Newsroom - Western National Parks Assocation | Donate Today!

In the News

WNPA publishes a digital newsletter several times a year. Park happenings, research stories, WNPA news and more helps to keep you connected to our national parks. Browse the newsletters or sign up to receive them via email in the footer of this website.

View Newsletters

Follow Us on Instagram

Western National Parks Association

wnpa_1938

2,522 11,107

Apr 18

April 18 is #WorldHeritageDay, also known as the #InternationalDayforMonumentsandSites. World Heritage sites are natural or cultural sites designated by The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (@unesco) as “so exceptional as to transcend national boundaries and to be of common importance for present and future generations of all humanity.” As of 2024, three WNPA parks - Chaco Culture National Historical Park, San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, and Carlsbad Caverns National Park - have been recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

📍: Chaco Culture National Historical Park (@chaco_culture_nhp), San Antonio Missions National Historical Park (@missionsnps) & Carlsbad Caverns National Park (@carlsbadcavernsnps)
📷: NPS / Daniel Leifheit / Andrew Shirey

.

#findyourpark #nationalparks #recreateresponsibly #optoutside #unescoworldheritage #worldheritageday #worldheritagesites #UNESCO

Apr 17

What’s this eastern red bat smiling about? Maybe he knows it’s bat appreciation day!

There are an estimated 45 different species of #bats living in America’s #nationalparks, including Big Thicket, Carlsbad Caverns, and Timpanogos Cave. Bats play an important role in controlling insect populations. In fact, some species can gobble up 1000 bugs in just one hour. They also play a part in pollination, helping plants grow and maintaining our food supply. Thanks, bat buddies!

#findyourpark #recreateresponsibly #optoutside #animalsofinstagram

📍: Big Thicket National Preserve (@bigthicketnps)
📷: NPS Photo / Henry Baldwin

Apr 17

Take a peek inside the park store at our April featured park, Chiricahua National Monument, and you’re sure to find a fun and original keepsake or gift. Every visitor center park store carries ranger-approved items to enhance and enrich your visit, so every park store is a unique experience.

#findyourpark #nationalparks #recreateresponsibly #optoutside #travelgram @cityofwillcox

📍: Chiricahua National Monument (@chiricahuanps)

Apr 16

Learn more about the research that helped educators teach students about the Indigenous history of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail. We honor the many resilient Native nations that still thrive despite the devastating effects of colonization. With this important work, more people can understand the Indigenous cultures, histories, and connections to the lands along the trail. @lewisandclarknht

Apr 16

National Park Week is coming up on April 20-28! To kick off the celebration, April 20 will be a fee-free day. Entrance fees will be waived at all #nationalparks nationwide, so start planning your getaway!

#findyourpark #recreateresponsibly #optoutside #travelgram #feefreeday

Apr 13

"There’s something fun for everyone in #NationalRecreationAreas, and WNPA is proud to partner with seven different ones: Bighorn Canyon, Chickasaw, Curecanti, Lake Mead, Lake Meredith, Santa Monica Mountains, and Whiskeytown. We dare you not to start daydreaming about your next getaway as you browse these photos!

#findyourpark #nationalparks #recreateresponsibly #optoutside #travelgram #tourism #tourisminparks #nationalrecreationareas

📍: Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area (@bighorncanynps), Chickasaw National Recreation Area (@chickasawnps), Curecanti National Recreation Area (@curecantinps), Lake Mead National Recreation Area (@lakemeadnps), Lake Meredith National Recreation Area (@lakemeredithnps), Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area (@santamonicamountainsnps) & Whiskeytown National Recreation Area (@whiskeytownnra)
📷: NPS / Cecil W. Stoughton / Matt Johnson/ Lake Mead National Recreation Area - Andrew Cattoir"

Apr 12

Check out our groovy new van-tour t-shirts! Made from a comfy blend of 60% combed ringspun cotton and 40% polyester, these short-sleeved shirts keep you cool and stylish, while repping those vintage park road trip vibes. Order now at store.wnpa.org and remember: your purchase supports parks!

Apr 11

Off the coast of Southern California, Channel Islands National Park @channelislandsnps offers a tranquil escape for nature lovers. This hidden gem consists of five islands, each boasting stunning scenery and abundant outdoor activities. Whether you’re into kayaking, scuba diving, snorkeling, or hiking, Channel Islands National Park has something for everyone. Learn more about this island paradise by visiting the link in our bio!

@visitventura @channelislandsharbor @channelislandspf @islandkayaking #findyourpark #nationalparks #recreateresponsibly #optoutside #travelgram #ventura #channelislands

Apr 11

April 18 marks the 100th anniversary of our April featured park, Chiricahua National Monument (@chiricahuanps). To celebrate the centennial, save 20% on all Chiricahua merchandise in our online store for the rest of the month (link in bio). Say “Happy Birthday” to Chiricahua by getting yourself a present like this cozy full-zip hoodie!

.

#nonprofit #domoregood #optoutside #nationalparks #ChiricahuaCentennial

Apr 9

Personalize your style with a touch of wilderness! For a limited time, enjoy 20% off all stickers when you purchase five or more. Whether you're decking out your water bottle or sprucing up your laptop, our collection of national park and outdoor-inspired stickers has you covered. Stock up now through the 11th. (link in bio)

.

#nonprofit #domoregood #optoutside #nationalparks

Apr 8

#InternationalDarkSkiesWeek is almost over. Have you had the chance to #optoutside and gaze at the #nightsky? Tag us if you have any spectacular snapshots to share! Even if you haven’t been able to get away, you’ll have more chances: our #nationalparks will remain outstanding spots to take in the natural beauty of the night, free of light pollution.
#findyourpark #recreateresponsibly #optoutside #travelgram #darksky

📍: Great Basin National Park @greatbasinnp)
📷: NPS

Apr 7

In case you’re still “in the dark,” a total #solareclipse will be visible across much of the United States from Texas to Maine tomorrow, April 8. Many #nationalparks will offer great locations to watch the #totaleclipse. If you're in the Dallas, Houston, or Austin areas, it will be well worth the day trip to check out the park's event. Find the link in our bio!

Remember, the only safe way to look directly at the uneclipsed or partially eclipsed sun is through special-purpose solar filters like “eclipse glasses” or handheld solar viewers. Be careful to protect your sight while enjoying this spectacular sight!

#findyourpark #optoutside @visitaustintx

Apr 6

The Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail @anzatrailnps is a wonderful experience that covers over 1,200 miles through Arizona and California, commemorating the route Spanish explorers took in the 18th century. Today, the Historic Trail passes through sacred and ancestral homelands of tribal communities, and incorporates multiple NPS sites throughout the route. Read more about seven exciting stops along the trail by visiting our link in bio!

@tumacacorinps @saguaronationalpark @visit_arizona @visittucson @goldengatenps @santamonicamountainsnps
#findyourpark #nationalparks #recreateresponsibly #optoutside #travelgram #leavenotrace #RecreateResponsibly

Apr 5

Have you heard of the I Hike For Health program? #IHikeforHealth is a #hiking challenge you can attempt on your own or with your friends and family. You can earn I Hike For Health pins by hiking in several WNPA #nationalparks, including Chiricahua National Monument (@chiricahuanps), Coronado National Memorial (@coronado_nps), Fort Bowie National Historic Site (@fortbowienps), Saguaro National Park (@saguaronationalpark), Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument (@organpipenps), and Tumacácori National Historical Park (@tumacacorinps).

#findyourpark #optoutside #travelgram

📍: Coronado National Memorial (@coronado_nps@coronado_nps)

Apr 4

April’s featured park is Chiricahua National Monument! @chiricahuanps This 12,000 square acre section of the Chiricahua Mountains in southeastern Arizona is a place of sacred and historical significance to the Chiricahua Apache (Nde). Holding rich cultural, historical, and natural importance, the monument is memorable for its many tall rock spires (called “hoodoos”) and balancing rocks. A geological wonder, Chiricahua is also a destination for hikers, campers, birdwatchers, and wildlife enthusiasts.

#findyourpark #nationalparks #recreateresponsibly #optoutside #travelgram #tucson @visittucson @visit_arizona @cityofwillcox

Apr 3

Explore the fascinating geology, history, and natural beauty of Chiricahua National Monument @chiricahuanps a hidden gem located in southeast Arizona. Read more in April's edition of American West Monthly by clicking our link in bio!

#findyourpark #nationalparks #recreateresponsibly #optoutside #travelgram #tucson
@visittucson @cityofwillcox @visit_arizona

Apr 3

April is “Keep America Beautiful” Month, and we want to take the opportunity to remind everyone of the importance of recreating responsibly when you visit a park. By leaving no trace, you’re helping to make sure the beauty and cultural significance of #nationalparks are protected.

📍: Whiskeytown National Recreation Area (@whiskeytownnra)
📷: NPS/Edwige Moses

.

#findyourpark #recreateresponsibly #optoutside #leavenotrace #keepamericabeautiful

Apr 1

#InternationalDarkSkiesWeek starts tomorrow when people are encouraged to appreciate the night sky in areas free of light pollution. Many of our #nationalparks are outstanding sites for taking in the spectacular beauty of the moon and stars. The staff of the NPS Night Skies program helps organize night sky programming for visitors at the more than 40 NPS units recognized as certified #DarkSky Parks. Learn more at the link in our bio. #findyourpark #recreateresponsibly #optoutside #travelgram #nightsky

📍: Chaco Culture National Historical Park (@chaco_culture_nhp)
📷: Li-Wei Hung / NPS

#findyourpark #nationalparks #recreateresponsibly #optoutside #travelgram #darksky #nightsky

Mar 31

On this day 97 years ago, Cesar Chavez was born in Yuma, AZ. Chavez was a renowned champion of civil rights and better working conditions for laborers. Today, many honor Chavez’s legacy by observing March 31 as a national day of service and learning. If you’re looking for a way to serve, many of our #nationalparks have needs for volunteers. Find out more about volunteer opportunities with WNPA and in parks near you at the links in our bio.

#findyourpark #nationalparks #recreateresponsibly #cesarchavezday #dayofservice #volunteer

Mar 28

Have you heard about the total solar #eclipse which will be visible in some parts of the US next month, including many #nationalparks? After the total eclipse on April 8, there won’t be another one that can be seen from the contiguous US until, so don’t miss out on the chance to see this amazing sight! You can safely view the eclipse with our eclipse glasses, free with any purchase of $20 or more in our online store (link in bio). While supplies last!

#findyourpark #optoutside #solareclipse #totaleclipse

Load More... Follow on Instagram

For News Professionals

If you are working on a story and want help in your reporting, contact us.