From national park adventures in the heart of Texas to stories of those who champion and protect these special places, there’s something for everyone in this edition of American West Monthly.
When you step into San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, you step into a living story. Here, along the San Antonio River, four historic missions—Concepción, San José, San Juan, and Espada—tell of communities that came together nearly 300 years ago. These missions aren’t just preserved sites; they’re vibrant spaces where history, culture, and faith continue to thrive.
Connect with and explore centuries of history at Pecos National Historical Park, just a short drive away from Santa Fe. Read on to learn more about why Pecos National Historical Park is a must-visit, and get tips for planning your journey.
Channel Islands National Park is one of the most storied and ecologically rich places in the national park system. Just off the southern California coast, five remote islands and their surrounding marine environment offer a rare glimpse into what the region looked like centuries ago—quiet, biodiverse, and largely untouched by modern development. In Channel Islands National Park, author Susan Lamb provides a thoughtful, well-researched guide to the park’s history, ecology, and visitor experience.
National parks are for everyone. From desert vistas to volcanic flows, these wild spaces are filled with stories, science, and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re using a wheelchair, pushing a stroller, or simply looking for a gentler path to explore...
From the walls of deep canyons to windswept plateaus, the Southwest is home to hundreds of thousands of petroglyphs and pictographs—ancient images carved and painted onto stone by generations of Indigenous peoples. These symbols aren’t just evidence of the past—they’re a living part of ongoing Native culture, spirituality, and identity. In Petroglyphs of the Southwest, author and Acoma Pueblo journalist Conroy Chino offers an Indigenous perspective on these powerful images, sharing insights into their meaning, creation, and continued significance.
America’s national parks aren’t all in the remote wilderness. Here are a few of our favorite parks near large urban centers. Emily Pennington, WNP Visiting a mind-blowing national park doesn’t have to involve hiking up a mountain or shivering inside...
From a day at the beach and high-altitude hikes to historic trails and summertime celebrations, the long days and short nights make July a great time to enjoy all the national parks have to offer.
