Jake Cain is an entrepreneur and writer from Cincinnati, Ohio. He spends his free time driving around the country in his late 90’s conversion van, affectionately known as the “Monster Van” with his wife and 3 boys.
If you’re planning a getaway to the great outdoors in May, you’re in for a treat. As spring blooms and the weather warms up, national parks across the United States come alive with breathtaking vistas, vibrant wildflowers, and plenty of thrilling outdoor activities.
From the towering peaks of Glacier Bay National Park to the iconic sandstone features of Arches National Park, May offers the perfect window to explore some of the best national parks in their prime.
Whether you’re an avid hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply seeking a serene nature retreat, May is an ideal time to pack your bags and hit the trails. Join us as we unveil the top national parks to visit this May in North America, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure in the midst of nature’s most spectacular show!
Great Sand Dunes National Park
Great Sand Dunes National Park is a top pick for a May visit, with its perfect, warm weather, exciting activities, and phenomenal scenery. The mild temperatures in May range from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, making it ideal for outdoor adventures like hiking and sandboarding.
One of the highlights of visiting this park in May is the peak flow of Medano Creek, offering opportunities for water play and relaxation on its sandy shores. The park also bursts into a colorful display of wildflowers during this time, creating an awesome sight against the backdrop of the sand dunes.
With fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season, May offers a more serene experience, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the park’s natural beauty.
Great Sand Dunes National Park is a must-visit destination in May, offering a perfect blend of weather, activities, and natural wonders for an unforgettable outdoor adventure, so don’t leave this park off of your list!
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a fantastic park to visit in May. With mild temperatures, the weather is perfect for outdoor activities. The park’s wildflowers are in full bloom, creating a colorful landscape that’s perfect for hiking and camping.
May also offers great opportunities for wildlife viewing, as animals like black bears, deer, and elk are active and visible. Enjoy fishing? You’re in luck, because fishing is excellent in May, with clear mountain waters teeming with trout.
Plus, with fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season, you can enjoy a more peaceful experience on the park’s hiking trails, campgrounds, and picnic areas. Don’t miss the chance to explore the beauty of Great Smoky Mountains National Park in May!
Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
Are you looking for an incredible national park to visit in May? Look no further than Cuyahoga Valley National Park!
One of the top draws of Cuyahoga Valley National Park in May is the ideal weather. With temperatures averaging between 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s the perfect time for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking.
May also offers an abundance of activities in the park. The Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail is a must-visit, with its scenic views of the Cuyahoga River and historic canal, perfect for biking or hiking.
The park boasts numerous waterfalls, including the majestic Brandywine Falls, which are at their peak flow in May thanks to the spring rains. Wildlife enthusiasts will also be delighted by the chance to spot deer, foxes, and various bird species that call the park home.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a fantastic destination to visit in May, with its pleasant weather, diverse outdoor activities, rich cultural heritage, and a chance to escape the summer crowds. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this hidden gem and create unforgettable memories in Cuyahoga Valley National Park!
Redwood National and State Parks
If you’re dreaming of an awe-inspiring adventure in nature, the Redwood National and State Parks should definitely be on your radar for a visit in May!
The lush greenery of the park is in full bloom during spring, creating a beautiful and vibrant backdrop for your adventures.
The park also offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy in May. Hiking is a must-do, with miles of hiking trails that meander through the towering redwoods. Camping, picnicking, and wildlife viewing are also popular activities, with the chance to spot elk, deer, and a variety of bird species that call the park home.
May is also a fantastic time to experience the unique natural phenomena of the park. The dense fog that often rolls in from the nearby coast creates a mystical and enchanting atmosphere, adding to the otherworldly beauty of the redwood forests. The fog can add a touch of mystery and magic to your explorations, creating unforgettable memories.
With their mild weather, abundance of activities, and one-of-a-kind natural phenomena, Redwoods National and State Parks are an incredible destination for the month of May. Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring glory of the redwood forests and create unforgettable memories in Redwoods National Park!
Saguaro National Park
May is one of the best months to visit Saguaro National Park. With a mild temperature, visitors can enjoy the park without feeling overwhelmed by the heat.
The park has a plethora of activities to offer visitors in May, including hiking, bird watching, and stargazing.
The cacti, which are the highlight of the park, are in full bloom during this time of year, making for an impressive sight. In addition to the stunning scenery, the park also hosts various events and workshops, including wildflower walks and guided hikes.
Visitors can also learn about the park’s history and culture through the various programs offered. May is also a great time to visit because the crowds are smaller than during peak season, allowing visitors to explore the park with more freedom.
Overall, May is a great time to visit Saguaro National Park, offering visitors a unique and memorable experience in the heart of the Sonoran Desert.
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park is a splendid destination that offers travelers a marvelous experience. May is the perfect time to visit the park, with its temperate climate and smaller crowds.
During this month, temperatures are usually between 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit, making it an ideal season for outdoor activities like hiking and camping. The park’s many hiking trails, including the Rim Trail and Navajo Loop Trail, provide stunning views of the park’s distinctive rock formations, known as “hoodoos.”
In addition, stargazing in Bryce Canyon is a must-see activity due to the clear skies and minimal light pollution. Springtime in the park brings an increase in wildlife activity, such as mule deer and pronghorns.
May is also the ideal time to visit Bryce Canyon National Park before the peak summer tourist season, allowing for more tranquil exploration with fewer people.
Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, May is the ideal time to visit Bryce Canyon National Park and immerse yourself in its natural splendor.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
May is a perfect time to visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park for its pleasant weather, unique volcanic landscapes, and cultural heritage.
The park tends to be less crowded in May, allowing for a serene experience. With mild temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to mid-70s Fahrenheit, it’s comfortable for outdoor activities.
Visitors can witness captivating volcanic activity up close, explore diverse landscapes, and attend ranger-led programs to learn about the park’s geology and culture. Hiking is another popular activity, offering incredible vistas of volcanic landscapes and coastal panoramas.
The park’s unique biodiversity, including unique bird species, vibrant flowers, and endemic plants that thrive in the park’s volcanic soils, is also on display in May.
Don’t hesitate! Experience the wonders of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park in May.
Yosemite National Park
May is a perfect time to visit Yosemite National Park! The waterfalls are at their peak flow, the temperatures are mild, and many trails and scenic roads are open.
Camping is enjoyable with thinner crowds, so it’s a perfect time to pitch a tent, roast marshmallows by the campfire, and stargaze in the clear night skies.
For photography enthusiasts, May provides unique opportunities to capture the park’s beauty. The spring blooms paint the valley with colorful wildflowers, and the waterfalls create splendid long-exposure shots
The park is less crowded compared to summer, allowing for a more relaxed experience. It’s a great time for hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, and capturing the park’s awe-inspiring beauty. Don’t miss the chance to experience Yosemite National Park in May and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime!
Mesa Verde National Park
May is a fantastic time to visit Mesa Verde National Park! The weather in May is typically mild, with average temperatures ranging from 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
The park’s famous cliff dwellings, which are the main highlight of the park, are open for exploration in May, providing a rewarding opportunity to step back in time and marvel at the ancient Puebloan civilization that once thrived in the area.
In May, the park’s flora comes to life with colorful wildflowers blooming across the landscape, adding a splash of vibrant colors to the rugged desert terrain. The mild weather also makes it an ideal time for camping, with campgrounds offering pleasant temperatures for sleeping under the stars.
One distinctive event that takes place in May at Mesa Verde National Park is the annual “Mug House Walk.” This guided tour offers visitors a chance to explore the Mug House, one of the most well-preserved cliff dwellings in the park, and learn about its history and significance from knowledgeable park rangers.
Additionally, May is a shoulder season at Mesa Verde National Park, which means fewer crowds and shorter lines, allowing you to fully appreciate the serenity and tranquility of this ancient cultural site without the hustle and bustle of peak tourist season.
May is an excellent time to visit Mesa Verde National Park, so grab your hiking boots and camera, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in this remarkable archaeological wonderland!
Hot Springs National Park
With mild weather and thinner crowds, Hot Springs National Park is a must-visit destination in May!
In May, the park offers a wide range of activities to enjoy. You can take a leisurely hike along the scenic trails that meander through the park, immersing yourself in the tranquil beauty of the surrounding forest.
The park also offers guided tours that provide insights into the rich history and cultural significance of the area, including the historic bathhouses and the healing properties of the thermal springs.
May is also a great time for wildlife viewing in Hot Springs National Park. The park is home to various species of birds, including colorful warblers, as well as deer, squirrels, and other native wildlife that become more active during the spring months.
One particular feature of Hot Springs National Park in May is the annual “Valley of the Vapors” music festival. This multi-day event showcases a diverse range of live music performances in the park, providing a fun and festive atmosphere for visitors to enjoy while surrounded by the park’s natural beauty.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation, outdoor adventure, or cultural experiences, Hot Springs National Park should definitely be on your list of the best national parks to visit in May. So pack your sunscreen, put on your hiking shoes, and get ready for an unforgettable trip to this gem of a park!
Glacier Bay National Park
May is an ideal time to visit the impressive Glacier Bay National Park as it offers wonderful opportunities for outdoor activities and awe-inspiring sights.
In May, the weather in Glacier Bay National Park starts to warm up, with comfortable temperatures ranging from 40 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes it a perfect time for activities such as kayaking, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The park’s waters are also less icy compared to other months, allowing for better access to its imposing glaciers.
May is also a great time for wildlife viewing in Glacier Bay National Park. As the park comes alive with the arrival of spring, you can spot a variety of wildlife, including whales, sea lions, seals, bears, and a wide array of bird species. The park’s pristine wilderness provides a unique opportunity to observe these animals in their natural habitat.
For adventure enthusiasts, May is the perfect time to explore Glacier Bay National Park’s remote backcountry. The park offers a range of backcountry camping and hiking opportunities, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rugged wilderness and experience the park’s striking beauty up close.
With its dramatic glaciers, unspoiled wilderness, abundant wildlife, and mild weather, Glacier Bay National Park is a true gem to explore in May. So, pack your camera, binoculars, and sense of adventure, and get ready for an unforgettable experience in this Alaskan wilderness!
Theodore Roosevelt National Park
May is the perfect time to visit Theodore Roosevelt National Park! The mild weather, ranging from 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit, makes it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
May is a great time to explore the park’s diverse landscapes, from the rugged badlands to the lush valleys. You can take a beautiful hike along the scenic trails that wind through the park, taking in the beguiling views of colorful rock formations, deep canyons, and sweeping grasslands. Wildlife viewing is also excellent in May, with a chance to spot bison, deer, prairie dogs, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.
Camping is popular in the park during May, with serene campgrounds for tent or RV camping. Visiting in May allows you to beat the summer crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience. So, pack your hiking boots, bring your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Theodore Roosevelt National Park!
Arches National Park
May is a fantastic time for outdoor enthusiasts to visit Arches National Park! With pleasant weather, averaging 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s perfect for hiking and exploring iconic sandstone arches such as Delicate Arch and Landscape Arch.
The trails are less crowded compared to peak summer months, allowing for a restful experience. In addition to hiking, May is also a great time for stargazing in Arches National Park. The clear skies and cooler evenings provide excellent conditions for observing the night sky and enjoying the park’s dark sky designation.
Camping at Devils Garden Campground is an option in May, providing a chance to fully experience the gorgeous desert landscape.
So, if you’re looking for a thrilling adventure in a stunning desert landscape with pleasant weather, less crowded trails, and stargazing opportunities, Arches National Park in May should be on your must-visit list! Don’t forget water, sunscreen, and your camera to capture the awe-inspiring beauty of this natural wonderland!
Shenandoah National Park
May is an incredible time to explore Shenandoah National Park! The weather is typically mild, with average temperatures ranging from 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit, making it perfect for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.
You can hike the park’s picture-perfect trails, including the famous Appalachian Trail, and take in extraordinary views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. May also brings an abundance of wildflowers in bloom, adding vibrant colors to the park’s landscapes.
Wildlife is also active during this time, with plenty of opportunities to spot deer, black bears, and more. Camping is available at several campgrounds in the park, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Shenandoah. Plus, with fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months, you can enjoy a more peaceful experience.
So, if you’re seeking a nature getaway with mild weather, stunning vistas, and opportunities for hiking and camping, be sure to put Shenandoah National Park on your must-visit list this May!
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