32 Underrated National Parks Perfect for Avoiding Summer Crowds

Think all national parks are overrun by summer crowds? Not even close. While the usual headliners get the glory (and the traffic jams), a different kind of park experience still exists—wilder, quieter, and blissfully uncrowded. We’ve expanded our guide to 32 Underrated National Parks Perfect for Avoiding Summer Crowds—a curated collection of overlooked gems where solitude still reigns. These aren’t just backups; they’re destinations in their own right, offering glacier-fed lakes without the bus lines, canyons without the elbowing, and wildlife encounters that feel personal, not performative. From volcanic ridges to swaying prairie grasslands, each park invites you to ditch the script and discover a version of nature that’s less filtered—and far more freeing. So if you're ready to trade packed parking lots for wide-open trails and rediscover why you travel in the first place, this list is your starting point. Summer is calling—but not where everyone else is going.

1. Lassen Volcanic National Park: A Geothermal Wonderland

Lassen Volcanic National Park in California is a hidden gem that offers an otherworldly experience with its geothermal features. Unlike its more famous counterpart, Yellowstone, Lassen provides an intimate encounter with nature’s fiery forces. The park is home to steaming fumaroles, boiling mud pots, and crystal-clear lakes that reflect the surrounding volcanic peaks. Hiking trails weave through lush meadows and past bubbling springs, offering a peaceful journey through a landscape shaped by ancient eruptions. The park's remote location ensures fewer visitors, allowing you to explore its wonders in relative solitude. In summer, wildflowers blanket the meadows, adding bursts of color to the volcanic terrain. Wildlife such as black bears, mule deer, and a variety of bird species thrive in this diverse ecosystem, providing ample opportunities for wildlife observation in a serene setting.