Are you planning a trip for late spring and wondering which U.S. national parks are at their best in May? You’re in the right place. This guide will take you through some of the top national parks to visit in May—and why they belong on your spring travel list.
May is hands down one of the best months for exploring the U.S. It offers warmer weather, blooming landscapes, and far fewer crowds than peak summer. Plus, prices for flights and accommodations are generally more budget-friendly—at least until Memorial Day weekend hits.
Whether you’re looking for famous parks with iconic views or hidden gems off the beaten path, we’ve curated a list that includes both popular destinations and under-the-radar national treasures. We’ll also share typical May temperatures, the best seasonal activities, and tips to make the most of your visit.
Let’s dive into the best national parks to visit in May.
1. Yosemite National Park – California
May Temps: Highs ~73°F | Lows ~44°F
Why Visit: Peak waterfalls, scenic hikes, perfect camping weather
Yosemite comes alive in May with roaring waterfalls fueled by snowmelt. It’s one of the best months to see iconic spots like Bridalveil Fall and Yosemite Falls in full force.
While snow still lingers at higher elevations, the Yosemite Valley is mostly clear and ready for hikers. Trails like Mist Trail and Lower Yosemite Fall are great this time of year.
Camping options are open, but keep in mind that Camp 4 operates on a first-come, first-served basis and fills up fast each morning. Reserve ahead if you’re aiming for North Pines or Wawona.
2. Saguaro National Park – Arizona
May Temps: Highs ~91°F | Lows ~59°F
Why Visit: Saguaro blooms, desert sunsets, early-morning hikes
Located in the Sonoran Desert, Saguaro National Park protects America’s largest cacti—many of which bloom in May.
Beat the heat by hiking early or at sunset. Family-friendly trails like Valley View Overlook and Signal Hill offer both views and ancient petroglyphs.
Camping is allowed only in the eastern Rincon Mountain District. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch the cactus flowers starting to bloom—one of the desert’s most magical sights.
3. Mammoth Cave National Park – Kentucky
May Temps: Highs ~79°F | Lows ~54°F
Why Visit: Fewer tourists, cave tours, wildflower hikes
Home to the world’s longest cave system, Mammoth Cave is a hidden gem for spring travelers. May offers fewer crowds, making it easier to book popular cave tours like Gothic Avenue or Mammoth Passage.
Explore boardwalk trails like Sloan’s Crossing Pond or take the historic Green River Ferry across the park’s waterway. You can also enjoy backcountry camping and easy hikes with plenty of springtime blooms.
4. Zion National Park – Utah
May Temps: Highs ~69°F | Lows ~42°F
Why Visit: Green canyon views, epic hikes, fewer crowds than summer
In May, Zion transforms into a wonderland of color with red rock cliffs set against bright green trees. Hike to Angels Landing, trek The Narrows, or opt for a quieter path like Watchman Trail.
Start early to avoid packed parking lots, or rent a bike to beat shuttle traffic. With cooler temps, it’s the ideal time for canyoneering or overnight camping under the stars.
5. Glacier Bay National Park – Alaska
May Temps: Highs ~54°F | Lows ~38°F
Why Visit: Glaciers, kayaking, birdwatching season begins
May is one of the driest months in Glacier Bay and a prime time for outdoor adventures.
From kayaking past massive tidewater glaciers to birdwatching over 280 species, this Alaskan paradise is all about the wild. Visit Bartlett Cove for hiking or rent a kayak to explore the remote inlets.
Keep an eye out for puffins, sea otters, and bald eagles along the rugged coastline.
6. Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Tennessee/North Carolina
May Temps: Highs ~71°F | Lows ~45°F
Why Visit: Wildflowers, waterfall hikes, spring festivals nearby
The Smokies are at their finest in May with blooming wildflowers like trilliums and fire pink lighting up trails like Cades Cove and Roaring Fork.
Check out Dollywood Splash Country nearby, which opens in mid-May, or hike to Clingmans Dome for panoramic views. With over 1,500 species of plants, your camera will get a workout.
7. Great Sand Dunes National Park – Colorado
May Temps: Highs ~68°F | Lows ~39°F
Why Visit: Sandboarding, stargazing, mild weather
Home to North America’s tallest dunes, this park offers unique hiking, sandboarding, and epic stargazing.
With cooler temps in May, it’s a great time to climb the dunes or explore nearby Medano Lake. Stay late to catch the Milky Way glowing above the dark desert landscape.
Campsites book fast, so plan early!
8. Isle Royale National Park – Michigan
May Temps: Highs ~57°F | Lows ~39°F
Why Visit: Solitude, hiking, wildlife sightings
This remote national park opens for the season in May and remains one of the least-visited in the country—perfect for solitude seekers.
Take a ferry ride to the island, hike the 43-mile Greenstone Ridge Trail, or paddle through secluded coves. You’ll likely spot moose, foxes, and loons during your visit.
9. Olympic National Park – Washington
May Temps: Highs ~49°F | Lows ~33°F
Why Visit: Waterfalls, rainforests, wildlife
Olympic is diverse in every sense—mountains, coastlines, and rainforests in one park. By May, the rainy season tapers off, making trails like Hall of Mosses and Hurricane Ridge accessible and dry.
Watch for Roosevelt elk and black-tailed deer, and explore tide pools along the rugged coastline.
Accommodations are cheaper this time of year, so book a cozy Airbnb and enjoy the scenery.
10. Voyageurs National Park – Minnesota
May Temps: Highs ~63°F | Lows ~39°F
Why Visit: Quiet lakes, camping, wildlife
Spring unlocks Voyageurs’ network of waterways. Go boating, canoeing, or backcountry camping on Kabetogama or Rainy Lake.
Don’t miss Ellsworth Rock Gardens or the short but scenic Echo Bay Trail. May is the sweet spot before peak summer, offering mild weather and plenty of wildlife sightings.
11. Shenandoah National Park – Virginia
May Temps: Highs ~64°F | Lows ~45°F
Why Visit: Skyline Drive, waterfall hikes, blooming wildflowers
With vibrant wildflowers and misty mountain views, Shenandoah is a springtime dream. Take in the views on Skyline Drive, or hike to Hawksbill Summit and Dark Hollow Falls.
Fewer crowds and cool air make it perfect for long treks or peaceful drives.
12. Pinnacles National Park – California
May Temps: Highs ~78°F | Lows ~41°F
Why Visit: Birdwatching, unique rock formations, cave trails
May is perfect for exploring this lesser-known gem. Try the Bear Gulch Cave Trail or Moses Spring Trail, both offering caves, reservoirs, and stunning rock formations.
Don’t forget your binoculars—this park is a hotspot for spotting California condors and over 200 bird species.
13. Theodore Roosevelt National Park – North Dakota
May Temps: Highs ~69°F | Lows ~40°F
Why Visit: Wildlife, backcountry hiking, wide-open views
Bison, prairie dogs, and wild horses roam freely across this stunning park. Hike trails like Buck Hill or Sperati Point for sweeping views of the Badlands.
May offers mild weather, minimal crowds, and a peaceful glimpse into America’s rugged past.
14. Yellowstone National Park – Wyoming/Montana/Idaho
May Temps: Highs ~53°F | Lows ~28°F
Why Visit: Geysers, fewer tourists, lush spring landscapes
Before the summer crowds roll in, Yellowstone is a serene wonderland. Old Faithful erupts regularly, the Grand Prismatic Spring glows in bright colors, and baby bison roam open meadows.
Don’t miss Fairy Falls, Yellowstone Lake, or the Lamar Valley for wildlife sightings.
15. Guadalupe Mountains National Park – Texas
May Temps: Highs ~67°F | Lows ~50°F
Why Visit: Challenging hikes, low crowds, spring blooms
This rugged Texas park is often overlooked but shines in May. Trails like Guadalupe Peak and McKittrick Canyon offer breathtaking views and wildflowers.
It’s also one of the few parks where you’ll find fossilized reef beds and towering desert peaks all in one place.
Final Thoughts
May is one of the most rewarding times to explore U.S. national parks. With wildflowers blooming, wildlife waking up, and trails opening for the season, you’ll find adventure at every turn. Whether you crave solitude, nature, or bucket-list views, these parks deliver.
What’s your favorite national park to visit in May? Let us know in the comments!