Want to discover the United States? These underrated US national parks feel like heaven because of their natural beauty. Some of the park’s beauty lies in places most people have never heard of. If you’re tired of the crowds and want to take the road less traveled, these nine underrated US national parks you want to explore.
9 Best Underrated US National Parks
1. North Cascades National Park, Washington
This park is also called the “American Alps” for a reason. High peaks, flowing waterfalls, and over 300 glaciers make it the best park to explore.
2. Great Basin National Park, Nevada
Heaven Park
This park is one of the darkest places in the U.S., making it the best park in the U.S.
Ancient bristlecone pines and Lehman Caves
The park is home to some of the world’s oldest living trees—bristlecone pines that are over 4,000 years old. And also don’t miss exploring Lehman Caves, full of superb developments that look like nature’s chandeliers.
3. Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
Geothermal wonderland
If you love Yellowstone but don’t want crowds, Lassen Volcanic National Park is the best place to explore. It’s one of the only places in the world where all four types of volcanoes can be found in one area.
4. Congaree National Park, South Carolina
Swamp Forests
If you think Swap is boring, but after you visit this place, you won’t say that again. Congaree National Park is full of tall trees, some of the tallest in the Eastern U.S., and flooded forests that reflect like a mirror.
Boardwalk tracks and kayak adventures
A raised boardwalk takes you deep into the forest, rent a kayak and float through the still waters—it’s peaceful and hauntingly beautiful.
5. Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas
Hidden desert gems
This park is a surprise in the desert of West Texas. This is the highest mountain in the state; it’s a hiker’s playground that’s often ignored.
High Mountains and fossilized reef
Guadalupe Peak offers full views of the desert below, while McKittrick Canyon stuns with vibrant fall foliage. Plus, the entire park sits on a fossilized reef from an ancient sea.
6. Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota
Waterpark
Voyageurs National Park is unique—it’s a waterpark. Picture gliding across a quiet lake at sunrise with a loon calling in the distance.
Canoeing, fishing, and island camping
Rent a camp, pack your equipment, and go to a private island for camping. It’s like your own little slice of wilderness heaven.
7. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado
Deepest, darkest valleys
The canyon walls fall almost vertically, creating a moody scene.
Rock climbing and attractive drives
The South Rim offers the best viewpoint. If you’re ready for a challenge, experienced climbers can scale the walls. For the rest of us, there’s the attractive drive—equally inspiring without the sweat.
8. Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota
Wild and rough lands
Named after the president who helped start the conservation movement, this park is a mixture of badlands scenery with open prairie skies.
Wildlife watching
Want to see wild horses, bison, and prairie dogs. With very few visitors, you’ll often have the tracks all to yourself—just you and the horizon.
9. Channel Islands National Park, California
California’s Galápagos
Just away of the coast of California, this chain of islands feels like a world away. Remote, rough, and full of unique wildlife, it’s one of the most remote parks in the U.S.
Why These Underrated US National Parks Are Best
Fewer crowds, more beauty
Unlike the big parks, these underrated places let you actually enjoy the beauty of our creator. You can breathe, slow down, and connect with nature.
Best beauty and peaceful escapes
These parks haven’t been filled by tourism. Their beauty offers a kind of peace you can’t find when taking a selfie.
Conclusion
The United States is full of national parks, and not all of them are famous. If you desire adventure, solitude, and scenery that stuns without the crowds, these underrated US National Parks are waiting for you. So go ahead and enjoy your trip.
