Unless they have a specific destination in mind, narrowing down the large list of national parks should be the first item on the list of any aspiring visitor. Fortunately, the National Park Service has a helpful section on its website called 'Find A Park,' which allows users to select a park from the list or search for parks by state, activity, or topic.

Once you've decided where you're headed, check for maps, calendars, directions, hiking trails, and operating hours. Additionally, when choosing your perfect destination, consider exploring some under-the-radar parks, which might offer more solitude and less crowded experiences.

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Almost nobody wants to be caught off guard by rain when spending time outdoors. Therefore, always check the weather conditions in advance so you can prepare accordingly or reschedule if necessary.

Even if the weather seems favorable in the morning, a thunderstorm could roll in during the afternoon, so it’s best to be prepared.

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Life in nature is not the same as life in the city. As basic as that statement might seem to most, watching people attempt to hike through rocky trails in impractical footwear reminds us that perhaps it isn’t so obvious.

Therefore, when exploring nature, make sure to bring durable, comfortable gear. Essentials include hiking boots, sunscreen, waterproof jackets, and layered clothing. Even if you don't plan to be out for long, always bring essential supplies like a first aid kit, water, and snacks whenever you visit a national park.

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Many parks in the U.S. are within a short driving distance of each other, so it is always a good idea to visit several national parks in the same area. This way, you’ll experience a bunch of different landscapes in one single trip.

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Many national parks have historic lodges within their grounds. Featuring natural materials and stunning designs, these accommodations offer a unique experience worth staying in for a night or two. Keep in mind that booking a room can be challenging, and availability may be limited.

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In a world where almost everything comes with a price, it’s refreshing to know that most national parks are free. And the ones that do, charge a modest fee, ranging from $5 to $35, which typically covers up to seven days for an entire carload of people.

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Our furry friends aren’t always welcome in national parks. If you're traveling with pets, be sure to check the park’s policies. Many parks allow pets on leashes in certain areas, such as campgrounds, and some even offer kennels. However, it’s important to research this in advance.

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The summer months are typically the busiest time of year at national parks. Visiting popular parks during the off-season means fewer crowds and lower rates. October is considered an ideal time to visit most national parks, as it’s quieter and the weather is pleasant.

Even if you visit a national park during the high season, you can still avoid crowds by arriving early in the morning before most tourists or visiting in the middle of the week to avoid the weekend rush.

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In the same vein as the peak season commentary, making tour and campground reservations is always a good idea. Accommodations tend to fill up early, but online reservations are easy to make. Booking in advance will ensure you get the accommodations and experiences you want.

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While many people tend to pass by the visitor center kiosk without giving it a second glance, doing so at a national park can be a very useful stop. You can pick up maps, guides, and up-to-the-minute information on everything from road conditions to hiking trails, as well as learn about special programs offered at the park.

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Nobody knows more about the parks than the park rangers who work there every day. They are highly knowledgeable about everything there is to know about their park and are always ready to assist visitors in any way they can.

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This should be a no-brainer, but it's worth repeating: be respectful of wild animals and keep your distance. The animals you may encounter in some national parks are not captive in a zoo. These animals are in their natural habitat and behave accordingly.

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Another simple tip: national parks are protected areas where the preservation of nature and entire ecosystems is critical. Therefore, it's essential to follow all park rules during your visit, including staying on designated trails, respecting wildlife, not littering, and being considerate of fellow travelers. This way, national parks will continue to thrive for generations to come.

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Continuing with the obvious tips, we can't leave this one out: unattended campfires pose a serious threat. Help prevent forest fires by never lighting campfires in prohibited areas and always ensuring that authorized fires are properly extinguished.

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National parks are places where visitors go to connect with nature, not with their cell phones. Besides, cell service in these areas is often limited. The last tip on this list is always an obvious one, at least for us: put your phone aside and experience the world with your own eyes, which have a much better quality than the best phone ever built.

Image: Philip Smart