If you’re stuck for ideas on making the most of this Independence Day, or you’re just not into the beach scene and the crowds, then why not check out one of many U.S. national parks?
The National Park Service oversees 407 areas covering more than 84 million acres. The parks appear in every U.S. state, the District of Columbia, American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. From monuments to battlefields, from historic sites to seashores, there’s something for everyone and always an opportunity to learn about the country’s heritage and natural beauty.
Sounds like a very 4th of July thing to do, right? Here’s our selection of some of the best and most popular national parks so you can celebrate this Fourth of July surrounded by the sheer magnificence of America’s outdoors.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park — Tennessee and North Carolina
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
With over 13 million visitors annually, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited park in the U.S. National Park Service. Celebrate July 4th here by exploring a segment of the iconic Appalachian Trail, or take a scenic drive through the picturesque Cades Cove loop, where you can spot wildlife and enjoy historic homesteads. Enjoy fireworks, picnics, and ranger-led programs that bring the park’s rich history and natural beauty to life.
Nearby, Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg in Tennessee — and Cherokee in North Carolina — offer plenty of family-friendly attractions as well as dining and lodging options. These gateway towns also provide a perfect base for your adventure.
Grand Canyon National Park — Arizona
Colorado River, Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon National Park attracts nearly 5 million visitors annually. Your jaw will drop at your first glimpse of this geological marvel, carved by the Colorado River over millions of years. The canyon spans some 277 miles in Arizona, so it’s no surprise that it’s considered one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
Celebrate the Fourth of July with ranger-led hikes, educational programs, and breathtaking viewpoints like Mather Point and the Yavapai Observation Station. Be sure not to miss the historic Desert View Watchtower. Designed by Mary Colter in 1932, the tower offers panoramic views of the canyon and the Painted Desert. Enjoy the holiday’s iconic fireworks from nearby towns or join in the park’s family-friendly activities.
Yosemite National Park — California
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park in California draws nearly four million visitors each year. Established in 1890, Yosemite has inspired generations of nature lovers with its breathtaking landscapes, and it’s an amazing destination to celebrate the 4th of July. Hike through miles of untouched wilderness and enjoy world-famous landmarks such as the towering Yosemite Falls, the ancient sequoias in Mariposa Grove, or the iconic views at Glacier Point and Tunnel View.
Yosemite Valley offers family-friendly activities and ranger-led programs that bring the park’s long history and natural wonders to life. Enjoy a picnic, watch fireworks in nearby towns, or simply marvel at the starlit sky in one of the nation’s most beloved natural treasures.
Yellowstone National Park — Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park is a nature lover’s paradise, home of the mighty — and mightily regular — Old Faithful geyser and a diverse array of wildlife, including bears, wolves, bison, elk, and antelope. With nearly 5 million visitors annually, this unmissable destination offers a glimpse into America’s past with its pristine landscapes and geothermal wonders. Established in 1872 as the first national park in the world, Yellowstone also features landmarks like the Grand Prismatic Spring and Mammoth Hot Springs.
Enjoy the 4th of July by exploring scenic trails, attending ranger-led programs, or enjoying a picnic amid stunning views. Keep an eye out for the park’s abundant wildlife and, of course, don’t miss the chance to watch Old Faithful erupt. Yellowstone provides an unforgettable backdrop for your Independence Day celebration, connecting you with the natural beauty and history of America.
Rocky Mountain National Park — Colorado
Rocky Mountain National Park
With over 4.5 million visitors annually, Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado is another safe haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Established in 1915, the park is home to diverse wildlife, including elk, bighorn sheep, and moose. Here you can explore more than 400 square miles of hiking trails and take in panoramic vistas across subalpine and alpine environments. The park’s elevations soar above 12,000 feet, offering breathtaking views and a refreshing escape.
This Independence Day, drive along Trail Ridge Road — the highest continuous paved road in the U.S. — and stop at scenic overlooks. Put your hiking skills at work at Bear Lake, picnicking in Moraine Park, or joining a ranger-led program to learn more about the park’s natural and cultural history.
Olympic National Park — Washington
Olympic National Park
Around 3 million visitors explore Olympic National Park each year. Located in Washington State, this park features lush forests that meet the stunning Pacific coastline, offering a very distinctive blend of rugged shorelines and ancient woodlands. Nearly one million acres of the park are designated as wilderness, which helps to preserve its pristine beauty. Established in 1938, the park is home to diverse ecosystems, including temperate rainforests, alpine peaks, and over 70 miles of coastline.
You can spend an awesome 4th of July by hiking the Hoh Rain Forest, exploring tide pools at Rialto Beach, or driving up to Hurricane Ridge for panoramic mountain views. Enjoy a picnic amid old-growth forests or play it safe by joining a ranger program to discover the park’s natural and cultural significance.
Acadia National Park — Maine
View from Cadillac Mountain, Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia National Park in Maine attracts nearly 4 million visitors each year, making it a top destination for nature lovers. The park features a dramatic coastline that’s just perfect for sea kayaking, tide pooling, and admiring the rugged beauty of the highest summit on the U.S. Atlantic coast: Cadillac Mountain. Established in 1916 as the first national park east of the Mississippi, Acadia offers a beautiful mix of ocean, forests, and mountains.
Celebrating your Independence Day here can include hiking the park’s numerous trails, biking the historic carriage roads, or enjoying a scenic drive along Park Loop Road. Oh, and don’t miss the chance to watch the sunrise from the aforementioned Cadillac Mountain. After all, this is one of the first places in the U.S. to see the sun each day.
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Glacier National Park — Montana
Glacier National Park
Bordering Alberta and British Columbia, Glacier National Park in northern Montana draws around 3 million visitors annually. Explore over 700 miles of hiking trails — including the famous Highline Trail — and immerse yourself in the park’s vast, pristine wilderness. Established in 1910, Glacier is known for its stunning alpine scenery, glacier-carved valleys, and diverse wildlife, including grizzly bears, mountain goats, and bighorn sheep. Stop by for the Fourth of July celebrations and drive the scenic Going-to-the-Sun Road or enjoy a lovely family picnic by Lake McDonald.
FAQs:
Q: What should I bring for a Fourth of July trip to a national park?
A: Bring essentials such as water, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, and appropriate clothing. Don’t forget maps, a first-aid kit, and a camera. Check the park’s website for specific recommendations and safety guidelines.
Q: Are pets allowed in national parks?
A: Policies vary by park, but generally, pets are allowed in designated areas like campgrounds, picnic areas, and certain trails. Always keep pets on a leash and check each park’s specific pet regulations before visiting.
Q: Do I need a reservation to visit a national park on the Fourth of July?
A: Some parks require reservations for entrance or specific activities, especially during peak times like the Fourth of July. Check the park’s official website for reservation requirements and make arrangements well in advance.
Q: Can I watch fireworks in national parks on the Fourth of July?
A: Fireworks are typically prohibited within national parks due to fire hazards and wildlife concerns. Some nearby towns may host fireworks displays that can be enjoyed from the park’s vicinity. Just in case, be sure to check local listings for specific events.
Q: What safety precautions should I take when visiting a national park?
A: Stay on designated trails, keep a safe distance from wildlife, and be prepared for sudden weather changes. Carry a map, water, and a first-aid kit. Inform someone of your plans and check for any park alerts or warnings before you go.
Did we leave your favorite National Park off our list? Tell us all about it in our comments section below!
