Dunes are natural landforms that are formed by the accumulation of wind-blown sand, and they can be found in many national and state parks throughout the United States. These parks offer some of the most unique and spectacular dune landscapes in the country and are popular destinations for hiking, sightseeing, and outdoor activities. Some examples of national and state parks that preserve dunes include:
- Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve in Colorado: Great Sand Dunes is known for its towering sand dunes, which can reach up to 750 feet high and are the tallest dunes in North America.
- Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Michigan: Sleeping Bear Dunes is known for its beautiful and diverse dune landscape, including large sand dunes, wetlands, and forests.
- Cape Cod National Seashore in Massachusetts: Cape Cod is known for its picturesque dunes, beaches, and lighthouses.
- Indiana Dunes National Park in Indiana: Indiana Dunes is known for its diverse ecosystems, including 15 miles of sandy beaches, wetlands, prairies, and forests.
- Jockey’s Ridge State Park in North Carolina: Jockey’s Ridge is known for its huge sand dunes that can reach up to 100 feet high.
- Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area in Oregon: Oregon Dunes is known for its large and dynamic dune landscape, including forests, wetlands, and lakes.
These are just a few examples, but there are many other national and state parks throughout the United States that preserve dunes. These parks offer unique and spectacular landscapes and are popular destinations for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Many of these parks offer hiking, backpacking, camping, and sightseeing opportunities, visitors should be prepared for the challenging terrain and the natural hazards such as shifting sands.
