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. Located in southern Utah, the stunning sandstone arches are an amazing scene. Two not to be missed are Delicate Arch and Landscape Arch, the latter of which happens to be the park’s largest. Because of the terrain, hiking is the main activity of choice.

2. Badlands. South Dakota’s Badlands National Park is truly a marvel of nature. Amid the wandering bighorn sheep and bison, you’ll notice the vast prairies along with the buttes and canyons. It truly does feel like two parks (or three) in one.

3. Big Bend. Located on more than 800,000 acres of west Texas land, Big Bend was named for the enormous bend in the Rio Grande River. Speaking of which, if you visit, you’ll want to raft the river for an experience no amusement park thrill ride can match. This is the perfect place for water enthusiasts, who can canoe and kayak in addition to the rafting experience.

4. Biscayne. Primarily accessible by boat only, Biscayne National Park is located about 20+ miles from Miami as part of a coral reef. Anyone with a love of marine life will feel right at home viewing the many varieties of fish, turtles, stingrays and more in the crystal clear waters. Many of the keys that make up the park are perfect for fishing, camping, and hiking.

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.