15 Best Parks for Kids to Explore

Get ready for an outdoor adventure! This year marks the 15th Annual Kids to Parks Day, and what better way to kick off your summer than by exploring one of our amazing national parks? Whether you’re looking for an easy day trip or a full-on wilderness adventure, these 15 parks offer unforgettable experiences for kids of all ages. Think hidden caves, giant sand dunes, and even a ride to the top of a towering arch!

Cuyahoga Valley National Park, OH

Right between Cleveland and Akron, this park is perfect for families who want to enjoy nature without going too far from the city. Hop on a scenic train ride, chase waterfalls, and explore easy hiking trails.

Acadia National Park, ME

Where the mountains meet the ocean! Families can hike to breathtaking views, bike along historic carriage roads, and explore tide pools full of tiny sea creatures.

Yosemite National Park, CA

Got younger adventurers? With towering waterfalls, giant trees, and massive rock formations, Yosemite feels like a real-life adventure story. Pack a picnic and take an easy hike to see some of the most stunning views in the country.

Yellowstone National Park, WY

Yellowstone’s famous geysers, hot springs, and abundant wildlife offer plenty for families to explore. Kids will love spotting bison, wolves, and grizzly bears while learning about the park’s fascinating geothermal features.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN/NC

This park is famous for its misty mountain views and easy trails that lead to waterfalls and wildflower meadows. Keep your eyes peeled for black bears and fireflies that light up the night!

Pinnacles National Park, CA

A slightly lesser-known gem, Pinnacles offers towering rock formations, mysterious caves, and even California condors soaring overhead. It’s a great place for kids who love to climb, explore, and discover new landscapes.

Rocky Mountain National Park, CO

If you want to see elk, bighorn sheep, and endless mountain views, this is the place to go! Drive the scenic Trail Ridge Road, walk around crystal-clear alpine lakes, and breathe in that fresh mountain air.

Joshua Tree National Park, CA

Check out a landscape like no other with the iconic Joshua Trees and striking desert! This park offers family-friendly hiking, rock climbing, and epic star-gazing opportunities, perfect for curious adventurers.

Mammoth Cave National Park, KY

Go underground and explore the world’s longest cave system! Kids will love the guided tours through dark tunnels and massive chambers while learning about the cave’s history and creatures that call it home.

Great Sand Dunes National Park, CO

This park is an incredible playground for kids, featuring the tallest sand dunes in North America. Run, jump, and even sled down the dunes before cooling off in Medano Creek. Kids will love this outdoor sandbox, and it’s an excellent spot for stargazing at night.

Shenandoah National Park, VA

A short drive from Washington, D.C., Shenandoah’s Skyline Drive offers sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. With a huge variety of trails, waterfalls, and plenty of spots for picnics, it’s perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway!

New River Gorge National Park, WV

As one of the new additions to the national park system, this park offers families exciting opportunities to explore the scenic gorge. Go whitewater rafting, try a hike, or just take in the epic views from the bridge.

Big Bend National Park, TX

This remote park along the Rio Grande features desert landscapes and colorful canyons. It’s a great place to hike, float down the river, and spot wildlife!

Gateway Arch National Park, MO

For a park with a twist (literally!), visit the Gateway Arch in St. Louis! Kids can ride to the top of the Arch for stunning views of the city, explore the museum, and learn about the history of westward expansion.

Biscayne National Park, FL

Located just south of Miami, Biscayne National Park is a water-lover’s paradise. With its clear waters, coral reefs, and vibrant marine life, this park offers families the chance to snorkel, kayak, and explore islands. Kids can discover the underwater world and see tropical fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins!