Know Before You Go

You've decided to take a trip to a national park either alone, with your family and friends, or as a group leader. Do you know what information you should research and what skills you should practice before you head out? National parks are expecting an especially busy season in 2022. A little trip planning can ensure that your only surprises are happy ones.

Follow the links on this page to help you, your family, friends, and group members prepare for a safe and enjoyable trip in the Midwest.
Closeup photo of a hand holding a park map.
Trip Planning Guide

The guide provides key safety considerations to help you have a safe and enjoyable trip to your national parks.

Park Ranger from chest up standing in front of a brown field with a schoolhouse in the distance.
Plan Your Vacation Like a Park Ranger

National Park Service rangers in the Midwest share their top 10 insider planning tips.

Two people paddle a river in a green canoe past a forested shoreline.
Health and Safety

Discover many topics related to health and safety from the National Park Service.

An adult smiles at a child carrying camp chairs, with a blue and yellow tent in the background.
Recreate Responsibly

Join the #RecreateResponsibly movement to keep you and others around you safe.

Two people in a tandem kayak paddling while the sun is setting on the horizon.
Water Safety

Tips for staying safe while boating.

Dark clouds over prairie and a white-colored canyon with a few small trees.
Weather Safety

Learn more about the different types of severe weather that you might encounter.

Many bison on a dry rolling prairie with cloudy blue sky above.
Wildlife Safety

Learn how to stay safe around wildlife.

Tent and gear in a small campsite surrounded by ferns and trees.
Leave No Trace

Respect the land you love- learn about the principles of Leave No Trace and be a responsible steward of your national parks.

A hiker fills a red water bottle from a spigot emerging from a sign.
Pack the 10 Essentials

Heading out to a national park? Make sure you pack the 10 Essentials!

Two prairie dogs stand watch on a dirt mound under blue sky.
Alerts

Information that may affect your visit to a park, including closures and hazards.

A wooden ramp with a metal railing leads to the front door of an old schoolhouse.
Accessibility

We're committed to making facilities, programs, services, and employment accessible for visitors and employees.

Last updated: April 25, 2022

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