Best National Parks for Families with Young Kids
Exploring the great outdoors with young kids can be an unforgettable experience, and national parks offer the perfect backdrop for adventure, learning, and family bonding. From easy hiking trails to engaging wildlife encounters, here are some of the best national parks that cater to families with young children.
1. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana/Idaho
Why it’s great for families:
Easy-to-access geothermal wonders like Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic Spring
Abundant wildlife, including bison, elk, and even bears (from a safe distance!)
Short, scenic hikes like the Mud Volcano Trail and Fountain Paint Pot Trail
Unique Experience: Visit the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center in West Yellowstone, where kids can see rescued bears and wolves up close and even become a Keeper Kid for the day.
2. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina
Why it’s great for families:
Free entry makes it budget-friendly
The scenic drive through Cades Cove offers plenty of opportunities to spot deer, turkeys, and black bears
Kid-friendly hiking trails like Laurel Falls (a short, paved trail) and Clingmans Dome
Unique Experience: Explore the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, a scenic drive with fun stops like historic cabins and rushing streams where kids can splash and play.
3. Yosemite National Park, California
Why it’s great for families:
Stunning sights like El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall
Paved walking paths and boardwalks for strollers and little feet
Junior Ranger Program for hands-on learning
Unique Experience: Take a ride on the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad, an old-fashioned steam train through the forest that kids will love.
4. Acadia National Park, Maine
Why it’s great for families:
Carriage roads perfect for biking and easy walks
Tide pools to explore at low tide near Bar Harbor
A drive up Cadillac Mountain for stunning views with minimal walking
Unique Experience: Try popovers and hot chocolate at the historic Jordan Pond House after an easy hike around Jordan Pond.
5. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Why it’s great for families:
Trail Ridge Road offers breathtaking scenery without requiring strenuous hikes
Sprague Lake and Bear Lake trails are short and easy for little ones
Wildlife sightings of elk and marmots delight young adventurers
Unique Experience: Take part in an evening ranger-led program at the Moraine Park Amphitheater, where kids can learn about the stars and local wildlife.
6. Zion National Park, Utah
Why it’s great for families:
Shuttle system makes it easy to explore without long hikes
The Riverside Walk and Emerald Pools Trail are perfect for young kids
Incredible rock formations to inspire wonder and curiosity
Unique Experience: Wade through the Virgin River on the family-friendly portion of The Narrows, a one-of-a-kind adventure for little explorers.
7. Everglades National Park, Florida
Why it’s great for families:
Unique wildlife encounters, including alligators and manatees
Airboat rides provide a thrilling way to see the wetlands
Anhinga Trail offers an easy boardwalk hike with amazing bird-watching opportunities
Unique Experience: Join a ranger-led slough slog, a wet hike through the Everglades, for an unforgettable up-close look at this unique ecosystem.
Tips for Visiting National Parks with Kids
Plan ahead: Check for kid-friendly activities and any park alerts before your visit.
Pack wisely: Bring snacks, water, sunscreen, and layers for unpredictable weather.
Take it slow: Young kids may need extra breaks, so allow plenty of time to explore.
Engage in Junior Ranger Programs: Most parks offer fun, educational activities designed just for kids.
National parks provide incredible opportunities to introduce young children to nature and adventure in a safe and engaging way. Whether your family loves waterfalls, wildlife, or scenic drives, these parks offer something for everyone.
If you're ready, let’s plan together!
