• Introduction
• 1. Baxter State Park
• 2. Channel Islands National Park
• 3. Denali National Park and Preserve
• 4. Everglades National Park
• 5. Isle Royale National Park
• 6. National Bison Range
• 7. Safari West
• 8. San Juan Islands
• 9. Tucson’s Sonoran Desert
• 10. Yellowstone National Park

Channel Islands National Park

Best for: Island fox, gray whales, sea lions, seals, and dolphins

Just a short boat ride from the coast of Southern California, this park’s five small islands (an additional three islands compose the Channel Islands' chain, but are residentially and commercially developed) boast such biodiversity that they’ve been nicknamed “America’s Galapagos.” Home to more than 2,000 species of plant and animal life, this offshore haven is one of the most unaffected natural habitats in the country. Hike trails through untouched terrain, head to the beach to glimpse passing pods of gray whales and dolphins, and even camp out under the stars. www.nps.gov/chis

Smart Splurge Hotel: Situated 20 miles north of Santa Barbara, the luxury camping resort at El Capitan Canyon unfolds on some 300 acres of pristine Pacific coast-fronted landscapes. Wake up in one of 26 cream-colored tents on hand-woven willow beds (though cabin accommodations are also available) – boats for a day trip to the national park are within a 90-minute drive. www.elcapitancanyon.com

Great Value Lodging: Live the life of a castaway for a night and camp out on the islands (the only option for staying there overnight) – our favorite site is on Anacapa Island. Hike, snorkel, and swim during the day, and experience the island's pristine wilderness under the night sky after the daytime tour boats depart with the masses in tow. www.nps.gov/chis

When to Go: While the warm climate of Southern California ensures that almost any time of year will be enjoyable, the best snorkeling, scuba diving, and whale-watching (blues and humpbacks) is toward the end of summer and the beginning of fall. Gray whales, however, can be spotted from late December through April.

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