Natural landmarks bring beauty, fun and wonder to any family vacation. Go out there and enjoy these awe-inspiring national parks and create unforgettable memories for your whole family.
Yellowstone National Park (WY)
Yellowstone National Park became the world’s first National Park for a reason. At over two million acres, the park houses more than four hundred species of animals, one thousand species of plants, and ten thousand thermal features. With awe-inspiring waterfalls and over three hundred geysers, you and your family will be amazed at this incredible wonder in America. Stay for as long as you want in one of the twelve campgrounds scattered throughout the park, each in close proximity to many of Yellowstone’s greatest marvels. Take your family on a tour with one of many ranger-led programs only available during winter and summer, and give your children the learning experience of a lifetime. They can even participate in the junior ranger wildlife Olympics, a program where they can test their abilities and compare them to many of the animals found in the park. Your entire family will be amazed from the second you arrive at Yellowstone National Park to the time you leave.
Websites: https://www.yellowstonepark.com
https://www.nps.gov/yell/index.htm
Yosemite National Park (Yosemite, CA)
If breathtaking sequoias and massive waterfalls sound like your ideal vacation, then Yosemite National Park is the perfect getaway for your family. Whether you’re a group of experienced hikers or a group of sightseers, Yosemite offers a magical experience for everyone. Your family can enjoy water rafting, guided walking and tram tours, scenic hikes, horseback riding, and so much more. You can lodge in the famous Majestic Yosemite Hotel or rough it out at one of the many campsites spread throughout the park. Adventure awaits at every corner of Yosemite National Park, so get ready to have an exceptional experience like no other.
Websites: https://www.travelyosemite.com
https://www.nps.gov/yose/index.htm
Haleakalā National Park (HI)
Your family will never be more motivated to wake up before the sunrise than they will when heading out to Haleakalā National Park. At 10,023 feet above sea level, the breathtaking views your family will experience will create memories they’ll never forget. If you’re having a relaxing vacation on Hawaii’s island Maui, Haleakalā is only a drive away. You will see some of the most unique ecosystems in the world, as the grounds are filled with rare biotic species and scenic pools. If visiting during the summer, the unpredictable and chilly weather will surely come as a bit of a shock, but it will definitely be a nice way to cool down from the Maui heat. As long as you come prepared with layered clothing, you and your family will have an amazing experience at Haleakalā National park.
Website: https://www.nps.gov/hale/index.htm
Grand Canyon National Park (AZ)
Whether you want to be in the Grand Canyon for one day or seven, this National Park will truly take your breath away. Your family can enjoy a variety of tours — ranging from a bus and a jeep to a helicopter and airplane. For older kids, incredible hikes all around Grand Canyon National Park are perfect ways for them to find adventure. Also, there are plenty of things to do at the top and bottom of the Grand Canyon. The Canyon offers river rafting, camping, mule rides, and so much more. With sights that will blow your mind and activities for any adventure seeker, the Grand Canyon is one of the world’s wonders you don’t want to miss out on.
Websites: https://grandcanyon.com
https://www.nps.gov/grca/index.htm
Acadia National Park (ME)
For both thrill seekers and leisure lovers, Acadia National Park is a true American treasure that your family will love. Just driving along the famous 27-mile long Park Loop Road is a scenic view sure to astonish people from ages 1 to 100. Your family can also enjoy a daring hike along Precipice Trail or a picturesque bike ride along the carriage roads. Stop for lunch at Jordan Pond House and experience a heavenly taste of their famous popovers. With the sheer amount of activities to do, you’ll want to stay in one of the numerous resorts, lodges, campgrounds, or hotels in the area. Spending your trip relaxing on Sand Beach or taking in the mountainous views will create an unforgettable trip for the entire family.
Websites: https://acadiamagic.com
https://www.nps.gov/acad/index.htm
Rocky Mountain National Park (CO)
A family trip to the Rocky Mountains is so much more than a vacation. With incredible mountain views, interactive museum exhibits, lake activities, abundant wildlife, cowboy sing-alongs, horseback riding, and more, the entire family will be immersed in all the landmark has to offer. Festivals such as the Elk Fest, Autumn Gold Fest, and the Longs Peak Scottish and Irish Festival all occur in September, so early autumn is a terrific time to explore the Rocky Mountains and its town. You will always be surrounded by the park’s natural beauty while relaxing at hotels or going on wild adventures. Any family trip to the Rocky Mountains brings numerous opportunities to learn about nature and to simply appreciate all the wonders the park has to offer.
Websites: https://rockymountainnationalpark.com
https://www.nps.gov/romo/index.htm