Get all the fun of Great Wolf Lodge without the cost

Are your kids jonesing for a day at the waterpark? Did you know that you can visit one of the many Great Wolf Lodge locations across the US without staying the night? The Great Wolf Lodge day pass is a great way to get the fun of the water park, restaurants, activities, and more.

Purchase your day pass online before you head over. Kids 2 and under do not require a pass but all other guests entering the facility will need a pass (even those not planning on swimming). Pick up your passes at the front desk when you arrive.

family at Great Wolf Lodge
Great Wolf Lodge

Here are some other tips for your visit:

  • Guests are strongly encouraged to bring their own towels.
  • Coolers and outside food are not permitted in the water park.
  • Lockers are available at a nominal fee on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • You are welcome to bring your own life jacket. Great Wolf provides Coast Guard-approved life jackets on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Parking fees apply at our Southern California location.

Dry-land attractions and dining outlets are available at an additional cost. You are not able to add on a dining package to your day pass.

For those worried that day pass might cause crowds and wait times for the pools and slides, Great Wolf Lodge promises to maintain capacity restraints. “Families love knowing that when they come to the waterpark at Great Wolf Lodge, they won’t need to wait in long lines for their favorite slides, struggle to find a deck chair, or swim shoulder to shoulder in our pools,” Murray Hennessy, chief executive officer for Great Wolf Resorts said in a press release. “By managing capacity levels at our waterparks we will continue to offer a stress-free waterpark experience, just as we have from the onset of Great Wolf Lodge.”

Stop saying things like “don’t be bossy”

What we say to girls matters. “Our daughters script their stories, at least partially, on how we write them,” says speaker and author Dr. Jody Carrington, Ph.D. “Showing them how we want them to show up in the world, while using words that empower them–like “leaders” who are kind and clear, confident, reflective, and responsible, is what they need from us, now more than ever.” While we need to know the phrases that empower the next generation of women, it’s also good to learn what NOT to say to your daughter. Here are the top phrases to eliminate from your parenting toolbox today.

1. Boys will be boys.

This old-fashioned response to a girl expressing her dislike of a boy's behavior is toxic. Girls should be taught from a young age that boys shouldn't get away with unacceptable actions due to their gender. Parents can show their daughters that they take these issues seriously by listening with empathy and taking steps to change the situation.

2. You got lucky. 

A Center for Creative Leadership study found that "nearly ½ of all women interviewed attributed their success to "luck" compared to only ⅓ of men." 

If we want girls to grow into women who own their achievements, we need to celebrate the work they put into achieving their goals. Did your girl ace her last test? Tell her you're proud of the way she studied for it. Did she learn a new song on the piano? Celebrate her commitment to regular practice. The more we connect girls' achievements to their efforts, the easier it will be for them to avoid impostor syndrome as adults.

boy and girl by a pond
Merritt Thomas via Unsplash

3. Stop being so bossy.

Telling a girl she's 'bossy' feeds into the stereotype that only boys get to be assertive and girls should be quiet and retiring. Instead, celebrate that she feels confident enough in her opinions to instruct others. Say something like, "You're so good at making plans for games! Remember that your game should be fun for everybody. Let your friend make some decisions too." This helps her hone those emerging leadership skills.

4. You would be a lot prettier if you smiled more.

This phrase implies that your daughter's feelings are less important than looking attractive to everyone else. If you're worried that your daughter's overall outlook on life is negative, find ways to discuss the issue without connecting it to her appearance or likeability. "Knowing that they are loved as they help with building self-belief and confidence, especially when others around them are being unkind," says Dr. Low. 

Discuss the long-term consequences of focusing on the negative in every situation. Negative people miss out on the good things in the world because they fail to notice them. Consider starting a gratitude journal with your daughter. Or have her tell you two positive things about a situation every time she says something negative. You'll not only help her notice the good details in life but also help her regulate the stories she tells herself.

 

Related: 10 Times Your Daughter Shouldn’t Say Sorry

'get the the point' is something you shouldn't say to your daughter
Sandra Seitamaa via Unsplash

5. Get to the point.

If your daughter shares details about her day-to-day life with you, consider yourself lucky. "Resilience researchers study kids that thrive despite difficult circumstances. These kids have one thing in common–a trusted adult that they believe loves them unconditionally," says Dr. Angela Low, Researcher at Child Health BC, part of the Provincial Health Services Authority of British Columbia. 

"Knowing that an adult has their back no matter what means that they have somewhere to go to seek advice and counsel, when life gets a little overwhelming, or when they make mistakes (as we all do)." Show you're there for her, even if you've heard enough about YouTube and TikTok to last a lifetime. Listen to her now so she will open up to you when it's crucial, later. If you absolutely can't listen right away, try saying this: "You're important to me, and I want to focus on what you have to say. Can you wait for me to finish this task so I can listen to you?"

6. Look how well your friend/sibling does XYZ. 

In this era of competitive parenting, you might find yourself looking at another child who is a better dancer, student, athlete, etc. But telling your child they don't do XYZ as well as another kid is harmful. It leads kids to feel "less than" which leads to low self-esteem, anxiety, and other issues. Remember, there's ALWAYS going to be someone who does something better than all of us, and it's better to point out their strengths or guide them to the things that interest them, not what might just look good in a social media feed. 

"you should go on a diet" is something you shouldn't say to your daughter, little girls eating ice cream
iStock

7. You should go on a diet.

Want to know how to talk to your daughter about her weight? Don't. Instead, teach her how her body works and what types of food and exercise make her body healthy, strong, and well-nourished. Make sure she knows that the bodies she sees in magazines and social media have been digitally edited to achieve that look. Talk about society's pressures on women to look a certain way, even though bodies come in all shapes and sizes. 

Compliment her for the things her body can do. And make sure you talk about how proud you are of the things YOUR body can do. If she sees you loving your real-world body, it will be easier for her to develop a healthy relationship with food.

8. That's not for girls. 

It's the 21st century, y'all. Women are achieving amazing things in sports, business, and the sciences. Encourage your daughter to pursue her dreams regardless of whether her aspirations are in traditionally male-dominated areas or not. 

Worried that she may run across people who treat her unkindly because they don't think girls should apply? You can help her navigate any future challenging circumstances now. Connect her to training, sponsors, and networks that can support her goals. This will build her self-confidence and resilience as she pursues her ambitions.

—with additional reporting by Beth Shea

For all the parents who have ever wondered, “should I have a third child?” this is for you

Triple your pleasure; triple your fun. When you have a third child, you’ll need a bigger car and a lot more snacks, and you’ll be rewarded with more love and wild adventures. Read on to find out what life is like when you add a third baby to the family.

iStock

Pregnancy? What Pregnancy?
With your first, you have time to read baby books and take childbirth classes. Pregnancy with your second is a bit more hectic as you have to coordinate hospital tours and baby-registry shopping trips around nap time. But by the time you’re pregnant with baby 3, you’re lucky if you can even remember to take your prenatal vitamin each morning. Between taking care of two other children and driving around to all their activities, your third learns to go with the flow from the time they're in the womb.

Delivery Is Orchestrated with the Precision of a Space Shuttle Launch
For the delivery of your third baby, you will need to begin preparations weeks in advance to ensure your other two children are accounted for. Schedules, locations, contact numbers and contingency plans should be documented and emailed to your entire circle so your kids can be picked up, dropped off and cared for while number three is making its arrival.

Practical > Cute in the Clothing Department
With your first, you buy all the adorable baby outfits and don't worry about the number of buttons and snaps. Your second wears some hand-me-downs along with simple sleepers added to the rotation. By the time your third baby comes along, they're living in secondhand onesies and pajamas that provide easy diaper-changing access.

Someone Is Always Hungry or Thirsty
With three kids, you learn to always be prepared with snacks and drinks. Whether you're nursing an infant, peeling oranges for a toddler or fetching crackers for a preschooler, someone always needs something. Usually when you’re using the restroom or are on the phone because #momlife.

Nature Never Stops Calling
Have three children and maybe a pet, and you'll be constantly changing a diaper, taking someone to the potty or taking a fur baby out for a walk. No longer will anyone in the household be squeamish about pooptalking about it or cleaning it up.

Everyone Adjusts to the Chaos
With three young children, you become accustomed to a minimum threshold of background noise. You accept that it will always be there and learn to tune it out. Fortunately, so do the children. Just wait to be amazed at how quickly baby number three will fall asleep despite older siblings' shouts, laughs and musical toys.

It’s an Instant Party
With three kids, the party never ends. Scheduling playdates isn't as necessary because every single day is a playdate right at home. Bring three kids to a park or an event, and suddenly it’s a party. All the neighborhood kids come calling to play with one, two or all three of your children.

Cuddles Galore
With three, you will never want for love. Eager arms are always outstretched and waiting to hug you, and you will constantly find a child or three snuggling into your side. Someone always wants to play with you, giggle with you or be held by you. It’s as heartwarming as it sounds and does wonders for the ego.

iStock

Maximum Return on Investment
With three kids, you ensure you get your money's worth on all the gear you've purchased. Clothes, strollers and toys all get passed down, eliminating the need to purchase much of anything for baby number three but diapers and new car seats when your current ones expire.

Built-in Teachers
With your first, you are the model for everything your child learns to do. You teach and instruct and celebrate each milestone. But once you have two and three children, older siblings step in to help teach their younger siblings. Potty training a third? Leave it to the older kids and watch them pass on your wisdom.

You No Longer Sweat the Small Stuff
Firstborn children tend to have every step carefully monitored for their safety. Second children get away with more as you're learning to divide your attention between two kids running in opposite directions. But by the time number three is born, you’ve realized kids are pretty resilient. Besides, you no longer have time to obsess over minor details. So all three children are given more latitude as you save your energy for what's truly important.

The Love Is Overwhelming
This is really what it’s all about. Triple the love. Three times the hugs. Your heart bursts every time you look at all of your children together. You realize they'll always have each other, and you can't imagine your life without them and their amazing bond.

RELATED STORIES:

9 Products You Need with a Second (or Third or Fourth) Child

13 Signs You’re on Your Second Baby

New Mom’s Survival Guide for Going Back to Work

Pack your hiking boots, your swim trunks, and the s’mores—these cozy cabins just outside Dallas are calling your name

If you are desperate for a change of scenery, we’ve got just the spots for you. These Airbnb rentals near Dallas are the perfect cozy cabins you’ve been dreaming of. You’ll find tons of family-friendly amenities in these Airbnb rentals for families that include a log cabin, a totally cute A-frame, and even a cabin with a pool! Get ready to relax in the great outdoors!

Granbury, TX: A-Frame Cabin

Airbnb

This peaceful A-Frame cabin is updated with all the modern amenities and is located just minutes from Historic Granbury Square. Situated on three wooded lots, there is a wood-burning stove inside, an outdoor fire pit to roast marshmallows, and a window AC unit for humid nights. Make it a lake day on a boat, kayak, jet ski, or paddleboard on Lake Granbury, or go boating on the gorgeous banks of the Brazos River.

Sleeps: 6
Cost: $112/night
Online: airbnb.com

Grafod, TX: Cross TImbers Lakefront Cabin

Airbnb

Enjoy a relaxing vacation at this waterfront home nestled in the Cross Timbers forest with beautiful panoramic lake views and a partially covered swim dock right on the water. For the adventuring sort, this home comes with kayaks and is easily accessible to nearby hiking and bike trails. 

Sleeps: 4
Cost: $209/night
Online: airbnb.com

Chico, TX: Waterfront Lake Bridgeport Haven

Airbnb

Located on Lake Bridgeport, this spacious 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home in Chico overlooks the lake and offers an abundance of amenities like a private dock and boat slip, a fire pit for roasting s'mores, and is within walking distance of a must-eat smokehouse for those nights you want to take a break from the grill. 

Sleeps: 13
Cost: $331/night
Online: airbnb.com

Graham, TX: Shores Ranch Getaway Cabin

Airbnb

This cozy little cabin, just 15 miles west of Graham, TX, is a great spot to watch the beautiful sunsets from the front porch while rocking in a rocking chair. Best part? Lake Graham is just a few minutes away where you can fish and boat all day long.

Sleeps: 4
Cost: $75/night
Online: airbnb.com

Nevada, TX: Lake Lavon Secluded Cabin

Airbnb

This lakefront cabin will quickly become your family's favorite vacation spot. Start your morning with a cup of coffee on the back deck overlooking Lake Lavon and then spend the day kayaking and paddle boarding (rental fee is extra) and then finish off the nights at the fire pit.

Sleeps: 6
Cost: $202/night
Online: airbnb.com

Lake Cypress Springs: Spacious Mid-Century A-Frame

Airbnb

The whole crew will love relaxing at this large log cabin just feet away from Lake Cypress Springs. There's a sandy beach, kayaks to use on-site, and a boat slip for your watercraft. Feeling adventurous? There are hiking trails, a peach orchard, a winery, and two towns—Mt. Vernon and Winnsboro—nearby for boutique shopping and great restaurants. 

Sleeps: 4
Cost: $179/night
Online: airbnb.com

Ennis, TX: Winding Ridge Guest House

Airbnb

Winding Ridge is a two-bedroom early 1900‘s replica guest house located on 22 acres of charming Texas Hill Country. Kids will love stepping outside to play with the miniature herd of horses, donkeys, and goats—your own private petting zoo! Bring your own bicycles or use the two guest bikes to roam the winding countryside. There's a jacuzzi, fire pit, a shared pool, and central AC to keep you cool on those hot summer nights. 

Sleeps: 6
Cost: $279/night
Online: airbnb.com

Please note, prices listed were valid at the time of publication but rates can fluctuate at different times of the year. If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.


It’s like we all realized it at the same time: we might have to do school, work and general living differently (thanks, pandemic), but we don’t have to do it here. Millions of Americans are looking to make a change in where they live, and Airbnb’s Instagram account is a no-risk way to see if the grass is really greener on the other side of the fence.

Turns out, it is—at least in some spots. The most liked Airbnb properties of 2021 include a glassed-in A frame in the Zion Mountains, a treehouse in a wilderness preserve and cabins hidden away in the Redwoods, along biking trails and deep in the heart of old-growth forests.

We’re not mind readers, but it seems like people are trying to get away from it all, no? Scroll down to see which locations tempt us the most to go off-grid.

Talk about aligning your sleep cycle with nature. And if you're working from home, you're sure to be up with the sun. 

Book This Property Here

If you need a shift in your perspective, this ought to do it.

Book This Property Here

Water cooler breaks are so 2019. They're into mountain biking breaks around here.

Book This Property Here

—Shelley Massey

Featured image courtesy Gerard Skehan.

 

RELATED STORIES

Epic Airbnb Stays in Los Angeles

16 Bay Area Spots for Your Next Airbnb Stay

Our Favorite NYC-Area Airbnbs for Families Big & Small

Cool Airbnb Rentals for Chicago Families

Seattle’s Best Airbnb Rentals for Families

The Best Family-Friendly DC-Area Airbnb Rentals 

Amazing Portland, Oregon Airbnbs Your Family Will Love 

Fun Staycation Ideas at Socal Airbnb Rentals 

Now is your chance to get away! But… where to? Whether it’s just you and the kiddos or a family reunion you’re planning, we have something totally off the beaten path that will make for an unforgettable trip. Dude ranch vacations are the OG western adventure vacation. They offer something for every traveler at every age, whether it’s horseback riding, fly-fishing, white-water rafting, hiking, shooting sports or simply porch-sitting with breathtaking views, Dude Ranchers’ Association member ranches have it all. The best part?  DRA ranches are all-inclusive—an ideal way to travel no matter the type or size of your group.

No Fool’s Gold here: Get a wiggle on and keep reading for more reasons why we think your buckaroos will deem a DRA Dude Ranch trip ace-high! (That’s cowboy speak for “Awesome!”)

ALL-INCLUSIVE!: The stallion of vacation set-ups, all-inclusive trips just make everything so much easier when traveling with a group. No fighting over the bill at dinner, all DRA Dude Ranch destination pricing includes meals, lodging and even activities (so no sticker shock at the end of your trip, either!

Fits Any Type + Age of Traveler: And we mean, any: babies and toddlers up to seniors, singles, couples, reunions, multi-generational trips, and so on—pretty much any scenario in which humans gather, the Dude Ranchers’ Association is sure to thrill them all. (Even your Aunt Martha—we know she’s picky.)

Activities for All: Horseback riding is typically the main event, but activities for all interests are readily available. And remember, the DRA has lots of options so you can find the Ranch that’s perfect for all your dudes, including you, partner!

Sky-High Standards: The DRA implements a rigorous 2-year application process in order to be accepted into membership with the Dude Ranchers’ Association. Once a ranch is accepted, the DRA board of directors visits the ranch every five years so guests are guaranteed an extraordinary western experience at any member ranch. 

Location, Location, Location: Well, that depends on where in the west you think is best! You have heaps of options (90+!) and any DRA member ranch you choose is sure to be an excellent destination to unplug and reconnect with family and friends, and surely to gather ‘round the campfire and stargaze at night.

Safe Destinations: Leave the staleness of your home territory behind and step into another world: You’ll be outdoors in nature, surrounded by fresh air and taken care of by a small group of friendly folks at any given DRA Ranch—welcome home! (on the range... )

Rustic or 5-Star? Up to You!: DRA Ranches offer it all. From working cattle ranches to traditional dude ranches and luxury resort ranches, the Dude Ranchers’ Association has all the options you could possibly desire or need. Adventure awaits at any of DRA’s member ranches—each with something unique to offer their guests—just choose your adventure!

 

Don’t be a yellow belly! Book your dude ranch trip today—it’ll be a vacation they’ll love to pieces!

 

Photo: Jordan Manfredi

I listen to way too many podcasts—the ones that make you feel more aware, upset, unsure and fascinated. I meditate sometimes and I drink enough water. I’m definitely putting in the work to try to remember who I am, in addition to being a mom, a wife and a business owner.

My “to-do” list, like most caregivers, is long. It lives in my phone and on my mind and if I forget it, it pings me back into submission. It keeps me busy—doing and going, going and doing my way to a satisfactory life. And it makes me feel 82% numb and substantially less alive.

The routine dulls my senses and for a not-new human like myself, it bores me to death sometimes. Sincere gratitude aside, being a mom of young kids is majority monotonous and minority former-self fun. Today, as I was driving home from a meeting, I realized that I had a full tank of gas, my suitcase and not one but two credit cards. I thought, “I could just get away for the weekend, run off and be alone for a full 48 hours. The kids would be fine, my husband would understand.” In fact, he was the one that told me, “I can’t make you happy.”

I wanted to drive far away today and to leave my problems behind. The idea perculated fuzzy in my head, as my fomer-fun self suddenly perked up, like a breath of fresh air had entered my lungs and was pumping life back into me. But as regularly programmed, I instead reverted back to my “to-do” list and pushed the novel-yet-non-sensical idea aside.

Annoyed, I drove back into the mind-blowing experience of modern motherhood. I was driving myself numb and not doing anything about it. Why? Because motherhood is unconditional and transformative. It’s damn beautiful and in that beauty is also a breakdown, an experience of the soul. And because as mothers, we’re trained not to rock the boat. Heck, we are the boat keeping everything afloat.

Deep inside my sticky sense of resentment, hand-dipped in disappointment, I heard my husband say it again inside my  head: “I can’t make you happy. You have to do that yourself.” He was right. This, “But what happened to my life?” baggage wasn’t his or theirs to carry. It was mine, all mine. There was no one left to blame. So now what?

I noticed a motorcyclist driving in front of me and he was masterfully pulling up his front wheel and rocking a wheely. I was at once, in awe and in admiration and also moderately concerned for his health and well-being. We exchanged a thumbs up as I drove by, congratulating him on his fearless feat and in that flash of a moment, I saw a twinkle in his eyes. They were sparkling like sunlight on the water. They were eyes of someone who was happy in that moment. It was that undeniable look you have when you’re doing something that makes you feel alive. When you’re not asking for anyone’s permission to live out loud and disappointing the world by not caring what anyone else thinks. Carl Jung calls it, individualizing, a way of being open-hearted to life.
That’s what I’m looking for. That look, that feeling.

I then have another idea and refuse to let my “to-do” list dictate my decision. I ask Siri,  “How far is Coney Island from here?” She answered, “12 miles.” I veered my car off and decide to take matters into my own hands. To dedcidedly be happy by doing something that actually makes me happy. It was pretty simple: I was going to hit the coasters, because I love riding roller coasters. I took myself on the date night I’ve been so desperately missing and I ended up riding the Thunderbolt front row next to a mom and her daughter. We held hands and screamed our heads off. When I picked up my souvenior picture to remember this version of me that I’ve longed for, I noticed something in my eyes looking back at me. It was that same shine. There’s the me underneath the “to-do” lists and it’s just waiting to come out if only we can allow ourselves to unappolgetically do whatever makes us happy, no outside assistance required.

I’m a beauty hunter, a dreamer, a learner and a doer. I'm also a mama to 2 wild ones (Lily Love + Bear). As a self proclaimed forest fairy + forest school founder, I believe in nature and magic and know that growth happens when you step outside of your comfort zone.

Advertisement

It’s finally time to get out and travel this summer! In all your excitement to get away, it could be easy to forget one important thing: budget. Here are ten easy, breezy tips to help you save money on your family vacation and make it the best summer ever!

Venturing out in an RV makes it easier to check off multiple attractions on a budget! We’ve teamed up with Go RVing for everything you need to plan a budget-friendly summer vacay. Get our guide here!

Shop Before Your Trip

It can be tempting to leave shopping for essentials for your travel destination, but not always the best ideal if you want to save money. Headed to a beach town? You don't want to be stuck having to buy swimsuits for your family at a pricey surf shop as your only option! Same with drinks, snacks, sunscreen—it's best to plan ahead and get those items at a discount store near you before you hit the road.

Look For Campgrounds with Entertainment

Sure, you could go to a waterpark on your trip, or you could book a campground that has one on-site! Many campgrounds have family-friendly amenities like pools with waterslides, lakes with kayaks and outdoor movie nights—which save you cash and are conveniently located right where you're staying. 

Go RVing!

One of the best ways to save money on a vacay? Stay at a place with your own kitchen! Restaurant meals can be upwards of $200/day per family, which can really cut into the fun budget—one of the many reasons why an RV is the way to go! Traveling in an RV saves money, gives you more freedom than other modes of travel and is just plain fun! You have options by traveling in an RV, with the space to refrigerate and cook your own meals (campfire, anyone?!). Not only that, renting a car and hotel stays are expensive—think of your RV as a super-fun two-in-one! 

RVs are for everyone, not just campers, and they open up a world of possibilities while traveling that traditional hotel stays and car rentals don't offer. With an RV, you set your own schedule. No airport lines or packing restrictions. You have the safety and comfort of bringing your own sheets, towels and pillows (not to mention, all the stuffies the kids want!). Whether you rent one or go all in and buy your very own vacay house on wheels, you can't go wrong with an RV for travel.

To learn more and find your ideal RV, visit GoRVing.com.

Check Out Harvest Hosts

Looking for a unique outdoor stay? Harvest Hosts is a website that connects RV travelers with wineries, breweries, farms and more unique locals—all with no camping fees! The annual membership is $99, and lets you book as many stays as you'd like.

Visit Harvest Hosts here.

Mix Up Your Meals

Going to restaurants each day adds up quickly, especially with kids in tow. Rather than going to restaurants to entertain the family, plan a few nights of making your own campfire meals! Cooking over a fire will be an exciting new adventure for your kids, and you'll save big by only having to buy ingredients. 

Get the GasBuddy App

Want to pay less for gas? Us, too! The GasBuddy app provides prices of gas stations in your area based on your GPS location. Now you can "shop around" to find the cheapest gas near you, on the road or close to home. 

Get the GasBuddy app here.

Bring the Fun

One of the biggest perks of traveling in an RV is the extra space! Pack a few board games, a frisbee, and, if you have space, your kids' bikes. When the inevitable "I'm bored" comes up, you'll already have entertainment on hand!

Travel During the Week

Being flexible with your travel dates means big savings. Try to avoid traveling on the weekend and opt for mid-week options instead. Special deals for families, and for destinations in general, are more readily available during the week, and at off-peak hours. 

Get Tickets for Events Ahead of Time

Don't wait until you get to the door—tickets are usually more expensive last minute. Buying online and early not only ensures that your whole gang gets in, but that you get the best price. Pro tip: Don't forget to search the web for deals and coupon codes before you hit "send"!

The U.S. Park Pass

Parks and Rec your thing? This is your pass to see it all! The America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass is your ticket to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites across the country. For an $80 annual fee, this pass covers entrance, standard amenity fees and day-use fees per vehicle. 

Get the pass here.

To learn more and find your ideal RV, visit GoRVing.com.

 

—Jamie Aderski

 

National parks are hot this summer. Last year 15 parks set a new recreation visitation record and five broke a record they set in 2019, according to NPS data. With parks fully reopened and travel skyrocketing, it might be tough to get away from the crowds, but a new campaign from the National Park Service gives you insider tips for making the most of your family’s visit.

“Plan Your Vacation Like a Park Ranger” features advice from actual park rangers, who share their knowledge for a memorable trip. To bag that trail you’ve been dreaming about and/or avoid an unpleasant encounter between your toddler and a wild animal, read on!

  1. Have a plan…and a backup plan. Use the National Parks website to research in advance and be prepared for unpredictable weather, trail closures or lines. Sometimes the backup is even better than the original!
  2. Be patient with each other and us. Park rangers are people too. The NPS is reminding guests that those who are not fully vaccinated must wear a mask indoors and in crowded spaces.
  3. Travel off the beaten path. Did you know there’s an advanced search feature that will let you find parks or national monuments closest to you? There are more than 400 to choose from, after all!
  4. Reservations may be needed. Especially at the bigger parks, where you’ll need a reservation ticket for Arches’ popular Fiery Furnace hike, for example.
  5. Ask a ranger. They’re the experts on their parks and they’re happy to help!
  6. Explore the new NPS app. Download this in advance of your trip (it even works offline)!
  7. Keep safety in the picture. You might have to wait a minute for that perfect photo opp, so resist the urge to put yourself in danger to get one for the ‘Gram.
  8. Don’t pet the fluffy cows. Bison, in case you were wondering. And that applies to all other wildlife in the park too! Keep your distance and never feed them to keep everyone a safe and happy camper.
  9. Leave only footprints. Pack it in, pack it out. Stay on the trail. Basically, leave everything the way you found it for future generations to enjoy.
  10. Ruffing it? Parks vary on their pet policies: some let you bring them on the trails, some require that they stay at the campground and some prohibit pets. Research in advance and remember, some have kennel options too!

You’ll find even more tips from individual parks all summer long by following the hashtag #PlanLikeAParkRanger across social media. The National Park Service official Instagram account is an especially good (and humorous) place to start. Parks are for the people and we can’t wait to see the epic trips you take!

—Sarah Shebek

Featured image courtesy of Kylie Kirkland

 

RELATED STORIES:

The Best National Parks to Visit with Kids (& the Airbnbs to Book When You Do)