One of the very best ways to get away in an RV is by visiting our country’s many amazing National Parks Service sites. From historic sites to beautiful landscapes, there is something for everyone in this system of amazing attractions. Many of these parks allow camping onsite, and all of them have outdoor recreation opportunities for all ages and interests.
An RV vacation to a national park is one your whole family can enjoy together, making memories to last a lifetime. While thinking of which ones to visit, vote and follow along with our National Parks bracket! Of the 32 most visited National Parks, we’ll see which one you are most excited to visit! And if you’re curious about the least visited National Parks, check out this post!
How Many National Parks Are There?
Are you wondering, “How many national parks are there?” Well, we’ve got your answer!
The United States has a grand total of 423 NPS sites. Of these, 63 carry the “national park” title, while the others are a combination of historical sites, monuments, preserves, and more.
423 is a huge number, meaning you have a whole lot of exploring to do. That said, you don’t have to do it all in one trip, or even in one decade. Instead, spread it out and really take the time to enjoy each place you visit. Go on the hikes, chat with the rangers, participate in unique activities, and have the kids earn Junior Ranger badges.
Not sure where to begin your national parks adventures? The list of national parks by state below may help you get started.
How Many National Parks are in Alabama?
There are a total of 9 NPS sites in Alabama. Many of these are focused on the history of the area, allowing visitors to step back in time as they explore.
How Many National Parks are in Alaska?
Alaska is a gorgeous and fascinating place. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that there are 23 NPS units in the state. 8 of these are official national parks, while the rest are preserves, historic sites, and more.
Of course, the most popular tourist destinations are the parks. These include:
- Denali National Park
- Gates of the Arctic National Park
- Glacier Bay National Park
- Katmai National Park
- Kenai Fjords National Park
- Kobuk Valley National Park
- Lake Clark National Park
- Wrangell-St. Elias National Park
How Many National Parks are in Arizona?
Another beautiful place, Arizona is home to 22 of our country’s NPS sites. These sites show off the state’s beautiful landscape and dive into the history of the deserts and canyons.
We recommend checking out:
How Many National Parks are in Arkansas?
Arkansas is home to a collection of 7 national parks sites. Many of these are historic sites, offering a peek into Arkansas’ past. Other sites showcase the beauty of this state.
If nothing else, you will definitely want to explore Hot Springs National Park.
How Many National Parks are in California?
Ever wondered, “What state has the most national parks?” The answer is California.
This gorgeous place has 28 NPS sites. Not only that, but thanks to the diverse landscapes found in the state, these parks are very different from one another, meaning you will want to see each and every one.
Some of the most popular California national parks include:
- Yosemite National Park
- Sequoia National Park
- Kings Canyon National Park
- Redwood National Park
- Lassen Volcanic National Park
- Pinnacles National Park
- Joshua Tree National Park
- Death Valley National Park
- Channel Islands National Park
How Many National Parks are in Colorado?
Colorado is a state many visit in order to escape into nature. One of the best ways to do this is by visiting one of their 13 national parks and taking a hike.
Not sure which ones to visit? Here are our recommendations:
- Rocky Mountain National Park
- Mesa Verde National Park
- Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
- Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
How Many National Parks are in Connecticut?
Thinking about a trip to Connecticut? While there are only 2 NPS sites in this state, they are both worth visiting to learn a bit about the history of the state.
How Many National Parks are in Delaware?
Only 1 national park calls Delaware home. First State National Historical Park tells a story about our nation’s early history in a way that is incredibly engaging.
How Many National Parks are in Florida?
A total of 11 NPS sites can be found in the Sunshine State. Some of these give visitors a chance to see Florida’s native plants and animals, while others show us the Florida of the past.
Our favorite Florida national parks include:
How Many National Parks are in Georgia?
Georgia offers guests 11 different NPS units. For the most part, history is the focus at these locations. However, there are some that are more focused on nature and water play.
How Many National Parks are in Hawaii?
As you might imagine, the national parks in Hawaii are absolutely incredible. Fortunately, there are 8 different ones for guests to enjoy.
If you can make time to see all 8, make sure to see Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and Haleakala National Park.
How Many National Parks are in Idaho?
Wondering about Idaho? This fabulous state has a total of 7 awesome parks and NPS sites to visit. In fact, we highly recommend an RV visit to this state because of just how awesome these sites are.
The favorite, of course, is Yellowstone National Park, which straddles the borders of Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming.
How Many National Parks are in Illinois?
Those looking for NPS sites in Illinois will find 2 different fabulous options. We recommend seeing both. Each one focuses on history, with each looking at a different time and place.
How Many National Parks are in Indiana?
We love all 3 of the national parks in Indiana, and definitely recommend visiting whenever you get a chance. Each is wonderfully unique, offering great opportunities to learn and explore.
Indiana Sand Dunes National Park is especially lovely, and we recommend it to all who visit the state.
How Many National Parks are in Iowa?
There are 2 national parks sites in Iowa, and both are wonderful. Herbert Hoover National Historic Site offers lots of new information, and Effigy Mounds National Monument teaches something new while also providing access to beautiful nature.
How Many National Parks are in Kansas?
5 different and beautiful parks make themselves at home in the state of Kansas. Some are historic sites, while others showcase the beauty of the Kansas prairie. We love each of these sites, and hope you make time to see all 5.
How Many National Parks are in Kentucky?
Another state with a total of 7 NPS sites, Kentucky is well worth visiting on your next RV adventure. From caves to battlefields, there is something for everyone at these fantastic parks.
Our favorite Kentucky NPS site is definitely Mammoth Cave National Park.
How Many National Parks are in Louisiana?
Those looking for something to do in Louisiana will be happy to learn that the state has 5 awesome national parks sites. Each of these will allow you to steep yourself in the history and nature of this unique and colorful state.
How Many National Parks are in Maine?
Maine is home to 4 national parks. All are absolutely gorgeous, showcasing the beauty of this wonderful northern state. We highly recommend visiting any one of these places in late spring, summer, or early fall.
Not sure which one to check out? Acadia National Park is especially enchanting.
How Many National Parks are in Maryland?
18 national parks can be found in Maryland. The vast majority of these are historic sites and monuments, helping to tell the story of our nation’s past to all who will listen.
How Many National Parks are in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts is another great state to visit when seeking out NPS sites. Here you’ll find 16 awesome national parks offering numerous things to see and do. Learn about the birth of our country, spend some time by the ocean, or get lost on a hike through the nature of the northeast.
How Many National Parks are in Michigan?
Michigan plays host to 5 very different national parks sites. Some offer beautiful views and lovely hikes, while others boast some seriously fascinating history.
Which national park in Michigan will you visit? We adore Isle Royale National Park.
How Many National Parks are in Minnesota?
5 more of our country’s national parks can be found in the state of Minnesota. Our favorite Minnesota park is Voyageurs National Park, which features all kinds of amazing plants and animals.
How Many National Parks are in Mississippi?
Mississippi has 9 national parks waiting for you. Historic battlefields, a gorgeous seashore, and incredible nature are just some of the things you’ll find in these parks.
How Many National Parks are in Missouri?
7 national parks can be found in Missouri. Each of these is well worth a visit, meaning you will definitely want to try to make time for them all. If that isn’t possible, we recommend making Gateway Arch National Park a must-see and saving the others for the next trip.
How Many National Parks are in Montana?
Wondering about national parks in Montana? 8 different parks can be found in this state. Among these are two of the most famous parks in the country: Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park.
How Many National Parks are in Nebraska?
Those traveling to Nebraska will be happy to find that there are 5 wonderful NPS sites in the state. Take a hike, explore historic trails, and/or check out some seriously cool fossils.
We especially love Scotts Bluff National Monument and Agate Fossil Beds National Monument.
How Many National Parks are in Nevada?
When most people think of Nevada, they think of Las Vegas. The thing is, there is so much more to this amazing state. In fact, there are 4 amazing national parks there!
The Nevada NPS sites include Great Basin National Park and Death Valley National Park.
How Many National Parks are in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire boasts 2 fantastic national parks sites. Both offer a lovely look at the state, and both are must-see stops when visiting this state.
How Many National Parks are in New Jersey?
Planning a trip to New Jersey? You’ll find 9 NPS sites in this state, including 2 awesome national historical parks. Allow yourself time to visit as many as possible. You’ll be glad you did!
How Many National Parks are in New Mexico?
15 national parks call New Mexico home. Some are super popular, while others are lesser-known. That said, they are all wonderful parks, and each one offers a super cool lesson in history or natural sciences, or a combination of both.
We think Carlsbad Caverns National Park and White Sands National Park are both especially neat, and recommend them often.
How Many National Parks are in New York?
New York is more than just a big city. In fact, this awesome state offers 24 NPS sites to explore. Outside of the cities, you can bask in the beauty of New York nature. In the cities, you’ll find historic sites galore.
How Many National Parks are in North Carolina?
Looking at North Carolina as a vacation destination? 10 national parks await your visit. Learn about the Wright Brothers or Native Americans of the area, check out a lighthouse, swim in the ocean, or go on a hike.
How Many National Parks are in North Dakota?
For those heading to North Dakota, there are 3 fantastic parks to check out.
2 historic sites offer a look at the Native Americans who once called this place home. Meanwhile, Theodore Roosevelt National Park gives guests a chance to steep in nature for a bit.
How Many National Parks are in Ohio?
Ohio has 1 National Park, Cuyahoga Valley National Park. There are 7 other NPS sites that call Ohio home. Historic sites, national historical parks, and heritage areas make up the bulk of these, making this an ideal state to learn something new.
How Many National Parks are in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma has 3 national parks units to offer guests. A memorial, a historic site, and a recreation area work together to give Oklahoma visitors and residents a variety of recreational and learning opportunities.
How Many National Parks are in Oregon?
A wonderful place to spend time in the great outdoors, Oregon has 5 gorgeous national parks. Of these, Crater Lake National Park is the most popular and the most beautiful, making it an absolute must-see.
How Many National Parks are in Pennsylvania?
Those visiting Pennsylvania aren’t at all likely to be bored. This is thanks to the 19 NPS sites that call this state home. Learn about historical figures, step onto old battlefields and into historic forts, explore Pennsylvania wilderness, and walk the trails of our ancestors at these fabulous attractions.
How Many National Parks are in Rhode Island?
Learning about history is easy to do when in Rhode Island. Why? Because of the 2 fabulous NPS sites that offer so much information on the history of this state.
How Many National Parks are in South Carolina?
7 national parks units can be found in the state of South Carolina. These offer a variety of awesome landscapes and activities. That said, the best of these is definitely Congaree National Park, which gives guests a chance to check out the wonderful plants and animals of South Carolina.
How Many National Parks are in South Dakota?
Most people are aware the Mount Rushmore National Memorial is located in South Dakota. However, not everyone knows that the state has a total of 6 NPS sites.
While Mount Rushmore should be a stop on your adventures, we also highly recommend Wind Cave National Park and Badlands National Park.
How Many National Parks are in Tennessee?
A trip to Tennessee should absolutely include visits to some of the state’s 13 national sites. Learn something new at one of the many historic sites, battlefields, and historical sites, or take a scenic hike in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
How Many National Parks are in Texas?
Texas’ 14 national parks are a fabulous reason to visit the Lone Star State. Beaches, fossils, hikes, and history can be found in these parks, meaning guests have absolutely no reason to be bored.
Trying to decide which parks to visit during your time in Texas? We especially enjoy Big Bend National Park and Guadalupe Mountains National Park.
How Many National Parks are in Utah?
Home to some of the most beautiful national parks in the country, Utah is the place to go for outdoor adventure. There are a total of 13 parks here, each one showing off the beauty of the area.
The best NPS sites in Utah include:
- Arches National Park
- Bryce Canyon National Park
- Canyonlands National Park
- Capitol Reef National Park
- Zion National Park
How Many National Parks are in Vermont?
Vermont is home to 2 national parks units. One is a scenic trail that really allows you to bask in everything that natural Vermont has to offer. The other, a National Historic Park, gives you a peek into the past while also giving opportunities for cross-country skiing and hiking in the woods.
How Many National Parks are in Virginia?
Virginia is a lovely state. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that this state has some beautiful national parks sites. In fact, an astounding 22 NPS sites can be found in Virginia, meaning there’s something to explore around every corner.
The best and most well-known Virginia NPS site is Shenandoah National Park, a place you will definitely want to make time for.
How Many National Parks are in Washington?
What about Washington? How many national parks can be found there? As it turns out, a grand total of 15 amazing parks can be found in this Pacific Northwest state.
Some of the best options in Washington include:
How Many National Parks are in West Virginia?
6 of the United States NPS sites are found in West Virginia. Heritage centers, historical parks, and rivers offer learning and recreation opportunities for all.
West Virginia is also home to the newest national park – New River Gorge. The gorge was made by a river that carved its way down, making a canyon that is now flanked on both sides by the stunning greenery of the Appalachians.
How Many National Parks are in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin may only have 2 national parks, but both are simply amazing. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore and Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway both offer opportunities for water and land activities in nature.
How Many National Parks are in Wyoming?
Finally, there is Wyoming. This spectacular state has plenty to offer in terms of national parks. Here you’ll find 7 NPS sites. These include the world famous Yellowstone National Park, as well as the equally beautiful Grand Teton National Park.
There are also some national parks in U.S. territories that are harder to explore by RV but guarantee unforgettable trips! The National Park of American Samoa is home to the breathtaking scenery of the South Pacific. Virgin Islands National Park is another unique, gorgeous national park to explore.
Ready to start exploring all of these amazing NPS sites? Rent an RV today so you can hit the road as soon as possible!
