My Favorite Place To Be is the Next Place I Go

Natural Bridges National Monument - Lake Powell, Utah (Photo Lisa Miller)

With all of the breathtaking places in this country to explore, why would anyone want to stay home?

I've always been intrigued by travel. It doesn't have to be somewhere exotic for me. As a matter of fact, I kind of like staying in my own backyard.

But then again, who wouldn't when there are five National Parks, several national forests, dozens of state parks, national monuments and hundreds of miles of trails on other public lands?

Trips don't have to be time consuming or expensive. A tank of gas, a cooler of food (be sure you're bear aware if you're camping!) and a map is all you need.

Big or small, I want to see it all. I've been cataloging my trips via this amazing National Park System map. Every one I have been to has a passport stamp with the date.

Which ones have you been to? Which were your favorites and why? Where would you recommend I visit next?

Ford Theater (Photo Credit: Lisa Miller)

Rock Climbing at City of Rocks National Preserve (Photo Credit: Timothy Miller)