Outdoor enthusiasts tend to visit parks and recreational areas most frequently for fitness and socialization during the steamy months of summer. This is why July has been designated as National Park and Rec Month since 1985 to draw locals and tourists alike to national parks to set their sights on nature; plants; and an abundance of wildlife. 

Did you know that there are 419 national parks in the United States as park of the National Park System; but only 62 have the designated title "National?" The parks span over 84 million acres in each state (except for Delaware where there isn't a national park - sorry, guys!) and bring in over 330 million visitors each year. Some of the top U.S. national parks include: Grand Canyon National Park, Yellowstone National Park and Yosemite National Park - the newest being White Sands National Park in New Mexico which was established in 2019. 

During this month, Deerbusters encourages outdoor enthusiasts to explore a national park for hiking; camping and biking with friends and family. Most national parks are free to enter and provide hours worth of entertainment for families. While we, and park service personnel, encourage visitors to visit parks, they must keep the sight clean. 

People and wildlife are at fault for destroying the appearances of parks and rec areas. People litter and vandalize rocks with spray paint. Wildlife, such as deer, rub their antlers against trees while rabbits eat native plants. Park conservation is a must to keep our national parks alive and well. 

Here are ways to get involved this Parks and Rec Month:

• Recycle and compost
• Reuse water bottles
• Reuse bags
• Plant trees (and protect them!)

Enjoy the wonders of nature this month; and get outside and explore a national park today!