12 top national parks to explore with your children

From the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone to the lush forests of Acadia and the stunning crater at Haleakala, the United States boasts a remarkable array of national parks — a total of 63.

Each park is distinct and filled with breathtaking natural attractions that should be on everyone’s travel bucket list.

Visiting a national park is especially important for families. Few vacation spots can bring the whole family together outdoors, engaged, and unplugged.

As a parent of two young kids, I compare it to enrolling the entire family in an incredible summer camp experience, with many of these adventures available year-round.

Surrounded by nature, national parks provide a wealth of activities like hiking, swimming, boating, biking, and fishing that spark a sense of wonder in children. Whether it’s a simple nature stroll or wading into bubbling streams, taking my kids to national parks connects them with nature and fosters a lifelong appreciation for their environment. Plus, it’s much less stressful than visiting a theme park.

Regardless of whether you have strong-willed teenagers or lively toddlers — even a baby ready to be carried — these national parks are not only stunning but also family-friendly, featuring easy trails, Junior Ranger programs, and attractions that parents will appreciate as well.

Selecting the perfect national park for your family

With 63 national parks across the U.S. and a total of 429 national park sites, choosing just one can be quite challenging.

Ultimately, the term "best park" is subjective, and your choice should be guided by your family's unique interests, budget, and plans. For instance, do you have older teenagers eager to hike, or younger kids who might get tired quickly on long treks and would prefer hands-on activities like swimming?

It's also essential to take into account the season of your visit and the availability of your desired activities. For instance, while you can enjoy swimming along the shores of Maine at Acadia National Park in the summer, a visit during the icy winter months would be impractical. Conversely, many national parks in the western U.S. are pleasant to explore year-round, offering milder winters (though some can see snowfall) and warm yet manageable summers (except in the deserts, of course).

Another key factor is whether you'd prefer to experience popular, bucket-list national parks like Yellowstone — along with the crowds that come with them — or seek out quieter, less frequented locations to enjoy a bit more peace and tranquility. If you're open to traveling during the shoulder or off-peak seasons, you might miss out on some prime summer activities, but you'll benefit from smaller crowds and potentially lower accommodation costs.

I highly recommend choosing a park that participates in the National Park Service's Junior Ranger program, especially if your children are younger. Most parks offer this program. It invites kids of all ages — typically aimed at those between 5 and 13 — to complete a series of fun activities and adventures, earning an official Junior Ranger patch and certificate. Simply visit the visitor center upon arrival and request the Junior Ranger booklet; many are also available for download online.

Additionally, some parks offer extra benefits for Junior Rangers. For instance, Grand Teton National Park hosts a free event called "Celebrate National Junior Ranger Day" each spring, featuring park-themed games, opportunities to explore rescue vehicles, and a 15% discount on bookstore items.

Arches National Park (Utah)

Located in the breathtaking landscape of Southern Utah, this park encompasses 76,000 acres filled with 2,000 striking red-clay rock formations. Kids enjoy spotting and posing beneath these famous arches.

You can drive through the park to select which arches you'd like to visit or take advantage of the various short hiking trails available. Many trails are just a brief walk from nearby parking lots, making it a great choice for families with young children. Older teens will appreciate the more extended hikes, such as the 3-mile trek to the iconic 46-foot Delicate Arch. This remarkable freestanding formation is one of the park's highlights, and since it's perched on a steep cliff, it's wise to keep a close watch on younger kids here.

A better option for kids is the Park Avenue and the Courthouse Towers section. Here, you can park and stroll along flat paths situated beneath towering monoliths or explore the short connecting trail.

Another great choice is the Windows section of the park, where you can explore large groups of arches, including North Window, Turret Arch, Double Arch, Garden of Eden, Elephant Butte, and Parade of Elephants. This area provides plenty of opportunities for quick photo sessions, allowing you to hop in and out of the car whenever inspiration strikes.

The only potential downside of visiting Arches is its popularity. Spring and summer months bring large crowds, but if you're staying in the nearby town of Moab — which is the ideal place to be — consider also visiting the lesser-known Canyonlands National Park. This hidden treasure attracts fewer visitors. For instance, in 2023, Arches recorded 1,482,045 visitors, while Canyonlands welcomed 800,322, according to data from the National Park Service. Canyonlands is much larger, covering 337,598 acres, and is filled with vast open spaces, stunning canyons, and breathtaking views.

Where to stay

As mentioned earlier, the most convenient place to stay while visiting Arches or Canyonlands is in nearby Moab, which offers a variety of lodging options.

I recommend Comfort Suites Moab Near Arches National Park. I stayed here a few years ago and found it to be budget-friendly, well-located, and comfortable. The suite-style rooms are spacious, featuring one king or two queen beds along with a separate seating area (though it's a studio-style layout within one large room) that includes a sofa bed, refrigerator, microwave, and desk. Amenities include free Wi-Fi and breakfast, and there's a seasonal outdoor pool. Room rates start at just $66 in the off-peak winter months and reach a reasonable $263 in summer.

For a resort-style experience that children will adore, The Moab Resort, a WorldMark by Wyndham Associate is situated at the base of Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. Accommodations range from studios to one-, two-, three-, and four-bedroom suites, all featuring full kitchens. An infinity-style pool offers stunning views of the red rock landscape, while younger guests can enjoy a splash pad and playground. The resort also includes fire pits, grills, a game room, and an educational terrarium. Kids of all ages can get a closer look at some of the resort's unique residents: bats. Look for bat boxes around the property, request a complimentary bat-themed coloring book, or borrow books about bats from the front desk. Room rates start at $212 per night.

Acadia National Park (Maine)

While the West is famous for its stunning national parks, this hidden treasure in the Northeast is just as captivating.

Located at the northern tip of Maine, Acadia National Park spans nearly 50,000 acres along the Atlantic coast, including outer islands such as Mount Desert, Schoodic Peninsula, and Isle au Haut.

In the summer, the park transforms into a playground for kids, offering activities like hiking, swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and biking. During fall, visitors can enjoy a spectacular annual display as the leaves shift from vibrant green to rich crimson, burnt orange, bright yellow, and various autumn colors.

Families will love the park's Island Explorer, a complimentary shuttle bus that operates from June to October, connecting many attractions, campgrounds, trailheads, local hotels, and Hancock County-Bar Harbor Regional Airport (BHB). While there are designated pick-up locations, drivers will also stop to pick up passengers — and their bikes — wherever it’s safe. This makes it easy to have a car-free vacation, eliminating the need for rental cars or parking hassles.

Along the rugged coastline, rocky tide pools unveil a vibrant marine life that kids can observe up close. Twice a day, as the tide goes out, plants and animals are exposed, creating a dynamic science classroom for young explorers.

Where to stay

Situated in Bar Harbor with views of Frenchman Bay and only five minutes from the Hulls Cove park entrance, Salt Cottages is a charming property featuring 30 stand-alone studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom cottages, as well as 20 bungalow-style rooms. Amenities include a heated outdoor pool, hot tubs, fire pits for roasting s'mores, and a clubhouse filled with entertainment options like board games, skee-ball, ping pong, and arcade games. Room rates begin at $420 per night.

During the warmer months, consider a stay at the seasonal glamping resort Under Canvas Acadia. These luxurious tents provide an upscale experience with West Elm furnishings, high-quality toiletries, private bathrooms, and additional separate tents for kids. Children can enjoy a variety of included activities such as making campfire s'mores, live music performances, bingo, scavenger hunts, outdoor games, movie nights, painting sessions, and trivia contests. Tent rates start at $299.

Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming, Montana and Idaho)

Yellowstone stands out as one of the most renowned and beloved national parks in the United States, making it an excellent destination for families with children of all ages.

The park encompasses a vast 2.2 million acres, stretching across three states, which makes it easily accessible from various locations. While the bulk of the park is situated in Wyoming, it also extends into small parts of Montana and Idaho.

This park is fantastic for kids, especially for the chance to see wildlife up close. I’ve spotted bison and moose here, and the national park reports that it hosts the largest concentration of mammals in the contiguous United States, featuring 67 different species. Depending on your timing and location during your visit, you might also encounter bighorn sheep, elk, mountain goats, deer, black bears, grizzly bears, badgers, bobcats, lynx, coyotes, mountain lions, wolverines, and wolves.

Moreover, the park’s vast size offers countless spots to explore, enjoy nature, and marvel at geothermal features. Elevated boardwalks provide easy access to active geysers like Old Faithful, and there are hiking trails suitable for every skill level.

Where to stay

Yellowstone National Park features nine hotels offering hotel or cabin-like accommodations. Given the park’s extensive area, it’s advisable to select one of these as your home base.

A top recommendation is the Old Faithful Inn, a historic landmark dating back to 1903, located right by its namesake geyser. The log cabin-style lodge captures a true sense of place, and the dining room serves buffet meals in a spacious hall. Rooms with private bathrooms are the norm, starting at $429 (with shared bath options available for about half that price) — but the real value is in the unmatched proximity to the park, which is as good as it gets.

Only two out of the nine hotels remain open during the winter, making my second choice one of them: Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel & Cabins. Named after the nearby springs, this recently renovated hotel offers standard accommodations that are basic, lacking en-suite baths. Opt for this hotel instead to enjoy front-row views of the elk herd that grazes nearby, along with on-site dining and daily guided tours to popular spots in the park. If your budget allows, consider upgrading to a room with a private bath or a suite with a separate living area, or choose a cabin. Room rates start at around $200 and vary based on the type.

Joshua Tree National Park (California)

Joshua Tree National Park is less than an hour away from my home and is a family favorite. My husband and I enjoyed hiking here before having kids, and now with two children, we still make regular visits.

The park spans nearly 800,000 acres across the stunning Mojave Desert, featuring a main road that takes between 45 minutes to an hour and a half to drive, depending on your starting and ending points. We love coordinating the drive with the kids' nap times to appreciate the scenery. Once they wake up, it becomes a playground for them, with numerous flat, short, and easy walking trails, as well as climbable boulders that seem like they belong in a Dr. Seuss story, plus the iconic Joshua tree — which is actually a succulent!

One of my favorite spots to take my kids is Skull Rock, a large boulder that resembles a massive skull due to rain erosion. Older kids enjoy attempting to climb it, and there’s also a connected 1.7-mile nature trail to explore.

Another beloved destination is the Hidden Valley Nature Trail. This 1-mile loop begins with some light climbing, akin to a set of stone stairs, leading to a flat, open valley filled with towering rocks and vibrant plants where kids can roam freely. Our toddler can navigate it independently with just a bit of assistance at the start.

Additionally, the Cholla Cactus Garden Nature Trail is a quick quarter-mile hike featuring a partially raised walkway that makes for an even easier trek.

Where to stay

There are two entrances to the park: one in Joshua Tree and another in the nearby Twentynine Palms. The latter offers several budget-friendly accommodations from well-known hospitality brands that are standard yet comfortable. I recommend Marriott's Fairfield Inn and Suites, which is relatively new, featuring studio and suite options, and includes a complimentary breakfast buffet along with access to an outdoor pool. Rates start at $110.

In addition, AutoCamp Joshua Tree offers a glamping experience with options like luxury Airstream trailers and cozy cabins and tents. The resort features a clubhouse for socializing and dining, a pool, bike rentals, and morning yoga sessions. Plus, Hilton members can now earn and redeem points thanks to a new partnership with Autocamp. Rates begin at $199.

Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming)

The first time I visited Grand Teton National Park, I was truly amazed. Perhaps it was because I was unfamiliar with it at the time and unsure of what to expect, but more likely it was due to the breathtaking, snow-capped mountains overseeing a picturesque landscape filled with towering forests, crystal-clear lakes, and vibrant nature stretching as far as the eye can see.

There’s an incredible range of activities available, especially during the summer. Set against the stunning backdrop of nature, the family-friendly offerings are a dream come true — including hiking, boating, paddling, cycling, fishing, climbing, wildlife viewing, and a lake where water skiing, wakeboarding, sailboats, motorized boats, and windsurfing are permitted.

If you don't have your own boat or equipment and are pressed for time, families can take a shuttle boat across Jenny Lake. This option costs $20 for a round-trip for adults and offers a chance to enjoy the water without dedicating an entire day. It can also save you from a 20-mile hike around the lake, which is ideal for young children who may tire quickly. Once the ferry docks, you can embark on a hike to a waterfall or a viewpoint with stunning vistas of the park.

Guides and tour companies for hire provide even more options. Day trips can be booked for guided wildlife tours, river rafting, horseback riding, scenic boat cruises, fishing trips, and a variety of other activities that adventurous and imaginative kids will love.

Where to stay

Among the few accommodations within the park, Jackson Lake Lodge is a full-service resort that makes a grand impression with its lobby featuring 60-foot, floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing the park's breathtaking scenery. You can choose from standalone cottages and suites or traditional hotel rooms in the main lodge. The hotel provides numerous family-friendly activities, including river rafting and horseback riding, along with two pools: a main pool for all guests and a separate toddler pool. Rates start at $350.

Alternatively, stay just 15 minutes from the park entrance in the delightful Jackson Hole at Cowboy Village Resort. Kids will love staying in one of the log cabins, which start at $115. All cabins come with private full baths, a continental breakfast in winter, kitchenettes, and configurations with bunk beds, queen or king beds; some even have separate living areas with sleeper sofas. The resort is only a few blocks from the town square and features amenities such as an indoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center.

Zion National Park (Utah)

Zion National Park is an awe-inspiring destination in Southern Utah that I believe everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime. My visit served as a powerful reminder that this country is rich with extraordinary places across all 50 states; some of the most remarkable ones aren’t located along the coasts.

As Utah's first national park, it captivates visitors with its stunning sandstone cliffs, impossibly narrow slot canyons, and sedimentary rock formations sculpted by the Virgin River, which radiate fiery hues of red and orange, as if perpetually illuminated by the sun.

While there are several renowned trails in the park, I wouldn't advise families with young children or teens lacking hiking experience to attempt the famous Angel's Landing or The Narrows. However, there are numerous other trails suitable for all ages. Many of these are classified as easy, including The Pa'rus Trail, Lower Emerald Pools Trail, and Riverside Walk Trail.

Alongside a visitor center, the park features a Nature Center that operates seasonally from spring through early fall. This center includes an interactive children's museum where young explorers can discover the area's geology, listen to the songs of birds and calls of frogs, and learn about the park's ancient history.

Where to stay

The only hotel within the park, Zion Lodge, allows you to immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Zion. Open throughout the year, it offers accommodations that range from standard hotel rooms to cabins and suites, all designed with a rustic, Southwest-inspired aesthetic. I had the pleasure of staying here and was amazed to find myself just steps away from the park's main attractions, enjoying a tranquil and private atmosphere in the early mornings before the crowds arrived. Rates begin at around $200.

Another excellent choice right near the park entrance is Cliffrose Springdale, Curio Collection by Hilton. Located on the scenic Virgin River, the Zion National Park Visitor Center is just half a mile away and can be reached via the hotel’s complimentary shuttle service. The two heated outdoor pools and hot tubs are available year-round, and the rooms are sleek and contemporary. They also offer family-friendly suites with one or two bedrooms and kitchen facilities. Hilton Honors members can enjoy the best rates, starting at $162.

Death Valley National Park (California)

It may sound surprising to choose one of the hottest places on earth for a relaxing family getaway, but hear me out. While Death Valley can reach an average of 120 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer, for most of the year, it transforms into a beautiful paradise that families will adore.

Located just two hours from Las Vegas and four hours from Los Angeles, teens might feel like they’ve stepped into a sci-fi movie like "Mad Max," while younger kids will delight in the expansive spaces available for running and exploring.

In the spring, if winter brings sufficient rain, the ground bursts into life with a stunning array of wildflowers known as a superbloom. Thanks to the abundant rain Death Valley received in late 2023 and early 2024, the landscape is now adorned with these vibrant flowers, some of which had previously remained dormant, patiently waiting for the right conditions. Superbloom years are not guaranteed, but even in off years, traces of them persist, and if you plan your visit well, you can capture that perfect family photo amid a colorful sea of yellow, purple, or pink petals.

Beyond the flowers, Death Valley stands as the largest national park outside of Alaska, featuring backcountry roads, historical landmarks, and 3 million acres ideal for hiking, camping, backpacking, stargazing, and trail running.

For "Star Wars" enthusiasts in the family, this destination is a must-see. Death Valley serves as the backdrop for the fictional planet Tatooine in the films. Iconic scenes from "A New Hope" and "Return of the Jedi" were shot here, with six locations highlighted on the park's website for fans to explore.

Where to stay

There is essentially one lodging option within the national park, consisting of two hotels under the same management: The Oasis at Death Valley. Established in 1927, this historic property features the luxurious The Inn at Death Valley and the more family-oriented The Ranch at Death Valley.

The Inn at Death Valley, designed in a mission style, is an opulent choice for families with older children seeking a more upscale experience. It reopened in late 2018 after a significant $250 million renovation that enhanced 66 rooms, 22 one-bedroom casitas, a fine dining restaurant, a spa, and a natural spring-fed pool maintained at a cozy 87 degrees. Rates begin around $260.

For a more relaxed atmosphere, The Ranch at Death Valley has also seen substantial renovations, featuring an ice-cream parlor and soda fountain, a restaurant, and a Western-themed saloon. Guests enjoy access to the spring-fed pool, sports courts, horseshoe pits, and a children's playground. The Ranch provides horseback and carriage rides from its on-site stables and offers Jeep rentals for park exploration or a round of golf. Prices start at $135 during the summer.

Haleakala National Park (Hawaii)

While many flock to Maui for its luxurious resorts and stunning beaches, there’s a less explored region that feels otherworldly, akin to Mars. Haleakala National Park rises dramatically to 10,000 feet above sea level, where the roads twist through clouds, and temperatures at the visitor center can plunge to chilly levels.

As an active volcano, Haleakala offers the Sliding Sands Trail, a must-do hike for seasoned adventurers. This 13-mile round-trip trek stands out as one of my most unforgettable experiences. Although I completed it before having children, I would definitely tackle it again with them.

First and foremost, the breathtaking landscape is absolutely stunning—a sight that must be experienced firsthand, and one I yearn for my children to see, regardless of their ages. Furthermore, the trail is well-maintained and offers a gentle incline, allowing you to hike as far as you prefer. Just keep in mind that the descent comes first, meaning the return trip will take twice as long. If you have younger kids, be cautious not to stray too far. However, teenagers will undoubtedly love it!

For those with less hiking experience or who have younger children, the Haleakala Visitor Center at the top of the Haleakala crater is a fantastic alternative. The panoramic views are breathtaking, making it a perfect spot to catch the sunrise.

Additionally, being in Maui means there's an abundance of attractions and activities to explore.

Where to stay

Most of Maui's major resort areas are quite a drive from the summit of Haleakala, which stands at 10,000 feet. If you want to witness the sunrise, staying farther away will require an early morning wake-up. Kula Lodge is one of the few Upcountry accommodations that is conveniently located nearby. This lodge offers five rooms, starting at $365, ideal for families who prefer not to combine a volcano visit with a lengthy commute. Each room features a private bathroom, an electric fireplace, and a private lanai (balcony), with some including lofted sleeping areas for additional children's beds.

For a more resort-style getaway, Wailea boasts several family-friendly properties. The Wailea Beach Resort from Marriott Bonvoy seamlessly blends luxury with a family-oriented atmosphere, located right on the beach with calm waters. The resort features three pools, including one with the longest waterslide in Hawaii. Rates start at approximately $700.

Olympic National Park (Washington)

Flying into Seattle is a convenient option for families using points and miles from most major cities. After a short drive east, you’ll find yourself in one of America’s most varied national parks. Alternatively, you can reach Olympic by ferry from Seattle, which is sure to delight the kids.

The Hoh Rain Forest within Olympic National Park boasts the title of having the "quietest square inch in the United States." While kids may not be known for being quiet, they’ll enjoy the challenge (at least for a short time). The enchanting trees add to the magic, and for fans of "Twilight," many scenes from the films were shot in this area. The nearby town of Forks is easily accessible from the park.

Trails at Hurricane Ridge cater to children of all ages, and even if hiking isn't on the agenda, the drive to the visitor center offers breathtaking views. This area is the most accessible mountain region in the park, although the road is only open on weekends during the winter, depending on weather conditions. Some trails, such as Wolf Creek and Little River, which lead 8 miles into the valley, are better suited for experienced hikers. In contrast, the Cirque Rim and Big Meadow trails are shorter, paved, and have minimal elevation changes.

For kids who favor water over mountains, the Ozette Loop in a secluded area of the park leads to a stunning hidden beach that few people discover.

Where to stay

Olympic National Park features four hotels, three of which are seasonal and one that remains open all year round. The year-round option is The Kalaloch Lodge, an oceanfront escape on the Olympic Peninsula. This lodge includes a main building, cabins, and an additional structure with more rooms and suites. Families will appreciate the cabins for their well-equipped kitchens or kitchenettes and spacious layouts, which range from studios to multiple-bedroom units and duplexes. Rates begin at approximately $200.

If you're visiting during the peak season, consider staying at Lake Crescent Lodge. Established in 1915, this historic lodge is nestled beneath towering fir and hemlock trees. While standard rooms are available, families might prefer the one- or two-bedroom cabins and cottages for added comfort. Rates start at $287.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park (North Carolina/Tennessee)

This park remains the most popular in the national park system for good reason: it's easily accessible from numerous locations and offers breathtaking scenery.

Though it's hardly a hidden treasure, this park is an excellent choice for those living nearby, especially if traveling with family to another park by plane is too expensive. Additionally, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is best enjoyed during much of spring and fall, allowing for budget-friendly trips during shoulder seasons if school schedules permit long weekends.

One of the best features of this park is its stunning views from end to end. I recommend dedicating ample time to the Blue Ridge Parkway, taking quick breaks for hikes when the kids need to stretch and capturing photos whenever inspiration strikes—just be sure to stop at safe pull-off spots.

The nearby towns of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge resemble large theme parks, ensuring there's no shortage of fun activities close to your hotel. Additionally, these towns are surprisingly affordable compared to many other gateway towns near national parks. (And don’t forget about nearby Dollywood!)

Where to stay

The sole accommodation within the park is the seasonally open LeConte Lodge. Operating from March to November, this rustic lodge fills up quickly. It offers one-, two-, and three-bedroom cabins equipped with single and bunk beds, making it perfect for larger families. Meals are served family-style in the main dining area and are included in your stay. Expect a very basic experience here, as there are no TVs, guests are asked to bring their own towels, and bathing is done using basins and buckets for sponge baths. However, this is an unforgettable and wholesome experience. Rates start at $184 per adult and $100 for children over 4, with most meals included and charged per person.

For a more contemporary experience with modern amenities like running water, consider staying in nearby Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg. These towns offer a variety of whimsical and unique Airbnbs, including treehouses and A-frame cabins, alongside hotels that cater to every budget. Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg is located just over a mile from the park entrance and features a tropical-themed pool with a waterslide, a zero-entry kids' pool, hammocks, a spa, various beach-themed restaurants, and spacious rooms with one or two beds, along with suites that have separate bedrooms. Rates start at $129 during winter.

Big Bend National Park (Texas)

Reaching Big Bend National Park may not be straightforward, but the effort is definitely worth it. The memories created in Big Bend are ones your children will cherish forever. You can paddle across the Rio Grande and feel as if you've stepped into another country entirely.

And indeed, you can. Visit the Boquillas Crossing with valid passports for everyone in your group and pay a $5 round-trip fee per person to board a ferry that will transport you across one of the world's most iconic rivers for a lunch stop in the small border town of Boquillas del Carmen, Mexico.

Once you cross the river, you can either walk the half-mile path to the village or opt for burro, horse, or four-wheel vehicle transport for an additional fee. Upon arrival, make sure to check in with immigration officials and pay a $3 entrance fee per person to access the Mexican Protected Area where Boquillas is situated.

After returning to the U.S., families with older kids should consider the Lost Mine Trail, which rewards hikers with breathtaking sunset views over Texas. Due to the desert environment, shade is scarce, so bringing a sun hat, protective clothing, sunscreen, and plenty of drinking water is crucial. The trail features some switchbacks and steep elevation changes but should be manageable for older children and toddlers in carriers.

The only drawback of this park is its remoteness from urban life. Camping is highly recommended, and if you have access to an ATV, there are plenty of off-road trails to explore within the park.

Where to stay

Perched at an elevation of 5,400 feet within the park, the Chisos Mountains Lodge is the most convenient accommodation for families. As the only lodging option inside the park, it operates year-round and features motel-style rooms as well as stone cottages. With limited cell service, public Wi-Fi only, and no phones or TVs in the rooms, it's an ideal spot to encourage kids to unplug and reduce screen time. Besides, you'll likely want to spend your time outdoors — hiking, river excursions, horseback riding, biking, birdwatching, and stargazing are all available right at your doorstep. Rates begin at around $170.

For those who appreciate a cowboy theme, Ten Bits Ranch nearby offers an enchanting experience. This fully immersive Western-themed accommodation features guest rooms that resemble a charming Old West town. Choose to stay in uniquely themed rooms such as the Bank, Gun Shop, Schoolhouse, Barber Shop, or General Store, alongside other standalone cabins that look as if they belong in a film. Each room is equipped with a bathroom, air conditioning, TVs, a gas log fireplace, Wi-Fi, and a porch with rocking chairs. Rates start at $159.

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve (Colorado)

While I can't speak for every child, most absolutely adore racing down large hills. Discovering a massive sand dune guarantees a memorable experience. Nestled in the remote expanse of south-central Colorado, this location feels reminiscent of the picturesque landscapes found along North Carolina's Outer Banks.

Towering dunes rise dramatically from the high prairie, and energetic visitors can rent sleds at various locations near the park. This presents a fantastic chance for your kids to socialize and slide down the dunes together.

Given its distance from notable towns, this park is best included as part of a larger road trip. However, it’s only a few hours from an exciting destination kids will love: Four Corners, where Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah converge.

Where to stay

While there is no official lodging within the national park or preserve, several options are available nearby. One of the closest is Great Sand Dunes Lodge, located at the base of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range, offering views of the 14,000-foot peaks, the San Luis Valley, and the Great Sand Dunes. Rooms feature one or two beds, patios, microwaves, and refrigerators; some also include separate seating areas and kitchens. All guests enjoy complimentary breakfast, and the property has designated barbecue areas, plus on-site rentals for sandboards and sleds. Rates start at $209, and the motel operates from mid-March to October.

A bit further out, Rustic Rook Resort offers glamping-style tents, and starting in 2024, guests can also enjoy accommodations in a transformed grain bin or a camper cabin. The former grain bins are being renovated this summer to feature a loft with a king-size bed, a cozy seating area complete with a telescope, a bathroom, a kitchen, and a patio equipped with a grill and fire pit. Families reserving tents can opt for an extra kids' tent adjacent to the main tent, which includes two cots, a nightstand, and a lantern. The resort operates from May through December; however, only the grain bins are available during the colder months, with rates starting at $350 per night for a two-night minimum. Tent rates begin at $170.

Tips

To ensure a smooth national park visit, thorough preparation is essential.

• If you intend to camp or stay in remote regions like Joshua Tree or Death Valley National Parks, arrive fully equipped with food, water, and fuel. This is particularly critical during summer or winter months, when risks of dehydration, heat stroke, or hypothermia are heightened.
• When traveling in the off-season or shoulder season, confirm that the roads on your planned route and your chosen meal pit stops are open. Many locations shut down seasonally, even if the park remains accessible.
• Be prepared for various weather conditions. For instance, while visiting Haleakala on a tropical island, the summit experiences different weather compared to the beach below, especially if you plan to arrive before sunrise when temperatures can drop significantly. Dressing in layers and being ready for rain, even in desert areas, is advisable.
• I highly recommend investing in an annual parks pass (currently $80, free for U.S. military members and citizens/permanent residents with disabilities), as it pays for itself if you plan to visit more than one national park within the year.
• Coordinate your trip around national park fee-free days, which occur on national holidays when admission fees are waived.