By: Jamie Clark

When I was first approached by Macaroni Kid Family Travel to be the managing editor of this month's National Parks issue, I jumped at the chance.  My love for National Parks really began about 8 years ago when my husband and I (before we had children) drove cross country from North Carolina to Yellowstone National Park for a 2 week adventure.  Since then our kids have seen countless pictures and tv specials about Yellowstone, and as soon as they are old enough to appreciate it, but not too old that they don't want to hang out with us, we'll be packing up the family and doing it again.  Our experience will likely be a little different with our kids in tow, but it will be no less spectacular.  
 
Unfortunately, Yellowstone is a rather far distance for my family to travel, so in the meantime, we plan on taking advantage of National Parks that are a little closer to home for us.  Not only is it very affordable, but it's really a chance for us to spend time together without the distractions of everyday life.  It's about slowing down and taking the path a little less traveled.  

The U.S National Park service also strives to make it affordable for families to visit.  There are FREE entrance days, US Military members can get a free annual pass to all National Parks, and more than half of National Parks charge NO entrance fee, ever!  

I hope this month's National Park newsletter will inspire you and your family to find a National Park to explore sometime very, very soon!