Yosemite, Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks (Fodor's) - Fodor's [58]
SAFETY CONCERNS
America’s national parks have been set aside to preserve some of the most outstanding landscapes in the world. This is nature at its finest, and in raw form. This means that although parks are wonderful venues for families, providing experiences they’ll remember for a lifetime, it’s important that children realize that national parks are not theme parks or zoos. They need to respect and take caution with the surroundings. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
Don’t feed the animals. Animals in some of the larger national parks are used to humans being around and may not flee at your presence. But this doesn’t mean you should feed them. It is unhealthy for them to eat people food, and because it further acclimates them to humans, it can lead to them being more aggressive, and thus more dangerous, to future visitors.
Register at trailheads. If there’s a notebook where you can write down your name and the time you’re starting your hike, jot it down so park personnel know where you are should inclement weather or another danger occur. Also, don’t hike alone, especially in bear country.
Practice fire safety. Check with the visitor center on campfire rules, and never build fires in the backcountry: One breath of wind can carry a cinder for miles and plant it on dry grasslands just ready to blaze. When cooking over your campfire, clear the ground around it first of dry leaves and grass, keep the fire inside the pit, throw used matches into the fire, and keep a pot of water or sand nearby. Don’t start a fire when you’re alone, and never leave it unattended. Lastly, it should go without saying: never cook in your tent or any poorly ventilated area.
MORE TIPS AND TIDBITS
CAMERA CARE
If you’re flying, don’t pack camera equipment in checked luggage, where it is much more susceptible to damage. If you’re using a traditional camera, keep the film out of the sun and heat.
DISCOUNTS FOR SENIORS
To qualify for age-related discounts, don’t wait until you’ve used a service. Mention your senior-citizen status up front when booking hotel reservations and before you’re seated in restaurants. Have identification on hand to back up your claim.
PETS IN THE PARK
Generally, pets are allowed only in developed areas of the national parks, including drive-in campgrounds and picnic areas. They must be kept on a leash at all times. With the exception of guide dogs, pets are not allowed inside buildings, on most trails, on beaches, or in the backcountry. They also may be prohibited in areas controlled by concessionaires, such as restaurants. Some national parks have kennels; call ahead to learn the details and to see if there’s availability. Some of the national forests (www.fs.fed.us) surrounding the parks have camping and are more lenient with pets.
TRAVELING WITH DISABILITIES
Most national parks have some accessible visitor centers, restrooms, campsites, and trails. If you use a guide dog, check with the park ahead of time to see if they allow service animals.
PARK RESOURCES
ORGANIZATIONS
National Parks Conservation Association
(1300 19th St. NW, Ste. 300, Washington, DC 20036 | 800/628–7275 | www.npca.org) raises awareness of the parks through public, media, and government education.
National Park Foundation
(1201 Eye St. NW, Ste. 550B, Washington, DC 20005 | 202/354–6460 | www.nationalparks.org) is a non-profit, fund-raising arm of the National Park Service.
National Park Service
(National Park Service/Department of Interior, 1849 C St. NW, Washington, DC 20240 | 202/208–6843 | www.nps.gov).
Parks Canada
(25 Eddy St., Gatineau, Quebec K1A OM5 | 888/773–8888 | www.pc.gc.ca).
PUBLICATIONS
National Park System: Map and Guide
(Federal Citizen Information Center, P.O.