11 Must-Read Books for Nature-Loving Kids
Like most families, we love to read together. As the kids have grown we now find ourselves having book club-style discussions about the books we read. And without a doubt circling back to our old favorites.
Best books about US National Parks for kids
If you’d like to use this pass as a wonderful opportunity to teach your kids more about the parks.
National Parks of the USA - I LOVE the illustrations in this book! It’s also full of in-depth information on different parks around the country. Perfect for making your bucket list.
National Parks of the USA: Activity Book - this activity book goes hand in hand with the original book and makes the experience even more immersive with fun activities for your road trip or anytime!
National Parks Guide USA - from National Geographic Kids this is the perfect book for kids who love getting all the details and interesting knowledge. The only downside to this book is that it was created for the 2016 NPS centennial celebration so it lacks a few of the parks that have been added since then.
America’s National Parks - if you’re a fan of Lonely Planet tour books then you’ll love the kids’ version too. This cute book is informational, from animals to history, but also an activity book - a perfect all-in-one for excited kids.
Best books about camping and RVing for kids
If your family loves camping and RVing as much as our family we know you use the off-season to dream about your next camping adventure, these books help bring those dreams to life.
A Camping Spree With Mr. Magee- Our absolute favorite book, hands down, ever.
Curious George Goes Camping - Especially exciting when planning trips to Mt. Rushmore.
Flat Stanley Goes Camping - This amusing book is excellent for mid-elementary age kids and it’s great to continue the fun by making your own Stanley and bringing him along on your adventures!!
Diary of a Wimpy Kid - The Deep End - Another installment of the beloved series takes the readers along on a Heffley RV Trip. This has been a fun book to talk about and laugh about with the kids.
Best books about the outdoors for older kids (and adults)
The Lost Art of Reading Nature’s Signs - This is perfect for the kids with all the questions about nature and re-learning what our ancestors understood about what it meant when the wind blew or the birds flew. Even though my older kids could’ve read this, I had more fun reading aloud to everyone so we could learn together. Another option would be to purchase the audiobook and listen together in the car.
60 Hikes 60 Miles - We love this whole book series! It’s simple, just find your closest metro area and you’ll discover fantastic hikes in your own backyard. I love having bigger kids pick out which hikes we’re going to try because it involves way less complaining!
50 States, 500 Campgrounds: Where to Go, When to Go, What to See, What to Do - I recently discovered this book and it has become a fun way to create a campground bucket list with our kids! Author Joe Yogerst has several books just like it and I’m a big fan of all of them.
Read more of our recent posts about kids & US National Parks -
Road trips and RVing with kids can be a fun and memorable experience, but it can also be challenging to keep them entertained and engaged. This blog post will provide you with 29 tips for making your next road trip or RVing adventure with kids a success. From keeping kids entertained on long drives to budget-friendly activities and games, these tips will help you make the most out of your trip, keep your kids happy and make it a fun experience for the whole family. Whether you're planning a short weekend getaway or a cross-country adventure, this guide will help you make the most of your time on the road with your kids.
Discover the wonders of Zion National Park with our comprehensive guide. Learn the best time to visit, explore the must-see sights like The Narrows and Angels Landing, and find the top hikes for all levels of hikers. Plus, discover the kid-friendly activities that make it a great family destination. Get all the information you need to plan your perfect trip to Zion National Park.
Your ultimate resource for exploring the unparalleled beauty of this iconic destination. Discover top-rated hiking trails and scenic drives that showcase the majestic peaks, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife of the Rocky Mountains. With expert insights, detailed trail descriptions, and stunning photography, this guide ensures an unforgettable adventure. Plan your visit to Rocky Mountain National Park today and immerse yourself in nature's grandeur. Maximize your experience with our comprehensive guide and unlock the secrets of this natural wonderland. Don't miss out on this must-have resource for any outdoor enthusiast. Get ready to explore Rocky Mountain National Park like never before!
Are you planning a family RV road trip? Look no further! Our comprehensive blog post is the ultimate guide for making your adventure an unforgettable experience. Discover the top 10 tips for family RV road trips, including expert advice on planning your route, optimizing your packing strategies, keeping the kids entertained, and ensuring safety throughout your journey. From scenic attractions to campground reservations, this post has you covered. Start reading now and get ready for a stress-free and enjoyable family RV road trip like never before!
RV trips provide a unique opportunity for families to bond and spend quality time together. By disconnecting from technology, planning activities together, embracing spontaneity, encouraging family time around the campfire, and sharing responsibilities, families can create lasting memories and strengthen their relationships on the road. Remember, the goal of an RV trip isn't just to explore new places, but also to create meaningful connections with your family. So, take the time to enjoy the journey, make memories, and strengthen your bonds on your next RV adventure.
Summer adventures with kids can be challenging, but with a few easy hacks, you can make your trips stress-free and fun. One helpful tip is to keep a gallon-sized Ziplock bag with a change of clothes for each kid in your car, including an extra pair of swimwear for impromptu water play. Other helpful hacks include freezing water bottles for longer coolness, bringing a pop-up tent for shade, using a shower caddy for outdoor eating, and making a small first aid kit. By following these tips, you can enjoy the summer sun without worrying about unexpected spills, sudden rain showers, or other mishaps.
Vacations are a great way to bond with your family and make memories, but they can also be expensive. However, with a little planning and creativity, you can have a fun and budget-friendly family vacation. Here are some tips and trip ideas to help you save money while still enjoying your time together. Remember, the most important aspect of a family vacation is spending quality time together. Choose a destination that suits your family's interests and budget, and have fun!
Planning a camping or RV trip with teenagers? Here are some tips and ideas for making the trip fun and exciting for your teens, including involving them in the planning process, bonding as a family, allowing for solo time, connecting with friends, and encouraging independence. With a bit of planning and creativity, you can create a memorable family adventure that your teens will love.
As travelers who have explored both big and small destinations, near and far, we've found that our fondest memories often come from off-the-beaten-path locations. Our recent adventure in North Dakota was no exception. This often-overlooked state is a treasure trove of natural wonders, making it a dream destination for RV enthusiasts. Join us as we recount our unforgettable family RV journey through the stunning landscapes of North Dakota. From the iconic Theodore Roosevelt National Park to the charming town of Medora, the serene Tobacco Gardens Resort and Marina, and the culturally rich MHA Interpretive Center, our trip was filled with memories that will last a lifetime.
Fall is considered the best time to visit many US National Parks for a variety of reasons. One of the main reasons is the weather, as the temperatures are generally cooler and more comfortable for hiking and other outdoor activities. Additionally, the fall season brings about beautiful changes in the foliage, creating a picturesque and colorful landscape.
Are you ready to escape the crowds and discover the untouched beauty of the United States national park system? While popular destinations often steal the spotlight, there are numerous off-the-beaten-path national park sites waiting to be explored. These hidden gems offer a chance to experience pristine wilderness, breathtaking landscapes, and unique ecosystems that are often overlooked. In this guide, we invite you to veer away from the well-trodden path and embark on an adventure to some lesser-known national park sites. So, grab your backpack, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to be amazed by the extraordinary wonders that await you.
Full-time RV living is a lifestyle choice where people live in a recreational vehicle as their primary residence, usually traveling to different locations or staying in one place for extended periods of time. This post discusses the pros and cons of full-time RV living with kids. While it can be a great way to bond with your family and see the country, it's not without its challenges. The article also talks about the best jobs for someone who wants to live in an RV full-time and whether full-time RV life is the same thing as Vanlife. Full-time RV life generally refers to living in a recreational vehicle such as a motorhome, travel trailer, or fifth-wheel trailer, while Vanlife refers to living in a converted van.
Discover the wonders of Bryce Canyon National Park with your kids. Learn about the park's history and unique rock formations while hiking its easy trails. Don't miss out on the must-see places, including the Bryce Amphitheater and Natural Bridge. Plus, check out some fun activities like horseback riding and stargazing for a memorable family adventure.
Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado is an ideal destination for families with kids. In this blog post, we'll provide an overview of the park's history and geology, as well as highlight some of the best hiking trails for kids and must-see places in the park. Additionally, we'll share some of the top family-friendly activities in the area, such as sandboarding, ranger-led programs, fishing, and scenic drives. Whether you're planning a summer vacation or a winter getaway, Great Sand Dunes National Park is a must-visit destination for families looking to explore the great outdoors and make unforgettable memories.
Glacier National Park is a stunning destination in the northern United States that offers endless opportunities for families to explore and connect with nature. We provide an introduction to the park's history and geology, as well as highlight some of the best hiking trails and must-see places for families with kids. Additionally, we'll share some of the top family-friendly activities to enjoy in the area, such as white-water rafting, horseback riding, wildlife watching, and ranger programs. Whether you're planning a summer vacation or a fall adventure, Glacier National Park is a must-visit destination for families looking to experience the beauty of the great outdoors.
Arches National Park is a stunning and unique destination that offers something for families with kids of all ages. This blog post explores the park's history and geology, as well as its best hiking trails, must-see places, and fun activities for kids. From the iconic Delicate Arch to the scenic Windows Section, there's no shortage of incredible sights and experiences to be had in this unforgettable natural wonder. Whether you're exploring the park on foot, horseback, or by car, Arches National Park is a must-visit for any family planning a trip to the southwest United States.
Yellowstone National Park is a perfect destination for families with kids. It offers a wide variety of activities and experiences that are both fun and educational for children of all ages. The park's vast wilderness and natural beauty provide a unique opportunity for kids to explore and learn about the natural world. Visitors can take part in ranger-led activities, go on a guided hike, or visit the park's famous geysers and hot springs. The park also has various programs for kids, such as the Junior Ranger program, which allows children to learn more about the park's resources and history while earning a badge or patch. Not only that, but the park is also home to a diverse array of wildlife, such as bison, elk, bears, and wolves, which kids can see from a safe distance. With its combination of natural beauty, educational opportunities, and family-friendly activities, Yellowstone National Park is the perfect destination for a family vacation.
Zion National Park is a family-friendly destination that offers a variety of outdoor activities and adventures for kids of all ages. In this 1500-word blog post, we'll explore the park's fascinating history, highlight some of the best hiking trails and must-see places for kids, and offer ideas for other fun activities that families can enjoy in the area. From the park's popular Junior Ranger program to guided horseback riding tours and ranger-led programs, there are endless opportunities for families to create unforgettable memories in Zion National Park.
Rocky Mountain National Park is a popular destination for families with kids who want to experience the great outdoors and learn about nature. This guide offers information on the park's history, hiking trails for kids, must-see places, and other fun activities that kids will enjoy. With helpful tips and suggestions for planning your visit, this guide will help you make the most of your time in one of America's most beautiful national parks.
Capitol Reef National Park is a scenic outdoor destination in southern Utah that can be a great place for families to visit with kids. The park offers a variety of activities for families to enjoy together, such as hiking, rock climbing, and wildlife watching. Some popular family-friendly hikes include the Rim Overlook Trail, the Cassidy Arch Trail, and the Grand Wash Trail. Kids can also learn about the park's unique geology and history through ranger-led programs and educational exhibits at the visitor center. When visiting Capitol Reef National Park with kids, it's important to be prepared for the park's high elevation and harsh desert climate, so be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing.
National Park Week is an annual celebration that promotes awareness and appreciation of America's national parks, occurring in April every year. It is dedicated to highlighting the importance of preserving America's natural and cultural heritage. The event provides a valuable opportunity to promote and celebrate America's national parks, raise awareness about conservation and preservation efforts, and advocate for the protection of these invaluable resources. During the celebration, the National Park Service offers free admission to all visitors on April 22nd. There are many national parks to choose from, but popular ones include Yosemite National Park and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
The RV lifestyle provides families with the freedom to explore and travel in comfort. From scenic road trips to camping adventures, families choose to RV for the versatility and flexibility it offers. Whether you're seeking a break from the daily routine, want to create new memories, or simply want to spend quality time together, RVing provides a unique opportunity to fulfill these desires. Read on as we will delve into the reasons why families, like us, choose to hit the road in an RV.
When planning a family RV trip, choosing the right campground is crucial. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is best. Fortunately, there are many nationwide campground chains that cater to families. These campgrounds provide consistent quality, convenient locations, rewards programs, family-friendly amenities, safety and security, and a sense of community. However, staying at a nationwide campground chain can also have some disadvantages, including a lack of individuality, higher cost, crowds, limited availability, and strict rules and regulations. To choose the best campground for your family, you should consider your camping style, preferences, budget, and travel itinerary.
Grand Canyon National Park is an awe-inspiring natural wonder that attracts visitors from around the world. The park's South Rim is the most popular area, with many points of interest and activities for visitors of all ages. If you only have three days to explore the park, it's important to prioritize the must-see attractions and experiences. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Grand Canyon National Park offers a breathtaking and unforgettable experience that will stay with you for a lifetime. Just remember to stay safe, respect the park's rules and regulations, and leave no trace behind to help preserve this amazing natural wonder for future generations.
Packing for a trip with a toddler or kid can be a challenge, but with a little bit of planning and organization, it doesn't have to be stressful. In this blog post, we'll share 15 tips for packing a suitcase for toddlers and kids, including organizing outfits by day, packing a first-aid kit, labeling everything, and bringing a few surprises to keep your child entertained. These tips will help ensure a stress-free and enjoyable trip for both you and your little one.
Visiting natural hot springs in Colorado is a fun and unique experience that offers families a chance to connect with nature, relax and unwind, and enjoy scenic views. So pack your swimwear and head to one of these amazing hot springs for a family-friendly getaway filled with fun, relaxation, and memories that will last a lifetime.
Looking for tips and tricks for packing and planning a comfortable and enjoyable long road trip? Emphasizing the importance of planning the route beforehand, researching the destination, and taking scenic routes. Plus, tips such as keeping a travel journal, playing road trip games, creating a themed route, and going off the beaten path. With several road trip essentials such as snacks, water, a phone charger, a first aid kit, a blanket, and GPS. The post suggests packing comfortable clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, and entertainment for the journey.
Whether you're seeking stunning views, easy access to popular attractions, or a wide range of amenities, there's an RV resort that caters to your family's needs. From Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park to Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground at Walt Disney World, each resort offers a variety of features, such as pools, playgrounds, and organized activities, to keep everyone entertained. With many options available, you can start planning your family getaway today and create lasting memories.
If you're looking for a unique way to experience America's national parks, consider visiting them by RV. Traveling by RV allows you to explore the beauty of the great outdoors at your own pace, while also providing a comfortable and convenient way to travel. Here are some of the top national parks to visit by RV.

Yellowstone National Park offers a variety of scenic hikes suitable for families and kids of all ages. From the stunning views of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone to the fascinating geothermal features, these 10 hikes are sure to provide a fun and educational experience for the whole family. With options ranging from easy walks to gentle hikes, there is something for everyone in this incredible national park.