These 6 National Parks Have All the Beauty Without the Crowds.

So, you're planning an outing with the family this summer and you've chosen to tour some of the best national parks the United States and Canada have to offer. However, you cringe at the thought of the crowds you are about to encounter and the accompanying lack of privacy. Don't despair. If solitude is your thing, these six parks may just be the answer:

1. Arches National Park. Not as well-known as its sister parks, Bryce Canyon and Zion, this southern Utah beauty boasts endless sandstone arches. Hiking is a favorite activity at Arches because of the landscape. Be sure to check out Landscape Arch, the largest in the park, as well as Delicate Arch.

2. Badlands. Truly a marvel of nature, Badlands offers two or three experiences in one park. Not only do you see beautiful buttes and canyons, but also there is the vast prairie land to experience. Because of the lay of the land, you're sure to see wildlife ranging from bison to coyotes.

Big Bend. This western Texas beauty is so named because of the giant bend in the Rio Grande River. Because of the river, there is no shortage of activities to satisfy any water enthusiast. River rafting, kayaking, and canoeing are ideal ways to enjoy the stunning views that all 800,00 acres have to offer.

4. Biscayne National Park. What makes Biscayne so unique is the fact that it is accessible almost exclusively by boat. The park, 25 miles from Miami, is part of a coral reef. That means if you enjoy viewing marine life, you'll feel right at home here. The crystal clear waters make it very easy to spot all kinds of fish and stingrays. Fishing, hiking, and camping are other favorite activities made easy since the park is made up of over 40 keys.

5. Cape Breton Highlands. Located in Nova Scotia, Canada, Cape Breton was once home to Alexander Graham Bell. The uniqueness of Cape Breton is its accessibility all year long, whether its frolicking on the beach in summer, skiing in winter, or hiking in the fall. The many hiking trails offer stunning views of the coastline, the plateaus, and the wonderfully green highlands.

6. Congaree. This South Caroline gem is considered the oldest floodplain forest in North America. It boasts of 75 species of trees and a variety of animals which can be viewed from just about anywhere in the park. It's also one of the youngest, earning its place as a national park in 2003.

So if you're looking to experience the excitement of camping without the headache associated with large crowds, these places are for you. These six lesser-known gems will provide you with hours of enjoyment, not to mention memories that will last forever.