12 Things You Didn't Realize Could Get You Banned From National Parks
From drones and bear spray to feeding wildlife and blocking roads, here are the things that could get you banned from U.S. national parks.
Read MoreKate Mothes
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Islands content is created by a team of veteran writers and editors passionate about travel. Outside experts with deep field knowledge sometimes inform our work with additional context and perspectives by way of exclusive commentary. Our goal is to offer readers well-rounded and diverse articles that inform, entertain, and inspire.
Our editors consistently review and update articles to ensure they're providing current, relevant, and useful information. Complete information on our editorial process is available here.
Stories By Kate Mothes
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America's 13 National Parks You Didn't Realize Were UNESCO Heritage Sites
UNESCO World Heritage Sites are located all over the globe, including 26 within the United States. Here are some national parks with this prestigious status.
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12 Remote And Dreamy Places To Retire On The West Coast
If you're looking for a quiet and beautiful place to retire, these charming spots in California, Oregon, and Washington provide an idyllic retreat
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Arizona's 11 Most Historic And Geologically Stunning National Monuments
From prehistoric ruins to breathtaking desert vistas, these Arizona destinations highlight the state’s most compelling history and natural beauty.
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12 National Parks Destinations That Are Wildly Popular With Boomers
The U.S. national parks are beloved by people of all ages, but these 12 destinations in particular are ideal for the baby boomer generation.
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14 Stops To Hit On The Ultimate California Road Trip
This looping road trip stretches from deserts to coast, passing cities, mountains, dunes, vineyards, redwoods, and postcard locales.
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The Fastest Road Trip Between Yosemite And Sequoia National Park (And What You'll See Along The Way)
Sequoia National Park is surprisingly close to Yosemite, and there are tons of amazing places to stop and visit if you're fancying a road trip.
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The Fastest Road Trip Between Death Valley National Park And The Grand Canyon (And What You'll See Along The Way)
This six-hour desert drive links a string of evocative landmarks, from Las Vegas and the Hoover Dam to old Route 66 towns and Arizona canyon country.
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Stop Cramming Your RV Cabinets: 12 Smarter Ways To Store Essentials Without All The Clutter
If you own an RV, you know that space comes at a premium. Here are some creative ways to store and organize more of your essentials while on a trip.
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These Are The 10 Fastest-Growing Cities In America In 2026
From Florida beaches to Texas Hill Country and Arizona deserts, explore 10 of the fastest-growing U.S. cities and what makes them worth visiting.
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Unwritten Rules You Should Know Before Visiting The Midwest
From Wisconsin to the Dakotas, you'll be surprised at how much of Midwestern culture varies from other regions of the United States. Here's what to now.
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The Most Underrated Lake Towns In The Midwest In 2026
While the Great Lakes are incredible to explore, these massive bodies of water aren't the only lakes prime for exploration in the Midwest region.
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America's Most Impressive Sculpture Parks Offer World-Class Art Nestled Amid Stunning Landscapes
Sculpture parks are the perfect way to blend outdoor adventure with beautiful artwork. Here are some of the best places to see iconic works in the U.S.
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All 11 US National Scenic Hiking Trails, Ranked By Difficulty
See how the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, Continental Divide Trail, and others compare in miles, terrain, elevation, and endurance demands.
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The Most Underrated Lake Destinations In The Southwest In 2026
From hidden alpine tarns to desert reservoirs, these underrated Southwest lakes offer incredible camping, boating, fishing, hiking, and scenic escapes.
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Unwritten Rules You Should Know Before Visiting San Francisco
Every city has its own unique way of life, much of which is hardly obvious to outsiders, and San Francisco is no different, as these unwritten rules prove.
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10 RV Campsites In The Pacific Northwest, Ranked From Worst To Best
There's no shortage of scenic sites to park up for the night (or longer) in the Pacific Northwest, but some offer better amenities and views than others.
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10 Most-Visited Florida State Parks, Ranked From Best To Worst
With white beaches, turquoise waters, and hidden natural springs, these state parks cover some of the most beautiful scenery and wildlife in Florida.
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The Most Underrated Towns In The Mountain West In 2026
Skip the major tourist hubs and explore these underrated Mountain West destinations featuring , mountain views, lakes, breweries, and rich history.
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11 Camping Mistakes New Adventurers Often Make
New to camping? These 11 common mistakes can ruin your trip. From packing tips to safety essentials, here’s how to camp smarter and stress-free.
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Unexpected Traits Canadians Always Notice About American Tourists
While you should always be yourself, there are a lot of reasons to want to blend in on a trip to Canada, from respecting the country to not seeming ignorant.
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10 Relaxing Resorts In Wisconsin's Picturesque Northwoods With Lake Views And Comfy Retro Vibes
Wisconsin's Northwoods area is packed with resorts that offer plenty of lakeside fun, beauty, and cozy, vintage vibes. Here's where we recommend staying.
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9 Of The Oldest Lakes In The World With Charming Vacation Vibes
The world's oldest lakes are among the most spectacular bodies of water found on the planet. There's old, and then there's millions of years old.
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Michigan's 10 Best Road Trips That Promise Unmatched Adventure And Beauty
Planning an adventure? From Detroit to the Upper Peninsula, these Michigan road trips highlight scenic routes, beaches, lakeshores, and charming Midwest towns.
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The 9 Best Great Lakes Road Trips That Promise Unmatched Adventure And Beauty
Check out the best Great Lakes road trips, from Lake Michigan to Lake Superior, with scenic drives, must-see stops, and travel tips for every itinerary.
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America's Hands-Down 11 Best Lakeside Camping Destinations, According To Reviews
A lakeside camping trip may be just what you need this summer. Here's where dozens of fellow campers have recommended across the United States.
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Canada's Most Stunning Beaches For Sun, Sand, And Scenic Escapes From Coast To Coast
From the Atlantic to the Pacific, Canada's beaches shift from wild, wind-carved shores to serene stretches of sand with crashing waves and big open skies.
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