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The NNL program was established in 1962 with the first site designations occuring in 1964. Since that time, individual NNL sites have reached their Golden Anniversary, or 50 years, of landmark designation. The milestone is remarkable in that it recognizes 50 years of voluntary conservation, committment, and partnership with landowners and managers of these NNL sites.
In 2026 we recognize and celebrate the Golden Anniversary of 48 NNL sites. These NNLs were officially designated when then Secretary of the Interior, Thomas S. Kleppe, signed the designation memos on January 7, May 11, and December 8, 1976.
Redoubt Volcano in Alaska is the second highest of the 76 major volcanoes of the Alaska Peninsula and Aleutian Islands. It was designated at an NNL in 1976. This photo of the April 1990 eruption of Redoubt Volcano.
Photo courtesy of USGS/R.J. Clucas
Sites Designated in 1976
Iliamna Volcano, AK
Redoubt Volcano, AK
Comb Ridge, AZ
American River Bluffs and Phoenix Park Vernal Pools, CA
Black Chasm Cave, CA
Cosumnes River Riparian Woodlands, CA
Spanish Peaks, CO
Rock City, KS
Red River Gorge, KY
Valentine National Wildlife Refuge, NE
Manahawkin Bottomland Hardwood Forest, NJ
Ghost Ranch, NM
Fort Rock State Monument, OR
Newberry Crater, OR
John De La Howe Forest, SC
Bijou Hills, SD
Sharktooth Hill, CA
Big Hammock Natural Area, GA
Ebenezer Creek Swamp, GA
Bienville Pines Scenic Area, MS
Green Ash-Overcup Oak-Sweetgum Research Natural Areas, MS
