Travel the World

When it comes to the parts of the US that fall under the protection of the US National Park Service, then you should always visit the appropriate website before you actually get there.  There’s a main page, http://www.nps.gov/ that will help you locate either the National Park you intend to visit, or identify any that are in the locality of your vacation destination.  Not only will you get the specific information about any particular park you’re interested in, but they also have videos and news about exhibitions etc that will spark even more enthusiasm for your vacation.

Clicking on the interactive map on the homepage of http://www.nps.gov/ will open pages relevant to the NPS properties in the state you intend to visit.  These location specific pages are great as they show you what to expect at the park, what restrictions are in place, what activities you can take part in and any information regarding the history of the NP.  There’s also information about camping in the area, and what you can do with your kids such as special ranger activities that are specific to that NP, and educational information for those who are interested in learning more.  For example, take a look at http://www.nps.gov/dino/.  This is the NPS official page for the Dinosaur National Monument in Colorado.  With everything from downloadable maps and information regarding the park, to directions for getting there, and onto information about planning a field trip (great for parents of young dinosaur enthusiasts as well as educators), the website is a mine of useful information. 

A visit to any US National Park Visitor Center should be mandatory for any visitor entering the park upon arrival, but make sure you visit the NPS websites before you leave home.  You’ll get a lot more out of your trip as a result of making the effort!

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