10 Underrated National Parks Across USA You Should Visit This Year
When people think of national parks, names like Yellowstone, Yosemite, or the Grand Canyon often come to mind.
But if you’re looking for a more intimate experience with nature, away from the crowds, it’s time to explore some of the underrated national parks across the U.S.
Trust me, these hidden gems offer breathtaking landscapes, unique wildlife, and unforgettable adventures—without the tourist rush.
From desert landscapes to lush forests, these national parks deserve a spot on your travel bucket list.
Here are 10 underrated national parks you should visit this year.
1. Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
Lassen Volcanic is a park that truly showcases the power of Mother Nature.
From bubbling mud pots to steaming fumaroles, it’s like stepping into a natural laboratory.
The park is also home to a range of ecosystems—alpine forests, volcanic landscapes, and crystal-clear lakes.
The hikes here are stunning, with one leading to the summit of Lassen Peak, an active volcano that last erupted in 1915.
It’s the perfect spot if you love geology or want a break from the busy national parks.
2. Great Basin National Park, Nevada
Tucked away in eastern Nevada, Great Basin National Park is a hidden gem that few people know about.
You’ll find ancient bristlecone pine trees, some over 4,000 years old, as well as the majestic Wheeler Peak.
For stargazers, the park’s night sky is one of the darkest in the country, offering an unparalleled view of the Milky Way.
And if you’re into cave exploration, don’t miss Lehman Caves, a massive limestone cave filled with stunning formations.
3. Congaree National Park, South Carolina
Ever heard of a temperate rainforest in the United States?
Congaree National Park is one of the most biodiverse spots in the country, offering towering trees and lush, swampy landscapes.
It’s a haven for birdwatchers, paddlers, and nature photographers.
The park’s elevated boardwalk trail lets you explore the swamp without getting your feet wet, giving you an up-close look at one of the largest intact old-growth bottomland hardwood forests in North America.
4. North Cascades National Park, Washington
While Olympic and Mount Rainier tend to overshadow North Cascades, this park should not be missed.
Located just a few hours from Seattle, North Cascades is known for its jagged peaks, alpine lakes, and over 300 glaciers.
The park offers some of the most rugged and remote hiking in the Pacific Northwest, and you’ll often find yourself alone on the trail.
If you love solitude, dramatic landscapes, and a challenge, this park is for you.
5. Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas
The Guadalupe Mountains may not be as famous as Big Bend, but they are just as awe-inspiring.
Home to the highest peak in Texas, this park offers stunning desert landscapes, limestone cliffs, and hidden canyons.
The McKittrick Canyon Trail is a must-do, especially in the fall when the leaves turn vibrant shades of red and orange.
For those who want to escape the Texas heat, the park’s high elevation offers cooler temperatures year-round.
6. Isle Royale National Park, Michigan
Accessible only by boat or seaplane, Isle Royale National Park is one of the least-visited parks in the country, which makes it perfect for adventurers seeking solitude.
Located in Lake Superior, the park is known for its rugged, remote wilderness and unique wildlife, including moose and wolves.
Backpacking, canoeing, and scuba diving are popular activities here, and the park’s isolation makes for a true wilderness experience.
7. Virgin Islands National Park, U.S. Virgin Islands
This tropical paradise is a far cry from the typical national park experience.
Located on the island of St. John, Virgin Islands National Park is known for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and turquoise waters.
The park offers incredible snorkeling, hiking, and the chance to explore ancient petroglyphs from the island’s indigenous peoples.
If you’re dreaming of a Caribbean escape with a mix of nature and history, this is the park for you.
8. Capitol Reef National Park, Utah
Utah’s Mighty Five often overshadows Capitol Reef, but this park offers an experience just as memorable.
Known for its unique geological formations and the Waterpocket Fold, a nearly 100-mile-long wrinkle in the earth, Capitol Reef is a haven for hikers and photographers.
The park’s orchards are also famous—you can pick fresh fruit during harvest season, making it one of the few parks where you can enjoy a literal taste of the land.
9. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado
While the Grand Canyon gets all the attention, Black Canyon of the Gunnison offers equally dramatic views with far fewer crowds.
The steep cliffs and narrow gorge create a striking and somewhat eerie landscape.
The park is a mecca for rock climbers, but even if you’re not into climbing, the rim drives and hiking trails offer jaw-dropping vistas.
It’s an underrated gem for those seeking a quieter canyon experience.
10. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
Just a short drive from Cleveland, Cuyahoga Valley offers a surprising escape into nature.
The park features rolling hills, dense forests, and scenic waterfalls, making it a fantastic destination for hiking, biking, and birdwatching.
The historic Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail runs through the park, offering a glimpse into Ohio’s rich history.
It’s the perfect spot for a weekend getaway, blending nature and history in one beautiful package.
Conclusion:
While the big-name national parks draw millions of visitors each year, these underrated parks offer equally stunning landscapes and unique experiences without the crowds.
Whether you’re looking for volcanic peaks, tropical beaches, or quiet desert canyons, these parks provide an opportunity to explore the diverse beauty of the U.S. in a more intimate setting.
So next time you’re planning a national park trip, consider skipping the usual suspects and discovering one of these hidden gems.
Each of these parks offers its own distinct charm, and you’ll leave with memories that will last a lifetime.
