Buzz
National parks are some of the United States' most significant and environmentally impactful achievements. As many people know, the first national park established—likely one of the first in the world—was Yellowstone National Park in 1872. Located mostly in Wyoming, this vast park spans over 2.2 million acres. After its creation, President Theodore Roosevelt went on to establish five additional national parks and 18 national monuments.
Today, the U.S. boasts 63 national parks open for public enjoyment. However, many other incredible sites and natural wonders deserve national park status, yet remain unprotected by the National Park System for various reasons. While the country is filled with awe-inspiring natural wonders, we will focus on states currently lacking a national park, but that certainly have candidates worthy of the designation.
10. Mobile-Tensaw Delta, Alabama
The Mobile-Tensaw Delta is one of the least discussed yet most biologically rich regions in the United States, often referred to as America’s Amazon. As the second-largest delta in the U.S. (after the Mississippi), this area is home to a diverse range of turtle species, with scientists speculating that there are still undiscovered plant and animal species in its depths.
In addition to its natural beauty, the region is home to numerous historical landmarks, many of which have been lost to time, now hidden beneath the sprawling swamplands. Notably, it was the location of the final major battle of the Civil War at Fort Blakely, following Lee's surrender at Appomattox. The area is also home to one of the Gulf Coast's largest known Native American mounds. Sadly, the push for this area to be designated a national park in 2016 was unsuccessful, and it's unlikely to join the National Park System anytime soon.
9. Smoky Hills, Kansas
When people think of Kansas, they often picture flat prairies. However, the state is also home to canyons, rivers, and streams. Located in the north-central part of the state, the Smoky Hills region was shaped during the Cretaceous Period and features dramatic sandstone, limestone, and chalk formations alongside winding streams and canyons.
The region is also home to some unusual rock formations, including the distinctive mushroom rock near Kanopolis State Park. The area's undulating hills, deep canyons, and wetlands are often overlooked when considering Kansas' natural landscapes. However, if the state were to be considered for a national park, this area would likely be a strong contender.
8. Natchez Trace, Mississippi and Tennessee
Although managed by the National Park Service, the 444-mile Natchez Trace Trail, which stretches from Mississippi into Tennessee, is classified as a 'parkway.' Visitors can travel by car, bike, or on foot, exploring the scenic route and its surrounding woodlands—an area once traversed by Native Americans and later, early settlers.
President Thomas Jefferson expanded the route to connect Natchez, Mississippi, to Nashville, spurring settlement. The trail also marks the site of Meriwether Lewis's grave, a key figure in the Lewis and Clark Expedition. If Mississippi ever wished to, the National Park Service would likely support the creation of a national park encompassing the historic parkway and its lush forests.
7. The Adirondacks, New York
Located in upstate New York, the Adirondacks region spans over 30,000 square miles of rivers and streams. Notably, this park is managed by the state of New York. Did you know that its vast expanse exceeds the combined area of Yellowstone, Glacier, the Everglades, and the Grand Canyon National Parks?
Nearly half of the park’s land is state-owned, while more than 55% is privately held. Despite this, both public and private lands within the park must adhere to strict development regulations to preserve the environment. Offering over 2,000 miles of hiking trails and a variety of outdoor activities, the Adirondacks also feature historic landmarks, such as forts, museums, and the Olympic Center in Lake Placid, surrounded by charming towns and farmland.
6. The Apostle Islands, Wisconsin
Located near Bayfield Peninsula on Lake Superior, the Apostle Islands are made up of 22 islands, with 21 of them forming part of a national lakeshore in Wisconsin. These islands cover 720 square miles and offer numerous opportunities for adventure, from exploring caves to kayaking along miles of coastline, as well as hiking through 108 square miles of forested land.
The shores of these pristine islands represent the northwestern boundary of the hardwood-white pine forest. This area is home to bald eagles, black bears, the endangered American marten, and a variety of aquatic species and migratory birds. Regardless of the season, the islands never fail to deliver stunning views of one of the purest Great Lakes.
5. Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands
The Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands are an expansive collection comprising two national forests and three national grasslands, stretching from Nebraska into South Dakota, forming a diverse and captivating natural landscape for exploration.
One section of forest within this immense area spans about 90,000 acres and holds the title of the world's largest hand-planted forest. That's right, much of this forest was planted by human hands. In 1890, a University of Nebraska member proposed the idea to the federal government to plant trees to combat erosion, create a wildlife haven, and provide lumber for the local community.
The federal government embraced the idea, and a year later, they established an experimental plot that eventually grew into the forest we see today. While it may not be considered 'natural,' one can't help but wonder what a shift in designation to national park status would mean for this remarkable area in terms of setting a positive precedent for the future.
4. Hammersley Wild Area, Pennsylvania
Covering nearly 30,000 acres, the Hammersley Wild Area is among the most untouched forest regions in Pennsylvania, possibly the most pristine. The brochure even advises hikers to carry topographic maps because getting lost here could result in 'serious consequences.'
The area is home to both old-growth and hardwood forests, but what truly stands out is what it lacks—there are no roads. This means that when camping or hiking, the only sounds you'll likely hear are those of the wilderness itself, offering a truly immersive natural experience.
3. Atchafalaya, Louisiana
The Atchafalaya Basin, the last destination on our list, is the largest swamp in the United States. Covering nearly one million acres, it extends 140 miles toward the Gulf of Mexico. This expansive basin in Louisiana surpasses the Florida Everglades in size and is home to the southern U.S.'s largest bald eagle nesting population.
This basin features the biggest continuous hardwood forest in the U.S. and boasts a rich variety of wildlife. Positioned to the west of New Orleans, the basin might have been submerged by the constantly shifting Mississippi River if not for protective measures along its northern boundary. Nevertheless, it still receives about 30% of the river's water as it flows toward the Gulf. These waters support more than 300 wildlife species and over 100 aquatic varieties, along with an impressive range of native plants.
Visitors to the bayou can indulge in a range of activities such as paddling, biking, golfing, birdwatching, and camping. And, of course, don't miss out on a memorable swamp tour!
2. The Green Mountains, Vermont
Green Mountains National Forest is another prime example of a forest deserving the status of a National Park. Covering an expansive area of 400,000 acres (550 square miles), the park was founded in 1932.
The forest derives its name from the Green Mountains, which are part of the Appalachian Mountain chain. Running north to south through central Vermont, the peaks in the area reach elevations over 3,000 feet. Established to preserve these lush mountains and their hardwood forests, the national forest serves as both a research hub and an educational center in conjunction with its sister park, Finger Lakes National Park in New York. Visitors can enjoy various recreational activities on its scenic trails.
1. Kisatchie National Forest, Louisiana
Situated in north-central Louisiana, Kisatchie National Forest spans over 600,000 acres and features ancient pine forests that once covered much of the southeastern United States. It was even honored in the America the Beautiful quarter series, which showcased notable national parks and other U.S. natural landmarks.
This forest is home to over 100 bird species throughout the year, as well as Louisiana black bears and free-roaming wild horses. Almost entirely logged in the early 1900s, the area was named after the Kichai Native Americans, who referred to themselves as 'Kitsatchie.' Visitors to the park can enjoy camping (both developed and primitive), fishing, hunting, hiking, and a wide range of outdoor activities.
