My trip

Guide · 11 parks

Least Crowded National Parks

Skip the shuttle lines. These parks get a fraction of the visitors of the famous ones, and many are just as spectacular.

Lake Clark

Alaska · Best Jun–Aug

Best: Jun–Aug

Isle Royale

Michigan · Best Jul–Sep

Best: Jul–Sep

Congaree

South Carolina · Best Mar–May, Oct–Nov

Best: Mar–May, Oct–Nov

Katmai

Alaska · Best Jul, Sep

Best: Jul, Sep

When to go

ParkJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
National Park of American Samoa
Kobuk Valley
Gates of the Arctic
Lake Clark
Wrangell–St. Elias
Isle Royale
Congaree
Katmai
North Cascades
Guadalupe Mountains
Great Basin

More guides

Warm National Parks to Visit in WinterBest National Parks for Fall ColorBest National Parks for WildlifeBest National Parks for StargazingBest National Parks for FamiliesNational Parks with BeachesNational Parks with CavesNational Parks with VolcanoesBest National Parks for HikingThe Most Remote National ParksNational Parks with the Best Scenic DrivesNational Parks to Visit in the SnowSummer National Parks Without the Crowds

Last reviewed October 4, 2026. Ratings are editorial. Rules and road openings change each year, so confirm on the official NPS site before you go.