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Located just off the coast of Southern California, between the mainland and the open Pacific Ocean, Channel Islands National Park consists of five rocky islands: Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel and Santa Barbara.

Vast kelp forests surround the islands, providing a refuge and habitat for both the tiniest and the absolute largest animals, from plankton to blue whales.

Other high-profile marine animals include seals and sea lions, dolphins, humpback whales and sharks. The total number of animal species exceeds 2,000, justifying its nickname of “North America’s Galapagos.”

16 Best U.S. National Parks for Wildlife Watching

Even at home, you can see various animals going about their daily lives. Whether you live in a big city or small town, there’s usually a bunch of different birds flying around, while squirrels play in trees and deer forage fields. If, however, you’d like to really focus on the “wild” in wildlife, you should consider visiting these national parks for wildlife watching.

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5 Best National Parks to See Orcas (Killer Whales)

One of the most iconic marine animals in the world, orcas (or killer whales) live in every ocean on the planet. In the United States, they’re a common sight along the West Coast, especially in the Pacific Northwest and Alaska. Check out these top national parks to see orcas in the wild.

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6 National Park Service Sites Near San Diego, California

There are half a dozen National Park Service sites within a half day’s drive from San Diego. Three of those are actual national parks. Joshua Tree, Channel Islands and Death Valley are all easily accessible on a road trip from San Diego, while there’s also an archipelago, national monument and desert preserve to be explored.

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7 Amazing National Parks Near Los Angeles, California

A city famous for its glitz and glamour, celebrities and beach life, Los Angeles is so much more than Hollywood. Few people are aware that just beyond the urban sprawl of L.A., some amazing nature awaits. These seven beautiful national parks offer a fantastic escape from bustling L.A.

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Best USA Island National Parks for Summer Vacations

In total, there are seven national parks in the USA that lie partially or entirely on islands. All but two of them lie in a (sub)tropical region, making them without question the best national parks for summer vacations. The other two, just because of their northerly location, are also best visited in summer.

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