Nature’s Best-Kept Secrets: 10 U.S. National Parks Without the Crowds
The national parks are filled with stunning landscapes, wildlife, and natural beauty. They’re extremely popular for obvious reasons and, unfortunately, that means you may have to deal with large crowds when you visit many of our national parks. However, there are some hidden gems that are much less crowded than the more popular park units. If you enjoy solitude and open space, you may want to consider the ten national parks featured in this article.
We’ll highlight the ten national parks with the least visitors, based on 2023 visitor stats from the National Park Service. These hidden gems offer breathtaking scenery, unique experiences, and plenty of photo opportunities without the hustle and bustle.
Note: We’re excluding Alaskan national parks from this list because several of them are very remote and if we didn’t exclude them, these parks would account for half of this list. But if you’re able to make the trip, these Alaskan national parks provide plenty of open space: Gates of the Arctic, Lake Clark, Kobuck Valley, Katmai, and Wrangell-St. Elias.
The Least Visited National Parks
1. National Park of American Samoa
12,135 visitors in 2023
Nestled in the South Pacific, the National Park of American Samoa is a tropical paradise offering an untouched view of the natural world. This park is unique as it spans three islands—Tutuila, Ofu, and Ta‘ū—each offering its own lush landscapes, coral reefs, and cultural heritage.
Unlike most national parks in the US, this one provides a rare opportunity to explore rainforests teeming with exotic wildlife.
🌟 Photography Highlights
- Vibrant coral reefs
- Verdant rainforests
- Traditional Samoan villages
- Panoramic ocean views
📆 Best Time to Visit
April to October for optimal weather conditions and vibrant marine life.
2. Isle Royale National Park
28,965 visitors in 2023
Located on an island in Lake Superior, Isle Royale National Park is an isolated retreat ideal for those seeking solitude. The park offers scenic landscapes filled with rugged cliffs, dense forests, and pristine lakes. It’s also a haven for wildlife, including moose and wolves, providing a fantastic experience for photographers and travelers.
🌟 Photography Highlights
- Deep blue waters of Lake Superior
- Dense, mist-covered forests
- Stunning sunsets over the lake
- Wildlife, including moose and wolves
📆 Best Time to Visit
July to September, when the weather is mild and wildlife is most active.
3. North Cascades National Park
40,351 visitors in 2023
Tucked away in the northern mountains of Washington, North Cascades National Park is an alpine wonderland. Known for its rugged terrain, glaciated peaks, and diverse ecosystems, this park is a must-visit. The park is rich in biodiversity and offers some of the most dramatic landscapes in the US, perfect for adventurous photographers.
🌟 Photography Highlights
- Snow-capped mountain peaks
- Crystal-clear alpine lakes
- Lush green valleys
- Wildflower meadows
📆 Best Time to Visit
Mid-June to September for accessibility and blooming wildflowers.
4. Dry Tortugas National Park
84,285 visitors in 2023
Accessible only by boat or seaplane, Dry Tortugas National Park is a maritime treasure located 70 miles west of Key West, Florida. Known for its historic Fort Jefferson and vibrant marine life, this park offers a mix of history and adventure. Snorkeling and diving in the park’s clear waters reveal a vibrant underwater world that’s perfect for photography.
🌟 Photography Highlights
- Historic Fort Jefferson
- Coral reefs teeming with marine life
- Crystal-clear turquoise waters
- Stunning underwater landscapes
📆 Best Time to Visit
November to April to avoid hurricane season and enjoy comfortable temperatures.
5. Great Basin National Park
143,265 visitors in 2023
Situated in eastern Nevada, Great Basin National Park is an oasis in the desert. Home to the ancient Bristlecone Pines and the majestic Wheeler Peak, this park offers a unique blend of geological and natural beauty. The park’s high-altitude environment and low light pollution make it an ideal location for stargazing and astrophotography.
🌟 Photography Highlights
- Ancient Bristlecone Pine trees
- Wheeler Peak
- Lehman Caves
- Night sky filled with stars
📆 Best Time to Visit
Late spring to early fall for milder weather and clear skies.
6. Voyageurs National Park
220,825 visitors in 2023
Voyageurs National Park, located in northern Minnesota, is known for its interconnected waterways and untouched wilderness. The park is a paradise for water enthusiasts (you’ll need to be on a boat to access all the park has to offer), offering kayaking, canoeing, and boating. Its serene lakes and lush forests offer countless photo opportunities for capturing nature’s tranquility.
🌟 Photography Highlights
- Serene, interconnected lakes
- Towering pine forests
- Scenic boat rides
- Stunning sunsets on the water
📆 Best Time to Visit
June to August for the best boating conditions and warm weather.
7. Guadalupe Mountains National Park
227,340 visitors in 2023
Guadalupe Mountains National Park in Texas is home to the highest peak in the state. The park features a diverse ecosystem, from desert landscapes to lush canyons. The rugged terrain and breathtaking views offer a variety of scenic vistas perfect for landscape photography.
🌟 Photography Highlights
- Guadalupe Peak
- McKittrick Canyon
- Pristine desert landscapes
- Seasonal wildflowers
📆 Best Time to Visit
October to April to avoid the extreme summer heat.
8. Congaree National Park
250,114 visitors in 2023
Congaree National Park in South Carolina is a floodplain forest known for its towering trees and diverse plant and animal life. The park’s unique environment offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and photographers. Its lush vegetation and tranquil atmosphere make it a perfect spot for capturing nature’s beauty.
🌟 Photography Highlights
- Towering hardwood trees
- Scenic boardwalk trails
- Rich biodiversity
- Tranquil waterways
📆 Best Time to Visit
Spring and fall for pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage.
9. Channel Islands National Park
328,746 visitors in 2023
Channel Islands National Park, located off the coast of California, comprises five islands, each with its unique flora and fauna. The park’s secluded beaches, rugged cliffs, and diverse marine life offer endless opportunities for photography. Whether you’re capturing the scenic landscapes or the vibrant underwater world, Channel Islands is a photographer’s paradise.
🌟 Photography Highlights
- Rugged island landscapes
- Secluded beaches
- Diverse marine life
- Unique flora and fauna
📆 Best Time to Visit
Late summer to early fall for optimal weather and marine life visibility.
10. Pinnacles National Park
341,220 visitors in 2023
Located in central California, Pinnacles National Park is known for its unique rock formations and diverse habitats. The park’s dramatic landscapes, including towering spires and deep canyons, make it a fascinating destination for photographers. Its varied environment, from chaparral to woodlands, offers numerous opportunities for capturing nature’s beauty.
🌟 Photography Highlights
- Unique rock formations
- Talus caves
- Diverse habitats
- Scenic hiking trails
📆 Best Time to Visit
Spring and fall for moderate weather.
