Being a National Park is the highest honor a park can reach-- it’s generally reserved for only the most awesome of US natural areas. While new National Parks are always being considered (Pinnacles National Park achieved the top title most recently), there are occasionally parks that lose their National status as well. Here’s our tribute to the B-list, former National Parks!
Former name: General Grant National Park
Established: 1890
Disbanded: 1940
General Grant enjoyed a long run as a National Park, but it was eventually absorbed into Kings Canyon National Park. General Grant can’t feel all that bad though – they did name a tree after him!
Former name: Platt National Park
Established: 1906
Disbanded: 1976
It was once on top as Platt National Park, but now it’s known as the Chickasaw National Recreation Area. The name is not nearly as epic-sounding, but it still features the same natural, outdoor awesomeness that Platt was known for.
Former name: Sullys Hill National Park
Established: 1904
Disbanded: 1931
Apparently, Theodore Roosevelt created a lot of National Parks, like this one, which is now Sullys Hill National Game Preserve. It and Mackinac are the only two to no longer even be under the control of National Parks Services. Major demotion!
Former name: Mackinac National Park
Established: 1895
Disbanded: 1975
This island went from National Park to Mackinac Island State Park within 20 years- but it must have been good while it lasted! Vehicles are still banned here, so bring your best walking shoes and take in all the natural beauty.
Former name: Fort McHenry National Park
Established: 1925
Disbanded: 1939
Even though it’s no longer a National Park, it got re-designated with a very special official name: “Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine“. Pay tribute to the fort that inspired the National Anthem!
Former name: Abraham Lincoln National Park
Established: 1916
Disbanded: 1939
This park, honoring the one and only Abe Lincoln, got a serious (and wordy) downgrade. It’s now known as the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historic Park.
