Why is [Insert Park Here] a National Park?

As of 2023, our 62 current National Parks protect historically significant and/or natural features and resources within America. Additionally, National Parks can only be created by Congress, in contrast to the many other federally protected lands. As new National Park candidates are submitted annually, Congress must evaluate the following criteria to determine if a public land is eligible to carry the prestigious designation:

• National Significance

• Cultural or Natural Significance

• Suitability for addition to the Parks System

• Feasibility of Park Creation

  Detailed information on what it takes to make a National Park can be found here
  

Is my dog allowed in the National Parks?

While many National Parks strictly forbid bringing pets into the park (remember, these areas are protecting the natural habitat of the native animal and plant species), there are quite a few National Parks that are pet-friendly, and even offer your furry friend the chance to become a Bark Ranger! Some pet-friendly parks are:

• Acadia National Park

• Shenandoah National Park

• White Sands National Park

• Wrangell-St. Elias National Park

• Cuyahoga Valley National Park

• Petrified Forest National Park

• New River Gorge National Park

• Grand Canyon National Park

• and many more

  Be sure to check in with Park Rangers to determine if you can bring your 4-legged companion on your next National Park visit.

What is the Junior Ranger Program?

The Junior Ranger Program is an activity-led program designed for kids ages 5-13, although open to visitors of any age that want to learn about their public lands and join the National Park family! The booklet can be obtained at the visitor center of any National Park, and is free at most parks, or available for a small fee. Completion of the activities is then rewarded with a unique Junior Ranger Badge for that particular park, the taking of the Junior Ranger Oath, and the fanfare of Park visitors celebrating the addition of a new Junior Ranger!

When is the best time to visit [Insert Park Here]?

For the vast majority of National Parks, the months of June-early September represent peak season, which means crowded parks, heavy traffic, and increased lodging prices in and around the Parks. Visiting during “shoulder seasons” such as early spring or late fall presents some of the best scenery and wildlife activity in our National Parks. Additionally, the beauty and solace of visiting these protected lands during winter is incredibly rewarding as long as you are properly prepared for the often colder temperatures associated with some of the National Parks.

*The Florida National Parks are far more crowded during the winter months as the hot, humid spring and summer typically make the parks rather uncomfortable to explore in the heat.

Where can we eat at [Insert Park Here]?

While many National Parks have fantastic (and extremely affordable) eating options within the park boundaries, some parks simply do not offer food, and require you to leave the park. Typically, if the park requires an entrance fee, there will be a place to eat within the gates! Some of the larger and more popular National Parks, such as Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, Great Smoky Mountains, and Glacier National Park have multiple eateries scattered throughout the various sections of the park, so you are never more than a short drive away from food and drink. More information regarding where to eat can always be obtained by talking to a Park Ranger (they definitely know the best spot to go to on a crowded day at lunchtime!)

What should we pack to explore the National Parks?

With the exception of any overnight backcountry hiking endeavors, the following items will get you through 99% of your National Park adventures:

• A park map (available at the Entrance Gate or Visitors Center)

• A day pack (18-25L)

• Water bottle/hydration bladder

• First Aid Kit

• Trekking Poles

• Rain coat

• Trail snacks (remember, Leave No Trace Principles….that means that apple core and orange peel cannot be tossed into the woods!)

For some parks, bear spray/bear bells should be carried as well for safety on the trail!

Can I explore the National Parks with kids?

Exploring our great National Parks with your little ones is one of the most rewarding experiences for and your children. Every National Park has a variety activities that are suitable for the novice to expert adventurer, and the Junior Ranger Program adds an even more active opportunity for the kids to be involved in protecting these landscapes. The experience of being fully immersed within these public lands gives children a chance to truly appreciate the beauty, wildness, and fragility of our natural environment.

Is there more than just hiking at the National Parks?

From scenic drives with breathtaking vistas to big wall rock climbing, the National Parks offer far more than the occasional “walk in the woods.” Many National Parks work with 3rd party outfitters to provide incredible opportunities to explore these majestic lands. Some options are llama hikes in Capitol Reef, whitewater rafting in Glacier, and Via Ferrata routes in Zion.

Do I need to pay the park entrance fee for each National Park I visit?

While not all National Parks require an entrance fee, many parks do. The entrance fee, which is typically between $25-$35, is valid for 7 seven days including the day of purchase. For travelers planning on visiting multiple National Parks, the $80 America the Beautiful Pass is an excellent option to consider. A lesser known National Park Pass for those with children is the 4th Grade Pass. This allows any 4th grader (or homeschool equivalent) and his or her family to visit any National Park for free during their 4th grade school year plus the following summer. Complete National Park Pass information can be found here!