Camping out and taking road trips to the Grand Canyon or Yellowstone is an American tradition.
In fact, the United States' national parks serve many functions that surpass even tourism. They are a part of a history that is unique to the United States and have gone through much opposition and avoidance to make them into who and what they represent today.
With over 400 national monuments, military sites and parks, these structures and areas are equivalent to over 84 million acres and spread to all 50 states.
As you can probably infer, these national parks have a vast history and controversy from both sides.
In the 1800’s, Europe had appealing architecture, towers and castles. America, on the other hand, looked bare. When the gold rush hit in 1848, thousands of people moved West, showcasing the many geological wonders and wildlife surviving there.
The innovation of many non-renewable resource powered machines occurred around this time as well. Many of America’s natural wonders were exploited for their minerals, which caused an uproar by conservationists.
One powerful voice was that of naturalist John Muir. He is remembered as the "father of national parks" because he used his strong persuasion tools in articles and books about the importance of nature.
“Keep close to Nature’s heart... and break clear away, once in awhile, and climb a mountain or spend a week in the woods. Wash your spirit clean.” - John Muir
For the sake of preserving America’s natural beauty, Congress established Yellowstone as the first national park in 1872.
The National Park Service wasn’t created, however, until 1925 by President Woodrow Wilson when it was permanently placed in the Department of Interior. During this time, parks, monuments and historical places were taken care of in different departments including war, interior, and agriculture.
The first superintendent of the National Park Service was Stephen Mather. He did much to manage employees, funds and lobby legislation for the creation of parks. Many citizens were also brought into the process to get the American public’s opinions.
Another monumental figure in the fight for the organization of national parks was President Theodore Roosevelt. During his time as president, he created numerous national parks and most importantly established the Antiquities Act. This act gave presidents the power to name historic landmarks, objects of historic and scientific interest, as well as prehistoric structures as national monuments.
Today, national parks are regarded for their unique beauty, scholarship, recreation and importance to American history. From millions of miles of hiking trails to beautiful beaches, national parks become destinations for various vacations and a place for Americans to make memories or get away from city life, as well as a chance to take John Muir’s advice by clearing their minds and spiritually reflecting.
Parks are important and essential to American culture because they bring a distinctive viewpoint to the people and urge conservation all over the world.
If you are looking for some national parks to visit this summer, here are a few of the most popular in America.
Yellowstone National Park
This park is not only the first national park, but it is also home to an active supervolcano.
The Great Smoky Mountains
The Great Smoky Mountains are the most visited U.S. National Park.
The Grand Canyon
Located in Arizona, the Canyon is known for having its own weather because it is 18 miles wide. Some parts are cold and wet, while others are desert-like and very hot.
Zion's Park
The name for this park comes from a Hebrew word meaning a place of peace and relaxation, so why not explore it?