America’s National Parks are a big part of our country’s heritage. A large nation with vast open land and a varied landscape, the United States boasts many of the greatest places to enjoy Mother Nature on the planet.
To help you get the most out of your new Taylor Morrison home this summer, we’d like to take the time to remind you of the fantastic natural wonders in the state you call home.
From world-renowned sites to historic trails you might never have heard of, we encourage you to explore your surroundings and enjoy the best our National Parks Service has to offer.
Florida Honors its Famed Spanish Legacy
History comes to life at De Soto National Memorial in Bradenton, Florida. Easily accessed by new homes in Tampa or our Sarasota and Fort Myers Naples communities, there’s a whole lot to do here other than learn about Florida’s conquistador past.
- Ranger led kayak tours.
- 45-minute nature walk through unique mangrove forests.
- Migratory bird watching.
- Fishing, boating and swimming.
- Camp Uzita “Living History” experience (December through April.)
De Soto National Monument is just a couple hour drive from Orlando, too.
And for the ultimate outdoor adventure in Florida, plan a vacation expedition to The Everglades. It’s the largest sub-tropical wildlife area in the United States!
Georgia Goes Outdoors
Home to one of the end points of the Appalachian Trail, Georgia has plenty to offer for those in search of fresh air and natural wonder.
Closer to Atlanta, adventure seekers should head straight to the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Spend the day with your trusty rod & reel or pass a lazy Sunday afternoon next to rolling waters with your picnic basket.
Whether you prefer to travel by inner tube or bicycle, the Hooch offers all-day fun or a quick escape from the city.
Be sure to enjoy the river responsibly and follow these NPS Safety Tips.
South Carolina Hardwoods
Less than two hours from Charlotte you’ll find one of the largest old growth hardwood forests in the southeast. Ideal for camping, hiking, fishing and canoeing, Congaree National Park is your one-stop-shop for everything outdoors.
Drive up to your favorite campsite at Longleaf or Bluff Campgrounds or take your adventure deep into the woods with backcountry camping. Register at the Harry Hampton Visitor Center from 9am-5pm for your Backcountry Camping Permit.
Visit the famous site where the Civil War began at Fort Sumter National Monument. Take a boat into the Charleston Harbor to marvel at the cannons.
The Mountains of North Carolina
A fantastic option for a weekend away from Charlotte to the woods, Great Smoky Mountains National Park straddles the border of North Carolina and Tennessee. Load up the car with all your outdoor gear and get ready to be wowed by natural beauty.
- Explore a wide range of backcountry hiking trails.
From Raleigh, head out to the coast and discover the undeveloped islands of Cape Lookout National Seashore. You’ll find all your favorite seaside activities like shelling, fishing and birding, plus historic villages and lighthouses to explore and climb.
A Day Trip to Indiana
From Chicago, head east to the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore for sand and solitude. With 15,000 acres of rugged dunes and fascinating parkland you’ll find something fun for the whole family. (main photo)
- Geocaching!
- Horseback riding.
- Swimming, fishing and boating.
- Hiking & biking.
- Kite flying and other beach activities.
Camping in the Lone Star State
In a large state you’d expect to find a ton of state parks. Check out all the big-time outdoor fun to be had near these major Texas real estate markets.
Dallas – Just minutes from the city, Cedar Hill State Park offers an excellent day or overnight getaway. Just 50 miles to the east you’ll find the Oak forests and cool waters of Lake Tawakoni.
Austin – Lace up your boots for the excitement of bouldering at McKinney Falls State Park. For a more tranquil escape, try Lockhart State Park and don’t forget to bring your golf clubs.
Houston – The famed seashore of Galveston Island State Park is just a short drive from the city. Bring your canoe or kayak to explore the park’s unique paddling trails. Bird lovers should pack their camera & binoculars for an aviary adventure at Brazos Bend State Park.
– Be sure to plan a family road trip to the crown jewel of Texas parks, Big Bend National Park.
Colorado – On Top of the World
The Denver area offers access to a number of great parks – but no place quite packs the same punch as Rocky Mountain National Park.
Whether you explore the park on foot (355 miles of trails) or take it easy on one of the many scenic drives, the Rockies live up to their reputation and then some.
Plan your visit to this spectacular alpine and subalpine environment.
Exploring the Desert in Arizona
Not far from Phoenix near Tucson sits the incredible Saguaro National Park. Home to the regions iconic cactus and plenty of classic southwest hiking, visitors enjoy this Arizona treasure from inside the car and out.
North of the city, marvel at some of the best-preserved cliff dwellings on the continent. Montezuma Castle National Monument is as fascinating as it is beautiful.
Big Trees & California Dreaming
From the Redwoods to Joshua Tree, California is jam packed with incredible wilderness escapes.
Bay Area & Sacramento – Perhaps the most “bucket list” worthy natural attraction in the state, Yosemite National Park is a must-see in the Sierra Nevada range for Californians and Americans alike.
Southern California – Getting away from LA, San Diego or Orange County is a lot easier than you might think. Channel Islands National Park will change the way you think about the California coast.
Looking for More Ideas?
The monuments, memorials and parks listed here are just the beginning. See more of your beloved America by searching the NPS website for attractions from coast to coast.
>>> Visit the National Park Service
Considering a move cross country to a landscape that better suits your personality and needs? Use our convenient home locator to find a new Colorado home by the mountains, Florida real estate on the Gulf or a house in the Austin hill country.
