America’s National Parks Podcast

Standing in the shadows of giant redwood trees is an awe-inducing experience. In California, there's a national park protecting those redwoods and it's one of the state's best-kept secrets. Home to the world's tallest living trees, this world heritage site and international biosphere reserve protects nearly half the world's old-growth redwoods. Come discover thousands of acres of protected forests, pristine and wild scenic rivers, and rugged coastlines hosting whales, seals, and wildflowers in California's Redwood National and State Parks. 

By the start of 1933, thousands of banks across America had already closed their doors. 13 million Americans were unemployed and the stock market had crashed, leaving the United States in the worst economic crisis in modern history. In the twelve years that would follow, the Dust Bowl would ravage the plains and render former farmland useless, heightening the impacts of the depression as the Second World War brought the entire world to a standstill. 

But Franklin Delano Roosevelt, or FDR as many would come to know him, would take it all in stride. Born in Hyde Park, New York in 1882, he was elected to the New York Senate in 1910, would go on to serve as the Assistant Secretary of the Navy under President Wilson, and finally as the Governor of New York before being elected President of the United States in 1932. Perhaps best known for his sweeping economic programs, a deep connection with the American people, and his incredible strength shown amidst personal disaster, he would guide the country through the turbulence with courage, resilience, and, above all else, optimism. 

In the heart of Washington D.C., a tribute to Roosevelt sits in a secluded corner of the National Mall. Designed by renowned landscape architect Lawrence Halprin in 1974, the memorial stretches across 7.5 acres, making it the largest of any National Mall Memorial. The initial plans would wait for more than 20 years before Congress could approve the appropriate funding, but it was eventually dedicated on May 2, 1997, by President Bill Clinton. Consisting of more than 30,000 granite stones from South Dakota and Minnesota and with over 100,000 gallons of water flowing through seven fountains and pools, it is a stark contrast to the monuments that surround it, telling the story of an unprecedented presidency through elements of stone, water, and earth. 

This week on America’s National Parks, take a stroll through the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial and the lasting legacy of the 32nd President of the United States.

Hosted by Jason Epperson

Written by Lizzie Tesch

Use code PARKS30 for $30 off of a $500 or more booking at www.rvshare.com.

Join Jason Epperson for crucial updates on the ongoing recovery efforts in National Parks affected by hurricanes. Other stories include the renaming of Clingman's Dome to Kuwohi, new memorials in Washington, D.C., and the 2025 U.S. Forest Service hiring freeze. Stay informed about park closures, maintenance needs, and the latest developments in our national parks!

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Use code PARKS30 for $30 off of a $500 or more booking at www.rvshare.com.

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This episode of America's National Parks delves into the historic significance of the Yorktown Battlefield within the Colonial National Historic Park. It explores the climactic moments of the American Revolutionary War in 1781, where British General Charles Cornwallis surrendered to George Washington, highlighting Washington's tactical brilliance and the dire conditions faced by both armies. The episode also examines Yorktown's role during the Civil War, focusing on General George McClellan's hesitations during the Siege of Yorktown and contrasting them with General Ulysses S. Grant’s aggressive tactics at the Battle of Shiloh.

Hosted by Jason Epperson

Written by Lizzie Tesch

Use code PARKS30 for $30 off of a $500 or more booking at www.rvshare.com.

From the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon to the cliffs of Capitol Reef, there is no shortage of beauty in Utah. Still, the stunning landscape of Utah goes far beyond the “Mighty Five.” A wealth of National Monuments, Historic Parks, Recreation Areas, and Historic Trails can be found within its borders, and in the southeastern corner of the state sits one unit that receives barely over 100,000 visitors per year. Natural Bridges National Monument protects a collection of canyons and a trio of natural rock bridges. Those who do make the trip to the Monument find a delicate and desolate landscape that tells an intricately woven story of the people who called it home, of time, and above all else, of water.

Hosted by Jason Epperson

Written by Lizzie Tesch

Use code PARKS30 for $30 off of a $500 or more booking at www.rvshare.com.

In this episode, we're sharing some national park trip tips for those who feel that national parks aren't all they've cracked up to be.

Use code PARKS30 for $30 off of a $500 or more booking at www.rvshare.com.

Find the America's National Parks Facebook Group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1238438736287784

Use code PARKS30 for $30 off of a $500 or more booking at www.rvshare.com.

In this episode, we cover a high-speed chase through Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Canyon's water crisis and recovery, Yosemite's indefinite closure of the historic Wawona Hotel, Death Valley's record-breaking summer temperatures, and the adoption of electric bikes and buses at various parks. Learn about these critical updates and more to stay informed on what’s happening in America's cherished natural landscapes.

Find the America's National Parks Facebook Group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1238438736287784

From rumored Bigfoot sightings to a vanishing island, there is no shortage of mystery in the waters of Crater Lake. At 1,943 feet, the lake is the seventh deepest in the world and is best known for its sapphire blue color and astonishing size. Visitors can marvel at the massive crater formed thousands of years ago in a volcanic eruption and enjoy many activities that change with the seasons, but many find themselves drawn to a stump. Referred to as "The Old Man," the log has slowly navigated the lake's waters for well over 100 years, and the mystery of its movement and ability to remain upright continues to perplex scientists and parkgoers alike. Early travelers stood atop it in the open water; others were certain it controlled the weather. Still, like the lake itself, The Old Man is an indescribable fascination that continues to inspire the minds of many.

This week America'sa’s National Parks, Crater Lake, and the Old Man.

Hosted by Jason Epperson

Written By Lizzie Tesch

Use code PARKS30 for $30 off of a $500 or more booking at www.rvshare.com.