Across the United States (and especially in California), we’re lucky to have an abundance of incredible places to explore, many of them national parks. But not all parks are created equal: some are easier to reach, more affordable, or simply more captivating than others.
To find the top destination for 2026, the vacation rental platform HomeToGo analyzed some of the country’s most iconic national parks. To the delight of Californians, Death Valley claimed the top spot.
America’s best national parks to visit in 2026
To rank national parks in the contiguous U.S., HomeToGo examined three key factors: the median nightly price for nearby accommodations, the likelihood of consistent crowds, and the convenience of travel.
These scores were then combined to create this comprehensive ranking of the best parks for travelers seeking value, space, and accessibility:
- Death Valley, CA/NV
- Petrified Forest, AZ
- Shenandoah, VA
- Everglades, FL
- Great Smoky Mountains, TN/NC
- Sequoia, CA
- Saguaro, AZ
- Yellowstone, WY/MT/ID
- Badlands, SD
- Grand Canyon, AZ
Exploring Death Valley: California’s desert giant
Set in the eastern side of the state, Death Valley spans over 3 million acres as the lowest, hottest, and driest national park in the United States. Its landscape is a dramatic mix of desert basins, high peaks, and colorful formations like Artists Palette, alongside iconic viewpoints such as Zabriskie Point.
Visitors can take long scenic drives, hike trails ranging from the easy Salt Creek Interpretive Trail to the challenging Wildrose Peak, and join ranger-led programs to learn more about the park’s natural wonders. Sci-fi fans and cinephiles will also enjoy spotting Star Wars filming locations scattered across the terrain, adding an extra layer of adventure to every visit.
Beyond natural beauty, Death Valley is surprisingly accessible. Nearby accommodations average just $40.86 per night per person, making it one of the most budget-friendly options for travelers.
