It’s been more than two years since West Virginia’s New River Gorge earned its status as America’s newest national park. Since then, outdoor recreation has only gained momentum in popularity. Across the U.S., the National Park Service manages over 400 sites, yet less than 20% (63) carry the prestigious designation of national parks, equipped with the infrastructure to handle heavy visitation. However, 20 states remain without a national park.

National parks bring significant advantages. They can stimulate regional tourism and attract federal resources for preserving vulnerable land and ecosystems. “You want to ensure public access and the protection of the resources,” says Kristen Brengel, senior vice president of government affairs at the National Parks Conservation Association.

So, where could the next national park be? The U.S. is brimming with potential candidates, though designations require congressional legislation. Factors such as infrastructure, like roads and restrooms, and strong local advocacy play critical roles. With a combination of local and federal support, these sites could become the next national treasures.

Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park, Georgia

The ancient mounds at Ocmulgee offer a vivid glimpse into over 17,000 years of Indigenous history. As the ancestral homeland of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, this site has strong local support and bipartisan backing in Congress. “We know that our ancestors are buried in this land, and national park status would establish protections,” says Tracie Revis, director of advocacy for the Ocmulgee National Park & Preserve Initiative. A national park designation would safeguard these lands and deepen appreciation for their historical and cultural significance.

Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, Idaho

Idaho’s rugged landscapes, including the otherworldly Craters of the Moon, remain underrepresented in the national park system. With lava flows, cinder cones, and lava tube caves, the site has long been a topic of discussion for national park status. Its unique geological features could finally put Idaho on the map for outdoor enthusiasts.

Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, Maine

Home to untouched forests and the largest moose population in the Lower 48, this site showcases Maine’s wilderness. Katahdin Woods and Waters offers over 87,000 acres of pristine landscapes and could ease the strain on nearby Acadia National Park. A re-designation would expand access to its mountains, rivers, and bogs while conserving its ecological beauty.

Chiricahua National Monument, Arizona

Known as the “Wonderland of Rocks,” this labyrinth of stone spires and hoodoos has been home to the Chiricahua Apache Nation for generations. With bipartisan support in Congress, the site is a strong contender for national park status. Such a designation would also create opportunities for collaboration between the National Park Service and the tribes tied to the land.

Shawnee National Forest, Illinois

Spanning nearly 289,000 acres, Shawnee’s forests, wetlands, and canyons are among the most ecologically diverse in the Midwest. Advocates highlight its rich botanical heritage, including plant species dating back to prehistoric eras. A national park designation would offer stronger protections against logging and showcase Illinois’s unique landscapes.

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, New Jersey and Pennsylvania

This scenic stretch of the Middle Delaware River, framed by the Appalachian Mountains, is rich in geological and cultural history. Fossilized reefs and ancient archaeological sites highlight its prehistoric significance. A national park designation could boost regional tourism and provide further protection for this historic and ecologically important area.

Tongass National Forest, Alaska

The world’s largest intact temperate rainforest, Tongass, is a haven for wildlife, including bald eagles, moose, and bears. Recent federal protections have halted logging and road construction across much of the forest. A national park designation would ensure sustainable access while preserving this lush ecosystem.

Each of these candidates represents a piece of America’s rich natural and cultural heritage. As the push for more national parks continues, these sites stand ready to become the country’s next iconic destinations.