In 1872, Yellowstone National Park was established as the world’s first national park. There were 37 national parks in the United States when President Woodrow Wilson signed legislation to create the National Park Service on August 25, 1916. Today, there are over 400 national and state parks throughout the country and each one tells an important part of the American story. Some commemorate notable people and achievements, others conserve magnificent landscapes and natural wonders, and all provide a place to have fun. Our national parks are majestic, beautiful, and sacred.