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WILD KINGDOM’S GUIDE TO NATIONAL PARKS

One of the best ways to see wildlife is by visiting one of America’s national parks. With 63 national parks and 413 units (e.g., seashores, rivers, monuments and historic parks) there’s likely a National Park Service site near you.

Before you head out on your next national park trip, check out these resources for seeing wildlife and ensuring a safe visit. Plus, see Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom episodes filmed in national parks!

A view of Mount Rushmore from the base of the hill. You can see most of the four president's faces surrounded by green trees. The sky above the mountain is blue with white puffy clouds.

10 resources for visiting a national park

  1. Tips for summer visits

Get summer outdoor safety recommendations. Learn how far you should keep your distance from animals and how to safely interact with marine life. 

  1. Tips for winter visits

See where Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom Protecting the Wild Co-Host Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant and Peter Gros like to visit in the winter. Plus, get tips for hiking and camping in the cold temperatures.

  1. Peter’s national park picks

As a wildlife co-host, Peter has visited many amazing wild places around the world. But some of his favorite spots are right here in the U.S. Check out his national park picks and get his expert tips.

  1. How to safely view wildlife

We might be biased, but seeing wildlife is our favorite part of visiting a national park. Learn from Dr. Rae how you can respectfully view wildlife. After all, it’s their home!

  1. How to camp among wildlife

For a complete immersion, consider camping in a national park. But before you pitch your tent, check out these tips from Peter on how to prepare your campsite, keep your distance and share the joy of wildlife with the whole family.

  1. What to pack for your outdoor excursion

Be prepared for your trip by packing the right gear. The co-hosts share their suggestions for clothes and accessories, hiking and camping gear, and viewing and navigating tools.

  1. Make the most of your time outdoors

Take advantage of your time in nature with helpful hints from Peter. Read his tricks so you can have an unforgettable trip.

  1. Why you should get the kids involved

It can be a bit stressful to pack up the whole family and head to a national park. But it’s a trip that’ll be remembered for a lifetime. Hear from the National Wildlife Federation why it’s important to connect kids with nature.

  1. Find nature in your community

Make the most of your visit by seeking out events and programs in national parks and local nature centers near you. Learn how to get started.

  1. Find your path to conservation

Loved your visit to a national park? Keep the momentum going by learning how you and your family can get involved in conservation efforts — no science degree required!

Did you know the National Park Service offers free admission to its parks several days throughout the year? See the list of dates.

A large bison looking towards the camera. The bison is in the middle of a grassy prairie with rolling hills and a colorful, pink and blue sky behind it.

Wild Kingdom episodes filmed in national parks

Can’t make it to a national park? Let the Wild Kingdom co-hosts be your guide! Watch some classic and new episodes filmed in national parks.

 

Protecting the Wild episodes

The Lost Fox of Channel Islands” Season 1, Episode 6

Our co-hosts sail to California’s Channel Islands National Park to unravel the secrets of one of the smallest foxes on Earth.

The Pupfish of Death Valley” Season 1, Episode 18

Peter and Dr. Rae travel to the heart of Death Valley National Park to discover one of the most remarkable and most endangered fish species on Earth — the Devils Hole pupfish.

 

Classic Wild Kingdom episodes

Winter Comes to Yellowstone” Season 3, Episode 15

All roads are closed, but by helicopter and snow plane Marlin Perkins and Jim Fowler travel though the park to uncover a fascinating story of animal life in winter.

Bears of the High Country” Season 5, Episode 6

Marlin and Jim follow a pair of black bear cubs in Yellowstone National Park and track a large black bear to tag for future reference.

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