U.S. hidden gems: Explore these 10 overlooked national parks

The United States is defined by its expanding frontiers, both culturally and geographically, and the country's iconic national parks, such as Mount Rushmore, the Grand Canyon, and Yosemite, have become symbols of American identity.

With over 400 national parks in the United States—63 of which have earned official national park designations—there are several options for park-goers that offer shorter lines, fewer crowds, and more time to soak in the natural creations unique to the country. For national park enthusiasts, beginning from west to east, these 10 lesser-traveled national parks will perfectly complement any summer travel itinerary.

1. Channel Islands National Park, California: If the stunning coasts of mainland California weren't enough, venture offshore to the Channel Islands National Park. This series of eight islands off the California coast includes encounters with dolphins, whales, and spectacular caves that encircle these beautiful Pacific wonders.

2. White Sands National Park, New Mexico: The glimmering white dunes that cover 275 miles of southern New Mexico are one of the most remarkable creations of the western United States. As a result of the sand-covered gypsum deposits of an ancient, evaporated lake, visitors can sled down the white sands, backcountry camp under a starry night sky, and soak in the park's striking views by cycling, hiking, and simply driving around this pearly oasis.

3. Big Bend National Park, Texas: The biggest state in mainland United States, Texas spans several national parks and geographic wonders in its diverse landscapes of desert, plains, mountains, and coasts. Big Bend National Park, located in the western part of the state and bordering Mexico, enjoys several hot springs, diverse wildlife of coyotes, roadrunners, and foxes, and evidence of dinosaur fossils.

4. Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota: With views of the majestic Black Hills, Wind Cave National Park in South Dakota is home to one of the largest cave systems in the world. Visitors to the park can marvel at its complex cave system, see its six inner lakes, and take in the idyllic scenery of bison, prairie dogs, elk, and other wildlife through camping, hiking, and guided tour activities that transport you into another period in time.

5. Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota: As the creator of the National Park System, it is only fitting that Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th president of the United States, has a national park named in honor of his conservation efforts for the country's public lands. Great for viewing wildlife of deer, horses, bull elk, and prairie dogs, and encompassed by vibrant canyons and the Little Missouri River, camping, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing activities make this a haven for lovers of the outdoors.

6. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida: Florida's surrounding turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico invite nature lovers to witness an incredible display of marine life. Dry Tortugas National Park in the Florida Keys boasts the third-largest reef system in the world, where you can snorkel alongside tropical fish, sharks, sea turtles, and colorful coral. Time spent at Dry Tortugas National Park can make in-country vacationing an exotic experience.

7. New River Gorge National Park, West Virginia: A newer parkestablishedin 2020 to protect the New River Gorge National River, the divine landscape of this West Virginia park is a paradise for adventures and one of the country's best spots for whitewater rafting, fishing, rock climbing, mountain biking, and more. Whether you're in search of an extreme hunting trek or a peaceful afternoon picnic with the family, New River Gorge National Park has it all.

8. Isle Royale National Park, Michigan: Appropriate to its name, Lake Superior is one of the country's most superior views, which can be seen from Isle Royale National Park, an almost-missed group of islands bordering Canada but belonging to Michigan. A trip that combines land and water activities like scuba diving, backcountry camping, canoeing, and simply immersing yourself in the island's scenic wildlife of moose, wolves, foxes, and reptiles, Isle Royale National Park does not disappoint.

9. Cuyahoga National Park, Ohio: A charming river valley in Northern Ohio, Cuyahoga National Park is known for its bountiful hills and dwindling forests that entice visitors to explore several hiking and biking trails and view its several historical sites that tell the story of this rural landscape along the Cuyahoga River. The park features the country's only nonprofit railroad and several waterfalls, including the romantic Brandywine Falls, making the park an excellent choice for a family vacation.

10. Acadia National Park, Maine: Located on Mount Desert Island in the southern waters of Maine is Acadia National Park. Here, you can explore the park's many natural attractions by kayaking, hiking, rock climbing, horseback riding, and more while keeping an eye out for its rich mammal and sea life of foxes, bats, beavers, and seals as you take in the crisp air and dream-like beauty of the Northeast.

From cross-country road trips to weekend getaways, there are plenty of American national parks to add to your summer itinerary, and these overlooked gems are sure to be the highlights of your summer.

Never overlook the importance of wearing a seat belt. They are in the vehicle for a reason, so make sure you and everyone in your vehicle wears them. Buckling up saves lives!