{"id":10219,"date":"2022-11-11T10:01:54","date_gmt":"2022-11-11T10:01:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ultimatehealthreport.com\/9-best-national-parks-to-visit-in-december-local-adventurer\/"},"modified":"2022-11-11T10:01:54","modified_gmt":"2022-11-11T10:01:54","slug":"9-best-national-parks-to-visit-in-december-local-adventurer","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ultimatehealthreport.com\/9-best-national-parks-to-visit-in-december-local-adventurer\/","title":{"rendered":"9 Best National Parks to Visit in December \u00bb Local Adventurer"},"content":{"rendered":"


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Looking for the best national parks to visit in December?<\/em><\/p>\n

Since we live in the Southwest, December is the perfect time to explore nearby National Parks. Some parks in the US turn into winter wonderlands, while others are finally bearable with cooler temps. Minus the holidays, you also get to enjoy the parks with fewer crowds.<\/p>\n

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This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure\u00a0for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.<\/em><\/p>\n

Last Updated: <\/em> November 10, 2022<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

Before we get into it, we want to remind everyone to explore the parks responsibly <\/strong>using the 7 Leave no Trace Principles. Have a plan, stay on established trails, carry out anything you carry in, leave what you find, minimize campfire impact, respect wildlife, and be considerate of others.<\/p>\n

About the National Park by month Series<\/h2>\n

To put together this list, we\u2019ve combined our personal experiences and tips we gathered from locals and cross-referenced them with the weather, accessibility, local forums, seasonal attractions like fall foliage or wildflowers, and special events happening in the area. We also considered any unique adventures only offered at certain times of the year to find the most optimal months to visit each National Park. Phew! that was a lot!<\/p>\n

It took me a whole week of research, but since I\u2019m a maximizer, it was worth having a year-round calendar of adventures (publishing that soon!). Also, check out our complete list of all the national parks and national park units that include soon-to-be national parks.<\/p>\n

We also chose to leave out the hardest-to-access national parks in this series.<\/p>\n

National Parks By Month \u2013 <\/strong> Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec<\/strong> | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul<\/p>\n

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Is December a Good Time to Visit National Parks?<\/span><\/h2>\n

Yes! Though summer is the most popular time to travel, and fall usually has the perfect temps, certain national parks are ideal for visiting in December.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

Plan on visiting more than two national parks this year? Pick up an America the Beautiful annual pass to save money (entrance fees to each park are, on average, $30-35 per vehicle). Plus, you are helping support the Parks that always need funding.<\/p>\n

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19 Best National Parks to Visit in December<\/span><\/h2>\n

To Escape the Cold<\/h2>\n

1. Biscayne National Park, Florida<\/h3>\n

9700 SW 328th St, Homestead, FL 33033, map<\/em><\/p>\n

Average Temperatures:<\/strong> 68\u00b0F \/ 62\u00b0F<\/p>\n

Why Visit:<\/strong> The best weather in Biscayne National Park starts in December, which will make it busier, but the mild temperatures are worth it. Since 95% of the park is in the water, get ready to spend time in a boat or the water. Don\u2019t forget to look out for manatees!<\/p>\n

Best For \/ Top Activities:<\/strong> Swimming, Snorkeling, Fishing, Hiking<\/p>\n

Don\u2019t Miss:<\/strong><\/p>\n

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  • To Do \u2013 Boca Chita Key, Fowey Rocks Lighthouse, Snorkeling, Jones Lagoon<\/li>\n
  • Wildlife \u2013\u00a0Sea Turtles, Manatees, Spiny Lobster, Snapper, Grouper<\/li>\n
  • How many days do you need? 2-3<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    Pro Tip:<\/strong><\/span> 90% of visitors enter the park via boat, so plan accordingly!<\/p>\n

    See Related \u2013 7 Remarkable Things to Do in Key West Florida<\/strong><\/p>\n

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    2. Everglades National Park, Florida<\/h3>\n

    40001 State Hwy 9336, Homestead, FL 33034, map<\/em><\/p>\n

    Average Temperatures:<\/strong> 78\u00b0F \/ 60\u00b0F<\/p>\n

    Why Visit:<\/strong> December is the dry season in Everglades National Park. You get cooler temps, and you\u2019ll find fewer mosquitos, and wildlife will be more active and abundant.<\/p>\n

    Best For \/ Top Activities:<\/strong> Boating, Camping, Kayaking, Bicycling, Fishing, Hiking, Tours<\/p>\n

    Don\u2019t Miss:<\/strong><\/p>\n

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    • To Do \u2013\u00a0Shark Valley, Anhinga Trail, Eco Pond, Snake Bight, Nine Mile Pond<\/li>\n
    • Wildlife \u2013\u00a0Alligators, Raccoons, Opossums, Bobcats, Gray Fox, Leopard Frogs, Roseate Spoonbill, Manatee<\/li>\n
    • How many days do you need? 2-3<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

      Pro Tip:<\/strong><\/span> Since visiting during the dry season is popular, make advanced reservations for camping, lodging, and tours.<\/p>\n

      See Related \u2013 7 Fun Things to Do in Sarasota Florida<\/strong><\/p>\n

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      For the Cooler Temps<\/h2>\n

      3. Death Valley National Park, California<\/h3>\n

      36.4799715,-118.1707461, map<\/em><\/p>\n

      Average Temperatures:<\/strong> 65\u00b0F \/ 39\u00b0F<\/p>\n

      Why Visit:<\/strong> Maybe it\u2019s because we get enough of the scorching heat in Vegas, but I will not touch Death Valley until winter. December is one of the best times to visit Death Valley, with warm temperatures during the day for hikes. At night, temperatures drop significantly, so pack layers. It\u2019s the desert way.<\/p>\n

      Best For \/ Top Activities:<\/strong> Hikers, Backpackers, Scenic Drive, Photography<\/p>\n

      Don\u2019t Miss:<\/strong><\/p>\n

      Pro Tip:<\/strong><\/span> The park is enormous. We were surprised at how long it took to drive from one spot to the next. Give yourself plenty of travel time. Also, keep in mind that the days are shorter in December.<\/p>\n

      See Related \u2013 15 Incredible Things to Do in Death Valley National Park<\/strong><\/p>\n

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      4. Joshua Tree National Park, California<\/h3>\n

      6554 Park Blvd, Joshua Tree, CA 92252, map<\/em><\/p>\n

      Average Temperatures:<\/strong> 61\u00b0F \/ 37\u00b0F<\/p>\n

      Why Visit:<\/strong> We love Joshua Tree in December for the climbing. For those who don\u2019t climb, it\u2019s still a great time to get photos of Joshua trees, rock piles, and epic sunsets. There isn\u2019t as much to do in this park if you\u2019re not into climbing, but it\u2019s worth visiting at least once. When the temps drop at night, it\u2019s perfect for sitting around the campfire if you are lucky enough to get a camping spot.<\/p>\n

      Best For \/ Top Activities:<\/strong> Hiking, Backpacking, Stargazing, Camping, Scenic Drives, Climbing<\/p>\n

      Don\u2019t Miss:<\/strong><\/p>\n

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      • To Do \u2013\u00a0Arch Rock, Cholla Cactus Garden, Halls of Horror, Skull Rock<\/li>\n
      • Wildlife \u2013\u00a0Bobcat, Mountain Lion, Coyote, Gray Fox, Desert Kit Fox, Black Bear, Bighorn Sheep, Desert Cottontail<\/li>\n
      • How many days do you need? 1 or 2-3 if you climb<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

        Pro Tip:<\/strong><\/span> The park gets busier during the cooler seasons, so book your site early if you\u2019re hoping to camp.<\/p>\n

        See Related \u2013 11 Amazing Things to Do in Joshua Tree National Park<\/strong><\/p>\n

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        5. Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky<\/h3>\n

        37.1879181,-86.1028107, map<\/em><\/p>\n

        Average Temperatures:<\/strong> 49\u00b0F \/ 38\u00b0F<\/p>\n

        Why Visit:<\/strong> Winter is the low season at Mammoth Cave, making December the best time to avoid crowds. The cave stays the same temperature year-round (54\u00b0 F or 12 \u00b0C). You\u2019ll get to explore the caves in smaller groups. It will be chilly if you plan on exploring any surface trails, but if you have the appropriate gear, you\u2019ll be good to go.<\/p>\n

        Best For \/ Top Activities:<\/strong> Hiking, Bicycling, Cave Tours, Kayaking<\/p>\n

        Don\u2019t Miss:<\/strong><\/p>\n

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        • To Do \u2013\u00a0Mammoth Cave, Doyel Valley Overlook, Sunset Point, Green River<\/li>\n
        • Wildlife \u2013\u00a0Bats, White-Tailed Deer, Coyote, Black Bear<\/li>\n
        • How many days do you need? 1-3<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

          Local Tip:<\/strong><\/span> They offer fewer cave tours during the winter but don\u2019t book up quickly like they do in the summer.<\/p>\n

          See Related \u2013 Complete National Parks List by State<\/strong><\/p>\n

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          6. Saguaro National Park, Arizona<\/h3>\n

          2700 N Kinney Rd, Tucson, AZ 85743, map<\/em><\/p>\n

          Average Temperatures:<\/strong> 65\u00b0F \/ 39\u00b0F<\/p>\n

          Why Visit:<\/strong> Cool days make December one of the best times to explore Saguaro National Park. If you visit in early December, the crowds are manageable, but the park\u2019s busiest time is between Christmas and New Year.<\/p>\n

          Best For \/ Top Activities:<\/strong> Hiking, Scenic Drive, Photography, Camping, Ranger Programs<\/p>\n

          Don\u2019t Miss:<\/strong><\/p>\n

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          • To Do \u2013\u00a0Valley View Overlook Trail, Cactus Forest Drive, Bajada Loop Drive, Signal Hill Trail, Desert Museum<\/li>\n
          • Wildlife \u2013\u00a0Bats, Bobcats, Javelina, Mountain Lions, Gray Fox, Coyotes, Ringtail<\/li>\n
          • How many days do you need? 1-3<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

            Local Tip:<\/strong><\/span> The park has an East and West portion separated by the city (roughly 30-45 mins). When you plan your trip, take into account where each trail is.<\/p>\n

            See Related \u2013 11 Beautiful Things to Do in Saguaro National Park<\/strong><\/p>\n

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            7. White Sands National Park, New Mexico<\/h3>\n

            19955 US-70, Alamogordo, NM 88310,\u00a0map<\/em><\/em><\/em><\/p>\n

            Average Temperatures:<\/strong> 57\u00b0F \/ 22\u00b0F<\/p>\n

            Why Visit:<\/strong> December is a great time to visit White Sands National Park since it\u2019s a much quieter time of year. You can even camp under the stars but be prepared with cold-weather camping gear since temperatures are freezing at night.<\/p>\n

            Best For \/ Top Activities:<\/strong> Hiking, Bicycling, Backcountry Camping, Photography, Stargazing, Sledding<\/p>\n

            Don\u2019t Miss:<\/strong><\/p>\n

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            • To Do \u2013\u00a0Sledding, Dune Life Nature Trail, Alkali Flat Trail, Playa Trail<\/li>\n
            • Wildlife \u2013 American Badger, Apache Pocket Mouse, Black-Tailed Jackrabbit, Bobcat, Coyote, Kit Fox<\/li>\n
            • How many days do you need? 1-2<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

              Local Tip:<\/strong><\/span> Keep your eye on trail markers when you\u2019re hiking. It can get disorienting very quickly. We found our way back using the direction of the sun setting. It also helps to download an offline version of google maps of the area.<\/p>\n

              See Related \u2013 5 Incredible Things to Do at White Sands National Park<\/strong><\/p>\n

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              For Winter Activities<\/h3>\n

              8. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado<\/h3>\n

              11999 CO-150, Mosca, CO 81146, map<\/em><\/p>\n

              Average Temperatures:<\/strong> 36\u00b0F \/ 12\u00b0F<\/p>\n

              Why Visit:<\/strong> We need to go back to see the great dunes covered in snow during the winter. The park completely transforms, and instead of sandboarding, you can sled or snowboard on the dunes. Snow typically falls once per week on the dunes and mountains in December.<\/p>\n

              Best For \/ Top Activities:<\/strong> Hiking, Sand Boarding, Off-Roading, Stargazing, Photography<\/p>\n

              Don\u2019t Miss:<\/strong><\/p>\n

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              • To Do \u2013\u00a0High Dune, Sand Boarding, Medano Creek, Zapata Falls<\/li>\n
              • Wildlife \u2013\u00a0Mule Deer, Ord\u2019s Kangaroo Rats, Black Bears, Abert\u2019s Squirrels, Pronghorn, Pikas, Elk<\/li>\n
              • How many days do you need? 1-3<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                Pro Tip:<\/strong><\/span> Even though it snows once a week, they clear the roads quickly. Plan your visits during the afternoon for the warmest weather.<\/p>\n

                See Related \u2013 9 Things You Can\u2019t Miss at Great Sand Dunes National Park<\/strong><\/p>\n

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                9. Acadia National Park, Maine<\/h3>\n

                25 Visitor Center Rd, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, map<\/em><\/p>\n

                Average Temperatures:<\/strong> 34\u00b0F \/ 14\u00b0F<\/p>\n

                Why Visit:<\/strong> If you love having a National Park to yourself, December is the time to go. The frigid weather keeps people away, but as long as you dress appropriately, it\u2019s a fantastic time to explore. You also can enjoy winter activities like snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.<\/p>\n

                Best For \/ Top Activities:<\/strong> Scenic Drive, Hiking, Snowshoeing, Skiing, Snowmobiling<\/p>\n

                Don\u2019t Miss:<\/strong><\/p>\n

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                • To Do \u2013\u00a0Ocean Drive, Jordan Pond Road, Thunder Hole, Sand Beach, Beehive, Cadillac North Ridge Trail<\/li>\n
                • Wildlife \u2013\u00a0Moose, Whitetail Deer, Beavers, Seals, Harbor Porpoises<\/li>\n
                • How many days do you need? 1-3<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                  Pro Tip:<\/strong><\/span> Visitor Centers will be closed during the winter, but they do share visitor hours with the Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce. Check what is open before visiting since the park is more limited.<\/p>\n

                  See Related \u2013 15 Breathtaking Things to Do in Acadia National Park<\/strong><\/p>\n

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                  Map of the Best National Parks to Visit in December<\/span><\/span><\/h2>\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n