The 15 Least Visited National Parks That Are Worth It

Each year, the National Park Service (NPS) tracks the number of tourists visiting each park, revealing the most and least visited destinations. While the most popular national parks like Yellowstone and Yosemite draw millions of visitors annually, there are hidden gems that remain under the radar. These least visited national parks offer solitude, unique landscapes, and untouched beauty for those willing to venture off the beaten path. If you’ve ever wondered what is the least visited national park, or you’re simply seeking the least crowded national parks for your next adventure, this guide will introduce you to some of America’s least popular national parks that are definitely worth a visit.

1. Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve, Alaska

Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve, located in northern Alaska, is one of the least visited national parks in the United States, with annual visits ranging from 7,362 to 11,045 over the past three years. This park is a true wilderness area with no roads or trails, offering a pure and untouched natural experience. Spanning over 8 million acres, it’s characterized by rugged mountains, boreal forests, and expansive tundra.

This national park is perfect for adventurous visitors who are interested in backcountry camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The remoteness of the park ensures that those who visit will have a unique and serene experience, far from the crowds found in more popular parks. If you’re searching for the least crowded national parks, Gates of the Arctic is an excellent choice.

2. National Park of American Samoa, American Samoa

The National Park of American Samoa, located in the South Pacific, reports between 8,495 and 12,135 visits annually. This tropical paradise is one of the least visited national parks due to its remote location. The park encompasses parts of three islands: Tutuila, Ofu, and Ta‘ū. It offers pristine beaches, coral reefs, and lush rainforests.

Visitors to this park can enjoy snorkeling, hiking, and cultural experiences with the local Samoan community. The park’s diverse ecosystems support a wide variety of marine life and bird species, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. Despite being one of the least popular national parks, it offers an unparalleled blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.

3. Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska

Kobuk Valley National Park, also in Alaska, has annual visitation numbers ranging from 11,540 to 17,616. This park is renowned for its Great Kobuk Sand Dunes, which rise up to 100 feet high and cover 25 square miles. In addition to the sand dunes, the park features the Kobuk River and the surrounding boreal forest and tundra.

One of the unique attractions of Kobuk Valley is the annual migration of half a million caribou, which can be witnessed by visitors. The park’s remoteness and lack of infrastructure ensure that it remains one of the least crowded national parks, offering a peaceful and immersive natural experience.

4. Lake Clark National Park and Preserve, Alaska

Lake Clark National Park and Preserve sees between 17,855 and 18,278 visitors annually. This park, located in southwest Alaska, is known for its stunning scenery, which includes active volcanoes, glacial lakes, and dense forests. Lake Clark itself is a major feature, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and kayaking.

The park is also a great destination for wildlife viewing, with populations of bears, moose, and salmon. The rugged terrain and remote location make it one of the least visited national parks, ideal for those seeking solitude and pristine natural landscapes.

5. North Cascades National Park, Washington

North Cascades National Park, situated in northern Washington state, reports between 17,855 and 40,351 visits per year. This park is characterized by its dramatic mountain scenery, including jagged peaks, glaciers, and alpine lakes. It’s a haven for hikers and climbers, with over 400 miles of trails.

Despite its stunning beauty, North Cascades remains one of the least popular national parks, providing a tranquil escape for outdoor enthusiasts. The park’s diverse ecosystems support a wide range of plant and animal species, making it a fantastic destination for nature lovers.

6. Isle Royale National Park, Michigan

Isle Royale National Park in Michigan has between 25,844 and 28,965 annual visitors. This remote island park, located in Lake Superior, offers a unique wilderness experience. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, Isle Royale is known for its rugged terrain, dense forests, and abundant wildlife, including wolves and moose.

Visitors can explore over 165 miles of hiking trails, as well as opportunities for kayaking, scuba diving, and fishing. The island’s isolation and limited access make it one of the least crowded national parks, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

7. Katmai National Park and Preserve, Alaska

Katmai National Park and Preserve, also in Alaska, attracts between 24,764 and 33,763 visitors annually. This park is famous for the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, a vast ash-filled valley created by the 1912 eruption of Novarupta. Another major attraction is the park’s population of brown bears, which can often be seen fishing for salmon at Brooks Falls.

Katmai’s remote location and limited infrastructure make it one of the least visited national parks, providing a pristine environment for wildlife viewing and outdoor adventures. The park’s unique geological features and abundant wildlife make it a hidden gem worth exploring.

8. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, Alaska

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve in Alaska sees between 50,189 and 78,305 visits per year. As the largest national park in the United States, it spans over 13 million acres and includes some of the highest peaks in North America. The park features glaciers, volcanoes, rivers, and a diverse array of wildlife.

Outdoor activities such as hiking, mountaineering, and flightseeing are popular in this vast wilderness. Despite its size and beauty, Wrangell-St. Elias remains one of the least popular national parks, offering visitors a sense of adventure and solitude in an unspoiled natural setting.

9. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida

Dry Tortugas National Park, located 70 miles west of Key West, Florida, reports between 83,817 and 84,285 visits annually. This park is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and historic Fort Jefferson. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, it provides excellent opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and birdwatching.

The park’s remote location ensures it remains one of the least crowded national parks, offering a peaceful and scenic getaway. The combination of rich history and vibrant marine life makes Dry Tortugas a unique destination worth visiting.

10. Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, Alaska

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve in Alaska has an annual visitation ranging from 89,768 to 703,659. This park is famous for its tidewater glaciers, fjords, and abundant marine wildlife, including whales, seals, and sea otters. Most visitors experience the park via cruise ships, but there are also opportunities for kayaking and hiking.

The park’s dramatic landscapes and diverse ecosystems make it a must-see destination. Despite its higher visitation compared to other parks on this list, it remains one of the least crowded national parks, particularly for those exploring beyond the cruise ship routes.

11. Great Basin National Park, Nevada

Great Basin National Park in Nevada sees between 143,265 and 144,875 visitors annually. This park is known for its ancient bristlecone pines, the Lehman Caves, and the towering Wheeler Peak. The park’s diverse habitats range from desert valleys to alpine environments.

Activities include hiking, cave tours, stargazing, and wildlife viewing. The park’s remote location and relatively low visitation make it one of the least popular national parks, providing a peaceful and enriching experience for visitors.

12. Congaree National Park, South Carolina

Congaree National Park in South Carolina reports between 215,181 and 250,114 annual visitors. This park preserves the largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the southeastern United States. It’s known for its towering trees, diverse plant and animal life, and floodplain ecosystem.

Visitors can enjoy hiking, canoeing, and birdwatching in this unique environment. Despite its fascinating natural features, Congaree remains one of the least visited national parks, offering a quiet retreat for nature enthusiasts.

13. Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Voyageurs National Park in Minnesota attracts between 220,825 and 243,042 visitors per year. This water-based park is known for its interconnected waterways, lush forests, and abundant wildlife. It’s a paradise for boating, fishing, and paddling enthusiasts.

The park’s remote location and emphasis on water activities make it one of the least crowded national parks, perfect for those seeking a tranquil and adventurous escape. The serene lakes and rivers provide a unique way to explore the natural beauty of the region.

14. Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas

Guadalupe Mountains National Park in Texas sees between 227,340 and 243,291 annual visitors. This park is home to the highest peak in Texas, Guadalupe Peak, and features rugged mountains, canyons, and desert landscapes. It’s a popular destination for hiking, backpacking, and wildlife viewing.

Despite its striking scenery and challenging trails, it remains one of the least popular national parks, offering a peaceful and rewarding experience for outdoor enthusiasts. The park’s diverse habitats support a wide range of plant and animal species, making it a fascinating destination for nature lovers.

15. Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska

Denali National Park and Preserve in Alaska reports between 229,521 and 498,722 visits annually. This park is home to North America’s highest peak, Denali, which rises to 20,310 feet. The park’s six million acres include tundra, boreal forests, and glaciers, providing a habitat for a variety of wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves, and caribou.

Visitors can enjoy hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives. Despite its higher visitation numbers, Denali remains one of the least crowded national parks, particularly in its more remote areas. The park’s breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife make it a must-visit destination.

Plan Your Next Adventure

Ready to explore some of the least visited national parks? If you’re planning a trip to discover these hidden gems, consider staying at Black Hawk Creek RV Park & Cabins in South Dakota. Located just 2 miles from the interstate and a mere 5-minute drive from the vibrant city of Rapid City, Black Hawk Creek RV Park & Cabins is your year-round gateway to an unforgettable South Dakota adventure.

Offering a diverse range of accommodations from spacious RV sites to cozy cabins, this inviting haven welcomes both short-term travelers and those seeking extended stays. With its strategic location, you’re never far from South Dakota’s most iconic attractions, including Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Custer State Park, Badlands National Park, Devils Tower, and the historic Wild West gambling town of Deadwood, all within a scenic drive. Book your stay at Black Hawk Creek today and unlock the door to a world of exploration, relaxation, and comfort in the heart of South Dakota.

Related Articles

• The 15 Most Visited National Parks in the US
• 10 Best National Parks to Visit in August
• Guide to RV Length Limits for National Parks
• Is an RV a Good Investment? 10 Factors to Consider
• What is South Dakota Known For?