6 Things You’ll Find in Every U.S. National Park

You’ll know you’re entering a U.S. national park when you see the arrowhead-shaped logo on the welcome sign. If you’re entering one of the 59 primary parks, you’ll need to pay an entrance fee. Prices vary from park to park, starting at $10 per vehicle.

Tip: If you’re planning to visit multiple parks, you may purchase an $80 America the Beautiful annual pass at your first park that will grant you access to 2,000-plus federal recreation areas.

Each of the 59 major U.S. national parks contains a visitor center, though some visitors centers – particularly those associated with national parks in Alaska – are outside the parks’ perimeters. Some larger parks, including Yellowstone National Park in northwest Wyoming and Grand Canyon National Park in northern Arizona, have more than one. Stop by to pick up a map, get information on park amenities and trails, and learn about the history and wildlife of the park.

Tip: Make sure to visit the restroom here before heading into the park as lavatories are often few and far between. Once you get deep into the park, your only option may be a portable toilet.

Whether you need a bottle of water or some postcards, you’ll find places to buy them in the national parks. Many U.S. national parks feature concessions of some kind, though the types of services vary widely from park to park. Some parks even feature full-service restaurants and indoor lodging for those who aren’t up for roughing it.

Tip: You should throw away or take with you anything you bring into or purchase in the park during your visit. There may not be trash cans on the trails, so be prepared to take any waste with you when you leave.

There is no shortage of beautiful hiking spots throughout the U.S. national parks. Trails are usually clearly marked, and it’s important that you do not stray from the designated paths. Doing so can damage the park’s habitat.

Tip: Before you finalize your hiking plans, check the U.S. National Park Service website for information about trail closures. This is especially important during the spring and fall, when the weather is unpredictable. Some parks close entire sections due to lingering snow, so be sure to factor this into your planning.

Dedicated U.S. park rangers preside over every park, including areas outside the 59 national parks. Park rangers wear many hats, serving as guides, educators and protectors. They lead hikes and supervise children’s activities while also watching over the park’s wildlife and facilities. They can answer any questions you may have.

​U.S. national park rangers are tasked with protecting the country’s greatest natural treasures, and they love nothing more than sharing them with visitors. Rangers are the folks to ask for recommendations on hiking trails or scenic spots.

Tip: Rangers know the U.S. national parks like the backs of their hands. They are some of the best people to ask for hiking and sightseeing recommendations.

From the rocky shores of Acadia National Park in Maine to the towering cliffs of Yosemite National Park in California and the stark desert scenery of Great Basin National Park in Nevada. The landscape may change from park to park, but one thing never changes: Each park is beautiful in its own way.

Tip: Visit as many U.S. national parks as you can. You won’t believe how diverse they are until you see them for yourself.