Recent Essays

a sign declaring land to be private with no public allowed

Yes you read that correctly. And no it is not a dystopian science fiction plot. It is reality. Here’s what’s happening.

A misty coastal forest

Research has shown that in a mature forest plants don't compete: they collaborate. We must learn to share like forests do.

The arrowhead logo of the US national park service

One brave NPS staff person revealed how visitors are responding to Trump's call for public comments, and the results are not what he wanted.

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.

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Popular Essays

Interested in US national parks? What about living a wild life? Get started with these popular essays. 

Want more? Peruse an archive of All Essays

Woman in front of fall trees

Stephanie McCullough

As a former US national park ranger with a master’s degree in environmental education and interpretation, Stephanie (she/her) created the Ranger Desk to share her passion for national parks and the natural world.