1. Travel

Discuss in my forum

Lauren Himiak

National & State Parks

By , About.com Guide

Follow me on:

New National Parks Pass for Military

Sunday May 20, 2012

© The U.S. Army via Flickr

The National Park Service's latest program has been designed to show appreciation for military personnel by issuing free admission passes for members of the military on active duty and their dependents. The passes will be valid at all 397 national parks and good for a year from the month obtained.

The pass also provides free entry to scenic areas and preserves managed by the U .S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Land Management, the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Reclamation. It can be obtained, in person, with a current military identification card at entrances to those locations as well as the parks.

Visiting Yosemite From Your Living Room

Sunday May 20, 2012
Yosemite Falls blasts fresh water from over 2,300 feet.
© the tahoe guy via Flickr

If you can't make it to Yosemite National Park, have no fear. Thanks to the park's webcam, you can view the park in all its glory from the comfort of your home!

The HD camera went live pointed on Yosemite Falls last week, allowing anyone with computer access to watch in stunning detail. It's updated every 30 seconds through a high-speed DSL connection. Its the fourth webcam the Yosemite Conservancy has set up -- three others include cameras pointed towards Half Dome and El Capitan.

So check it out now. Click here to view the Yosemite Falls live webcam! Click here to view Yosemite Falls live webcam!

Get Ready for Memorial Day

Monday May 7, 2012

© respres via Flickr

Memorial Day is just a few weeks away! Check out the top parks to visit over the holiday weekend and start planning your getaway now.

Fun in the Sun!

Sunday April 29, 2012

© Rodefeld via Flickr

While the Grand Canyon may be the most popular national park, the most visited units in the parks system is in Golden Gate National Recreation Area. The park is not one continuous location, but rather a collection of areas that includes several areas of San Francisco. It contains famous tourist attractions like Muir Woods National Monument, Alcatraz, and the Presidio of San Francisco. The park is the perfect place for a hike, bike ride, picnic, or stroll with your dog. Learn more now!

Step Back in Time

Sunday April 29, 2012

While Scranton, PA may be better known for The Office, the town has some pretty historic things to offer. Next time you're in town, check out the Steamtown National Historic Site. Here you can take a trip back in time to see how original facilities looked and ran back in 1899!

John Muir and the National Parks

Thursday April 26, 2012

© Wikimedia Commons

John Muir is no stranger to the national parks. His love of nature and work to preserve our lands not only created important organizations lke the Sierra Club, but also our parks! Learn about his work now and plan your visit to the John Muir National Historic Site.

Visiting Honest Ab

Thursday April 26, 2012

This is a beautiful time to visit Washington, D.C., and thankfully there are many national parks and memorials to visit while you're there. If you are a history buff and fan of art, don't miss the Lincoln Memorial National Memorial - a stunning marble statue honoring the country's 16th President.

Plan a Trip to D.C.

Sunday April 22, 2012
Thomas Jefferson National Memorial
© dbking via Flickr

Washington, D.C. is a beautiful place to visit this summer. While you are there, be sure to check out the National Mall - a park comprised of some of the most historic sites in the country. From the White House to the Thomas Jefferson National Memorial, there is plenty to see and learn.

Honoring the First Ladies

Sunday April 22, 2012
Eleanor Roosevelt
© NPS and FDR Library

The President of the United States of America is undoubtably a powerful individual, but let's not forget the important person at his side - the First Lady. In Ohio, you can learn about all the First Ladies, including their impact on the country. Check out the First Ladies National Historic Site to learn more!

The Man Behind The Raven

Sunday April 22, 2012
Edgar Allen Poe
© César Blanco via Flickr

You may have read Edgar Allan Poe's "The Raven" at some point, perhaps even in school, but do you remember anything about his life? Learn what inspired him, what haunted him, and how he became one of the most iconic writers in history.

©2012 About.com. All rights reserved.

A part of The New York Times Company.