Herping is an exciting way to experience the wild beauty of America’s national parks. Big Bend National Park in Texas, Saguaro National Park in Arizona, and Zion National Park in Utah each provide unique opportunities to observe a wide variety of reptiles and amphibians. From rattlesnakes hiding in the desert heat to lizards darting across sunlit trails, these parks are perfect for anyone interested in exploring the incredible biodiversity of these remarkable landscapes. Herping not only offers adventure but also a chance to connect with nature on a deeper level.

1. Big Bend National Park
Big Bend National Park in Texas is home to a variety of reptiles and amphibians with 11 amphibians and 56 species of reptiles. Snakes are known to be more active in the summer than in the winter time so that’s important to keep in mind. One of the most common rattlesnakes that resides in Big Bend is the Western Diamondback Rattlesnake, this rattlesnake can be aggressive when disturbed and is responsible for the most snakebite incidents in the United States.It looks similar to the Western Diamondback but can be identified by the bands on its tail. The Mojave is also known for its venom, which is considered to be very strong.

2. Saguaro National Park
Saguaro National Park in Arizona is home to over 50 reptile species including 6 types of rattlesnakes, and 8 amphibian species. The rattlesnakes include the Arizona Black Rattlesnake, Western Diamond-backed Rattlesnake, Tiger Rattlesnake, Sidewinder, Mohave Rattlesnake, and Black-tailed Rattlesnake. To stay safe, the park advises following these guidelines when encountering rattlesnakes: do not harass or attempt to kill the snakes, if you see a rattlesnake stay at least 10 feet from it, do not put your hands or feet where your eyes have not been, wear boots and loose-fitting pants while hiking, and carry a flashlight after dark. In addition to the rattlesnakes, Saguaro National Park is also home to 19 other snake species. With its rich variety of wildlife, the park offers visitors a chance to experience Arizona’s unique desert ecosystem while staying mindful of safety around its inhabitants.

3. Zions National Park in Utah
Zion National Park in Utah has more lizard species than snake species with approximately 16 types of lizards and 13 types of snakes. Smaller lizards can be found earlier in the morning whereas larger lizards will be seen once the sun is out. The smallest and most common lizard in Zions is the plateau lizard which can be seen on the Zion Canyon Trail. Another small lizard is the Greater Short-horned lizard, who shoots blood from their tear ducts as a defensive mechanism. Among the larger snakes, the Western Whiptail lizard is known for its long tail and capability to run up to 9-10 miles per hour. The Great Basin Collared Lizard has a unique ability to run on its hind legs.

Big Bend, Saguaro, and Zion National Parks are great places to see reptiles and amphibians in their natural habitats. These parks are perfect for herping, giving visitors the chance to spot unique species like rattlesnakes and lizards. If you want to make the most of your trip, herping tours are a great way to safely explore and learn more about these amazing animals. Whether you’re new to herping or already love it, these tours can help you appreciate wildlife and the importance of protecting their homes.