Top 10 Most Asked Questions About National Parks — Answered

National parks are some of the most beautiful places on our planet, and they attract millions of visitors around the globe. When traveling for the first time or as an old hand, there will always be questions about how to most out your visit. In our US National parks guide with planning advice and park policies, we have come up with the 10 most asked questions about national parks to help inspire your next adventure.

1. Which national parks require reservations?

During the high season, U.S. national parks generally have some form of reservation to help with the crowds. For example, Yosemite reserves campgrounds and Half Dome reservations, while Rocky Mountain does timed entry in the summer. As for Glacier, campsites and popular areas like Going-to-the-Sun-Road are only reservations. Before planning a trip to the park, double-check park websites or Recreation.gov for any changes in reservation regulations and National park rules and regulations.

2. How do I get a lifetime pass to national parks?

America the Beautiful – National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass allows lifetime entry to U.S. national parks and many other federal lands. How to get into National parks? There are a few options:

• Lifetime Senior Pass. For U.S. citizens and legal residents age 62 or over.

• The Senior Pass is free, good for life at the national park, and cost-saving at other sites.

• Lifetime Access Pass. Free to U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities.

• For Veterans and Gold Star Families.  They can enjoy free admission to national parks.

Read America the Beautiful pass info to get more info. 

3. What national parks allow dogs?

Pets are banned in most U.S. National Parks; however, dogs are allowed in several spots in a few parks. Dogs are generally prohibited in developed areas, campgrounds, and some single-use trails. They must be on a leash, and their owners are responsible for cleaning up after them.

Some dog-friendly US parks include:

• Acadia National Park;

• Shenandoah National Park;

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

4. How many national parks are there in the world?

There are 63 national parks in the US, each representing different parts of landscapes and ecosystems across the country. Although the national park concept is not limited to the U.S., worldwide

There are over 4,000 National Parks worldwide. For example:

• National Parks in Africa – 250.

• National parks in South America - more than 300. 

• Over 500 national parks in Australia

5. Which state has the most national parks?

It may be no surprise that California has the most national parks, with 9, spotlighting everything from desert landscapes to cliffs along the coast and majestic mountain ranges. Well, the parks are:

You can see them on the Lemap wooden map and dive into all of California's national parks.

6. Which states have no national parks?

Despite the U.S. having over 63 national parks, some states have none. These states are: Delaware, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Iowa, etc.

Although none of these states has national park units, the natural landscape there is less fragile due to other forms of protection (state parks and nature reserves, etc.). Even areas without national park status can accommodate recreational opportunities and conservation.

7. Why can't you fly drones in national parks?

To keep everyone safe and to protect the parks, the NPS (National Park Service) prohibits the use of drones in parks. Drones can disturb animals, cause accidents, and detract from the peaceful park experience. They worry about the privacy of other tourists as well. According to US parks drone policy, violating these rules can result in fines of up to $2,000 or more. Read local park rules and regulations to find exceptions/permits for specific areas.

8. What national parks require timed entry?

Popular national parks employ a timed entry reservations National parks to regulate access in groups. During peak seasons, parks like Glacier National Park (You have to see the Going-to-the-Sun Road), Arches National Park or Rocky Mountain National Park employ this. It's a great system that ensures everyone is safe, and happy. For additional info, visit Recreation.gov to get more details & make reservations.

9. What percentage of Nicaragua's territory is protected as national parks or biological reserves?

Nicaragua protected areas stats is over 20%. It is kept as national parks and other conservation areas in biological reserves.

It also entails a wide range of ecosystems—cloud forests and tropical rainforests—all of which are important for biodiversity.

Costa Rica has 25% protected land. This is one of the highest percentages in the region. Brazil has roughly 18% of its total territory protected by federal parks and the Amazon Rainforest. Panama is at around 30% of its land protected. 

10. How many national parks are in Texas?

Texas is a big-sky country, best illustrated by the mountains and deserts of its two national parks. Terlingua and Big Bend, with over 800,000 acres of pristine land and designated wilderness, are among the country's top 20 national parks. Before planning a National park visit you can purchase a wooden Texas State parks map with trees to record your park visits on Texas state parks map.