 ©2006 Publications International, Ltd. The Virgin Islands National Park covers most of St. John Island. See more national park pictures. |
Virgin Islands National Park
1300 Cruz Bay Creek
St. John, VI 00830
340-776-6201
www.nps.gov/viis
Famous for its natural beauty, Virgin Islands National Park covers about three-quarters of St. John and nearly all of Hassel Island on St. Thomas. To get there, visitors can take a 20-minute ferry ride from Red Hook, St. Thomas (the ferry runs every hour). Within the park's borders lie white sandy beaches, crystal blue-green waters teeming with sea life, and tropical forests that grow more than 800 species of plants. Visitors can also explore relics from the Pre-Colombian Amerindian civilization.
Entrance fees: Free
Visitor centers: Virgin Islands National Park Visitor Center is open daily, except December 25.
Other services: One campground
Accommodations: Cinnamon Bay Campground is open year-round. 340-776-6330.
Visiting Virgin Islands National Park
Virgin Islands National Park, a unique national treasure in a beautiful setting, is one of just two national parks that do not lie within the 50 United States. (The other is located in American Samoa.)
Within the park's borders are some 9,000 acres of spectacular Caribbean beaches, forests, and mountains, as well as approximately 5,650 undersea acres and several stunning underwater nature trails. The park encompasses approximately three-quarters of St. John, the third largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands. Visitors will find an incredible diversity of plant life, owing to a huge amount of annual rainfall, as well as the island's exposure to spore-bearing winds.
Take a look at the next section to gather tips for how to enjoy the crystal-clear waters and the tropical forests of Virgin Islands National Park.
Established: 1956 Size: 14,689 acres Terrain: Volcanic island ringed by beaches and coral reefs Highlight: Trunk Bay Wildlife: Brain, star, and staghorn coral; coral shrimp; moray eels; and hundreds of species of fish, birds, and reptiles Activities: Ranger-led hikes, snorkel tours, and interpretive talks; self-guided nature and underwater trails; snorkeling; swimming; boating; and fishing |
