National Parks
Our national parks host millions of people a year, sustain countless species, and safeguard some of the most breathtaking landscapes on the planet. They preserve natural and cultural resources “for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations.” Here’s how to make the most of your next national parks trip.
top activities
featured videos

How can the U.S. National Parks attract more minority visitors? America's national parks were created as free spaces for all to enjoy, but in both visitors and employees, they have struggled with diversity. A poll done by the National Parks Service in 2008-2009 found that 78% of visitors were white, even though they comprise only 63.7% of the U.S. population. Grassroots organizations like African American National Parks Event are now trying to help diversify the parks by encouraging minorities to get out and enjoy the spaces.
Go Further
Animals
- Orcas and dolphins team up to hunt in possible scientific firstOrcas and dolphins team up to hunt in possible scientific first
- The man who helped change the fate of Africa's elephantsThe man who helped change the fate of Africa's elephants
- The incredible comeback of the world’s last wild horsesThe incredible comeback of the world’s last wild horses
Environment
- Here's how plastics experts decorate for the holidaysHere's how plastics experts decorate for the holidays
- What happens when a country loses most of its lakes?What happens when a country loses most of its lakes?
- Sharks are thriving in some marine parks—but not others. Why?Sharks are thriving in some marine parks—but not others. Why?
- Is cutting back on plastic really worth all the effort?Is cutting back on plastic really worth all the effort?
- Why hurricane flooding is about to get more dangerousWhy hurricane flooding is about to get more dangerous
- In 100 seconds, see the impact of humans on planet EarthIn 100 seconds, see the impact of humans on planet Earth
- Farmers in Brazil are restoring biodiversity to grow resilient crops
- Paid Content
Farmers in Brazil are restoring biodiversity to grow resilient crops - Why hurricanes are getting more powerful—more quicklyWhy hurricanes are getting more powerful—more quickly
History & Culture
- What happened to the Ark of the Covenant? Here’s what we know.What happened to the Ark of the Covenant? Here’s what we know.
- 6 archaeological discoveries that amazed the world in 20256 archaeological discoveries that amazed the world in 2025
- Is there historical proof of the Star of Bethlehem?Is there historical proof of the Star of Bethlehem?
- What Greek myths will 'Percy Jackson' explore in its new season?, Video StoryWhat Greek myths will 'Percy Jackson' explore in its new season?
- How U.S. soldiers put together Christmas on the WWI battlefieldHow U.S. soldiers put together Christmas on the WWI battlefield
- What it was like to visit Petra more than 100 years agoWhat it was like to visit Petra more than 100 years ago
Science
- These plants can heat themselves up—scientists finally know whyThese plants can heat themselves up—scientists finally know why
- Watch a black hole fall into a star and then blow it upWatch a black hole fall into a star and then blow it up
- How dinosaur vomit has solved these prehistoric mysteriesHow dinosaur vomit has solved these prehistoric mysteries
- How to see the brightest (and weirdest) meteor shower of the year
- Science
- Night Sky Guide
How to see the brightest (and weirdest) meteor shower of the year
Travel
- Track gorillas in Uganda with the people who protect themTrack gorillas in Uganda with the people who protect them
- Discover Buenos Aires through these 5 dazzling bookstoresDiscover Buenos Aires through these 5 dazzling bookstores
- See the best of Oklahoma City's stretch of Route 66
- Paid Content
See the best of Oklahoma City's stretch of Route 66