National Parks Offer Free Admission This Weekend- Perfect for a Family Vacation!

Planning a stateside vacation but trying to spend as little money as possible? Well, there's no better time than this weekend to venture out to one of our nation's beautiful national parks. The U.S. National Park Service is waving the admission fee at all national parks this weekend. With the normal admission price at $25 per person, a family of four can automatically save $100! At a time when most American families are much more budget- conscious, savings of any sort are always welcomed. Perhaps the admission fee savings will attract families to some of the nation's lesser known yet exotic national parks.

The Lassen Volcanic National Park is in Mineral Old Station, CA. Most people are not aware of the volcanic action found in Northern California, so they are amazed by the sight of fumaroles (natural volcanic gas vents) and boiling mud pots. Even though the last eruption was back in 1915, there is plenty of volcanic activity otherwise not commonly encountered by most visitors. Numerous hydrothermal areas are sure to provide a memorable vacation experience for the whole family. In addition to awe-inspiring volcanic activity, park visitors can utilize 150 miles of trails fit for hiking, biking, and taking in views of the Cascade and High Sierra Mountains.

Utah is known for its picturesque landscapes, and the Canyonlands National Park in Moab, UT is no exception. Separated into four sections by the precious Colorado River, this national park is an ideal vacation destination for an active family. The highest desert park found at Canyonlands National Park is between 3,700 and 7,200 feet, providing endless opportunities for hiking, rocking climbing, and biking. The canyon is the result of sedimentary rock deposits forming mesas, canyons, and buttes. Kids and adults will surely enjoy the high elevation views in this national park, making this an accommodating family vacation choice.

The Shenandoah National Park is located in Elkton, VA, which happens to be just 75 miles from Washington, D.C. One of nature's best kept secrets, the Shenandoah National Park covers about 300 square miles of land, which includes the Blue Ridge Mountains in the Appalachian. Park rangers have created several education programs to expose visitors to native wildlife in the park.  Since this national park is home to thousands of wild animals, it is best suited for families looking to get up close and personal with animals.

Visiting our nation's national parks is guaranteed to be a fun and educational experience for the entire family. There is no better way to bond and learn as a family while becoming more aware of all that nature has to offer. Two free admission days remain after this weekend, so be sure to schedule an impromptu family vacation to catch this promotion while it lasts.

Photo Credit: flickr