15 Free U.S. National Parks Perfect for Kids
There are over 60 national parks in the United States, many of which are free to visit. Some of these have fantastic activities and attractions on offer for children too, whether you’ve got little ones or teenagers. Here are 15 free U.S. National Parks that are perfect for families with children!
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee
The Great Smoky Mountains happens to be the most-visited national park in the United States. Not only does this national park offer a junior ranger program for the little ones, but there are some other fantastic kid-friendly attractions. These include easy hiking trails, guided horseback rides, and fun carriage rides.
North Cascades National Park, Washington
Famous for its alpine landscapes, North Cascades National Park is another great spot for families. This park offers family-friendly hikes, as well as a visitor center with interactive displays. The nearby town of Winthrop also offers various attractions, such as the Shafer Historical Museum and river-rafting activities.
Channel Islands National Park, California
Those looking to give their children an adventure should head to Channel Islands National Park. There are some easy hiking trails (including the Cavern Point Loop) and fantastic kayaking tours on offer. Just be aware that many guided kayaking tours require children to be 5+. Kids will also love the snorkeling opportunities.
WHERE TO STAY: Find a sustainable eco-lodge in California.
Wrangell – St Elias National Park & Preserve, Alaska
Adventurous teens will love Wrangell – St Elias National Park & Preserve. As it’s a huge wilderness area, it’s more suited to older children, who can enjoy outdoor activities such as glacier hiking and ice caving. Backcountry camping is another fantastic activity for families with older children.
WHERE TO STAY: Find a sustainable eco-lodge in Alaska.
Virgin Islands National Park, US Virgin Islands
Virgin Islands National Park offers a junior ranger program making it another excellent choice for children. There are some great camping opportunities too, which the little ones will love! Popular activities include snorkeling and hiking, so the kids will be spending plenty of time outdoors. There are also some fantastic beaches to visit, such as Trunk Bay Beach.
New River Gorge National Park & Preserve, West Virginia
As well as family-friendly hiking trails, New River Gorge National Park has a lot to offer kids. Whitewater rafting is an exciting activity for children who are 6+ years old, and cycling is also popular. Those visiting Ace Adventure Resort can enjoy the waterpark and land-based activities, with the Aerial Adventure Park being a big hit!
Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky
Mammoth Cave National Park is one of the best free national parks for kids! There’s a fantastic visitor center that offers some interactive exhibits as well as various cave tours, which are suitable for children of all ages. This national park also offers The Nature Track for Kids program, which features hands-on activities during the summer months!
Congaree National Park, South Carolina
Congaree National Park may not be one of America’s most popular national parks, but it has so much to offer. There are some fantastic ranger-led programs available, as well as various outdoor activities, including hiking, kayaking, and camping. Congaree also offers the Junior Ranger program.
Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska
Kobuk may be one of the least-visited national parks, but it certainly offers an adventure for families. During the summer, there’s a variety of activities on offer at the Northwest Arctic Heritage Center. Older children can also enjoy backcountry camping with their family, along with various outdoor activities.
WHERE TO STAY: Find a sustainable eco-lodge in Alaska.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
A highlight of visiting Cuyahoga Valley National Park is its scenic train ride, which offers a unique way to appreciate the landscapes and look out for wildlife. Other popular things to do in Cuyahoga Valley include visiting Hale Farm & Village, going Canalway Questing, and exploring the local visitor centers.
Lake Clark National Park & Preserve, Alaska
Lake Clark National Park & Preserve offers a wild adventure for families. Not only does this park have a Junior Ranger Program, but there are various outdoor activities available. Families can enjoy river rafting, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Backcountry camping is also suitable for older children.
WHERE TO STAY: Find a sustainable eco-lodge in Alaska.
Gateway Arch National Park, Missouri
Gateway Arch National Park is the smallest national park in the U.S., but it’s still a great spot for kids. Families can take a tram ride to the top of America’s tallest monument, or explore the museum which is located underneath the arch. Various green spaces surround the Gateway Arch, where you can wander along paved trails.
Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas
Hot Springs National Park is one of the more unique national parks in the United States. As well as experiencing the local thermal springs, families can enjoy fantastic ranger-led programs. Popular nearby attractions include Magic Springs Amusement Park, the Mid-America Science Museum, and Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf.
Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska
In Kenai Fjords National Park, Junior Fjord Ranger Walks are available during the summer for children aged 8-12. Older children will also enjoy the cruises, which offer a great way to appreciate marine life and the surrounding landscape. Another highlight of this national park is that you can use Seward as a base, which offers excellent family-friendly attractions.
WHERE TO STAY: Find a sustainable eco-lodge in Alaska.
Katmai National Park & Preserve, Alaska
If your child loves wildlife, Katmai National Park is the place to be, as it offers some of the best bear-watching opportunities in the world. It is one of the least visited U.S. National Parks. Flightseeing tours are popular here, although age restrictions vary by company so it’s best to research this in advance. The Junior Ranger program is a big hit too.
WHERE TO STAY: Find a sustainable eco-lodge in Alaska.
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Emese Maczko is a travel blogger behind Eco Lodges Anywhere. Having explored several destinations around Europe, the US, Indonesia, and Australia, and resided in Germany, the United Kingdom, and Luxembourg, Emese possesses a keen understanding of diverse cultures and an appreciation for the beauty of each destination she visits. She advocates for sustainable travel and ecotourism.