Visiting National Parks

Part of the joy in exploring our beautiful nation via an RV is the absolute privilege of exploring our National Park System. It is so important to share right up front that not only do we have National Parks we also have National Monuments, National Historic Sites and National Sea Shores! The options are endless when you are travelling. Along the scenic routes out west you find endless opportunities to explore our park system but don’t discount that our National Parks are located everywhere. In the most unexpected places, you may just find a hidden gem within our Parks system.

Visiting our parks can be overwhelming once you realize just how many options you have, to choose from. One of the best ways to find our parks is with a National Parks Book, they are fantastic, and not only do they identify parks they also identify historic sites, monuments and beyond. For an added bonus, you can start collecting stamps from each park that you visit. Once you select the parks you are visiting you will want to make sure they are open during your visit time, some are seasonal. National Parks are almost all big rig friendly which is such a perk. Some parks still have mandatory reservations so add that to your list of things to investigate. Before I dive into some of our favorite parks I want to share with you with a few more tips.

Some of the best ways to enjoy the parks are at off season times. We love exploring colder areas late in the fall season when most people are headed south. What if you can’t travel off season though? Then What? Here is my number one tip as a photographer and a family of 5 who still wants to enjoy these busy parks… get up early! This is two-fold, one you avoid the crowds and two you have the best chance of seeing wildlife! This is also true for the early evening times, right before dusk can be an excellent time to explore, beat the crowds and capture pictures.

A few you may not realize are the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and Manhattan has several National Monuments as well! Do not discount cities and areas that you may not “think” have any, this is where your National Parks book will seriously come in handy.

Advice I wish I knew when we first started, if possible, go slow and enjoy. Try to not accomplish too many at once and really take your time once you arrive at a park. Each location is unique and has a Visitors Center with history and information including videos and Ranger Talks, they are all worth listening too!

Lastly, take advantage of the yearly pass, it is worth it, and it supports our National Parks System. If you have a 4^th grader you can apply for a free year and military past and present also receive a free yearly membership.

No matter which parks you choose I assure you that you will make memories, and the location, wildlife and educational experience will have you longing to visit more.

Happy & Safe Adventuring,

 Gwendolyn