My Family Visited 34 National Parks in 1 Year-Here Are My Top 5 Tips for Anyone Visiting With Kids

"Before your visit, check the specific park's Current Conditions page on the National Park Service (NPS) website. This might sound basic, but nothing can derail a park visit faster than finally arriving only to find an anticipated attraction or road is closed. This past year, we've seen park closures due to fires, flash floods, road construction, and the government shutdown, along with seasonal closures due to snow and ice."

"Fourth-grade students in the U.S. can get a free Every Kid Outdoors pass. This allows children under 16 and up to three adults in your vehicle to enter 400+ NPS sites without paying entrance fees."

"Listening to a GPS-directed audio tour is a great way for visitors of all ages to become familiar with the park's history, geology, and special attractions. The guide tips you off to which attractions are must-dos, which you can skip, and even the best places to park. Tours are GPS-directed, so they sync automatically with your location."

A family completed a yearlong road trip visiting national parks and monuments with children ages 9 and 12. Through this experience, they developed practical strategies for successful park visits. Key recommendations include checking the National Park Service website's Current Conditions page before arrival to avoid closures from fires, floods, construction, or seasonal conditions. Fourth-grade students can obtain free Every Kid Outdoors passes granting entrance for children under 16 and up to three adults to over 400 NPS sites. Audio tours enhance visits by providing historical, geological, and attraction information. The NPS website and app offer free tours, while apps like GuideAlong provide additional options with GPS-directed guidance highlighting must-see attractions and optimal parking locations.

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