Underrated National Parks That Deserve More Attention

When it comes to national parks, places like Yellowstone, Yosemite, and the Grand Canyon often steal the spotlight. But there are plenty of hidden gems across the country that deserve just as much attention. These underrated national parks offer breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and an opportunity to experience nature without the throngs of tourists. Whether you’re into hiking, stargazing, or simply soaking in the beauty of the outdoors, these parks offer the perfect escape from the crowds.

Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado

Located in southern Colorado, Great Sand Dunes National Park is a stunning desert landscape, home to the tallest sand dunes in North America. Although it’s one of the lesser-known parks, it offers one of the most unique landscapes in the U.S. Visitors can hike, sandboard, or simply enjoy the surreal beauty of the towering dunes against the backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The park is also a designated International Dark Sky Park, making it an ideal spot for stargazing.

Isle Royale National Park, Michigan

Accessible only by boat or seaplane, Isle Royale National Park in Lake Superior offers a serene wilderness experience that feels a world away from the usual crowds. Known for its isolation and pristine beauty, this park is perfect for those seeking solitude. It’s a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with populations of moose and wolves roaming the island. Hiking, kayaking, and exploring its remote shores are just a few of the ways to experience this hidden gem.

North Cascades National Park, Washington

While Olympic National Park and Mount Rainier National Park often take the spotlight in Washington, the North Cascades National Park is an equally stunning but far less crowded destination. This park boasts jagged peaks, deep valleys, alpine lakes, and glaciers. The rugged beauty of the North Cascades is perfect for adventurers who enjoy challenging hikes, backcountry camping, and a true wilderness experience. The Cascade Pass Trail offers one of the best panoramic views in the park, while the Diablo Lake is an unforgettable stop with its bright turquoise waters.

Death Valley National Park, California and Nevada

Death Valley National Park may be known for its extreme temperatures, but this desert landscape offers an unexpected beauty. The park’s vast, arid expanse is home to stunning features like the Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, and Devil’s Golf Course, a surreal salt flat. In addition to its otherworldly landscapes, Death Valley is also one of the best places to stargaze, with incredibly clear skies due to its remote location.

Congaree National Park, South Carolina

Often overlooked by visitors heading to more famous southern parks, Congaree National Park is a hidden gem in South Carolina. The park preserves one of the last large tracts of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the United States. Visitors can hike, canoe, or take a guided tour to explore the rich biodiversity of the park. Its tranquil boardwalks and scenic rivers provide a peaceful retreat from more crowded national parks, and it’s a great spot for birdwatching and wildlife photography.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas

Guadalupe Mountains National Park in western Texas offers towering mountains, rugged canyons, and a wealth of desert flora and fauna. The park is home to Guadalupe Peak, the highest point in Texas, which offers a challenging yet rewarding hike with panoramic views. This park is ideal for those looking to experience the wild beauty of the West without the crowds. Its remote location also makes it an excellent destination for stargazing and wildlife viewing, including sightings of mule deer and mountain lions.

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, Alaska

As the largest national park in the U.S., Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is a true wilderness haven, covering over 13 million acres of remote Alaskan landscape. Despite its vast size, the park remains relatively uncrowded compared to more famous Alaskan parks like Denali. With towering mountains, glaciers, and icefields, this park is a paradise for adventurers. Whether you’re into backpacking, kayaking, or simply enjoying the solitude of nature, Wrangell-St. Elias offers an unparalleled experience.

Channel Islands National Park, California

The Channel Islands off the coast of California are an often-overlooked destination for national park enthusiasts. Accessible only by boat or plane, these islands are home to unique wildlife, including the Channel Islands fox, and offer stunning coastal landscapes. The islands provide excellent opportunities for kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking, with dramatic cliffs and secluded beaches. Each of the islands offers a different experience, from the hiking trails of Santa Cruz Island to the tide pools of Anacapa Island.

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Shenandoah National Park, located along the Blue Ridge Mountains, is one of the most accessible national parks from major cities on the East Coast. While it’s not exactly unknown, it’s often overshadowed by nearby Great Smoky Mountains and Blue Ridge Parkway. The park’s Skyline Drive provides spectacular views of the Appalachian Highlands, with over 200 miles of hiking trails, including parts of the famous Appalachian Trail. Shenandoah is an ideal spot for a peaceful retreat, whether you're seeking a casual hike or a multi-day backpacking adventure.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado

While Colorado is known for its Rocky Mountain National Park, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison offers a much less crowded but equally stunning landscape. The canyon’s steep cliffs and rugged terrain make it a breathtaking destination for hiking, photography, and stargazing. The park’s dramatic views of the Gunnison River and surrounding wilderness will leave you in awe, with several overlooks providing perfect vantage points for breathtaking panoramas.

Custer State Park, South Dakota

While not technically a national park, Custer State Park in South Dakota deserves a mention for its stunning beauty and underrated status. Located near the famous Badlands and Mount Rushmore, Custer offers sprawling prairies, forested hills, and a wealth of wildlife, including bison, elk, and bighorn sheep. The park’s scenic drives, such as the Needles Highway, and its numerous hiking trails make it a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Explore These Hidden National Park Treasures

These underrated national parks may not always make the headlines, but they offer some of the most incredible and uncrowded experiences in nature. Whether you’re looking for sweeping desert landscapes, tranquil forests, or rugged mountains, these parks provide the perfect escape from the tourist crowds. So next time you're planning an adventure, consider visiting one of these hidden gems—you might just find your new favorite national park.