N is for National Parks -

In the mid-1800s as pioneers expanded Westward they discovered wide vistas, amazing mountain rangers, and breathtaking beauty that they knew must be preserved for future generations. That is how the National Parks System got its start.

The first national park, Yellowstone, was signed into law by President Ulysses S. Grant in 1872, followed by Mackinac National Park in 1875 (decommissioned in 1895), and then Sequoia and Yosemite in 1890. There are currently 407 National Parks/Monuments/Lands in the United States. NPS has a map showing where all of the National Parks are located. Is one in your state?

What better place to start learning about our great National Parks then their official website! If you do not live near a park there are many things you can learn online through their Web Ranger program or via the NPS Junior Ranger program. This program is activity based conducted in almost all parks, and some Junior Ranger programs are national. There is also a program called the Traveling Trunk program that allows teachers, families, or scout groups to borrow a trunk filled with historical artifacts about a specific historical event, place, or person.

Free Entrance Days in the National Parks

Each year there are a handful of days that offer free entrance to the parks. Only 127 of our country’s 407 national parks usually charge an entrance fee. National Park Week is coming up with free days being April 18-19!

I have compiled materials for you to use to learn more about the National Parks in the United States. Most of them are free but some do require a cost and have an affiliate link. I hope you enjoy your adventures learning and seeing the beautiful wonderful outdoors.