The National Park Service logged 311,985,998 recreation visits to national parks in 2022. That number has steadily trended upward since the first data was recorded in 1904.
And there's a good reason for the draw these places have: the national parks in the United State give visitors access to stunning natural beauty, areas of historical significance, and a place where people can connect deeply with culture and the environment.
How old is the National Park System?
The federal government established Yellowstone in 1872, technically making it the first national park in the country. The Department of the Interior held the reins as new parks and monuments were added over the years. But it wasn’t until 1916 that President Woodrow Wilson created a new bureau within the Department of the Interior: The National Park Service. When he signed the Organic Act into law, it marked the beginning of a new era in conservation.
What is the origin of the National Park Service arrowhead?
The National Park Service had to go several decades without an official logo. It wasn’t until 1949 that landscape architect Dudley Bayliss won $50 for designing a logo using the initials NPS. But that design wasn’t ever put into service.
Something didn’t feel quite right about the new logo to National Park Service historian Aubrey Neasham, who told the director at the time that the logo should really be an emblem to stand for what the park service does. From that conversation, the idea changed hands a few more times, until Herbert Maier, the father of the parkitecture style, brought the arrowhead design to life in 1951.
Incorporating culture and nature in one design between the mountain range, arrowhead, sequoia tree and bison, the logo embodies the mission of the National Park Service. Today, the agency still aims to preserve, “unimpaired the natural and cultural resources and values of the National Park System for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations.”
What is the most visited national park?
In 2022, Great Smoky Mountains National Park had the most recreational visits of any national park, with nearly 13 million people visiting during the calendar year.
Yellowstone ranked seventh on this list, with nearly 3.3 million visitors. And that’s on a relatively low visitation year. In 2021, it set records with the highest number of visitors ever recorded coming through its gates and ranked third in the nation for visitation. Almost 4.9 million people came to Yellowstone in 2021. Fortunately, the park holds over 2 million acres for visitors to share.
Yellowstone Country Map
Embark on a journey through Yellowstone Country with our interactive map—your virtual gateway to an enchanting tapestry of natural wonders and charming communities.
Discover the rich history, heritage, and abundant adventures of the gateway communities surrounding Yellowstone National Park. From the quaint shops and outdoor activities to the local eateries and accommodations, our interactive map offers a comprehensive guide to help you discover the unique charm and attractions of each destination. Start exploring today and let the map be your compass to unforgettable experiences in this remarkable region.