Top 10 National Parks In Israel

national parks in israel
Shruti
Shruti 
Published
| 4 min read

The national parks and nature reserves of Israel are some of the country’s most popular attractions, not only because of their history but because of their significance in the world. Though the country is small in boundaries, it prides itself on being home to a vast variety of nature reserves, wildlife, and unique species of plants. With so many parks to explore, as a tourist, it might get overwhelming when it comes to identifying which park to choose. If you like reading history and geography and you have a fascination for archaeology, a visit to these national parks is a must! In this article, we share information on the top national parks in Israel that you must visit at least once in your lifetime. Keep reading to learn more.

1. Ein Hemed National Park

Ein Hemed
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Bukvoed used under CC BY 3.0

Ein Hemed National Park is an iconic national park that’s located west of Jerusalem. It is a park and a garden that’s open to all visitors. The garden is known as Aqua Bella, and it’s spread across an enormous area and welcomes people to its vast recreational picnic area where they can enjoy themselves however they wish. There’s also a Crusader fortress where you can explore the remains of an agricultural farm, and a magical historic garden with flowing stream water and a burial cave. Visit the fort or test your travel photography skills at the park, a walk amidst Israel’s best nature park is sure to keep your mesmerized for days.

Ein Hemed National Park

Address: Israel

Website: Ein Hemed National Park

Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)

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2. Gan HaShlosha National Park

Gan HaShlosha
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Zairon used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Gan HaShlosha National Park is a famed water park to the west of the Bet She’an Valley. Visitors can swim in their beautiful pool where the water cascades from the Amal stream bed. The Museum of Regional and Mediterranean Archaeology houses artifacts and vessels from ancient cultures of Persia and Rome. The garden is also rich in flora and fauna, and seeds of some exquisite plant species like giant reeds, brambles, and shrubby saltbush. Do visit this site if you love admiring ancient relics.

Gan HaShlosha National Park

Address: Isarel

Website: Gan HaShlosha National Park

Opening hours: 8am - 4pm (daily)

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3. Tel Hazor National Park

Tel Hazor National Park
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Mboesch used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Designated as a world heritage site in 2005, Tel Hazor National Park is an archaeological delight in Rosh Pinna, Israel. This garden has a lot of interesting establishments like Solomon’s Gate, a water plant, a Canaanite palace, and constructions like a fortress and residential buildings that were erected during ancient Israeli reign. The ruins of Tel Hazor is a very interesting sight for those who are fond of exploring biblical sites, ancient dwellings, as well as local culture, and history.

Tel Hazor National Park

Address: Road 90 Ayelet HaSHahar, Tiberias Israel

Website: Tel Hazor National Park

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4. Masada National Park

An aerial view of Masada National Park
Source: Pixabay

A view from the top of the plateau will remind you feel how tiny we are on the face of the earth! That’s what Masada National Park will remind you. Built as a refuge against the fight with Rome, Masada National Park was declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO due to its rich historical significance. The part boasts a view over the Dead Sea and desert. This national park also has a Byzantine church as well as the Masada Museum.

Masada National Park

Website: Masada National Park

Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)

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5. Avdat National Park

Ein Avdat National Park
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Hoshvilim used under CC BY-SA 4.0

In 2005, Avdat National Park was declared a World Heritage Park. It is a ruin of an ancient Nabatean city. It is situated in the middle of the desert, above the Tsin River. The ruins have a city fortress with a bathhouse, two Byzantine churches, and a burial cave. A walk from the length and breadth of this canyon will enlighten you with the history of this land. If you like hiking, this place will definitely give you a stimulating trek.

Avdat National Park

Website: Avdat National Park

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6. Beit Guvrin-Maresha National Park

Beit Guvrin NP
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Bukvoed used under CC BY 4.0

Beit Guvrin-Maresha National Park is truly an architectural delight that not only has great ancient buildings but also an extensive variety of flora, fauna and wildlife. The garden has an ancient amphitheater and a crusader church. The cave complex has many caves like bell caves, side burial caves, columbarium caves, and a mysterious maze cave with many cisterns. With a great hike and great views, this two-century-old site will amaze you with its rich history.

Beit Guvrin-Maresha National Park

Website: Beit Guvrin-Maresha National Park

Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)

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7. Yehiam Fortress National Park

Yehiam Fortress
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Bukvoed used under CC BY 3.0

Yehiam Fortress National Park is a result of the ruins of a hilltop castle. It is the remains of Crusader and Ottoman fortresses that were built on ruins of Roma and Byzantine structures. The view from the terrace, which also has a bathhouse, is terrific, overlooking the vast landscape. There’s a mushroom hall, which was earlier used to produce mushrooms but is now transformed. Central Crusader Tower provides a panoramic view of the surrounding. One can easily spend three to four hours touring this place.

Yehiam Fortress National Park

Address: Yehiam, Israel

Website: Yehiam Fortress National Park

Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)

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8. Mount Carmel National Park

Mount Carmel
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Hanay used under CC BY 3.0

Mount Carmel National Park is a historic heritage park that glows with lush greenery all year round. The wild landscape is ideal for extensive hiking, and people of all ages can take part. The nature reserve is home to some endangered animals of the world, like the Persian hammer and reindeer caramel breed, eagles and poultry breed. The trail along the length of this trek is truly remarkable. You’ll encounter sites like Little Switzerland, Nahal Kalah and a monastery.

Mount Carmel National Park

Address: Haifa, Israel

Website: Mount Carmel National Park

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

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9. Gamla National Park

Gamla National Park
Source: Needpix

Gamla National Park is a national park and nature reserve stretched along Gamla and the Daliot stream waterfall, in the center of the Golan Heights in Israel. This nature reserve has some really fascinating history, so if you like ancient stories, do visit this archaeological site. Tour by bus or on foot; the ancient town of Gamla offers a splendid view of the city.

Gamla National Park

Website: Gamla National Park

Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)

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10. Korazim National Park

Korazim National Park
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Lev.Tsimbler used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Korazim National Park is yet another wonder of Israel where you can view the wondrous synagogue and panoramic views of the Galilee Sea. The place has a great significance in the Bible, and it’s a must-visit for all who love exploring ancient ruins. The houses and parks are a great reminder of the strong architecture and design of that age, which, thankfully, we can see even now. Do check out this place.

Korazim National Park

Website: Korazim National Park

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Explore the ruins

Israel is rich with archaeological ruins. All of these natural reserves and parks have been well maintained by the Israeli authority and are honored with the prestigious title of being world heritage sites. Be sure to check them out on your next visit to Israel!

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Shruti Dugar, a writer and traveler, has a strong connection with the 26 alphabets. Her love for exploring new words is a daily practice, considering it the optimal way to maintain a healthy and...Read more

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