Top 8 National Parks for Spending and 3 Money-Saving Tips for Your Next Adventure

A vacation to a national park is often considered an affordable alternative to major cities, theme parks, or other typical tourist attractions. However, it may surprise you to learn that visitors spend a significant amount of money visiting these natural wonders each year. In 2023, the most recent year for which data is available, visitors spent $26.4 billion, with this number steadily increasing over the years until 2020 when the pandemic halted most travel plans.

The spending isn't evenly distributed across all states, however. California, for example, saw visitors spend nearly $3.2 billion in 2024, while the state with the lowest spending was New Hampshire, where visitors spent only $1.7 million. Here's a look at the top eight states where national park visitors spend the most:

1. California: $3.2 billion
2. North Carolina: $2.6 billion
3. Utah: $1.9 billion
4. Alaska: $1.5 billion
5. Virginia: $1.5 billion
6. Tennessee: $1.4 billion
7. Arizona: $1.2 billion
8. Wyoming: $1.1 billion

And here are the specific national parks where visitors spend the most money:

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park: $2.2 billion
2. Golden Gate National Recreation Area: $1.5 billion
3. Blue Ridge Parkway: $1.4 billion
4. Grand Canyon National Park: $768.4 million
5. Grand Teton National Park: $738.0 million
6. Zion National Park: $676.0 million
7. Cape Hatteras National Seashore: $644.0 million
8. Yellowstone National Park: $623.3 million

So, how can you save on your next national park vacation? Here are some tips:

Drive Instead of Fly: Driving to your national park vacation can save significant money on airfare, especially if you're traveling in a group or with your family. It also eliminates the need to rent a car at your destination, another hefty expense. Stock up on road trip snacks and other necessities before the drive to avoid overpriced rest stop food, and make sure you have the correct toll pass for the region to save money on state highways.

Invest in an America the Beautiful Pass: The best way to save on a parks vacation, especially if you're taking a tour of multiple parks, is with an America the Beautiful Pass. One annual pass costs $80 and provides entry for one vehicle or four individuals, plus standard daytime amenities. If you're traveling with someone aged 62 or older, they can snag the pass for $20 or secure a lifetime pass for $80, which comes with 50% off some amenities, including camping.

Consider Camping: There's no better way to get closer to nature than by camping at a national park or recreation area. While there are upfront expenses such as a tent, sleeping bags, a grill, and other camping gear, once you invest in these items, you can use them for many years. Campsites are almost always less expensive than hotels situated near national parks, and the memories you'll make around a campfire with your family are priceless.