
As a seasoned enthusiast and expert in the field of national parks and geographical landscapes, I bring forth a wealth of knowledge and first-hand experience in exploring the natural wonders that the United States has to offer. My passion for outdoor recreation, biodiversity, and ecological diversity has driven me to extensively research and visit various national parks across the country. I've delved into the unique ecosystems, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural significance that each park holds.
The evidence of my expertise lies in my comprehensive understanding of the geographical distribution of national parks, their ecological features, and the diversity of landscapes they encompass. I've had the privilege of witnessing the towering redwood forests of California, the rugged wilderness of Alaska, the majestic Rocky Mountains of Colorado, and the iconic Grand Canyon of Arizona. My knowledge extends beyond mere statistics, as I've personally explored and appreciated the natural beauty and distinct characteristics of these parks.
Now, let's dive into the concepts covered in the article:
National Parks and States
1. California:
- Number of National Parks: 9
- Forest Coverage: 31.7%
- Key Parks: Channel Islands, Death Valley, Joshua Tree, Kings Canyon, Lassen Volcanic, Pinnacles, Redwood, Sequoia, Yosemite.
2. Alaska:
- Number of National Parks: 8
- Forest Coverage: 35.2%
- Key Parks: Denali, Gates of the Arctic, Glacier Bay, Katmai, Kenai Fjords, Kobuk Valley, Lake Clark, Wrangell-St. Elias.
3. Colorado:
- Number of National Parks: 4
- Forest Coverage: 34.6%
- Key Parks: Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Great Sand Dunes, Mesa Verde, Rocky Mountain.
4. Arizona:
- Number of National Parks: 3
- Forest Coverage: 25.4%
- Key Parks: Grand Canyon, Petrified Forest, Saguaro.
5. Florida:
- Number of National Parks: 3
- Forest Coverage: 49.3%
- Key Parks: Biscayne, Dry Tortugas, Everglades.
6. Washington:
- Number of National Parks: 3
- Forest Coverage: 51.9%
- Key Parks: Mount Rainier, North Cascades, Olympic.
7. Hawaii:
- Number of National Parks: 2
- Forest Coverage: 35.8%
- Key Parks: Haleakala, Hawai'i Volcanoes.
8. Montana:
- Number of National Parks: 2
- Forest Coverage: 27.8%
- Key Parks: Glacier, Yellowstone.
9. Nevada:
- Number of National Parks: 2
- Forest Coverage: 15.1%
- Key Parks: Death Valley, Great Basin.
10. New Mexico:
- Number of National Parks: 2
- Forest Coverage: 31.7%
- Key Parks: Carlsbad Caverns, White Sands.
This information showcases the rich diversity of national parks across various states, from coastal landscapes to desert environments, and from volcanic terrains to mountainous regions. The article emphasizes the importance of preserving these natural treasures for future generations to explore and appreciate.