From desert parks to mountain ranges to dramatic coastlines, national parks are some of my favorite places to explore. This page organizes every national park I’ve covered — including Yosemite, Death Valley, Joshua Tree, Grand Teton, and Yellowstone — so you can easily browse posts by park and find the content that fits the trip you’re planning.
California National Parks
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Yosemite, Death Valley, and Joshua Tree — the top California parks with scenic viewpoints, hikes, and easy weekend trips.
Wyoming National Parks
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Grand Teton and Yellowstone — dramatic mountains, wildlife, geothermal pools, and classic Western landscapes.
When To Visit National Parks?
Winter
December – FEBRUARY
Ideal for Death Valley and Joshua Tree; limited access in mountain parks but great for snow trips.
Spring
MARCH – MAY
Great for Yosemite waterfalls and early desert hikes in Joshua Tree and Death Valley.
Summer
JUNE – AUGUST
Best access for high-elevation parks like Yosemite, Grand Teton, and Yellowstone.
Fall
SEPTEMBER – November
One of the best seasons for mountain parks – cooler weather, fall colors, and fewer crowds.
National Park FAQs
Do I need reservations for national parks?
Most U.S. national parks do not require reservations, but Yosemite occasionally does on specific peak-season weekends and holidays. Always check the individual park webpage before you go.
How many days should I spend in a national park?
Two to three days is perfect for most parks – enough to hit the main viewpoints and do a highlight hike. Yellowstone and Yosemite can easily fill 3 – 5 days if you want to see everything.
Should I rent a car for national park trips?
If you do not have access to a car, yes, you should rent one. National parks are spread out, public transportation is limited, and most iconic viewpoints require driving. A car gives you complete flexibility.
Is parking difficult inside national parks?
During peak season, popular trailheads and viewpoints fill early. Arrive before 9 AM for the smoothest day, especially in Yosemite, Grand Teton, and Yellowstone.
How much does it cost to enter a national park?
Entrance fees range from $20–$35 per car for a 7-day pass. If you plan to visit multiple parks in a year, the America the Beautiful Pass ($80) is totally worth it.
Can I visit national parks in winter?
Yes – but your experience varies by park. Winter is great for Death Valley and Joshua Tree, while Yosemite, Grand Teton, and Yellowstone have limited road access but amazing snowy views and fewer crowds.
Is wildlife dangerous in national parks?
Wildlife encounters are safe as long as you keep distance. Never approach bison or bears, store food properly, and follow posted rules — especially in Yellowstone and Grand Teton.
What’s the easiest national park for a quick weekend trip?
Joshua Tree, Death Valley, and Yosemite (depending on the season) are perfect for 2 – 3 day trips. Grand Teton also works well if you’re flying into Jackson Hole.
What should I pack for national parks?
Layers, sunscreen, a daypack, extra water, snacks, comfortable shoes, and a map downloaded for offline use. Weather shifts quickly in mountain and desert parks.