George Catlin, an artist who traveled throughout North America in the 1800’s, was one of the first people to be concerned about the westward expansion impact on the beauty of the land being destroyed.  He felt that only the government could protect the land and Native Americans by creating a national park.

The popularity of this belief gained national recognition and in 1872 Congress established Yellowstone National Park.  This designated public lands to be authorized by the federal government for all to enjoy.  The foundation of the system began with President Woodrow Wilson creating the National Parks Service in 1916.

In 1933 by Executive Order, the National Park Service was established to maintain the lands. This transferred the 63 national monuments and military sites from the Forest Service and the War Department to the new service that included areas of beautification, historical, scientific and cultural importance.

Finally in 1970, under the General Authorities Act, Congress made known that all units have legal standing in the national system.

"though distinct in character, are united through their inter-related purposes and resources into one national park system as cumulative expressions of a single national heritage; that, individually and collectively, these areas derive increased national dignity and recognition of their superb environmental quality through their inclusion jointly with each other in one national park system preserved and managed for the benefit and inspiration of all people of the United States..."

Congress now generally makes additions to the National Parks System to add any national parks.Currently there are 376 areas covered by the National Parks System throughout the United States and its holdings. All areas are protected in accordance with the acts of Congress.