Spring Packing List for National Parks

There are many US National Parks to visit in the spring. Once you pick the destination, you’ll have a better idea of what you’ll need to pack. When it’s time to start packing for your trip, use our spring packing list for National Parks.

You’ll definitely want to know what weather and temperatures to expect for the national park you’ll visit, especially in the spring. That way you can still enjoy the outdoors even if the conditions aren’t ideal.

It’s important to pack layers for your spring US National Park vacation because the weather and temperatures can change quickly. We recommend packing at least one base layer, a mid-layer, and an outer layer.

In addition to layers, you also need to consider footwear, accessories, skincare products, and gear for hiking or other outdoor activities.

This US National Parks spring packing list is fairly comprehensive, and you may not need every item depending on your type of travel and the things you will do, so make modifications as needed.

GRAB A COPY OF THE PACKING LIST BELOW!

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Spring Packing List for National Parks

The spring packing checklist is fairly comprehensive, and you may not need every item depending on your type of travel, things you will do, or the weather conditions when you visit. Make modifications to the lists as needed.

You’ll want to research the weather, region and elevation of the parks you’ll visit to help when packing for your spring trip. When visiting US National Parks in the spring weather can be unpredictable any time of year, so be sure to check the forecast and pack accordingly!

Pack and wear layers for the cool mornings and evenings you’ll find in the spring. It’s usually a rainy, and sometimes snowy, time of year at many locations so be prepared for storms that may quickly roll in unexpectedly.

National Park Spring Packing Checklist

Here are the items we consider packing for a spring vacation to US National Parks based on location and expected weather.

The America the Beautiful Annual Pass

The US National Park Pass is a good deal, especially if you’ll be visiting more than one park during the year. It’s valid for one year from the date of purchase. For the most current information on passes, reference the National Park Service website.

There are many options for US citizens:

• Senior Pass if you’re over 62
• Military Pass
• 4th Grade Pass

The pass has one signature line for a single passholder. The pass covers the passholder and all occupants in a personal vehicle. Or it can cover the passholder and up to three additional adults. The passholder will need to show photo ID each time the pass is used.

Adults are ages 16 and over. Children ages 15 or under are admitted free. Check the National Park Service website for the most current pricing information.

Daypack Items for National Park Outdoor Activities in the Spring

A daypack helps you carry everything you need from snacks, water, first-aid kit, to your camera for capturing amazing winter landscapes.

• Refillable water bottle or hydration pack
• Healthy snacks
• National Park Maps
• Sunscreen
• Lip balm 
• Hand lotion 
• Sunglasses
• Toilet paper (carry out in a bag – do not bury)
• Disposable urination device & feminine hygiene products
• Hand sanitizer 
• First aid kit
• Bags to pack out trash

Hiking Gear for National Parks in the Spring

When it comes to planning your spring hiking trip, having the right gear can make all the difference. With unpredictable weather and colder temperatures in the mornings and evenings, your equipment needs to not only support your adventure but also handle the elements.

• Waterproof hiking shoes
• Darn Tough socks – the BEST socks ever – really!
• Trekking poles
• What to Bring on a Day Hike
• Hiking Gear and Tips for Kids
• Photography Gear for Hiking
• Best Cameras for Hiking

Clothing for National Parks in the Spring

Wicking is important for any clothing that touches skin. The awesome thing about wicking fabric is it pulls moisture (sweat) away from you and moves it to the fabric’s outer surface, where it can dry quickly.

This type of clothing lets you break a sweat without feeling clammy or chilled. It’s all about the LAYERS when doing outdoor activity.

• Wicking, quick-drying clothing
• Fleece jacket is a staple clothing item for outdoor adventure! 
• Rain jacket
• Brimmed sun hat

Camera Equipment For Spring Travel to National Parks

The right camera accessories can make all the difference to enhance the quality of your captures and make your photographic journey more enjoyable.

Rain or snow is a possibility in the spring depending on the location of the park in the US. Be sure your camera bag has a weatherproof cover and carry a cleaning kit, microfiber cloths, and a rain sleeve for your camera!

Your spring landscape photography gear should include:

• BEST compact travel cameras
• Camera bag
• BEST travel tripods
• Memory cards
• Extra batteries
• Camera cleaning kit
• Rain cover for your camera

Camera Gear at B&H Photo

Other Gear to Pack for Visiting US National Parks in the Spring

• Cell phone
• Portable charger
• Blister balm – you won’t need this if you wear Darn Tough socks (just sayin’)
• Medications

Download and print the SPRING NATIONAL PARK PACKING LIST to use over and over! Simply click the graphic below to get your free copy!

National Park Spring Vacation Ideas

• US Southwest National Parks in the Spring
• California National Parks in the Spring
• Utah National Parks in the Spring
• Grand Teton National Park in the Spring
• Yellowstone in the Spring

CLICK TO SHOP FOR US NATIONAL PARK GUIDES & MAPS