National Parks
National park is a term used to denote a reserved area of land owned by the government. Explore all of the parks and learn about their natural scenery and historic values.
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This huge hunk of metal has been perched on a hilltop in the Mojave Desert for decades. No one knows who put it there nor why. Was it the U.S. Air Force, pranksters — or aliens?
There are 20 different types of "national parks" that fall under the protection of the National Park Service, including national monuments and actual parks. But what makes them different?
Death Valley recorded a temperature of 130 degrees Fahrenheit, the hottest in history. Why is it so hot here and how can anything survive in such brutal conditions?
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The mysterious and beautiful cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde National Park lie at an altitude of 7,000 feet and are some of the oldest Native American archaeological sites in the United States.
These brilliant gypsum dunes are the largest in the world and near the site of the first atomic bomb detonation in 1945. They're also renowned for their Instagram-ready landscapes. Our writer went for a visit.
Thousands of people died trying to cross it over the decades. Even today, it's not a trip for the faint-hearted.
Not every national park is a traffic jam like Yellowstone. Some barely get any visitors. Which parks are these and why do they get so little love?
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National parks are for everyone, and though nudity isn't technically prohibited, please don't scare the bears.
While most people visit America's national parks in the summer, they could miss out by not heading there in the winter. In fact, some parks are even better in the wintertime. Here are 10 you shouldn't miss when the weather turns cold.
What's not to love about your local park? It's where you have picnics and play ball. When your park starts showing signs of too much love -- chipped paint, crushed flower beds and more -- what can you do to spruce it up?
Public parks are excellent places to spend time with your family. With so many possible activities available in park settings, the only thing lacking may be time to enjoy them all.
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Camping is a relaxing and inexpensive outing for the family. What activities will dial up the fun for your kids while they enjoy the great outdoors?
By Debra Ronca
Packing the right gear ensures that every member of your family has a great time in the great outdoors. If you're uncertain about what to bring along on your adventure, we've got you covered!
Ever since the first national park was established in the United States, they've been a getaway for relaxation and adventure for humans, and a safe haven for wildlife. Take a journey through America's national parks.
The Monongahela National Forest in West Virginia is one of the largest tracts of protected Eastern woodlands. Learn what really makes it a mecca for vacationers and outdoorspeople of all stripes -- fishers, hikers, mountain bikers, and paddlers.
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Ouachita National Forest spans 1.8 million acres in a wide swath north of Hot Springs, Arkansas, that reaches all the way to Oklahoma. The forest is known for its streams and pristine lakes. Learn about family vacations in Ouachita National Forest.
The Green Mountains of Vermont are full of surprises. The historic range is a the place for caving, hiking, skiing and gawking -- that's what most visitors do. Learn about vacations in the snow-capped peaks or Vermont's colorful autumn foliage.
Boston's Public Gardens features the oldest botanical garden in America including 600 varieties of trees and elaborate flower displays. Children can enjoy scenic boat rides and duck feeding. Find out more about Boston's Public Gardens.
Central Park has 843 acres of attractions and activities such as a children's zoo concerts biking educational programs restaurants carousel rides rowboats concerts and skating. Find out more about family vacations to New York's Central Park.
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Vermont's Sand Bar State Park features a variety of wildlife and one of the best beaches on Lake Champlain. Activities range from swimming and windsurfing to birdwatching. Find out more about Sand Bar State Park.
Adventure awaits those who want to run the rapids on the Upper New River in West Virginia. Long and tranquil with stretches of white water thrown in for excitement it also features a 1400-foot canyon. Learn more about the Upper New River.
Located in central New Hampshire White Mountain National Forest is truly a destination for all seasons. The region offers hiking and canoeing in summer and skiing in winter. Find out more about White Mountain National Forest.
Odiorne Point New Hampshire's largest undeveloped stretch of shore is backed by marshes sand dunes and dense vegetation. Visitors enjoy boating trails and new playground areas. Find out more about Odiorne Point State Park.
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Georgia's Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge harbors hundreds of birds mammals reptiles and amphibians. Visitors to these primitive wetlands can best see its natural wonders by touring on the water. Learn more about the family vacation destination.
Denali National Park's main attraction Mount McKinley is North America's highest peak at 20320 feet. The surrounding mountains are home to a myriad of wildlife. Read these tips for visiting this so-called subarctic Serengetti.