Vacation Adventures

In addition to day trips, national parks are great places for longer family vacations. Deciding how you will spend your nights in the park depends on your needs and preferences. Camping is the most popular option, but most parks also offer cabins, lodges or houseboats to rent. Some even have hotels within the park that offer televisions and room service. Here are just a few examples of fantastic family vacations that you can have in national parks:

Isle Royale, Michigan

If you’re looking for a remote natural paradise where your family can get away from the crowds and commotion of modern urban life, try Isle Royale National Park, a 45-mile-long wilderness archipelago in the heart of Lake Superior. Isle Royale contains 165 miles of scenic hiking trails, 36 campgrounds, numerous lakes and bogs, and endless opportunities to observe wildlife. One of the most popular activities at Isle Royale is diving. Whether you're experienced or a first-time diver, you'll love the experience of diving in the protected shores and bays of this pristine maritime ecosystem. Other pastimes at Isle Royale include fishing, canoeing, swimming and sailing. The park is roadless -- the only way to get there is by boat or floatplane -- but it's well worth the trip.

Devil’s Tower, Wyoming

One idea for a monumental family excursion is a trip to Devil’s Tower National Monument in Wyoming. Devil’s Tower is a rock formation surrounded by an expanse of grassland habitat, an excellent place for a wildflower walk. For the artists in the family, the area's wildflowers offer beautiful examples of natural models to paint or add to a sketchbook. Other favorite activities at Devil's Tower include picnicking, photography, nature walks and campfire talks. For the family daredevils, Devil’s Tower is one of the best climbing structures in North America. However, because the tower is considered sacred by many of the area's indigenous peoples, a voluntary climbing restriction is in effect for the month of June, a time when a number of tribal ceremonies occur at or near Devil's Tower.

Sequoia and Kings Canyon, California

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park is known as the "Land of the Giants," referring to both the huge trees as well as the immense mountains and deep canyons that occur there. Although originally created as separate parks, Sequoia and Kings Canyon are now managed together. Both parks offer a variety of camping facilities where you can explore wildlife in a natural setting. Sequoia and Kings Canyon also offer ranger-led tours, nature programs for kids, horseback riding and campfire talks. If you go, don't forget to visit the General Sherman Tree, the world's largest living thing.

No matter where in the United States you live, there is sure to be a national park within driving distance of your home. Whether you’re looking for a day trip, a weekend retreat or a vacation destination, national parks offer plenty of opportunities for wild adventures and family fun.