Thinking about your next trip once the pandemic eases? This year, try one of these remote spots where isolation will be the theme. From Maine to Montana, explore nature free from crowds.
Read MoreNational Parks Begin to Reopen, With Limits
National parks are popular travel destinations, and with COVID-19 still present, the distancing quality of being in a park holds appeal for many wishing to escape the confines of the quarantine. According to one survey, 24% of Americans planning on road-tripping this summer have national parks on their mind. The 52 million acres of national park space have not opened up to their full capacity, however, and lots of programming across the nation has been cut in order to discourage large gatherings. Some of the more dangerous trails are closed as well due to fear of contamination from visitors who might hold onto safety chains or railings. Many transportation options have been cut, a choice that makes the inner, unpaved portions of the parks less accessible. Each park is undergoing reopening phases at their own pace, the speed mostly a reflection of what the local government is permitting and the status of COVID-19 in the area. The National Park Service has publicly urged visitors to abide by social distancing guidelines to help prevent the spread of the virus and protect park employees. Many of these parks are located in rural areas that lack extensive hospital care, so an uptick in COVID-19 cases could have devastating effects.
Yellowstone National Park - Wyoming
Yellowstone National Park is the world’s first national park and a destination for millions of tourists each year. Accordingly, the park typically offers a wide assortment of attractions including an abundance of flora and fauna, 12 campgrounds, and nine visitor centers. Perhaps its most well-known assets are the Old Faithful geyser and the park’s numerous hot springs. Yellowstone reevaluated its spring opening dates after the initial COVID-19 outbreak, pushing its first major phase of reopening from a typical mid-April date to May 18. The park had been closed since March 24 and is now directing visitors toward a few specific entrances as well as limiting them to certain areas (the lower loop) of the park. Additional constraints include the unavailability of overnight accommodations including hotels and campgrounds, the banning of commercial tour buses, and closed ranger programs and visitor centers. As the park progresses into reopening phases 2 and 3, some of these restrictions are expected to loosen, such as the opening of some overnight rooms, takeaway at some on-site restaurants, and select campgrounds. While some of the regulations are done as a response to multiple state guidelines (Yellowstone spills into Montana and Idaho), a Yellowstone website states that “The park’s reopening priorities center on protecting employees and the public from transmission risks through a variety of mitigation actions.”
Arches National Park - Utah
Arches National Park, located on the eastern side of Utah near the city of Moab, is home to the famous stone marvel known as the Delicate Arch. The park also has numerous hiking opportunities, additional stone icons, and scenic drives. Although the park was closed for many weeks after the virus broke out, Arches resumed entrance fee collection (seven-day passes ranging from $15 to $30) on June 15 as part of a multiphased reopening process. While the Arches Visitor Center, Devils Garden Campground and Fiery Furnace remain closed, the roads, trails and park store are now permitting visitors. One major concern for those running the park is the congregation of visitors around popular landmarks like the Delicate Arch. Although the park has not issued any explicit policies banning congregations of visitors around hot spots like the arch, the National Park Service is following guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The park has stated that it is actively monitoring visitors and encouraging them to wear masks and social distance in addition to following the park’s standard Leave No Trace principles.
Joshua Tree National Park - Southern California
Joshua Tree has two distinct deserts (the Mojave and Sonoran) and is known for its iconic giant yucca trees. This rocky 794,000-acre park, located in Southern California, receives 2.8 million visitors during a typical year. Like many other national parks, Joshua Tree is undergoing a multiphased reopening plan that began in late May. Despite some modifications, Joshua Tree has listed many open amenities on their website, including entrance booths, trails, family campsites, visitor centers and group campsites (25 person limit). The park is not running any programs this year.
Redwood National Park - Northern California
Redwood National Park is named for the giant redwood trees throughout the area, the tallest of which is recorded to be over 379 feet tall. Most of the park is free and almost half a million visitors come to enjoy its beauty each year. In a state with nine national parks, this one is a standout. All five visitor centers are currently closed at Redwood National Park, as are some roads and parking lots. The park is not holding any on-site events or outdoor school programs, instead requesting that everyone spread out while visiting. The park asks that everyone be prepared to take home their trash as well. Nevertheless, visitors can still enjoy most of the campgrounds, trails and a number of scenic drives.
Acadia National Park - Maine
Acadia is located along coastal Maine and is in close proximity to a number of quaint restaurants, museums and hotels. Visitors can take scenic drives, investigate numerous lakes and wooded areas, and take boats out on the water. There is even a portion of the park that is accessible mainly by ferry. Acadia, like many other parks, is currently undergoing a multiphased reopening plan. While most hiking trails and retail services are open, campgrounds are not. If visitors are feeling down about being unable to camp overnight, they can still have a memorable experience and go for a horse-drawn carriage ride instead.
Valley Forge National Historical Park - Pennsylvania
Valley Forge is rich with history and greenery as it is the location where Gen. George Washington kept the Continental Army for six months in 1777 and 1778. During a typical year, visitors participate in a number of recreational activities such as trolley tours, visiting Washington’s headquarters, and investigating the Muhlenberg Brigade Huts. As the park undergoes a slow reopening process, these buildings and facilities, including visitor centers, have remained closed. Some parking lots, roads and trails are open, however, and visitors are encouraged to take their trash with them in addition to practicing social distancing. Programs and events have not been officially canceled and are just postponed.
Big Bend National Park - Texas
Big Bend National Park is situated in West Texas and covers over 800,000 acres of land. Named after the U-turn in the Rio Grande, this national park has a range of terrain including desert, mountains and rivers. The park does not receive many visitors - only about 350,000 per year - but it does have an excess of heat, with temperatures passing 100 degrees Fahrenheit before noon in the summertime. The park is fairly open, including day hike trails and rafting on the Rio Grande. The visitor centers and some stores are closed, as are the more “primitive roadside” campsites for backpackers. Camping and lodging are at limited capacity but expect a greater degree of reopening in the near future.
RV There Yet? 8 Great RV Adventures for a Socially Distanced Summer
As COVID-19 changes the way we can travel or feel comfortable traveling, people are considering renting RVs to take on road trips as an alternative summer adventure. State parks and campgrounds are beginning to reopen across the U.S., but have restrictions in place in order to balance public safety with the enjoyment of being outdoors. Some major national parks like Death Valley do not yet have plans to reopen for the summer. For the parks that do open, it is inevitable that the limited spaces will fill up quickly, so you might want to plan to visit less popular scenic destinations. And with many visitor centers and hotels remaining closed, renting an RV might be the best way to have a safe, fun summer. Be sure to check local regulations often as closures and travel restrictions change quickly.
New England – Sebago Lake, Maine
Nestled in southern Maine is the deepest and second largest lake in the state—Sebago Lake. Visitors can fish for Atlantic salmon, lake trout and large and smallmouth bass, among others. Locals advise anglers to use live or realistic bait when fishing because of Sebago Lake’s crystal-clear water. Visitors interested in swimming can head to any of the many sandy beaches on the shores of the lake, but should keep in mind that some of the beaches do not have lifeguard supervision. If you are more interested in hiking and biking, the nearby White Mountains provide the perfect opportunity to explore marked trails. While Sebago Lake also offers activities such as an amusement park and golf courses, they may likely be closed for summer 2020. RVs can be parked at any campground on the lake’s shores.
Mid-Atlantic – Worlds End State Park, Pennsylvania
One of the best places for a socially distanced outdoor adventure is Worlds End State Park in Sullivan County, Pennsylvania. The popular 59.2-mile backpacking trail—the Loyalsock Trail—plays host to a multitude of waterfalls and impressive views. For those who are not interested in hiking but still want to see what the region has to offer, Dry Run Falls is easily accessible in the neighboring Loyalsock State Forest and is located close to a parking area. Splashing in Loyalsock Creek’s ice-cold water is sure to be refreshing as the summer sun turns up the heat. Keep in mind that swimming is prohibited in any other water source at the park, and lifeguards are not on duty. Worlds End offers 70 camping sites, half with electric hookups.
Midwest – Ludington State Park, Michigan
If you are most interested in fishing, Ludington State Park offers an abundance of bass, northern pike, bluegill, perch and walleye. A favorite hiking destination is the 112-foot Big Sable Point Lighthouse on the shores of Lake Michigan. Visitors can choose from any of the eight marked hiking trails or can head to the picturesque canoe pathway that is sure to attract avid canoers and kayakers, along with novices. The park offers plenty of RV parks and campgrounds, some with free Wi-Fi, showers and restrooms. Visitors should keep in mind that the Michigan State Park Recreation Passport, which costs Michigan residents $12 and nonresidents $34 per vehicle, is required to enter Ludington State Park.
South Atlantic – Cherohala Skyway, North Carolina to Tennessee
The 43-mile Cherohala Skyway is the perfect ride for those looking for vistas of forested mountainside, hiking trails, waterfalls and unobstructed scenic overlooks. The National Scenic Byway climbs up mountains for 18 miles in North Carolina and winds down the Appalachian mountainsides for another 23 miles into the deep forests of Tennessee. The Cherohala Skyway, named after the Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests that it crosses through, is free from crowds—making it a perfect destination for this summer. Along the scenic highway is Indian Boundary Lake, the Tellico River and Bald River Falls, and of course, many beautiful spots for long or short hikes. There are plenty of campgrounds along the scenic route, some more popular than others, so choose according to your comfort levels and COVID-19 regulations.
Southeast – Jekyll Island, Georgia
For a truly unique RV destination, Jekyll Island is a great choice. Bird-watching, biking, swimming and kayaking are only some of the activities you can choose from. One of the most interesting sites to see on Jekyll Island is Driftwood Beach, which transports visitors to a surreal world. The bleached and preserved oak trees appear as though they are growing out of the sand, like a spooky, living boneyard. The Georgia Sea Turtle Center is beginning to reopen and is currently limiting admissions to 50 people at a time. Some activities at the rehabilitation center have been canceled for the time being, but keep it in mind for any future trips to Jekyll Island. The Jekyll Island Campground is available for parking an RV this summer, but reservations should be made to ensure your spot is secured.
Southwest – Dinosaur Valley State Park, Texas
Dinosaur Valley State Park earned its name from the fossilized dinosaur tracks left in the mud along the edges of the Paluxy River in Glen Rose, Texas. The park has over 20 miles of trails to explore and hike. Visitors can book a horseback riding lesson from the Eagle Eye Ranch Carriage Company or go geocaching if they are not interested in visiting the Paluxy River to swim, kayak or fish. Park your RV in any of the 41 fully-electric campsites. Advance reservations are required.
Mountain West – Black Rock Desert Wilderness, Nevada
The enchanting Black Rock Desert Wilderness is made up of lava beds and various playas, including the dry lakebed of the prehistoric Lake Lahontan. It is home to the annual Burning Man festival, which will take place virtually this year. Visitors can hike any of the 180 miles of nearly-unexplored trails that wind through the area. One of the most exciting sites is the rainbow-colored Fly Geyser. The geyser is the man-made result of a 1964 drilling accident by a geothermal power company that was drilling a test well. Over the years, calcium carbonate deposits have formed over three large mounds that have grown to almost 6 feet tall. Artificial or not, the Fly Geyser is truly a captivating, colorful sight. RV campgrounds do not have any amenities, so keep that in mind when deciding whether to stay at the Black Rock Desert or a private campground in bordering towns.
Pacific West – Fort Bragg, California
For a beachier RV destination, the coastal city of Fort Bragg in Northern California is a great choice for its charming views. Glass Beach at the southern end of MacKerricher State Park offers an interesting alternative to plain sand beaches with its countless beads of naturally polished sea glass. Don’t miss out on Van Damme State Park’s miniature Mendocino cypress forest and be sure to visit the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, most known for their rhododendrons that thrive in the humid, coastal climate. The Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens are not yet open to the general public, but are gradually lifting COVID-19 restrictions so it’s worth it to keep checking when they’ll be open to all visitors. Some RV parks and campgrounds in and around Fort Bragg (in particular the campgrounds in the California State Park System) are temporarily closed, while others are slowly reopening for business. Be sure to call and reserve a spot before you go.
The Threat to America that’s been Growing Inside America
While the Middle East and the border crisis get all the attention, Charlottesville and El Paso remind us that America’s worst threat is right here at home.
August 12th 2017, fresh out of my first year at the University of Virginia, I sat in front of my TV horrified, watching white supremacists marching through a place I had recently starting calling home. Headlines on every major paper ran with Trump’s quote regarding “fine people on both sides.”
When classes started in the fall, my peers and I returned to Charlottesville deeply unsettled by what had happened on our grounds. Our community was rocked to its core. However, the rest of the world quickly moved on without us.
The past two years, this weekend has marked a time for remembrance, but also caution and fear in Charlottesville. The dates, August 11th and 12th, have become something of the towns very on 9/11, and the police presence during these two days isn’t easy to ignore. The events that took place to years ago are on our minds, however, not on the mind of the nation.
The march on Charlottesville was the last time I saw white supremacy dominate all the major headlines, that is, until this weekend’s mass shooting in El Paso. We, as a nation, let ourselves become distracted and forgetful of a real problem that’s been growing in the heart of our country. We can point to how the nation has so eagerly embraced the narrative of the “dangerous outsider” to explain why.
A decade ago, the Department of Homeland Security released a report on the growing threat of right wing extremism, correctly predicting “the potential emergence of terrorist groups or lone wolf extremists capable of carrying out violent attacks.” However, this warning was not given serious merit by the Trump administration. President Trump’s transition team made it clear to the DHS that it wanted to focus on Islamic terrorism and reorient programs meant to counter violent extremism to exclusively target international threats like al-Qaeda and ISIL. These Islamic terrorist groups have stayed in the headlines, despite the fact they no longer pose a serious domestic threat. It should come as no surprise that this June the FBI reported a significant rise in white supremacist domestic terrorism in recent months.
President Trump’s rhetoric has also turned American’s attention away from the alt-right matter at hand, and turned our attention to what he would call an “infestation.” Searching through theTrump Twitter Archive, I failed to find one mention of domestic terrorism, white nationalists or the growing menace they pose to our country. After all, why shouldn’t Trump protect his loyal voter base? It’s no secret that white nationalists are Trump supporters; alt right leaders have even been spotted at his rallies.
The president has protected these terrorists by turning the national discussion elsewhere -the southern border. As a result, liberals have kept themselves busy investigating the disgusting conditions of border control centers and “children in cages,” while conservatives call for further border restrictions. These leaves no one time for anyone to wage war against the real domestic threat --white supremacy.
Trump denounced “racist hate” Monday after the shooting this weekend. He blamed violent video games, mental health and, ironically, internet bigotry from prompting the Dayton and El Paso attacks. He failed to make mention of any real action that might be taken against white supremacist terrorism, let alone endorse gun law reform.
Had the attackers been Black, Hispanic or Middle Eastern, the White House would surely be taking extreme action. However, just like during the aftermath of Charlottesville, nothing serious is being done to combat alt-right violence.
Now,in light of the two year anniversary, I can’t help but wonder if our country truly took notice of the event that shook our little community two years ago. I still pass by the street where Heather Heyer was killed by a domestic terrorist who drove his car into a crowd of people two years ago. The street, now named Heather Heyer Way, remains adorned with chalk writing, flowers and crosses dedicated to her memory. How many more memorials must we lay in El Paso, and the rest of the world, before we address the white supremacist threat?
EMILY DHUE is a third year student at the University of Virginia majoring in media. She is currently studying abroad in Valencia, Spain. She's passionate about writing that makes an impact, and storytelling through digital platforms.