Visiting a national park is a great way to experience the beauty of America and an even better way to spend time together as a family. With national parks all over the country ranging from the the smallest — Thaddeus Kosciusko National Memorial in Pennsylvania — to the largest — Wrangell-St. Elias National Park in Alaska — one could make a career out of visiting them all.
Photo: Anna Dudko | Dreamstime
America’s national parks are located in the midst of some of the most beautiful natural landscapes the country has to offer. They provide tons of fun for people of all ages, such as camping, hiking, swimming, educational programs and junior ranger programs. In addition to these obvious opportunities are some more creative ways for kids young and old to enjoy and commemorate their visits.
National Park Passport Program
One way to ensure your kids enjoy their visit is through the National Park Passport Program. You can purchase a ‘Passport to Your National Parks Booklet that includes a passport booklet, a listing of all participating national parks, maps and photographs, as well as information regarding each park. Kids and adults alike enjoy using this passport to commemorate their visits to the country’s national parks by collecting a cancellation stamp at each park’s visitor center. Passport booklets can be purchased online or at the park visitor centers for a small fee, but each stamp is free of charge. Not only does collecting a stamp from each park create a memory in itself, but it also helps to keep track of which parks you visited.
Kids kayaking Grand Teton National Park. Photo: Minyun Zhou | Dreamstime
The National Park System recognizes the importance of engaging children in learning about nature and the environment. Junior Ranger programs are available at all parks and are now even easier to access with the latest advances in technology. Kids can now learn all about the parks and earn Junior Ranger badges with the help of their smartphones by downloading the NPS Independence Junior Ranger App.
America’s national parks are a national treasure meant to be enjoyed by all. They are open daily and showcase some of the most stunning scenery in the world. Visit the National Park Service website to find a park in your state or whatever state you plan to visit so your family can experience the Great Outdoors together and create memories that will last a lifetime.
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