10 US National Park Crime Stats & Spooky Secrets

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10 US National Parks With Shocking Crime Stats & Spooky Secrets!

Have You Ever Wondered What Lurks Behind the Beauty of National Parks?

Did you know that even America’s most breathtaking national parks hide unsettling secrets? Imagine exploring majestic landscapes only to stumble upon shocking national park crime statistics, eerie disappearances, and spooky stories from national parks that will give you chills. In this post, we dive into the 10 US National Parks with the highest reported crime numbers (2020–2024). I’m Chuck from American Travel Fun, and I’m here to share both fascinating facts and crucial national park safety tips to ensure your adventure remains as secure as it is thrilling.

National Park Safety: Are These Parks Really Safe?

While US National Parks remain among the safest destinations, understanding the risks can enhance your trip. Whether you’re asking, “Is it safe to visit Yosemite?” or planning your next adventure, knowing what to expect is key. From theft and vandalism to mysterious ghost legends, a little extra vigilance goes a long way.

The List: From #10 to #1

10. Olympic National Park, Washington

• Annual Visitors: 2.5–3 million

• Crime Reports (2020–2024): Approximately 5 to 900

• Top Crimes: Theft, traffic violations (including DUI and vandalism)

• Estimated Risk: 1 in 3,000 to 6,000

Did you know? At Lake Crescent, a waitress named Hallie Illingworth vanished in 1937 and was found three years later. Her near-freezing preserved body (via saponification) has given rise to a ghost story that still haunts the area. Learn more about National Park history at the NPS.

9. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, NC/TN

• Annual Visitors: 12–14 million

• Crime Reports (2020–2024): 2,000–3,000

• Top Crimes: Theft, larceny (especially in parking lots), traffic violations, and vandalism

Quick Tip: With such high visitation, always secure your belongings—especially when asking, “Is it safe to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park?”

8. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

• Annual Visitors: 3–4 million

• Crime Reports (2020–2024): 700–1,200

• Top Crimes: Theft, larceny, traffic violations; plus wildlife incidents like unauthorized feeding and harassment

• Estimated Risk: 1 in 25 to 5,700

Note: Enjoy the wildlife from a safe distance—no carrot offerings to wild critters, please!

7. Arcadia National Park, Maine

• Annual Visitors: 3.5–4 million

• Crime Reports (2020–2024): 800–1,500

• Top Crimes: Theft, larceny, traffic violations (including DUI), vandalism, and property damage

• Estimated Risk: 1 in 2,300 to 5,000

Remember: Respect the park’s natural beauty and historic sites—leave no mark behind!

6. Denali National Park Preserve, Alaska

• Annual Visitors: 400,000–600,000

• Crime Reports (2020–2024): 500–900

• Top Crimes: Theft, larceny, traffic violations, vehicle incidents, and vandalism

• Estimated Risk: 1 in 500 to 1,200

Safety Reminder: Rugged terrain and icy roads call for extra caution when planning your visit.

5. Yosemite National Park, California

• Annual Visitors: 3.5–4 million

• Crime Reports (2020–2024): 1,200–2,000

• Top Crimes: Theft, larceny, traffic violations, vandalism, and property damage

• Estimated Risk: 1 in 1,700 to 3,300

Pro Tip: Always lock your car and secure your valuables among those giant sequoias. Ask yourself, “Is it safe to visit Yosemite?” when you see those high visitor numbers.

4. Zion National Park, Utah

• Annual Visitors: 4–5 million

• Crime Reports (2020–2024): 1,300–2,200

• Top Crimes: Theft (especially from vehicles and lodging), traffic violations, and vandalism

• Estimated Risk: 1 in 1,800 to 3,800

Heads-Up: Even in paradise, a little extra security goes a long way. Lock up and stay alert.

3. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

• Annual Visitors: 4–5 million

• Crime Reports (2020–2024): 1,500–2,500

• Top Crimes: Theft, larceny, traffic violations (including DUI), and vandalism

• Estimated Risk: 1 in 1,600 to 3,300

Insider’s Note: With its breathtaking vistas, ask yourself, “Is it safe to visit Rocky Mountain National Park?”—vigilance is key to keeping your adventure hassle-free.

2. Yellowstone National Park, WY/MT/ID

• Annual Visitors: 4–5 million

• Crime Reports (2020–2024): 1,800–2,800

• Top Crimes: Theft (from vehicles, cabins, campsites), traffic violations (including DUI), and disorderly conduct

• Quirky Fact: Yellowstone boasts a “zone of death”—a tiny area in Idaho where forming a jury trial is nearly impossible because no one lives there!

Action Step: Secure your gear whether you’re at a campsite or staying in a cabin.

1. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

• Annual Visitors: 4–5 million

• Crime Reports (2020–2024): 2,500–3,500

• Top Crimes: Theft, larceny (especially from vehicles), and vandalism (including damage to trail signs and historical sites)

• Estimated Risk: 1 in 1,100 to 1,800

Final Reminder: At the top of our list, extra caution is key. Keep doors locked and valuables secure for a worry-free visit.

How to Stay Safe in National Parks

Safety is paramount when exploring these natural wonders. Here are some essential national park safety tips:

• Lock Your Vehicles: Always secure your car doors and store valuables out of sight.

• Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Whether you're wondering, “Is it safe to visit [Park Name]?” or not, stay vigilant in crowded areas.

• Plan Ahead: Check current park advisories and news reports before you visit.

• Respect Wildlife: Observe animals from a distance and never feed them.

• Secure Your Accommodations: If staying overnight, ensure your cabin or lodging is properly secured.

For more travel safety insights, check out our posts on travel scams:

• Travel Scams 2025: Avoid These Frauds & Stay Safe

• 2025 Travel Scams Part 2: 10 Additional Scams and How to Protect Yourself

For further tips on how to prepare for a safe national park visit, stay tuned for our upcoming post on How to Prepare for a Safe National Park Visit.

For more detailed information, visit the National Park Service website.

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National Parks offer more than just scenic beauty—they’re a treasure trove of unexpected stories, fascinating data, and yes, even a few spooky secrets. While crime statistics remind us to stay cautious, they don’t detract from the wonder of these natural marvels. With a little planning and attention to national park safety, your adventure can be both thrilling and secure.

Thanks for reading! Stay curious, stay safe, and most importantly—have fun!

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