Families Drawn to State Parks as Economy Worsens

Nature's Playground, a Place for Families to Unwind and Regroup

May 25, 2009

As the economy worsens, Americans look for more economical ways of spending time with their families. Since the turn of the century families have enjoyed state parks.

The state parks in the USA offer a daily fee or an optional yearly Park Pass. They also offer discounted fees for the elderly, handicapped, and veterans. All fees go towards the upkeep of the parks.

Nature's Playground, a Place for Families to Unwind and Regroup

Surrounded by the woodlands, streams, and meadows, thousands of people flock to the parks to camp, hike, swim, fish, or just spend a lazy day enjoying a picnic lunch in the fresh air. For most families it is a perfect way to unwind and relax from their hectic daily lives. There is also enough variety in the parks system to fit into just about everyone’s particular tastes and interests. Parks are also a good way to teach children about the importance of taking care of natural resources. Summer park programs are a favorite with children and their parents. Most parks have an ongoing educational program and some have a junior ranger program for children interested in nature, as well as summer day camps.

These programs make use of the many hiking trails within the park and allow the families to witness wildlife, flora, and fauna first hand. The hiking trails are just as varied as the parks themselves. The majority of the parks include nature trails where plants and trees are usually labeled. For the more experienced hikers there are more challenging trails of diverse lengths and difficulties. One can find pristine surroundings well off the beaten path, or gaze at breathtaking views from mountain summits. Often hikers will choose a trail that will include the viewing of waterfalls that tumble and spill over rocks. Oceanside parks offer a unique look into the salt marshes and shorelines offering families an alternative to visiting the beaches and staying in a hotel room.

Camping and Recreation in US State Parks

Many parks offer several types of camping. Recreational Vehicles or RVs come in many styles and sizes to accommodate families’ needs, as do tents. There is also backcountry camping for the more adventurous. The majority of U.S. state parks offer cabin rentals and or lodges; some have conference centers and rental halls for big events like family reunions or weddings. Reservations are accepted and they are recommended, especially during the summer months and peak seasons as the parks quickly fill up.

State Parks provide a low-cost way for a family to unwind, discover a whole new way to vacation and enjoy not just nature but also each other. For further information on State Parks this website has a list of the state parks throughout the USA.

The copyright of the article Families Drawn to State Parks as Economy Worsens in Family Travel is owned by Allyson Layman. Permission to republish Families Drawn to State Parks as Economy Worsens in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.