Recent Essays

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What's in my bag? As a former national park ranger, here’s what I take for a day hike, including a few items that might surprise you.

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

two hands forming a heart shape in the forest

How can you be a respectful national park visitor while parks are experiencing staffing shortages or other crises? Here are seven tips.

a stone archway reading For the benefit and enjoyment of the people

Here are five ways you can support national parks. America's national parks are under threat like never before, but there are ways to help.

mountains and waterfalls reflected in a lake

National parks are more efficient than most businesses. In fact they are not just economically efficient, they are wildly so. Here's how.

a stone sculpture of Martin Luther King Jr

Here are 10 national parks that celebrate Black history, because we refuse to forget this vital part of our heritage.

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Popular Essays

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

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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.