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Visiting a National Park is an interesting, educational and exciting activity for kids and during National Parks Week (April 17th-25th), it’s FREE!

Our Top Five Picks For National Parks Week…

1. Yosemite National Park is our top pick.  After all, with roaring waterfalls (Yosemite Falls is one of the tallest in the world) as a result of melting snow, Yosemite is the best place to visit this time of year.  The Glacier and Tioga roads are closed, but there is still plenty to do…like see BIG trees!  Lodging books up early, so be sure to secure a spot before you head out.
2. With wildflowers in bloom and average daily temperatures in the 70s, Zion National Park is a sure bet destination during National Parks Week.  Take advantage of the mild temperatures and slip into the park before the road construction begins in May.  The water may be a bit cold (to hike the Narrows), but there are plenty of other activities to keep you busy.  Check out our article on Zion before you go.
3. There has been lots of activity in the family friendly areas surrounding the Great Smokey Mountains, which makes this National Park a top pick for National Parks Week.  You can check out the wildflowers and waterfalls, then head down to Pigeon Forge to check out the new Titanic Museum Exhibit.  Be sure to review the current road closures before you go.
4. Shenandoah National Park has lots to offer in spring and with Aramark offering  a two-for-one deal at Skyland resort, this is another great weekend family getaway.  Wateralls should be running, wildflowers should be blooming and with any luck the mud will have turned hard again.  Check out our article on Shenandoah before you go.
5. Opening to vehicle traffic just in time for National Parks Weeks, Yellowstone National Park rounds out the list.  Roads from Mammoth to Old Faithful (via Norris and Madison Junctions) are scheduled to open today as is the road from the West Entrance to Madison Junction.  If you are lucky, you will get to see the lingering winter landscape while enjoying the convenience of driving your vehicle into the park.  Check out our article on Yellowstone before you go.

If you enjoyed these photos and would like to see more, visit Photo Friday at Deliciousbaby.

Disclosure

In anticipation of National Parks Week (April 17th-25th), we’re focusing on the best lodging deals being offered by National Park Concessioners.  Most of these deals are valid during National Parks Week only or must be booked by April 25, 2010, so act fast!

• Mount Ranier National Park concessioner, Mt. Ranier Guest Services, is offering a free night at the historic National Park Inn when you purchase one night at regular rates (from $111).  Valid for any weekday stay (Sunday-Thursday) through 4/29.  Package includes complimentary afternoon tea and one day snowshoe rental.  Call 360-569-2275 for reservations.

The following deals are all being offered by Aramark Parks and Destinations and may be reserved online using this special link.

• Olympic National Park concessioner, Aramark, is giving guests a generous deal at all three of its park lodgings.  When you stay one night (from $157), you will receive another night for free.  This promotion is valid for stays between April 17th and 25th at both the Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort and Kalaloch Lodge and between May 7th and 31st at the Lake Crescent Lodge (must be booked by April 25th). 
• At Shenandoah National Park, you can stay two nights at Skyland Resort for the price of one.  Rates start at just $125 and valid from April 18 through April 29.  Check out our article on Shenandoah before you go!
• Two nights at the Far View Lodge in Mesa Verde National Park will cost you only $99 when you stay between April 22 and April 30.  This is a great deal for a family weekend getaway!
• If you are planning a visit to Yellowstone National Park or Grand Teton National Park by June 28th, you may want to take advantage of the buy-one-get-one-free offer at the Togwotee Mountain Lodge located 44 miles from Yellowstone.  Reserve one of their cabins by April 25th for stays between May 21st and June 28th to get this offer.

Check out more National Parks Week deals online.

Disclosure

In anticipation of National Parks Week (April 17th-25th), we’re exploring several of our Nation’s most popular National Parks.  This is Part 2 in our series on Shenandoah National Park.  Be sure to check out Part 1 for some general information on the park and it’s activities.

Lodging

Skyland Resort

There are several lodging options within the park that can accommodate almost any budget.  The most extensive and traditional lodging is located at Skyland Resort at Mile 41.7 (open April 1-November 28).  Founded in 1888, Skyland Resort sits at a cool 3,680 feet (the highest point on Skyline Drive), affording it extensive panoramic views of the surrounding Shenandoah Valley.

With a total of 179 units, they offer everything from Standard Rooms that sleep up to 4 people (from $125/night) to Family Cabins that sleep 6-8 with a dining area and kitchenette  (from $249/night).  There are no telephones in any of the rooms or cabins and only select rooms have televisions, so inquire in advance if you have a preference.  Rooms are scattered over 28 buildings on 16 acres and not all are created equal.  The best kept rooms tend to be in the buildings nearest registration and the dining room.  Unless you are staying in a suite or premium view room, the accommodations are very basic.  You might even find a surprise hiding under the porch!

There is an amphitheatre with nightly ranger programs, a playground, tours of the historic Massanutten Lodge, as well as horseback riding and hiking nearby, making this a popular choice for families.  Take a close look at the Resort Map before making a reservation/arrival to make sure that you choose the most convenient spot for your family.

Big Meadows Lodge

Located at Mile 51.2, Big Meadows Lodge (open May 20-November 7) offers a variety of basic accommodations and suites from $106/night in the main lodge (main lodge doubles are limited), multi-unit buildings and rustic cabins.  These 97 units sleep up to 4 guests and again have no telephones and televisions are only available in select rooms.  The availability of air conditioning is also limited, so if you are visiting in summer, inquire in advance.

The Big Meadows area offers an amphitheatre with evening ranger programs, a children’s playground and easy access to the Byrd Visitor Center and nearby hiking.  Several ranger led tours, including the tour of Rapidan Camp depart from Big Meadows, so this is another convenient choice for families.  This area is also popular with wildlife, so seeing a deer, bear or other four- legged friend is not unusual.

Lewis Mountain Cabins

Located just down the road from Big Meadows at Mile 57.5, Lewis Mountain Cabins (open April 9-November 7) is our all-around top pick for a rustic weekend getaway.  Sheltered by the surrounding forest, these rustic single bedroom (sleeps 2) and two-bedroom cabins (sleeps 4) priced from $106/night include a large outdoor area with firepit and sheltered picnic table for family dining.  There is no phone or television in any of the cabins and you must bring your own cooking utensils and cooler.  However, there is a camp store that stocks basic supplies in case you forget something.

 Although basic, the cabins are clean and family friendly, which makes this secluded retreat a perfect place for a quiet family outing.  Amenities are limited, with the closest full range services available at Big Meadows about 6 miles up the road.

Overall, Shenandoah National Park offers lots of great lodging, but our favorite has always been Big Meadows and Lewis Mountain.  Each offers something special and they take you away from the hustle and bustle of Skyland.  Of course, camping is always an option too!

Be sure to check for Specials before reserving.

Camping

Camping in Shenandoah National Park is a tradition for many families.  With a choice of 4 different campgrounds, you’re certain to find what you are looking for.

• Matthews Arm Campground at Mile 22.1 is open from mid-May through October and offers basic sites for $15/night.  Public restrooms as well as an RV dump station are available, but there are no showers.  Services are located just 2 miles south at the Elkwallow Wayside, which offers camping supplies and food service.  This campground does have an amphitheatre for evening programs.
• Big Meadows Campground at Mile 51.2 (open late March through November) offers the most services and is $20/night ($17 off peak).  In addition to an amphitheatre, playground, campstore, laundry, RV dump station and showers, you’ll also find the Byrd Visitor Center, a restaurant, gift shop and many hiking trails nearby.  This is the most convenient family campground in the park.
• Lewis Mountain Campground at Mile 57.5 (open mid-April through October) is the smallest campground in the park and operates on a first-come first-served basis only.  For $15/night you’ll have access to the campstore, laundry and showers, but that is the extent of the amenities here. 
• Loft Mountain Campground at Mile 79.5 (open mid-May through October) offers sites for just $15/night.  With amenities that include a campstore, showers, an RV dump station and amphitheatre, this campground provides a good value for families.  The downfall of course is that it is located a bit off the beaten path in the south of the park.

All campgrounds except Lewis Mountain accept RVs (no hookups) and reservations (under the 20/80 rule).  In addition to traditional cabins, Lewis Mountain also offers Tent Cabins from $30/night.  These are very basic and offer 4 bunks and no facilities.  Communal facilities are available 24 hours a day.

Food Service

The best place to dine in the park is the restaurant at Skyland Resort.  The views from the dining room and outdoor patio are spectacular.  Open for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner, they serve a varied menu with modest prices, considering the gorgeous scenery that comes with your meal.  If you’re on a budget, stop by for Breakfast where a family of four can eat for a reasonable price.  Picnic lunches are also available.

You’ll find another rustic dining room at Big Meadows Lodge.  However, the prices are essentially the same as Skyland, so if I had a choice, I’d definitely spend the money at Skyland instead in order to take advantage of the amazing views.  In addition to the dining room, Big Meadows also offers sit-down service in a small dining area located by the gift shop.  Offerings are basic, however, the prices are a bit more family friendly, as is the food.  You can also do take-out and obtain picnic lunches at this location.  This is an ideal spot to spread out for a nice picnic lunch on the meadow.

Finally, both the Elkwallow and Loft Mountain Waysides offer a take-out counter with basic family friendly foods to fill your tummies.  Hours vary, so please check in advance.

Shenandoah National Park is a great place to take the family.  Whether you’re just going for the weekend or taking a weeklong vacation, you’ll find plenty of activities, lots of lodging and dining options and as much or as little peace and quiet as you want.  We just love this park!

Disclosure

In anticipation of National Parks Week (April 17th-25th), we’ll be exploring several of our nation’s most popular National Parks in the coming weeks.  Visiting a National Park is an interesting, educational and exciting activity for kids and during National Parks Week it’s FREE!

This week we’re taking a look at one of our favorites – Shenandoah National Park.  Located a mere 75 miles from our Nation’s Capitol, this narrow, activity packed corridor stretches 105 miles from its northern entrance in Front Royal, Virginia to its southern entrance near Waynesboro, Virginia.  This is a great side trip from our Nation’s Capitol or an extension of your visit to the most widely visited National Park – The Blue Ridge Parkway.

Driving the entire length of Skyline Drive will take you several hours without any stops as the road winds through mountain passages and tunnels, down into valleys and has just a few hairpin turns.  Most visitors will choose to explore a portion of the park, which is probably a wise idea, especially if you have young kids in tow.  The area from the north entrance to Big Meadows at Mile 51.2 is packed with the most activities and services, so if this is your first visit, you’ll most likely want to concentrate on that area.

Regular admission during peak season (March-November) is $15 per car for a 7-day pass.

Visitor Centers

Starting at the Dickey Ridge Visitor Center (open April 1-November 28) at the north entrance to the park, you’ll find visitor information, exhibits, a short orientation film, restrooms and a picnic area.  Note that this visitor center is closed Tuesday and Wednesday through May 8th.  Directly across the road, you will find the Fox Hollow trailhead, a moderate 1.2 mile circuit that leads you through an area with remnants of a former homestead.  This might be a good first hike to warm up.

The Harry F. Byrd, Sr. Visitor Center at Big Meadows is located in the central portion of the park at Mile 51.2.  Open daily from March 26 through November 28, this visitor’s center offers some beautiful views across the meadow.  Settle back into a rocking chair and watch the wildlife, take in one of the film offerings or browse the exhibits and gift shop.  You’ll also find restrooms inside and a picnic area nearby.

The Loft Mountain Information Center, located in the southern portion of the park at Mile 79.5 is open from May 15 through October 31.  Services are more limited, but you will find restrooms and a picnic area here as well as a small information desk and bookstore.  If you are entering from the south, this will be your first stop for park information.

You will also find several other picnic areas along the way to stop for a brief rest.  Check out the facility operating schedules before heading into the park.

Things To Do

There are lots of activities in Shenandoah National Park; however, the most popular is to motor up and down Skyline Drive, stopping at the many pullouts along the way to enjoy the scenery and spot wildlife.  Being one of America’s most scenic drives, traffic can get a bit thick (and slow) in the summer, so be prepared and take your time.  Allow at least 3 hours each way if you intend to drive the entire length of the park road.

Hiking

If you want a bit more outdoor activity, there are dozens of hiking trails leading to cascading waterfalls, panoramic mountain overlooks and through serene forests.  Before you head out on any trail, you’ll want to know the elevation gain and difficulty, as there are many moderate to strenuous trails throughout the park.  Pick up a trail guide at the visitor’s center for a couple of dollars; you’ll be glad you did.  The best guide for families is entitled Short Hikes.

For easier hikes try Snead Farm at Mile 5.1 (1.4 mi RT), Hogback at Mile 20.9 (0.7 mi circuit), Beahms Gap at Mile 28.5 (0,4 mi circuit), Pass Mountain Loop at Mile 30.1 (0.25 mi circuit), Limberlost at Mile 43.0 (1.3 mi circuit that is stroller friendly), Bettys Rock at Mile 44.4 (0.8 mi RT), Story of the Forest at Mile 51.0 (1.8 mi circuit), Blackrock at Mile 51.2 (0.2 mi RT), Simmons Gap at Mile 73.2 (1.6 mi RT) or Blackrock at Mile 84.8 (1.0 mi RT).  All of these hikes are family friendly and can be completed in about an hour (Simmons Gap will take slightly longer).

If you are traveling with older kids or would like a bit more adventure, try Fox Hollow at Mile 4.6 (1.2 mi circuit), Lands Run at Mile 9.2 (1.3 mi RT), Little Stony Man at Mile 39.1 (0.9 mi RT), Stony Man at Mile 41.7 (1.6 mi RT), Millers Head at Mile 42.5 (1.6 mi RT), Dark Hollow Falls at Mile 50.7 (1.4 mi RT), Pocosin Mission at Mile 59.5 (1.9 mi RT), Powell Gap at Mile 69.9 (1.0 mi RT), Frazier Discovery at Mile 79.5 (1.3 mi circuit) or Calf Mountain at Mile 99.5 (1.0 mi RT).  These are more moderate hikes and may require some scrambling over rocks.  If you have younger kids, they may need assistance.

For more advanced hikers, or the really adventurous families, try Whiteoak Canyon at Mile 42.6 (4.6 mi RT to the first waterfall), Hawksbill Mountain at Mile 46.7 (2.1 mi RT) or Rose River at Mile 49.4 (4 miles RT).  If you embark on one of these trails with kids, be sure that you understand the terrain in advance and bring ample supplies, including first-aid items.

Ranger Programs

Shenandoah National Park has some of the most extensive Ranger led activities of all of our National Parks.  With guided hikes, historic tours, informative talks and a captivating evening program, there is something for the entire family.  Of course, there is a Junior Ranger Program too!  Check out what is happening this spring.

Late in May, you’ll also be able visit Rapidan Camp (aka Camp Hoover).  This short (but bumpy) trip takes you back into history to the first Presidential retreat.  You can check out more detailed information on this particular tour at our website.

Other Activities

There are plenty of other ways to enjoy the park too.  How about some fishing or horseback riding?  Bicycling is allowed on Skyline Drive (not recommended for kids) and in the campground areas and fire roads, so there are plenty of ways to get around.  If you get bored, you can also check out the many nearby attractions for a day trip.

Be sure to check out Part 2 of this series where we take a look at Lodging, Camping and Dining in the park.

If you enjoyed these photos and would like to see more, visit Photo Friday at Deliciousbaby.

Disclosure

Before the establishment of Camp David (ex Shangri-la) as a Presidential retreat by Franklin D. Roosevelt, there was another more rustic, more secluded and smaller Presidential retreat known as Rapidan Camp, or Camp Hoover as it was called from 1948 until it opened to the public in 2004.  Nestled in the wooded mountain backcountry of what would become Shenandoah National Park, this simple ”cabin” was built on a perch high above the Rapidan River.

Conceived of as an escape from the high profile business of Washington, DC, this secluded retreat would serve as Hoover’s home away from home.  He had three simple requirements – the location had to be within 100 miles from Washington, DC at an elevation of no less than 2,500 feet (to limit mosquitoes) with a stream or river nearby for fishing.  A location was found and the Hoover’s sought to purchase the land and construct a lodge along with several other buildings (13 in all) for a total cost of about $24,000. In fact, the only Government funds used to construct the camp was the labor provided by the Marine Corps.

Rapidan Camp would serve President Hoover, his family, friends and dignitaries during the four years that he was in office.  After being defeated in 1932, he donated the land and buildings to the Federal Government to (perhaps) be used by future Presidents.  In 1935, the camp officially became part of the newly completed Shenandoah National Park.

After almost a decade of non-use, the Boy Scouts of America leased the property to be used as a summer camp.  After the Boy Scouts withdrew from the lease early due to building decay and excessive operating costs, all but three of the original buildings were razed and Camp Hoover once again became a retreat for government officials.  The National Park Service took over the restoration in 2001 and in 2004 it opened to the public as part of the National Park Service’s Ranger lead tours in Shenandoah National Park.

Today, during the summer months, you can climb on board a van for the bumpy 15-minute drive from the Visitor Center at Big Meadows to Rapidan Camp.  During the guided tour, you’ll have the opportunity to see the President’s Cabin, Prime Minister’s Cabin and the Creel.  Having been carefully restored to their 1929 era glory, these structures provide a glimpse back in time to a simpler life.

You’ll have plenty of time to explore the outdoors and the exhibits before you endure the bouncing ride back to the Visitor’s Center.  Of course, that just might be the most fun part for the kids!  For the more adventurous, you can also make the 4 mile hike (each way) to the camp where park rangers are usually stationed to offer impromptu tours and answer questions.

Visiting Rapidan Camp is a great summer activity for the family.  Kids learn a bit of history while mom and dad can catch a quick rest on the porch where President Hoover sat.  If you want to take the tour, you’ll need to sign up in advance, as seats are limited.  There may be a small fee for participation.  Oh, and do bring bug spray – despite what Mr. Hoover thought, the mosquitoes do nest here. 

Disclosure