National Parks

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?

By Nathan Chandler

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?

By Sharise Cunningham

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?

By Stephanie Vermillion

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.

By Nathan Chandler

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.

By Melanie Radzicki McManus

Thousands of people died trying to cross it over the decades. Even today, it's not a trip for the faint-hearted.

By Nathan Chandler

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?

By Nathan Chandler

National parks are for everyone, and though nudity isn't technically prohibited, please don't scare the bears.

By Jesslyn Shields

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.

By Nathan Chandler

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?

By Jessica Willis

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.

By Heather Kolich

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!

By Meghan E. Smith

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.

By the Editors of Mobil Travel Guide

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.

By the Editors of Mobil Travel Guide

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.

By the Editors of Mobil Travel Guide

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.

By the Editors of Mobil Travel Guide

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.

By the Editors of Mobil Travel Guide

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.

By the Editors of Mobil Travel Guide

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.

By the Editors of Mobil Travel Guide

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.

By the Editors of Mobil Travel Guide

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.

By the Editors of Mobil Travel Guide

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.

By the Editors of Mobil Travel Guide

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.

By Editors of Consumer Guide