Visiting National Parks will be one of the most life changing travel journeys you will ever have.
There is something about these places that gets under your skin and makes you want more. These crown jewels of nature have certainly had that impact on me and my family. We visited the Grand Canyon in 2006 and never looked back. Click here to read about our first National Park journey: https://followmyyellowbrickroad.com/?page_id=735
And through the years, I’ve learned how to plan and enjoy a perfect National Park visit.
So here is my advice for BEFORE you leave and DURING YOUR STAY.
So before you go…
Visit the National Park Service website (nps.gov).
The National Parks website should be your FIRST stop in planning your trip.
This website contains everything you will need to know about all our National Parks At nps.gov, you will get all the latest news and events about every park, facts and figures, history, things to do, where to stay… the list goes on. It is the most comprehensive compilation of important information for each park in real time.
Research and choose the park that best suits you.
After visiting the National Park website, you will find out that there are quite a few of these national gems — 63 in all. And they are each unique in their own way. Of course, there are those parks that always fall into the top 10 “popularity” lists but there are also other National Parks that may just suit you better. Only you know what you and your fellow passengers want and need in their journey.
So, how should you go about choosing the park for you:
Season — Some parks are better visited at a certain time of the year. For example, the Everglades in Florida and Death Valley in California are more comfortable in the winter months.
Crowds — Are you willing to deal with lots of visitors? If not, choose a less visited park or try off season travel.
Distance — How far are you willing to travel? This may or may not limit your choices.
Children and Pets — Keep in mind the safety of our little ones and our furry friends. Will wildlife and cliffs make certain parks more dangerous for them?
Gear — Depending on the park and when you are going, specific gear may be required. Check AHEAD of time so you’re prepared.
Plan smart and book early.
Too many people leave these visits to spontaneity which can lead to disappointment. Whether you plan to stay one day or multiple days in a park, smart planning is essential. Accommodations are one aspect of your visit that requires more attention. Accommodations located in the park, both lodges and camping, as well as those close to the park entrances book early. Keep this in mind.
Of course, “day trippers” don’t have to worry about accommodations but there are other aspects of your excursion that you want to research with the limited time that you have. Researching hiking trails, special must see sites in the park and ranger programs are all aspects of your journey that should be on your to do list to have that perfect visit.
Include family & friends on your journey.
These parks are for all ages and truly have something for everyone to enjoy. And for me, there is nothing more special than experiencing these special places with those you love and care about. It really does make the experience more fulfilling. This is not to say that a solo traveler won’t have the time of their lives visiting these parks. It’s all an individual decision.
Couples, families with kids, seniors, solo travelers — there is something for everyone. Whether you are an avid hiker, animal lover, star gazer, nature lover, bird watcher, you will find something to do and be well rewarded.
Pack smart.
National Parks are truly for nature lovers. You can leave your fancy clothes at home. No suits and ties or fancy dresses required here!
But it’s important that you pack the right gear for what you plan to do. Camping vs. lodge stays require different necessities. Plan accordingly. Some necessities that float to the top of my packing list for any visit include:
- Raincoat
- Sturdy Walking Shoes (please don’t wear flip flops on trails!)
- Binoculars
- Camera (Your cell phone is fine but a really good camera is worth the investment.)
Come back soon to my site to see my own official National park packing list.
Congratulations! You’ve booked your trip and are ready to go! Upon arrival, here are my top tips of what to do:
Take full advantage of the Park Ranger services.
Park Rangers are truly amazing individuals who are there for YOU and to help you have the best experience possible.
Make sure that the Ranger Visitor Stations are your first stop when arriving at a park. (Of course, once you’ve checked in to your accommodation of choice!)
Here, you will find information ranging from the best trails to hike, assorted activities from ranger programs for both adults and kids to food options. Sign up for any programs that you might be interested in. They do book up quickly.
For example, my kids have participated in many Junior Ranger programs over the years and they do not disappoint!
Don’t Rush!
You made it. Take a breath, take it all in and don’t rush!
Visiting these parks is not a competition or a race to get everything done. The beauty and nature that envelops these parks is something to be savored.
Make sure to plan activities at different times of the day. Into photography? Take advantage of the natural lighting at sunrise and sunset for some amazing photos. Into stars and space? Attend a star gazing program. An animal lover? Viewing the wildlife may be optimal in the early morning or dusk.
Just make sure to take it all in and relax!
Take lots of pictures!
You don’t have to be a sophisticated photographer to appreciate the beauty of these parks. Amateur and professional photographers will delight in the abundance of photo ops everywhere you turn.
Whether you use your cell phone to capture these moments or invest in a camera, click away!
Taking photos and lots of them is the best way to preserve these memories.
Respect the Wildlife!
Each year, we read stories of someone being attacked by a bear or bison or some other wild animal. Usually, this confrontation is the human’s fault. Getting too close to take that perfect photo is dangerous and just stupid. Don’t do it!
If you feel that you will need to get that perfect close up, invest in a camera with a telephoto lens.
Enjoy these wonderful creatures from a safe distance.
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