A curated list of the best books on national parks in the United States. Be inspired, plan your trip, travel in your armchair, reminisce, be entertained …
Your Guide to The National Parks
Our pick for the best national parks book provides both an overview of all the parks and enough information to be able to plan a trip to them. It includes top picks, the best of lists, fun facts, and suggested trips. Then, for each park, there is a snapshot of key information and maps.
It does say 59 instead of 63 parks, but if you are willing to overlook the missing four, this is a frontrunner for the best book on national parks in the US.
100 Parks, 5,000 Ideas
This National Geographic classic also makes our shortlist for the best book about national parks because you can dive into it and gaze at the photos and skim the top lists, fun facts and must-see places, or delve deeper and get some practical information and tips for your trip.
Discover 5,000 reasons to explore US national parks.
America’s National Parks
If you are looking for a picture book of national parks, then look no further. It is quite small for a picture book (8.5 inches x 8.5 inches), but filled with stunning photos of all 62 of the US national parks.
This is one of our picks for the best book on national parks in the US for those who love to do a little armchair travelling before their actual trip.
The Best National Park Guide Book
If you want a US national parks guide book to plan you trip (in addition to this blog of course ;-)) I like the Lonely Planet USA’s National Parks.
Lonely Planet is a reliable brand that I have used for countless trips and while you may wish to get a more detailed guide about a specific park if you are going to just one or two, if you are planning to visit multiple parks, this is a great choice.
The Best Books on National Parks
I love to read books about places I go to, so I have compiled lists of books about national parks for each park. You will find a mix of books set in national parks, picture books and guidebooks. Read them before you go to get inspired and plan you trip; while you are there as a way to bring the place to life; and after your trip as a memento.
About the Author
James Ian is a national park, camping and hiking expert.
He has dedicated his life to travel, visiting more than 80 countries, all 7 continents and most of the national parks in the United States. With over 35 years experience in the travel industry, James has worked on cruise ships, at resorts and hotels, and as a travel planner who’s helped hundreds of people plan successful trips to US national parks.
Based on his experience visiting our national parks multiple times, in-depth research and expertise as a travel planner, James has published detailed itineraries for many of the major national parks in the US. These itineraries, as well as in-depth park guides, and other resources will help you have your own incredible trip to US national parks without stress and hassle.
As a national park expert, James has contributed to many publications, including USA Today, Time Business News, Savoteur, Best Trip, and Wired.
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