The United States boasts an incredible variety of national parks, but not every state gets to claim one. As of 2025, 20 U.S. states do not have a national park within their borders. From the rolling hills of Connecticut to the busy cities of New Jersey, these states make up a diverse portion of the country that often goes unnoticed in conversations about national parks. That said, many still feature protected areas, including some remarkable parks in Florida, historic sites in New Mexico, and diverse landscapes in Washington State. In this guide, we explore which states don’t have national parks, why that is, and what kinds of protected areas they do offer instead.
States Without National Parks
While the United States boasts 63 national parks across its vast and geographically diverse territory, not every state is home to one. As of 2025, there are currently 20 states that do not have a designated national park within their borders.
List of States Without National Parks
The following U.S. states do not have any national parks:
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Georgia
- Illinois
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Louisiana
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Nebraska
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New York
- North Dakota
- Oklahoma
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- Wisconsin
It’s important to note that while these states lack national parks specifically, many are rich in other types of federally protected areas such as national historic sites, national monuments, and state parks.
Geographic Patterns
A closer look at the map reveals some regional clustering among the states without national parks. Many of them are located in the Northeastern and Midwestern United States, areas that are more urbanized and industrialized. Additionally, several Southern and Central Plains states also fall into this category.
In contrast, states in the Western U.S., including California, Utah, and Colorado, are home to multiple national parks due to their expansive natural landscapes, varied topography, and lower population density in large rural areas.
Population and Urban Development Factors
One contributing factor to the absence of national parks in these states is the degree of urban development and private land ownership. In densely populated states like New York, New Jersey, and Massachusetts, much of the land is already developed or fragmented, leaving fewer expansive areas suitable for national park designation.
Additionally, the historical development patterns in these states often emphasized industrial and agricultural use over conservation. This contrasts with the western U.S., where large tracts of public land have historically been retained under federal management, making them more viable for national park designation.
Despite their lack of national parks, many of these states still offer significant natural and cultural heritage that is preserved under other types of federal or state protection. These alternatives ensure that residents and visitors still have access to outdoor spaces and historically significant sites, even in the absence of a national park.
Alternative Protected Areas in Park-Free States
While some U.S. states lack national parks, this does not mean they are devoid of significant protected natural areas. In fact, many states without national parks still offer rich opportunities for outdoor recreation, natural preservation, and cultural heritage through alternative protected designations. These include national monuments, national historic sites, state parks, and other federally managed lands. These alternatives play a key role in conservation and public access to nature.
National Monuments
National monuments are federally protected sites that often preserve unique natural features, historical landmarks, or cultural heritage areas. They can be designated by the President under the Antiquities Act or by Congress. In states without national parks—such as Delaware, Rhode Island, and Iowa—national monuments provide an important substitute.
For example:
- Delaware is home to the First State National Historical Park, designated in 2013, which protects several historic sites tied to the state's colonial and early American history.
- Rhode Island features the Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park, which preserves the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution.
- Iowa boasts the Effigy Mounds National Monument, protecting prehistoric Native American burial mounds in a scenic setting along the Mississippi River.
These areas, while not designated as national parks, still receive federal protection and offer visitor amenities, educational programs, and recreational opportunities.
National Historic Sites and Heritage Areas
Many park-free states host national historic sites or national heritage areas that celebrate important aspects of American history and culture. These sites are often smaller and more focused than national parks but serve a similar role in preserving the nation’s legacy.
For example:
- Connecticut is home to the Weir Farm National Historical Park, which honors American Impressionist painter J. Alden Weir and preserves the rural landscape that inspired his work.
- New Jersey features several units under the National Park Service, including Thomas Edison National Historical Park and Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park, both of which highlight the state’s industrial and inventive past.
These sites attract visitors interested in history, architecture, and cultural tourism, and they play a vital role in preserving America's historical identity.
State Parks and Recreation Areas
States without national parks often compensate with robust state park systems that offer many of the same benefits as national parks. These parks are managed at the state level and can include forests, lakes, mountains, canyons, and historic sites.
Examples include:
- Delaware’s Cape Henlopen State Park, offering beaches, dunes, and WWII-era military sites.
- Rhode Island’s Lincoln Woods State Park, a popular spot for hiking, fishing, and kayaking.
- Iowa’s Maquoketa Caves State Park, known for its limestone caves and scenic trails.
State parks often provide more accessible recreation opportunities for residents and visitors, and many are well-developed with camping facilities, visitor centers, and interpretive programs.
Other Federal Land Designations
In addition to monuments and historic sites, some states without national parks are home to other types of federally protected lands. These include:
- Wild and Scenic Rivers: Portions of rivers protected for their ecological and recreational value.
- National Wildlife Refuges: Managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, these areas protect critical habitats for birds, fish, and other wildlife.
- National Forests: Large tracts of forested land managed by the U.S. Forest Service, providing timber, recreation, and habitat conservation.
For instance, New Jersey contains the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, while Connecticut has access to the Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge, which spans multiple New England states.
These designations contribute to a complex mosaic of land protection across the U.S., ensuring that even states without national parks still play a role in national conservation efforts.
Importance of Diverse Protection Models
The presence of alternative protected areas in park-free states highlights the flexibility and breadth of America’s conservation strategies. While the iconic status of national parks often garners the most attention, other types of protected lands are equally vital for preserving ecosystems, celebrating heritage, and providing public access to nature.
In many cases, these sites serve as stepping stones toward potential national park designation in the future or stand as equally important destinations in their own right.
Reasons for Absence of National Parks
Historical and Political Factors
The development of the National Park System has been shaped by historical events and political decisions that often overlooked or deprioritized certain regions. States like Delaware and Rhode Island, for example, have long histories of urban development and private land ownership, leaving fewer opportunities for large-scale federal conservation efforts. Additionally, the process of establishing a national park requires congressional approval, which can be a time-consuming and politically complex endeavor. In some cases, proposed parks have not gained enough legislative support to move forward.
Limited Land Availability
One of the most significant reasons some states lack national parks is the limited availability of large, undeveloped tracts of land. In highly urbanized states such as Connecticut and Massachusetts, much of the landscape has been transformed by centuries of settlement, agriculture, and infrastructure development. This makes it difficult to identify areas that meet the National Park Service’s criteria for natural integrity and sufficient size. Moreover, land in these states is often privately owned, and acquiring it for public use can be both costly and controversial.
Environmental Characteristics
Not all states possess the unique geologic or ecological features typically associated with national parks. While states like Utah and Alaska are home to dramatic landscapes such as canyons, glaciers, and vast wilderness areas, some eastern states may lack similarly distinctive natural landmarks on a national scale. The National Park Service tends to prioritize areas with exceptional scientific, scenic, or recreational value, which may limit the inclusion of certain states in the system.
Existing Federal or State Protections
In many cases, states without national parks still have significant protected lands under other federal or state designations. For example, Delaware is home to the First State National Historical Park, a unit managed by the National Park Service that preserves important cultural and historical resources. Similarly, states may have National Wildlife Refuges, National Forests, or extensive state park systems that provide recreational opportunities and environmental protection without the designation of a national park. These alternative designations often meet the conservation goals of the region without requiring the more complex national park status.
Local and Community Opposition
The creation of a national park often brings increased federal oversight, which may face resistance from local communities, private landowners, or state governments. Concerns about land use restrictions, tourism impacts, and changes in resource management can lead to opposition, especially in states with strong traditions of private property rights or local control. This resistance can stall or prevent the designation of new national parks, even in areas that might otherwise qualify.
Economic Prioritization
In some regions, economic development priorities such as agriculture, industry, or energy production may outweigh conservation efforts. States with smaller economies or those reliant on land-intensive industries might view federal land acquisition for a national park as a potential threat to economic growth. As a result, proposals for national parks may not receive the necessary political or public support to move forward.
Conservation Efforts in States Without Parks
Although some U.S. states do not currently host national parks, many of them actively participate in conservation efforts through alternative means. These initiatives are vital for preserving natural habitats, protecting biodiversity, and offering recreational spaces for the public. In states without national parks, federal, state, and local agencies—as well as nonprofit organizations—play a critical role in land conservation and environmental stewardship.
States Without National Parks in 2025
As of 2025, the states that do not have a designated national park include:
- Delaware
- Rhode Island
- Connecticut
- Iowa
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- New Jersey
- New York
- Kansas
- Oklahoma
- Nebraska
Despite the absence of national parks, many of these states are home to other federally protected lands and state-managed conservation areas.
Significant Conservation Strategies
National Monuments and Historic Sites
Many states without national parks host National Monuments and National Historic Sites managed by the National Park Service (NPS). For example, New York features the Statue of Liberty National Monument and the African Burial Ground National Monument. These sites preserve important cultural, historical, and natural resources, contributing to the broader mission of the NPS.
State Parks and Forests
State park systems in these states often fill the gap left by the absence of national parks. Connecticut, for instance, manages over 100 state parks and forests, offering public access to coastal areas, woodlands, and historic landmarks. Similarly, Iowa’s state parks, such as Backbone State Park, provide outdoor recreation and protect local ecosystems.
Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF)
The LWCF plays a key role in funding conservation projects across all U.S. states. Grants from this federal program support land acquisition, park development, and habitat restoration. States without national parks often rely on LWCF funding to enhance public access to green spaces and protect critical natural areas.
Partnerships and Local Initiatives
Nonprofit organizations and local governments frequently collaborate on conservation projects. Land trusts, such as The Nature Conservancy and local entities, acquire and manage land to preserve wildlife corridors, wetlands, and scenic landscapes. In Kansas, for example, the Kansas Land Trust works to conserve prairies and agricultural lands through voluntary easements.
Urban Conservation and Community Access
In more densely populated states like New Jersey and Massachusetts, conservation efforts often focus on urban green spaces and community-based environmental programs. These initiatives aim to address the challenges of limited open space and provide equitable access to natural areas. Programs such as urban reforestation, watershed protection, and greenway development are integral to conservation in these regions.
Educational and Stewardship Programs
Environmental education is another cornerstone of conservation strategy in states without national parks. Local parks departments and environmental organizations offer programs that engage citizens in ecological stewardship, from school-based curricula to volunteer habitat restoration events. These efforts foster public awareness and long-term commitment to conservation goals.
Federal Wildlife Refuges and Other Protected Lands
Many of these states also contain National Wildlife Refuges managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. For instance, the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge in New Jersey protects coastal habitats and supports migratory bird populations. Such areas contribute significantly to biodiversity conservation and scientific research.
In summary, while states without national parks may lack the iconic landscapes associated with national park status, they nonetheless play an active and essential role in the national conservation network. Through diverse protected area designations, robust state park systems, and community-driven initiatives, these states continue to protect and celebrate their natural and cultural heritage.
Future Prospects and Possibilities
Potential for New National Park Designations
Although the United States has 63 designated national parks as of 2025, several states remain without one. However, the prospect of future national park designations remains strong, especially as environmental awareness and public interest in outdoor recreation continue to grow. States currently without national parks—such as Delaware, Rhode Island, and Iowa—have natural and historical assets that could potentially qualify for national park status with the right political support and funding.
For instance, areas like the Driftless Area in Iowa or the Brandywine Valley in Delaware have been considered by conservationists for elevated federal protection. While these areas are currently protected through other designations—such as national historic parks or wildlife refuges—formal national park status could bring additional funding, preservation measures, and tourism interest.
Ongoing Campaigns and Legislative Proposals
Numerous advocacy groups and local coalitions are actively pushing for the creation of new national parks, particularly in underrepresented regions. These efforts often involve extensive studies, community engagement, and lobbying of state and federal lawmakers. A notable example includes the campaign to designate the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park in Georgia as a full-fledged national park, which would recognize its cultural significance and expand the National Park System in the southeastern U.S.
Similarly, in states like Illinois and New Jersey, discussions about upgrading existing National Park Service-managed areas—such as national historical parks or recreation areas—into national parks are ongoing. These proposals often hinge on meeting strict criteria for natural beauty, ecological value, and national significance.
Challenges to Expansion
Despite growing interest and public support, expanding the national park system faces several challenges. One of the primary obstacles is land acquisition. In densely populated or heavily developed states, securing large, contiguous tracts of land suitable for national park designation is difficult. Additionally, political and economic considerations—such as concerns over federal land control, potential restrictions on land use, and funding limitations—can delay or halt proposals.
Another challenge is environmental degradation. In some states without national parks, potential candidate sites may be impacted by pollution, urban sprawl, or resource extraction, making them less viable for inclusion in the National Park System without significant restoration.
Opportunities in Lesser-Known Regions
The future of the National Park System also lies in the identification and elevation of lesser-known regions that hold ecological, geological, or cultural importance. These areas may not currently meet the traditional image of a national park, but with increased scientific research and community support, they could be re-evaluated for inclusion. This approach aligns with a broader movement within the National Park Service to increase diversity and representation—both in terms of landscapes and cultural narratives.
Regions in the Midwest and Northeast, for example, offer opportunities to highlight historical, industrial, and indigenous heritage through new park designations. As the public seeks more localized travel options and immersive cultural experiences, the demand for parks in currently underrepresented states is likely to grow.
Role of Technology and Community Engagement
Emerging technologies such as GIS mapping, digital storytelling, and virtual tours are playing a role in identifying and promoting future national park candidates. These tools help conservationists and policymakers visualize ecological data, assess land use patterns, and build public support.
Moreover, community engagement is becoming increasingly vital. Local stakeholders, including tribal nations, environmental groups, and tourism boards, are working together to propose and manage future park areas. This collaborative approach ensures that future national parks reflect not just scenic beauty, but also cultural and social significance.
While 20 U.S. states currently lack a designated national park, that doesn't mean they're short on natural or cultural treasures. Each of these states proudly hosts a variety of protected lands—ranging from national monuments to heritage areas and high-quality state parks—that offer recreation and preservation alike. With continued conservation efforts and growing public interest, it’s entirely possible that some of these states will one day welcome a national park of their own. In the meantime, adventurers are encouraged to explore beyond the big-name parks and discover the hidden gems across the entire United States.