Essays

Get started on your national park journey by perusing our extensive archive of essays. Whether you want to be a park ranger, learn more about rangers and parks, or cultivate a wilder life, we have an essay that will help.

Parks

A black plaque reading "Final Resting Place"

A trip to Camp Nelson National Monument unexpectedly led me on an emotional journey through the places and people that have shaped my life.

a stone arch framing the American flag

The Trump Administration wants to eliminate hundreds of America's national historical and cultural parks. Here's why.

Beautiful woman wearing a flower crown

Trans Americans are Americans. Their stories should be included in NPS history, and, until recently, they were.

a field of small American flags

National parks shouldn't be given to states, but Trump's budget would do just that. Here's why it's wrong (and what he really wants).

the whitehouse at sunset

Trump is cutting 350 national parks. His new budget proposal says he's giving them to states. But he's slashing state funding too.

two arms hugging a tree

I am still hopeful about US national parks because of park staff. Their dedication, stewardship, and love for parks hasn't changed.

Wild Living

Game pieces on a game board

Play: it's not just for kids--it's for adults, too. Research shows that play combats depression. Discover ways to add play to your life.

a wooden sculpture of a reclining woman

"You can't climb on her!" a child called out. The forest giants of Bernheim Forest are so realistic they entrance the child in all of us.

sunrise over waves

Five reasons to be hopeful about climate change--the global outlook for climate action is no longer doom and gloom and here's why.

flat white glacier surrounded by mud

How to talk to climate change deniers about climate change, including reasons to hope and when to give up and move on.

tall white memorial stone with black japanese text

Asian American and Pacific Islander heritage is celebrated in America's national parks. Here are three such parks, and links to many more.

bright moon in dark sky

A written snapshot of a solar eclipse. That day we felt aligned with our earth, with our sky, and all the wonders they both provide.