Tag Archives: national parks

There’s No Camping Like Snow Camping

Camping had become almost a matter of routine. I was ready for a challenge. I thought about camping in the snow, but frankly, I was scared. I didn’t know if I could handle it, or if the cold would triumph instead. I decided to camp in an area where I could run to a motel if I needed to. (This was my first time, remember.) After some thought, I figured Sequoia National Park would be just perfect. There was a hotel and at least a few people around if I ran into trouble. And there was about 2 feet of … Continue reading →

Let’s Go Camping! KOA B1G1F and National Parks Reservations

It’s 26 degrees outside, and I’m planning some family camping trips. The boys are going with Scouts to a snow camp at the end of the month, but the trips I’m planning are for May and July. Think I’m nuts? Not really. The National Parks reservation system takes reservations up to six months in advance. We’re planning a family vacation to Yosemite in July. Family as in extended family. Because rates in the park run $200 or more for a small room, we’ve opted for tent camping. We found out the hard way that tent spaces for the more popular … Continue reading →

Christmas At Yosemite

Do you traditionally spend Christmas at home? Or are you the type who prefers to head to a tropical location, or to ski country for the holidays. If you categorize yourself as one of the latter, perhaps you will consider spending next Christmas at one of the country’s most iconic destinations–California’s Yosemite National Park. Each year hundreds of families make visiting the park at Christmas time a family tradition, but they do so not simply because it’s one of the most peaceful and picturesque places on Earth, but also to take in a special holiday event—“The Bracebridge Dinner.” Eight decades … Continue reading →

Visiting California’s Yosemite National Park

If your days are spent juggling the stress that comes with getting everything ready for the holidays and the everyday stress that comes with raising a family then I’m sure you there is a least a part of each day that you long for a Calgon moment. The rigors of getting your home ready for the holidays is enough for anyone to want to escape… and take a nice long vacation. When I am being run ragged I think back to my trip to one of the most peaceful places on Earth– California’s Yosemite National Park. It is one of … Continue reading →

Wind Cave National Park

Because my family and I love the outdoors so much, we make it a point to visit as many national parks and forests as possible. I wanted to share some information about one of our adventures in the Wind Cave National Park. Located in Hot Springs, South Dakota, this national park is rated as boasting one of the longest and most complex caves in the world. Stretched out over more than 28,000 acres of pine forest and mixed grass prairie, you can enjoy cave exploration, as well as wonderful wildlife. In fact, wildlife such as elk, bison, mule deer, coyote, … Continue reading →

Pets At Parks

Looking for an excursion to take with your pets? Think about your nearest state or county park! Rules may vary from park to park, but in general, pets are permitted while on leash or in a cage or crate. Why are pets regulated or restricted at parks? A loose pet can frighten or injure wild animals. A wild animal that is frightened may react aggressively towards pets or people. A loose pet may become prey for wild predators like bears, coyotes, or owls. A loose pet may harass or frighten other park visitors. Domestic animals and wild animals may carry … Continue reading →