Here are seven camps and classes in national parks that are sure to take full advantage of your kid's wide-eyed curiosity.
Yellowstone Parent Child Adventure
Sept. 1-6, at Yellowstone National Park 1 of 8
A bonding experience for the ages—and ageless—both parent and child will take off to Yellowstone National Park for a fly-fishing expedition in early September. A five-day adventure organized by Lillard Fly Fishing of North Carolina, you'll hike, camp, fish, talk and play, all while enjoying the beauty of our nation's first national park.
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VisitDinosaur Track Seminar
May 27 and Sept. 23, at Canyonlands National Park 2 of 8
Maybe your child's inspired after watching "Jurassic World" for the umpteenth time, or maybe—just like every kid, ever—he or she just really digs dinosaurs. No matter the reason, we're sure they will love this seminar hosted by paleontologist Dr. John Foster, which follows some of the world's clearest dinosaur tracks. Where they lead? You'll just have to wait and see.
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VisitMiddle School Archaeology Camp
June 19-25, at Mesa Verde National Park 3 of 8
If your kid has a knack for digging, this camp should be right up their alley. And by digging, we don't mean asking tons of questions, but literal, fingers-in-the-dirt digging. For a full week, your middle schooler can enjoy the interesting world of archaeology by getting hands-on experience at archaeological sites and laboratories. And on the final day, the group heads out to take in the beautiful Mesa Verde National Park.
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VisitYosemite High Country Adventure
Various Dates, Yosemite National Park 4 of 8
Hiking, camping, exploring and storytelling in Yosemite National Park? It's more an adventure than a camp, really, and it's the perfect way for kids ages 13 and up to get acquainted with—and treasure—our nation's beautiful land. And with 10 six-day dates available this summer, you can find the right time that suits everyone.
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VisitRedwood National Park Family Cycling Trip
Various Dates, Redwood National Park 5 of 8
Do you and the kiddos like to go on family rides? Well, Western Spirit Cycling Adventures' Redwood Park Cycling Trip is a great way to get away from the monotony of riding around the block and get you saddled in a national park. The trip's itinerary promises camping, hiking, glorious views and fantastic tracks.
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VisitDenali Discovery Camp
June 20-24, Denali National Park 6 of 8
One of our nation's northern-most national parks, Alaska's Denali National Park is the setting for this five-day camp that gives kids ages 14 and younger hands-on exploration experience. During their trip to America's Last Frontier, kids will hike, camp, explore, play games and discover the vast beauty and knowledge Denali has to offer.
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VisitTeen High Adventure
July 18-28, Great Smoky Mountains National Park 7 of 8
There's no better place to attain knowledge, wisdom, and to grow as a leader and as a person, than in the great outdoors. This is the ultimate goal of the Teen High Adventure Camp in the Great Smokies. During a 7-day, 6-night backpacking adventure, kids will learn outdoor survival and living skills, and spot spectacular views. Oh, and once your kids complete the trail and remove their heavy backpacks, whitewater rafting awaits them.
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