These are the 428 Sites we hope to visit and photograph. They are arranged by state.  

To open a detailed National Park site Click ☞ on the full name in underlined text

Alabama

Birmingham Civil Rights NM, This is a park in progress but still worth a visit to explore a vital topic 3/5

Click ☞ Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument

Freedom Riders National Monument, Partial visit

Horseshoe Bend NMP, The final battle in the Creek Wars took place here. 2/5

Click ☞ Horseshoe Bend National Military Park

Little River Canyon NP, An unusual deep canyon on the top of a mountain range in northeast Alabama. 2+/5

Click ☞ Little River Canyon National Preserve

Russell Cave NM, Occupancy of this cave dates back 10,000 years. 2/5

Click ☞ Russell Cave National Monument

Tuskegee Airmen NHS, Wonderful site, well done museum and really nice, evocative atmosphere. Under enormous pressure these men excelled. Great story. 4/5

Tuskegee Institute NHS, Tuskegee was developed by Booker T. Washington Professor G. W. Carver into an important university. And they did this against great odds. I am sure the school itself was a legacy these two men appreciated but I think the National Park Service could do much better. They deserve more acclaim. 1+/5

Alaska

Alagnak Wild River

Aniakchak National Monument & Preserve

Bering Land Bridge National Preserve

Cape Krusenstern National Monument

Gates of the Arctic National Park & Preserve

Kenai Fjords National Park

Kobuk Valley National Park

Lake Clark National Park & Preserve We flew to Lake Clark on a seaplane, transferred to an airboat and watched bears in the southern boarder of the park. Amazing 4+/5

Noatak National Preserve

Sitka National Historical Park This is a delightful park full of unique native carvings, a great museum and lots to see in the area. One of the cool places was the house of the Russian bishop, quite different and it includes a room where there is still an active Russian Orthodox Church. 4/5

World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument Alaska, California, Hawaii

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve Huge, amazing park. Access is challenging. Loved the mining town of Kennecott and the nearby glaciers. Astonishing scenery. 5/5

Yukon-Charley Rivers National Preserve

American Samoa

National Park of American Samoa

Arizona

Canyon De Chelly National Monument This site is located on Navajo land and so some portions are only available with a local guide. You can travel the road on either side of the canyon and there is a large campground with decent sites. 2+/5

Casa Grande Ruins National Monument This is a small site with a single major ruin but it is of a most ingenious system of canals that you will see no other location in NA. 3/5

Chiricahua National Monument This may soon be a National Park. It is worthy. Great hikes, history, scenery, mountains, streams, unique environment and well worth the effort to this remote park. Excellent campground for smaller units. Highly recommend. 5/5

Coronado National Memorial On the boarder with Mexico, DHS and immigration agents were everywhere. The roads were rough and we only did a couple of hikes. 2+/5

Fort Bowie National Historic Site Stagecoaches, miners, Pony Express, soldiers, settlers, Apache mixed on this section of the Butterfield Stage Road. Everyone was here because of the year-round spring. If you ever watched an old western, you really need to see the real thing. Oh, and it is 1.5 miles walking to the visitor center. Cool. 4/5

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area Arizona, Utah Very diverse area, history, boating and all the usual amenities at lake sides recrecation areas. 3/5

Grand Canyon National Park A place that can take your breath away. My first visit was at age 12 and I sat on the edge of the canyon for several hours just astonished at the scope, the colors and the sense of wonder. I have only been to the Grand Canyon two more times but look forward to again sitting on the rim edge in wonder. 5/5

Grand Canyon Parashant National Monument

Hohokam Pima National Monument (This site is not counted for photo or trips as no public access is allowed)

Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site This site is in Navajo territory. A well-preserved look at a vanished culture. 4/5

Tonto National Monument Prepare for a climb on a paved walkway - lots of up! I was here when the desert was in bloom and it was amazing. 2+/5

Tumacacori National Historical Park An interesting old mission with a beautiful garden courtyard. 2+/5

Tuzigoot National Monument I thought this one of the less interesting of the pueblo ruins, perhaps because I had been to so many but this one did not seem as compelling. 1+/5

Arkansas

Buffalo National River Like many of the National River it is hard to guage the scope and beauty with brief glimpses where roads permit a view. 2/5

Fort Smith National Historic Site This is more interesting as the home of Judge Isaac C. Parker, the hanging judge. You can visit the courtroom, jail and much more. This is the end of the Trail of Tears, across the river the indians were just released. 3/5

Pea Ridge National Military Park A Civil War battlefield far from the main areas of the war in the East. Well preserved. 4/5

California

Cabrillo National Monument One of three monuments in the NPS system to Spanish exploration. Gorgeous setting and stunning views. Lighthouse and cliffs are alone worth the drive. Nice diversity of birds. 3+/5

César E. Chávez National Monument This is a recent park for the NPS system so lots more to develop but still nice small museum with beautiful gardens. Seems a bit more shrine-like than most similar NPS similar sites.2+/5

Castle Mountains National Monument

Channel Islands National Park Weather is a factor in visiting this park. We had to reduce our time significantly because of fog, the boat could not go in the morning. Sadly we only could see one island for 3 hours. Not nearly, remotely enough time. It was beautiful. 5/5

Death Valley National Park I had one day to see a portion of this park and did not think I would need that much time. Wrong. I am anxious to return and would love to spend a week. I did not even see a small portion of the park and what I did was amazing. I cannot still fathom crossing that with a wagon and a mule. 5/5

Devils Postpile National Monument

Eugene O'Neill National Historic Site Wonderful home, wonderful tour. You access it via a bus from the town, very few people make the effort and they are missing a unique experience. 4/5

Fort Point National Historic Site

Golden Gate National Recreation Area We were barely here so I am not rating a place I have been but no explored. Next trip!

John Muir National Historic Site Interesting house, compelling man. What is rather unknown is his absolute faith. Parking is limited. 3+/5

Joshua Tree National Park Writing two sentences about Joshua Tree is like recalling one line of Shakespeare and thinking you know all about his plays. Just go. 5/5

Kings Canyon National Park (This park is now merged with Sequoia National Park as a single unit)

Lassen Volcanic National Park

Lava Beds National Monument

Mojave National Preserve Extensive, hot, dry and to my eyes, largely the same. Still well worth the trip 3/5

Muir Woods National Monument This is very close to San Francisco and hence very popular and crowded. Parking is a nightmare on  a nice day. Not much sense of wild, but still worthwhile. 3/5

Pinnacles National Park I was not enamored of Pinnacles. It did not seem to have the grandeur or scope of a national park. We did two nice hikes, very hot. 2+/5

Point Reyes National Seashore We were unable to do all we intended here. Very strong winds and quite cold, so no hikes! But really neat place. 3+/5

Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial

Redwood National Park A wonder. Mists, trees, seashore, huge ferns, mix of state and national area and where a portion of Star Wars was filmed. 4+/5

Rosie the Riveter/World War II Home Front National Historical Park I was disappointed in this park, just a small, well done, museum with dioramas. The ship, is a separate entry fee and worthwhile for the last one of its type. 2/5

San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park Nice but small collection of vessels on a pier. Neatest part was the restored art deco swim club. 2+/5

Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area This is a massive area north of Los Angelos and I only saw a small portion so no rating.

Sequoia - Kings Canyon National Park Yes, they are big trees. Easy to see why it was hard to believe when the stories first drifted East. Lots more to see and do here, great hikes. King's is sometimes seen as the "other" park and Sequoia the "real" one. Not sure I would agree. KC has great trees, wild rivers, super hikes and miles of wilderness. Loved it. 5/5

Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area

World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument, Tule Unit

Yosemite National Park One of the crown jewels of the continent - do not miss. 5/5

Colorado

Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site This was a trading post not a fort but was constructed for protection if needed. It never was. Largest building from the Mississippi to the Pacific for decades. Extremely well done. The pool table was a remarkable object given the struggle to get it to the post. 4+/5

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park A remarkable gash in the landscape on a high plateau. Not the most accessible of parks, hikes are long and steep. Watched Perrigine Falcons hawking. 4/5

Colorado National Monument Unexpected would describe our visit. We did not even know this place existed and it was quite a wonderful ride along the rim for 20 miles or so with excellent views and short hikes. 4/5

Curecanti National Recreation Area Missing Photo A large area of beautiful places to walk, swim, float et al.

Dinosaur National Monument Visit pre-Photo Days

Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument

Great Sand Dunes National Park

Hovenweep National Monument Colorado, Utah What a surprise - very interesting collection of remains around a deep canyon. Lots to see. 4/5

Mesa Verde National Park   Just a must see park. The idea that they built and lived in these amazing structures is past my comprehension. Also great tours. 4+/5

Rocky Mountain National Park Visit pre-Photo Days

Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site

Yucca House National Monument You simply will not believe this is a park, seriously. Even the ranger at Mesa Verde tried to talk me out of going. Still it is more than a one. 1+/5

Connecticut 

Weir Farm National Historic Site I was enamored with this place. Stone walls, fields of light and flower, heritage buildings, trails, ponds - just bucolic paradise. I did not get a shot worthy of the beauty there, so back again someday better prepared and with more time. Super rangers here as well. 4+/5

Delaware

 First State National Historical Park A mishmash of historic sites that were under state control that collectively provided a National Park site for Delaware. Not sure they deserved it. The Green in Dover is an embarrassment and the home is Lewes is not prepared for anything or anyone yet. The plantation was ok. May revise when we visit the northern units that we are told are much better. 1/5

Florida

Big Cypress National Preserve This is a vast park on the edge of the Everglades. For full advantage you need more than a car. We really enjoyed the Loop Road and all the wildlife we saw. You are in a remote section so not too many services. 3+/5

Biscayne National Park This is a water park with only a bit of land and an island or two. Great, I am told, for snorkeling etc. You can do boat trips here but none during covid when I was here. Still beautiful. 2+/5

Canaveral National Seashore We have only done the southern section and for me that was the birds. Great variety and nice viewing places. I will revise when we get to visit the northern unit. 3/5

Castillo de San Marcos National Monument Wonderful fort in the midst of beautiful St. Augustine. Can't miss. 4/5

De Soto National Memorial   This is a small park and not likely the original site for De Soto's landing. The park has a trail, some reconstructed Indian homes, small visitor center and some cool Gumbo Limbo trees. The walk was nice and saw some neat birds. Decent film at VC. 2/5

Dry Tortugas National Park A cool place to visit 70 miles off Key West. We arrived by float plane. Snorkeling is available and the fort is impressive. 4/5

Everglades National Park Minus the heat and the bugs, this is paradise. Still a great treat especially for birding.4+/5

Fort Caroline National Memorial   1564 French Fort replica with a very sad history. Park has a visitor center, extensive trails, and three parts. 2+/5

Fort Matanzas National Monument   Very interesting small park on the Florida coast. You ride a boat to the fort, nice short ride but feels very remote. Some trails from the main visitor center. Really enjoyed this park with a brief  history. 3/5

Gulf Islands National Seashore A wonderful, beautiful place with miles of beach, old forts, woodlands and swamps. Diverse wildlife and excellent camping. Plus the Gulf 4/5

Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve This is an extensive marsh land and water park covering state parks and wildlife lands. I saw a very small portion mainly the Kingsley Plantation and some of the birds on Little Talbot Island. It shares some of the same property as Fort Caroline NM. 3/5

Georgia

Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, this is just like the other NS Rivers, too hard to really see much. Some hikes here though. 3/5

Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park Georgia, Tennessee This is a large and complex park that encompasses Lookout Mountain and other battlefields and a large tract of land along the river with pre-Columbian heritage. The Civil War sites are a must for anyone engaged in understanding that war and the movies at the VC's are excellent. 4/5

Fort Frederica National Monument Visit pre-Photo Days

Fort Pulaski National Monument

Jimmy Carter National Historic Site

Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park Visit pre-Photo Days

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site This is a must see for the area is rich in the history that spawned much of the 50 and 60’s civil rights movement. And you can visit MLK, Jr’s home. 4/5

Ocmulgee National Monument A fascinating place and well worth the effort to get here. The art deco visitor center is stunning and the actual floor of an ancient meeting place amazing. Nice hikes and easy access to Macon. Very well done museum. 4/5

Guam

War in the Pacific National Historical Park

Hawaii

Haleakala National Park

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Honouliuli National Monument

Kalaupapa National Historical Park

Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park

Pu'uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park

Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site

World War II Valor in the Pacific, USS Arizona

Idaho

City of Rocks National Reserve

Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve

Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument

Minidoka National Historic Site

Nez Perce National Historical Park

Illinois

Lincoln Home National Historic Site Simply because of the stature of our 16th president this is a must visit home. It is also well done and the immediate area is also full of Lincoln memorabilia and museums. 4/5

Pullman National Monument

Indiana

George Rogers Clark National Historical Park The park on the shores of the Wabash River has nothing of the original structures left but the VC and the really impressive domed memorial are well worth your time and effort to get to this out-of-the-way site. The history that occurred here is remarkable. 3+/5

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore With only a brief time at the park -between rain squalls, I did not get a great impression. Sure it changes dramatically on nice summer days. There were also five homes from the Chicago Worlds Fair here all privately owned but cool. Poorly signed park and hard to get find your way around. 2+/5

Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial The highlight of this park is the grave of Nancy Hanks Lincoln and the frieze panels on the visitor center. Not a stellar park from my experience. 2/5

Iowa

Effigy Mounds National Monument

Herbert Hoover National Historic Site Located only a couple of minutes off the interstate this is a great stop. There are original buildings and a few restored. HH's home and church are really neat to see and how he ascended from these modest beginnings to the President of the US is cool. There is also a library. 3+/5

Kansas

Brown vs. Board of Education National Historic Site A must stop for those who value the promise of the Constitution. Well told story. 4/5

Fort Larned National Historic Site You can get a sense of the remoteness of this part of the world even today, hard to imagine how if felt 175 years ago. The soldiers lived better here than some places but it was a lonely, cold/hot windy place. 3+/5

Fort Scott National Historic Site

Nicodemus National Historic Site

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve Open prairie for miles, bison, birds and sky. Grasses over your head. Very neat and unique place. 4/5

Kentucky    

Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park Best thing about this park are the reliefs on the VC and the grave of his mother. Glad to protect the site but not a long stop. 2/5

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park The views from the top are wonderful. What sets this apart is the history that flowed across this pass - generations of people moving West. Lots of trails to walk. 3+/5

Fort Nelson

Mammoth Cave National Park Visit pre-Photo Days

Louisiana

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve Lafitte was a pirate, smuggler and more but as the battle of New Orleans was impending, Jackson granted he and his men pardons to fight on the American side. They were the difference in the battle. The battle site and several more places, swamps and preserves are a part of this NPS unit. 3/5

New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park This park was a major disappointment. Located the Old Mint it is really a state museum (fee) that houses a NPS gift shop. They do sparsely scheduled jazz demonstrations and, apparently some walking tours but none were on the schedule when we were there. 1/5

Maine

Acadia National Park My favorite and most visited park. Accessible hikes, gorgeous coast, deeply scented pine forests, lakes in abundance and close to great food is my ideal place. We have hiked miles of trails and most of the peaks. One more trip and I think we will have all the major peaks done. You need to visit here. 5/5

Appalachian National Scenic Trail Maine to Georgia Stretching for over 2000 miles across multiple states, NPS places it in Maine. We have walked on portions in ME, NY, PA, MD, VA, NC, TN, MA, VT and NH. The photos will be labeled as I find them in the mass of photos because, of course, they are not identified! 4+/5

Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument These are very early photos, anxious to be back here someday. No rating, just opened when we were there.

Saint Croix Island International Historic Site A very small park on the Canadian/Maine border to recall a 1604 settlement attempt. The island is not one you can visit so you view from the shore and see about 7 statues representing various people involved. Enthusiastic ranger, so I upped the score a half. 1+/5

Maryland  

Antietam National Battlefield Evocative views that have changed little from the bloodiest single day battle of the Civil War in September of 1862. Nice place to walk. 4+/5

Assateague Island National Seashore This park encompasses seashore in Maryland and Virginia on the Eastern Shore. The north end is near Ocean City MD the south ends near Chincoteague. This is a stellar place for birding and famous for the wild horses (ie Misty). 4+/5

Catoctin Mountain Park A nice recreation area but hardly worthy of a NPS designation. Would be nice state park but I expect proximity to Camp David is the real reason. 1+/5

C & O Canal National Historical Park Visit pre-Photo Days

Clara Barton National Historic Site

Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine Visit pre-Photo Days

Fort Washington Park

Greenbelt Park

Hampton National Historic Site

Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park

Monocacy National Battlefield Located near Frederick this was a key defensive battle for control of Washington. Nice rural landscapes. 2+/5

Piscataway Park

Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail There are several of these trails in four states, this one is the Great Allegheny Passage - the portion from Falling Waters to Cumberland, MD is where the photos are from. We have been on three other portions but before I was taking photos. For now this will do. 3+/5

Thomas Stone National Historic Site Visit pre-Photo Days

Massachusetts

Adams National Historical Park In Adam's day this was farmland, now decidedly urban with barely enough room left for the three houses. It takes away from what are some of the most historic homes in American history. You board a trolley at the Visitor Center first to one site then the second. Not really enough time -guided tours only with no photographs inside. NPS could do a much better job here and should. 2+/5

Boston African American National Historic Site The school (VC) and the church alone are worth the trip. There are other buildings associated with the unit and the walking tour is informative. 4/5

Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area A number of islands not all accessible all year. Include hiking, views, forts and more. 3/5

Boston National Historical Park If you appreciate early American history you simply must come here. In the midst of urban clammer you will find pieces of our identity. 4+/5

Cape Cod National Seashore A gem of history, culture, scenery, sea, dunes and marsh. Don’t skimp on the time here. 4+/5

Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site Neat house, neater setting. 3/5

John F. Kennedy National Historic Site A modest, by today's standards, very modest home is where JFK was born in 1917. The ranger gave a great tour and the house is so much like many of my friend's homes growing up in Pittsburgh. Very little parking! 3+/5

Longfellow House–Washington's Headquarters National Historic Site Much more interesting than I expected. Very near Harvard so there is much to see in the area as well. Very interesting man, Longfellow, and in his day a most famous and admired man. 4/5

Lowell National Historical Park The park in in the midst of a busy urban setting with large mills all around. This is a slice of history that helped define the industrial revolution. Hearing 10 of the more than 100 machines in one bay of the factory gives a new appreciation of the difficult work that was done here. 4/5

Minute Man National Historical Park A narrow park between Lexington and Concord with many reminders of that deadly day. The call to arms that began the military conflict to determine the independence of the United States 4/5

New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park Interesting area but not really well done at this point. Nice house a bit away from the primary district. VC, Ok, best is the museum but it is not NP, so there is a fee (worth it to us). Mix of shops and buildings. Parking limited - not recommended for RV. 2+/5

Salem Maritime National Historic Site visit pre-camera

Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site Nothing authentic here, makes a nice regional park for school groups. Limited parking, bit hard to get to and not much here when you do. Good story. 1+/5

Springfield Armory National Historic Site Nice collection of interesting weapons. This was an active armory from the Revolution to WWII. Now most of the grounds is a college. 2+/5

Michigan

Isle Royale National Park

Keweenaw National Historical Park

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore On the Eastern shore of Lake Michigan is this very neat park. I imagine it is even better from the lake but enjoyed the views and the sunsets. 3/5

River Raisin National Battlefield Park This park has big plans since being taken over from the state but they are a long way from having much worth the visit. Nice rangers. We were here on Memorial Day and it was a good thing because with no flags there would have been little to see. Nice history lesson, however. 1+/5

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore We arrived here late in the day and watched people climbing up the steep dune from the lake to the top. A strenuous climb. We drove  several miles on unpaved roads to other portions of the park. 2+/5

Minnesota

Grand Portage National Monument

Mississippi National River and Recreation Area

Pipestone National Monument

Voyageurs National Park

Mississippi

Brices Cross Roads National Battlefield Site Little at the site of the park. Lots of land recently acquired so maybe something will be developed. 1/5

Tupelo National Battlefield Very disappointing park. Hard to understand the classification system the park uses. Small, urban clutter, messy, no parking and little to recommend a stop. -1/5

Vicksburg National Military Park Re-visted September 2020, some portions were closed but the overall park grounds were open. 3/5

Missouri

George Washington Carver National Monument

Harry S Truman National Historic Site The site is in the midst of the historic district but with easy access. The house was very interesting as was the one across the street. Other "Harry" sites abound. 3/5

Jefferson National Expansion National Park Visit pre-Photo Days

Ozark National Scenic Riverways

Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site

Wilson's Creek National Battlefield

Montana

Big Hole National Battlefield

Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

Glacier National Park The breadth of the park and the beauty of the lakes and mountains is worth any amount of time you can spend in the park. We did hikes on the west and the eastern sides. Both were stunning. 5/5

Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site We did not know this park existed when we saw the sign on the way from Yellowstone to Glacier. A massive ranching operation from the 1860's to mid 20th century with everything left intact to the Park Service us a step back in time. Spent the day could have spend many more. 4/5

Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument I was unprepared for the emotions I felt visiting this site. Several of the vistas are unchanged from the battle and the tombstones where the soldiers fell just seemed sacred. The tribes who fought here are remembered as well and you must feel sympathy for their desparate attempt to hold on to their way of life. 4/5

Nebraska

Agate Fossil Beds National Monument

Homestead National Monument of America I barely got a photo of this place. We just ran across it no planning involved and I just had gained a camera. No thought of what we are now doing. Restored home typical of the homesteading era and nice visitors center 2/5

Missouri National Recreational River coming soon

Niobrara National Scenic River coming soon

Scotts Bluff National Monument Interesting place rising above the plain in Western Nebraska. You can drive to the top for a nice view, some trails and VC. Highlight for me was the original wagon tracks from the Oregon Trail's countless wagons. 2+/5

Nevada

Great Basin National Park An immense park in eastern Nevada. I think we covered 1%, but that was quite a treat. I think it would be way too hot in the summer, early spring was warm but not hot. Snow kept us from the higher reaches of the mountains. 4/5

Lake Mead National Recreation Area Nevada, Arizona

Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument

New Hampshire

Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site Another of the "that is better than I expected" sites and one of the few dedicated to an artist. He was a sculptor of note and the grounds are wonderful, with some excellent representations of his work and studio as well as his home. A few trails as a bonus. 3/5

New Jersey

Great Egg Harbor Scenic and Recreational River Too small a sample to evaluate

Morristown National Historical Park This was the winter encampment for Washington's army for three years, 1779-1782. It was harsh. He ordered uniform size huts built for every 12 men. One of my ancestors spent the winter here in 1779-80. We arrived late after hours and only had a brief time here so no rating yet.

Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park 

Thomas Edison National Historical Park A treasure trove of inventions and products housed here where Edison lived and worked for years. Where motion pictures and recording among dozens of patents were developed. A place to be in awe of a creative genius. Who worked really hard! 3+/5

New Mexico

Aztec Ruins National Monument 

Bandelier National Monument 

Capulin Volcano National Monument 

Carlsbad Caverns National Park Visit pre-Photo Days

Chaco Culture National Historical Park 

El Malpais National Monument 

El Morro National Monument 

Fort Union National Monument 

Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument o

Manhattan Project National Historical Park New Mexico, Tennessee, Washington

Pecos National Historical Park 

Petroglyph National Monument 

Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument

Valles Caldera National Preserve 

White Sands National Monument A very special place. We were there on a great day, not too much wind - but how unique. The dunes are a soft talc like material that does not hold the heat, brushes off and holds lots of plants. And you can sled on the dunes. Wow. 4+/5

New York

African Burial Ground National Monument Very appropriate to set this aside to commemorate a people who suffered so much. Under some construction restraints when we visited. Not rated

Castle Clinton National Monument Quite disappointed by this site. Basically a portal for Statue of Liberty tickets. A one room display about its 200 year history. Poorly done for what was and should be a special place. 1/5

Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site Fascinating woman and interesting glimpse into her life and work. 3+/5

Federal Hall National Memorial A ranger (Jesse) want out of his way to share some Federal Hall history with us. Appreciated. Nice place and displays. Building is impressive but the original was torn down. 2/5

Fire Island National Seashore 

Fort Stanwix National Monument A reconstruction of the original fort. Built on reclaimed urban land it was completed in 1976, last major NP reconstruction. 2+/5

Gateway National Recreation Area New York, New Jersey

General Grant National Memorial 

Governors Island National Monument 

Harriet Tubman National Historic Site Amazing women and an excellent site to be inspired by her life and work. Still under renovation, visit anyway. 4/5

Hamilton Grange National Memorial

Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site Interesting look at how the upper classes lived in the late 1800's early 1900's. Also the presidential library here is quite nice with lots of WWII information from FDR's perspective. 4/5

Martin Van Buren National Historic Site Authentic site, rural feel with small portion of the original Albany to NYC “Post” road. Nice explanation of an obscure president. 3/5

Saint Paul's Church National Historic Site

Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

Saratoga National Historical Park It seems like more than one battle wants to claim the “one that saved the Revolution” but Saratoga is the best choice, I think. Nice VC, great views, important heritage. 4/5

Statue of Liberty National Monument This is a preliminary perspective as I have not been on the grounds. My photos are from the Staton Island Ferry. Will rate later.

Stonewall National Monument Just four statues in a park at this point, across the street from the Stonewall bar where the protest occurred. 1/5

Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace National Historic Site A typical brownstone on a street that has few left. We were not able to tour inside, so no rating.

Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site

Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site An imposing testament to wealth not personality. Cold. 3+/5

Women's Rights National Historical Park A two building exhibit with a courtyard. Parking is limited. Neat town. Nice museum on site. Rebuilt hall next door. 2+/5

North Carolina

Cape Hatteras National Seashore This is the northern most of the two National Seashores on the Outer Banks. Love the wild feelings of the dunes and the lighthouse is great. 3/5

Cape Lookout National Seashore These are from very early on with a camera. Hope to get some better ones later. Wonderful place 4/5

Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site Beautiful home, nice story and great little town nestled in the Blue Ridge. 4/5

Fort Raleigh National Historic Site Visit pre-Photo Days

Guilford Courthouse National Military Park A revolutionary war battlefield of critical importance in the history of American independence. The site is now encroached by lots of roads, buildings and noise. Not too much to see but worth the trip. Visitor Center was undergoing rebuilding. 2+/5

Moores Creek National Battlefield Small battlefield, large consequence. Not a lot to see here, short walk and decent VC. 2+/5

Wright Brothers National Memorial Single photo from a path on the back side of the park. I was here twice but before I had a camera. This trip they were not open. No rating.

North Dakota

Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site This was a great park and a surprise to us. A beautiful reconstruction of a unique trading post on the upper Missouri River. 3+/5

Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site 

Theodore Roosevelt National Park Very nice slice of both historical and natural landscapes and wildlife on this large park. The northern unit is even more remote with expansive views and nice hikes. Good drive across much of the park and some easy, scenic trails. 4/5

Ohio

Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument Unfinished, unprepared and not extremely interesting. The Buffalo Soldiers were intriguing but this park is not ready. 1/5

Cuyahoga Valley National Park Very brief stop, two photos, not yet rated

Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park Surprise, two days and still more to see. The park has several units and the adjacent Wright Patterson AFB museum is a must. I found the Huffman Prairie Flying Field was a treat that I did not know existed. The Wright Flyer III at the restored village was awe inspiring. I had to read the newish book by David McCullough on the Wrights. Their story is inspiring. 4+/5

First Ladies National Historic Site

Hopewell Culture National Historical Park Strictly for heritage reasons 2000 year-old mounds ought to be preserved and for some people these are likely very special. I tried to catch the ranger's enthusiasm but failed. 1+/5

James A. Garfield National Historic Site

Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial

William Howard Taft National Historic Site

Oklahoma

Chickasaw National Recreation Area

Oklahoma City National Memorial

Washita Battlefield National Historic Site Located in Western Oklahoma off the main travel routes but worth the detour. Includes Black Kettle Grasslands and a nice visitor center with a history walk across the homestead efforts in the area. A moving walk across a portion of history that is not marked by honor. Black Kettle and his wife were among the victims here. Custer will meet a similar fate in a few years. 3/5

Oregon  

Crater Lake National Park America's deepest and purest (and bluest?) lake. Stunning views anywhere along the rim drive. Nice shorter hikes and a boat ride if you wish. 4/5

Lewis and Clark National Historical Park Visit pre-Photo Days

John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve

Pennsylvania 

Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site Way more interesting than I expected. Amazing engineering across the mountains. 2+/5

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area Visit pre-Photo Days

Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site

Eisenhower National Historic Site  In addition to the tour of an interesting and beautiful mid-century home (though the house is much older) you get an  insightful look into DDE. Excellent 4/5 

Flight 93 National Memorial My grandson and I stopped here on our way to the vintage car races in Pittsburgh. There is a lot of work underway on the site but what is there is enough to be a place for reflection. 2+/5

Fort Necessity National Battlefield Visit pre-Photo Days

Friendship Hill National Historic Site Visit pre-Photo Days

Gettysburg National Military Park I have been here dozens of times since I was a kid. My first book purchased with earned money was American Heritage's Civil War. It is a constantly moving experience to walk these grounds. A very well preserved battlefield and the cemetery made famous by a short speech is a must for anyone. Take time to travel to the less known spots and walk off trials. I also recommend you hire one of the highly trained guides. 5/5

Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site Interesting rural village centered around an iron furnace and forge. Master’s home, tenant homes, store and industrial buildings in a bucolic setting. 3/5

Independence National Historical Park Birthplace of an ideal, symbols of the country, crowded and a bit of a zoo-like atmosphere but still, look at what you are seeing! Also go to the American Revolution Museum near, not NPS but so well done. 4/5

Johnstown Flood National Memorial Visit pre-Photo Days

Middle Delaware National Scenic River

Steamtown National Historic Site If you like steam trains, wow. Good history of RR and steam power. Would love to see more extensive model layouts! 3+/5

Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memoria

Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River Late evening visit to a small portion of the park. No rating

Valley Forge National Historical Park A park that is steeped in the story of America's beginning. Yet it is but one of the winter encampments and it was not the worst camp the soldiers endured. That is not to say it was easy. Here is where the citizens became an army. Headquarters is a really nice building and the VC movie is excellent. 4+/5

Puerto Rico

San Juan National Historic Site

Rhode Island

Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park

Roger Williams National Memorial City park with VC on one corner and a monument at the spot where the spring was that marked the place to build. Little here 1/5

South Carolina

Charles Pinckney National Historic Site This is a small remnant of one of Pickney’s plantations. The house is 1830’s but not his. Minimal time park 2/5

Congaree National Park Another edition of “why is this a national park?” They call it a flood plain, I think it - and the mosquitos agree, is a swamp. Some charm I suppose. 1+/5

Cowpens National Battlefield An open, clear understandable battlefield that gives a great sense of the tactics and results of this critical fight. Views not significantly changed since the battle. 3+/5

Fort Sumter National Monument More than one site for this complex. Fee for the water ride to Sumter but other parts are accessible and free. Nice VC at and great history at Fort Moultrie as well. 3+/5

Kings Mountain National Military Park This was an intriguing battle of the "over the mountain men" and a complete victory for the Americans. The park is heavily wooded, nice trail and VC has an OK film 3/5

Ninety Six National Historic Site Well preserved park with outlines of original siege and fort lines, a reconstructed smaller fort and the outlines of the original town. Well presented information and interesting little town nearby. The walk is well done, nice view of the original roads that converged here. 3/5

South Dakota

Tennessee

Andrew Johnson National Historic Site This is in Greenville a rather neat old town. His tailor shop and two homes are here along with a small museum and burial ground. Worth a stop. 3/5

Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

Fort Donelson National Battlefield A beautiful setting for an important battle of the Civil War. Nice walks, views and two resident eagles! Earthen works fort is pretty well visible. 3/5

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Tennessee, North Carolina Books are written on the GSMNP so three sentences are more than inadequate. Trails, bears, waterfalls, forests, mists, mountain heritage, rushing streams, boulders, vistas, balds, flowers, trees, people, structures, isolation and crowds. Go. 5/5

Manhattan Project NHP coming soon

Obed Wild and Scenic River coming soon

Shiloh National Military Park (also Mississippi) A horrific battle occurred in this pastoral setting - a sentence that could be used often regarding the Civil War. Well preserved and a bit confusing. Don't miss the Corinth, Mississippi portion with it's great visitor center and fountain. 3+/5

Stones River National Battlefield This was an important battle about which I knew very little. Once on site I recalled reading about the "slaughter pen' but did not realize where it was located. The park has some life size cut-out figures that place the combatants in perspective. 3+/5

Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail, Tennessee (see also Mississippi) We have traveled the NTNST only one time from beginning to end, what a great trip. We have done portions of the trail three for four other times and always find great places to stop and hike or just nice views to contemplate. There are some free campgrounds on the Trace that are very nice. 4/5

Texas

Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument

Amistad National Recreation Area

Big Bend National Park

Big Thicket National Preserve

Chamizal National Memorial

Fort Davis National Historic Site

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Lake Meredith National Recreation Area

Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park

Padre Island National Seashore

Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park

Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River   

San Antonio Missions National Historical Park We arrived in San Antonio the day all the National Parks were closed because of a budget impasse in DC. (!!!) However we were most fortunate because these missions are still active Catholic parishes they were unable to shut them down. Yea. We were able to visit all five Very interesting era of history. 3+/5

Waco Mammoth National Monument

Utah

Arches National Park Superlative park, nice campsites, close to town with good restaurants, wonderful hiking, unique views and lots to do. 5/5

Bryce Canyon National Park This is a park you only really can appreciate by hiking at least some distance into the canyon. Striking, surreal formations everywhere. 4+/5

Canyonlands National Park Huge park with much of it accessible by four-wheel or hiking. We did not take full advantage of the time there and storms were rolling in. 3+/5

Capitol Reef National Park Large portions were closed by flooding on our visit so hiking was limited. We did pick apples, eat wonderful pie and do three shorter hikes. Need to return because we were unable to hike on the trials we had planned. Lots of history here as well. 4/5

Cedar Breaks National Monument

Golden Spike National Historic Site

Natural Bridges National Monument

Rainbow Bridge National Monument

Timpanogos Cave National Monument

Zion National Park pre camera visit

Vermont

Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park Vermont's only NPS site. Why? It is interesting but not more than most of the amazing mountain scenery. Also the farm that is adjacent is not part of the park and is an additional fee area. 2+/5 

Virgin Islands

Buck Island Reef National Monument 

Christiansted National Historic Site 

Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve 

Virgin Islands National Park 

Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument

Virginia

Appomattox Court House National Historical Park Visit pre-Photo Days

Arlington House, The Robert E. Lee Memorial Beautiful and inspiring home of the Lee's now the centerpiece of the National Cemetery 4/5

Blue Ridge Parkway Virginia, North Carolina Superlative in every way. Remote hikes, crowded spaces, waterfalls, excellent birding, mountain culture and hundreds of miles of no traffic light driving on top of the world. 5/5

Booker T. Washington National Monument Visit pre-Photo Days

Cedar Creek and Belle Grove National Historical Park Visit pre-Photo Days

Colonial National Historical Park Virginia If you are remotely interested in American history this is more than a must visit. The Colonial parkway links Jamestown Island with Yorktown Battlefield, both keystone events in the life of America and each can absorb a full day or more. In between, though not a NPS site is Colonial Williamsburg. And there goes another week. 5/5

Fort Monroe National Monument Only recently decommissioned as an active fort this site is full of history and promise. 3/5

Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park I once lived quite close to the Wilderness and Spotsylvania parks but I did not take photographs then. These two from Fredericksburg are a downpayment! The three parks have a lot to offer but you need to spend time driving to the various locals. 3+/5

George Washington Birthplace National Monument A nice and surprisingly rural setting along the Potomac River on the Northern Neck. Original home long gone but the park is nice. 3/5

George Washington Memorial Parkway Visit pre-Photo Days

Great Falls Park A neat place minutes from ultra urban DC and million dollar plus homes yet feels remote. Powerful falls. 3/5

Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site Mrs. Walker was a pivotal figure in African-American history in Richmond and beyond. A remarkable woman with amazing accomplishments, The home is modest but not for the era. Nice visit but remember parking is very limited. 3/5

Manassas National Battlefield Park Lost photos

Petersburg National Battlefield Park Critical battle leading to the final defeat of the Confederacy. Known for the “Crater.” 2+/5

Prince William Forest Park Lost photos

Richmond National Battlefield Park A series of battles over the course of the Civil War occurred around the region. Cold Harbor, Seven Days and more. There is the iron works downtown that is a VC too and a hospital complex and several monument and the Hollywood Cemetery (not NPS) that ought to be a part of a tour here. 4/5

Shenandoah National Park SNP is outstanding but I do not understand why it is separate or why the Blue Ridge Parkway is a distinct park They share the same road and the same mountains. Shenandoah is the northern end of the contiguous park and beautiful. 4/5

Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts Visit pre-Photo Days

Washington

Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve This area celebrates historic farms many in the same families for generations. The nice scenery coupled with amazing vistas and surrounded by water is a great place to walk and relax. 3+/5

Fort Vancouver National Historic Site Nice site with reconstructed fort. Also first Army air field. 2+/5

Lake Chelan National Recreation Area

Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area

Mount Rainier National Park A visually impressive mountain in the midst of an incomparable wilderness creates an experience that can take your breath away. Also, if you stay or eat on property it will take your funds away quickly. Extraordinary. 5/5

North Cascades National Park This park is mostly wilderness and we only saw a small portion. We hiked a 9 mile round trip up a mountain. Springs, waterfalls, snowfields (in August) and mountains as far as we could see. Love it. 4+/5

Olympic National Park Visit pre-Photo Days

San Juan Island National Historical Park

Whitman Mission National Historic Site Interesting locus point for missions, Oregon Trail and beautiful scenery despite the terrible end. 3/5

Washington DC

Belmont-Paul Women's Equality National Monument Across from the capitol this was the headquarters of the movement to secure the right to vote for women. Limited hours and no parking at the site. 3+/5  

Capitol Hill Parks A series of more than 60 small parks scattered around DC and parts of Maryland ranging from overlooked to interesting, usually with a statue 2/5

Carter G. Woodson Home National Historic Site 

Constitution Gardens Extensive and beautiful areas surrounding the Tidal Basin and more incorporating several monument sites too. 3/5

Dwight David Eisenhower Memorial

Ford's Theatre National Historic Site There is a museum in the basement and the theatre is still an active venue, so the stage, lighting etc, is not period. Still, seeing where an amazing man's life was cut short by other's evil choices is somber. What would have been the reconstruction effort if it were lead by Lincoln? Don't miss this. 4+/5

Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial This is series of vignettes from FDR's presidency. We visited during the day and at night, very moving at night. Worth the walk. 3+/5

Frederick Douglass National Historic Site 

George Washington Memorial Parkway Visit pre-Photo Days

Korean War Veterans Memorial A rather small memorial, not unlike the way the war seems to be considered today. For these men and women it was anything but small. The statues feel cold, appropriately. 4/5

Lincoln Memorial No one should miss taking a few minutes in the cathedral that is the Lincoln Memorial. Read it all, slowly. 5/5

Lyndon Baines Johnson Memorial Grove on the Potomac 

Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial I think they could have done better by MLKjr. There is much more to the story but still glad it is here. Love the quotes. Better at night.  3+/5

Mary McLeod Bethune Council House National Historic Site 

National Capital Parks There are 59 of these, we have been to about 15 including Fort Foote where several of the photos were taken. No rating.

National Mall I have only one photo so far not sure why this is a separate unit but it is. 1+/5

Pennsylvania Avenue National Historic Site Pennsylvania Avenue is accorded NPS site status. Not sure I understand the reasoning but maybe has to do with protection of the avenue. 1/5

Rock Creek Park Visit pre-Photo Days

Theodore Roosevelt Island Visit pre-Photo Days

Thomas Jefferson Memorial The standing Jefferson is spectacular. 4/5

Vietnam Veterans Memorial For my generation this is hallowed ground and the volunteers try to keep it that way. Don't miss the two statues. 4/5

Washington Monument One of the most recognized structures in the world. But it often is not open. It dominates many viewpoints in DC. 2+/5

White House I think this most recognized of houses is being changed by the NPS to “The Presidents House” but by any name worth a visit, especially the interior. 4/5

World War I Memorial Authorized in 1920 they still are arguing where to build it. Really. So the DC WWI and the Pershing are stop gaps while they bicker. 1+/5

World War II Memorial Not as unified feeling as some monuments in DC but compelling if you spend the time to read and know some of the history. The wall of stars is so moving. 3+/5

West Virginia

Bluestone National Scenic River Difficult to get to the river. You have long, dirt, rutted roads or a tram for most access. Or travel by water. 2+/5

Gauley River National Recreation Area Visit pre-Photo Days

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park This is a park that does not seem to deliver what it promises, something seems missing. But I like the buildings, location and sense of history just not sure what it is that puts me off a bit. I have been here several times and usually poor weather, so maybe it is just that simple. 2+/5

‘New River Gorge National River Visit pre-Photo Days

Wisconsin

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway Wisconsin, Minnesota

Wyoming

Devils Tower National Monument An impressive sight made up of scores of '“columns” and dominating the landscape. Nice trails and a beautiful river complete the scene. 4/5

Fort Laramie National Historic Site Most interesting to me because of scores of old Western movies I watched growing up. It seemed so remote and exotic. The fort is well worth the trip but not a lot of time is need to see the park. 2+/5

Fossil Butte National Monument

Grand Teton National Park We barely scratched the surface of this park with a half-day in the area. I will rate it later but I loved the cabin where the shoot out occurred. 

Yellowstone National Park This was one of the first places I took photographs and they in no way begin to suggest how wonderful the park is = maybe unless your name is Adams, none do. We did see every large mammal in the park from moose to grizzly to wolf to big horn to buffalo and m Miss