National Park of American Samoa
Respect local customs: ask before entering village land, and avoid activities on Sundays.
Guide · 14 parks
The Most Remote National Parks
No roads, few people, enormous wilderness. These parks take real planning, and the window to visit is often short.
Kobuk Valley
No roads. Access is by air taxi only.
Gates of the Arctic
Access only by air taxi from Fairbanks, Bettles or Coldfoot, or on foot from the Dalton Highway.
Lake Clark
No roads. Access by small plane only.
Wrangell–St. Elias
Many rental car companies prohibit driving the McCarthy Road.
Isle Royale
Ferries and seaplanes run seasonally and book up early.
Katmai
Brooks Camp lodging and campground reservations open far ahead and sell out quickly.
Great Basin
Lehman Caves tours are by ticket and often sell out in summer.
Voyageurs
Ice road openings depend on ice conditions and vary each winter.
Denali
A 2021 landslide at Pretty Rocks closed the park road around mile 43; check current bus destinations and reopening status.
Channel Islands
Boat crossings depend on weather and can be cancelled on short notice.
Glacier Bay
No road access. Arrive by plane, ferry or cruise ship.
Big Bend
Lodging and campsites inside the park sell out for holidays and spring break; book far in advance.
Dry Tortugas
Access is only by ferry, seaplane or private boat.
When to go
More guides
Warm National Parks to Visit in WinterBest National Parks for Fall ColorLeast Crowded National ParksBest National Parks for WildlifeBest National Parks for StargazingBest National Parks for FamiliesNational Parks with BeachesNational Parks with CavesNational Parks with VolcanoesBest National Parks for HikingNational 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.