Think about it: You’re planning your next fun outdoor adventure, so you’re probably envisioning peaceful trails, spectacular views, and the serenity of nature. OK? It’s wrong!
We all know that some of the most popular national parks are full of crowds, traffic, and long lines – and it’s even worse in peak season!
If you’re looking for an authentic camping trip without the crowds, consider skipping some of the crowded parks and heading to these little-known gems.
So grab your national park pass, pack your things, and go on a trip you’ll never forget!
Skip the Glacier – Visit the Gates of the Arctic National Park & Preserve (Alaska)
Why go to Gates of the Arctic National Park & Preserve?
If you want complete solitude, Gates of the Arctic is the ultimate escape.
With no roads or trails, this vast wilderness is perfect for backpacking trips and guided tours.
You’ll find untouched areas and plenty of wildlife in one of the most remote areas of the US
Why Skip Glacier National Park??
As impressive as it is, Glacier National Park sees more than 3 million visitors a year, making it difficult to enjoy its famous Going-to-the-Sun Road without the crowds.
Skip Zion – Visit Canyonlands National Park (Utah)
Why Go to Canyonlands National Park?
Canyonlands offers deep canyons, dramatic mesas, and stunning desert landscapes with fewer visitors than nearby Arches or Zion.
With many back roads and spectacular views, it is perfect for hiking groups and adventure seekers.
Why Skip Zion National Park?
Overcrowding, limited parking, and crowded trails like Angel’s Landing make Zion National Park less than ideal if you want to be alone.
Skip Yosemite – Visit Lassen Volcanic National Park (California)
Why Go to Lassen Volcanic National Park?
Lassen Volcanic National Park has geothermal features, jagged peaks, and clear mountain lakes—without the big crowds of Yosemite.
It is a great place to camp and offers some of the best drives in the world.
Why Skip Yosemite National Park??
The iconic Yosemite area attracts more than 4 million visitors a year, making it nearly impossible to find solitude at places like Yosemite Falls or Half Dome.
Skip Hawaii’s Volcanoes – Visit American Samoa’s National Park
Why Go to American Samoa National Park?
For a tropical escape without the crowds, head to the National Park of American Samoa, where lush rainforests, coral reefs, and unique Polynesian culture create an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Why Skip Hawaii Volcano National Park?
Although spectacular, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park can be crowded, especially near active lava flows.
Skip the Olympics – Visit North Cascades National Park (Washington)
Why Go to North Cascades National Park?
Often referred to as the “American Alps,” the North Cascades are full of snow-capped peaks and mountain lakes, yet it remains one of the most visited parks in the US.
It is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers, so what are you waiting for?
Why Skip Olympic National Park?
Olympic National Park’s famous rainforests and coastal beaches attract millions of visitors every year, making it difficult to find your own way.
Skip the Everglades – Visit Dry Tortugas National Park (Florida)
Why Go to Dry Tortugas National Park?
Accessible only by boat or seaplane, Dry Tortugas National Park is a hidden marine paradise with clear waters, coral reefs, and historic Fort Jefferson.
It’s the perfect getaway for snorkeling, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.
Why Skip the Everglades
The Everglades is a huge park, but it is also very popular. During high season, you may have a hard time finding your place there.
One of the best ways to enjoy the Everglades is on a guided outdoor tour, but you may have trouble getting reservations (and permits) during the park’s busiest times.
Head to Dry Tortugas for a less crowded (and less stressful) tour!
Skip the Rocky Mountain – Visit Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve (Colorado)
Why Go to Great Sand Dunes National Park?
At over 700 meters high, the dunes in Great Sand Dunes National Park are a sight to behold!
In this park, travelers will experience a unique jungle camping adventure mixed with desert areas and mountain forests.
The Great Sand Dunes are a great alternative to the more crowded places in Colorado.
Why Skip the Rocky Mountain
The spectacular landscape of Rocky Mountain National Park draws millions of visitors every year, leading to crowded roads and trails.
Skip the Yellowstone – Visit the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve (Alaska)
Why Go to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park?
At 13.2 million acres, the Wrangell-St. Elias is the largest national park in the US—bigger than Switzerland! It offers unspoiled wilderness, glacier trekking, and stunning mountain scenery.
Being so remote, this area is a great place for advanced hikers to explore. You won’t regret it!
Why Skip Yellowstone?
As America’s first national park, Yellowstone is iconic but can sometimes feel like a theme park due to its large crowds.
Skip the 20-vehicle long lines to see a single black bear on the side of the road, then head to one of the small parks nearby.
Skip the Grand Canyon – Visit Great Basin National Park (Nevada)
Why Go to Great Basin National Park?
Great Basin National Park includes ancient bristlecone pine forests, Lehman Caves, and some of the darkest skies in the country.
It’s a great spot for stargazing, so bring your astro-obsessed friend and head out to sleep under the stars!
Why Skip the Grand Canyon?
While undeniably impressive, the Grand Canyon is one of the most visited parks in the US, making it difficult to escape the crowds.
If you indeed want to see it, we recommend you drive to one of their several viewing platforms (easy mode) or book a guided tour through the canyon itself (hard mode).
Cross the Great Smoky Mountains – Visit Congaree National Park (South Carolina)
Why Go to Congaree National Park?
A hidden gem, Congaree National Park is home to some of the tallest trees in the Eastern US, offering peaceful paddling and hiking trips through the floodplain forest.
Why Cross the Great Smoky Mountains??
As the most visited national park in the US, the Great Smoky Mountains can get very crowded – fast!
This is especially true during peak foliage season, so be sure to plan accordingly.
How to Visit a Popular Park and Avoid the Crowds
We know, we know!
Despite our warnings, you may still want to visit this well-known (and overcrowded) national park.
We don’t blame you, so here are a few tips to avoid the crowds while you’re there:
- Visit During the Shoulder Season – Spring and autumn tend to have fewer visitors compared to summer, so they are good times to plan a visit.
- Arrive Early or Sleep Late – Most parks see traffic from 10 AM to 4 PM. Getting there at sunrise or staying until sunset can help you avoid the rush. Always check park closure guidelines before planning your trip.
- Take the Paths Less Traveled – Famous hikes get crowded, but venturing off the beaten path can make for a peaceful experience.
- Use Other Entries – Some national parks have multiple entrances, and less popular ones usually have shorter lines. Do your research to find those entry points, and use them!
- Book Accommodations Inside the Park – Staying inside the park allows you to get an early start before the travelers arrive. Check each park’s website for more information about lodging.
- Join a Guided Trekking Tour – Some parks offer guided walking tours that explore off-the-beaten-track and less populated areas. Sometimes these tours will get early access to the park, among other benefits!
If you plan ahead, you can still enjoy these beautiful parks while avoiding the worst crowds.
Enjoy Testing and Let Us Know How It Goes!
Whether you’re on a guided trekking tour, a walking tour group, or a peaceful solo trip, these hidden gems offer the best spots – without the hustle and bustle.
So, grab your adventure gear, plan your route, and take an unforgettable trip through America’s lowest wilderness!
And don’t forget to comment below with your experience checking out these great sites.