Find your perfect park for an Independence Day celebration

People seated on white sand dunes at sunset, sky glowing in orange and pink hues.

NPS

If you want to listen to crickets instead of fireworks this Independence Day, or you're looking for a way to meaningfully connect with the nation's history, look no further than these national park sites. Parks provide opportunities to spend quality time with loved ones. Many parks also tell the stories of our nation, preserving cultural sites, telling the stories of those who came before, and connecting us to the traditions that continue to be practiced today.

Here are some family-friendly outdoor destinations for the perfect Independence Day weekend—or summer getaways. Plus, check out our list of parks that are great options for those wanting to know more about America's complex history.

Couple watching the moon, surrounded by nature scenes and park landscapes.

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Family-friendly Fourth of July destinations

From outdoor adventures to urban getaways, these parks are perfect for Fourth of July travel.

White Sands landscape with a vibrant sunset and cloudy sky.

White Sands National Park

White Sands is a dog-friendly, kid-friendly park with beautiful hikes and fun sandboarding opportunities amongst the otherworldly gypsum dunes. This time of year, plan your adventures to avoid the heat of the day, and be sure to hydrate well.

White sandy beach with two people, blue sky, and calm sea.

Monique Stevens / NPS

Channel Islands National Park

Camp, hike, kayak, and swim at Channel Islands National Park. With wildlife viewing opportunities on the ferry ride over, island foxes to spot at camp, and the seaside city of Ventura so close by, this park is a great summer destination.

Man paddling blue canoe on calm river, surrounded by trees.

Henry Baldwin/NPS

Big Thicket National Preserve

Paddle three water trails, hike through swampy forests, spot unique flowers and species, and enjoy Junior Ranger programs at Big Thicket National Preserve. The park also has opportunities for backcountry camping and fishing.

Historic stone arches with plants and blue sky.

Courtesy of NPS

San Antonio Missions National Historical Park

Explore four historic missions or take a hike or bike along the Riverfront at San Antonio Missions. San Antonio has plenty of Fourth of July activities, such as outdoor markets and an Independence Celebration at The Alamo.

Saguaro National Park

Experience the Sonoran Desert's beauty by hiking early in the day or by the light of the moon. Saguaro offers family-friendly ranger-led morning hikes that introduce visitors to the flora and fauna found here.

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Connect with history at these national parks

Nicodemus National Historic Site

Nicodemus is the oldest and only remaining African American settlement west of the Mississippi River. Each July, the joyous Homecoming Emancipation Celebration honors the history of this special place.

Field of American flags in front of infantry barracks at Fort Scott under a clear blue sky.

Fort Scott National Historic Site

Enjoy living history programs, tours of the fort, and more opportunities to connect with the past at Fort Scott's Independence Day weekend celebration.

Aerial view of Frijoles Canyon amid green trees and a winding path.

Bandelier National Monument

Attend a cultural demonstration at Bandelier and visit the many Indigenous heritage sites found at this high altitude park.

NPS/Luther Bailey

Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial

Port Chicago is a World War II and Civil Rights movement site. Port Chicago is a World War II and Civil Rights movement site. Each year near tragedy's anniversary, the park holds a solemn memorial ceremony focusing on the disaster’s significance.

Fort Davis and the Trail to Civil Rights

Fort Davis National Historic Site

Summer visitors to Fort Davis can hike nearby trails, visit 20 historic structures, and follow a soldier's daily routine through an immersive sound presentation.

Fort Larned National Historic Site

Fort Larned hosts several events over Independence Day weekend, including historical demonstrations, kids' activities, and a lecture series about life in the 1800s.

Native American Rugs and Jewelry at Petroglyph National Monument

Learn about the beautiful and intricate tradition of Diné (Navajo) weaving at this special event, presented by Hubbell Trading Post staff at Petroglyph.

Plan your perfect park trip

Looking for a park closer to you, or want to get inspired for your own unique national park trip? Check out park events, use our park finder tool, or check out our many itineraries.