Latest Articles on National Parks

Best U.S. National Parks to Visit in the Fall

National parks in the United States largely see the most amount of travelers during the summer months — when temperatures are warm enough for camping, kids are on vacation, and roads are free of snow. But, when the air is cooler, leaves are changing, and school is back in session, several parks are arguably at…

13 Things Every Traveler Should Know Before Visiting a National Park

If national parks are anything, they’re diverse — stunning wildlife, mountains, geysers, beaches, lakes, and more make up the beautiful landscapes. Given the variety on offer, the details of your vacation are going to depend on where you’re headed. However, there are a few things to keep in mind, no matter which park you have…

8 of the Most Visited National Parks (and Where to Go Instead)

Since it was signed in 1906, the United States Antiquities Act has conserved millions of acres across 58 national parks. These protected areas encompass some of the country’s most extraordinary landscapes, which has unsurprisingly prompted growing tourism numbers in the most popular parks. Competing with throngs of tourists while visiting America’s natural wonders is far…

7 Bucket List Trips You Can Do on a Budget

When it comes to travel, the term “bucket list” can be synonymous with “budget-busting.” Sure, some bucket-list candidates, like safaris or around-the-world cruises, are so expensive that you might need multiple lifetimes to pay them off. But at Oyster, we know you can have an epic, life-changing trip without draining your bank account to the…

17 of the Best National Parks in Europe

Travelers to Europe tend to head straight for its cities. But while the bright lights of Paris, busy markets of London, and storied streets of Rome are all worth a visit, city parks don’t always provide the nature fix we crave. To truly appreciate Europe’s flora and fauna, you’re better off visiting its protected spaces.…

6 Must-See Sights in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

NPS Photo/Janice Wei/flickr While the Island of Hawaii (aka the Big Island) has its share of white-sand beaches with swaying palm trees, rainforests, and grassy plains, its terrain is mostly jet-black, hardened lava rock. In fact, the island is still forming, and two of its most active volcanoes—Kilauea and Mauna Loa—are located in Hawaii Volcanoes…

8 Things to Know Before Visiting Yellowstone

Established in 1872, Yellowstone is the oldest national park in the United States, attracting millions of visitors every year. Its wide expanse of valleys, flowing rivers, observable wildlife, and plethora of geologic features like the iconic geyser Old Faithful make it a magical place to visit for people of all ages. So keep reading for…

10 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Glacier National Park

It’s not as frequented as the Grand Canyon or Great Smoky Mountains, but Glacier National Park is one of the most spectacular spots in the United States. Packed with beautiful landscapes in Montana’s Rocky Mountains, and bordering Canada, the park is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. But before you start packing your hiking boots and tent,…

The 7 Best Family Vacations to Take Before the Kids Are Grown

When you’re a kid, summer seems endless, with epic sun-soaked afternoons that feel like full days unto themselves. But parents know how fleeting time can be and how quickly their children grow up before their eyes and set off on their own. (Pass the tissues, please.) That’s why it’s important to make the most of…