If you’re visiting Orlando, Florida, you probably have a trip to Universal Studios on your list, and therefore may decide to skip MGM Studios, and however you may find that – especially if you have younger children – MGM is a better alternative as there are less attractions with height restrictions than Universal. Although there are a few more thrill-seeking rides, most of the MGM Studio park is at a more gentle pace making it one of the best family vacation spots.

Whether your family is involved in the history of the American Civil War or not, Gettysburg is an interesting place to visit. Many of the names such as Cemetery Hill, and Devil’s Den are familiar from Hollywood’s adaptation of history, but here at Gettysburg you can separate the fiction from the fact, and see how life really was for the men who fought and died here.

There’s more to see at Kennedy Space Center than just the space shuttle launching however. There are exhibitions of rockets and spacecraft from the years when space travel was in its infancy. There are rides to simulate space travel for those with the nerve to try. There’s the launching pad area where Apollo 11 was once launched placing men on the moon for the first time. There are tours of the site, which are narrated and have photo stops. Two must see parts of the Kennedy Space Center experience however are the Imax theatre presentations (capture the thrill of a close-up launch in the “The Dream is Alive” feature), and then the Astronaut Encounter where an astronaut takes to the stage to talk about traveling in space, and also answer questions from the audience – a great experience for any families who have a budding astronaut in their party

Divided between two states, with Colorado having the majority holding, Dinosaur National Monument is a “must see” park for anyone interested in Dinosaurs, and especially any family with a budding paleontologist in their midst. Dinosaur National Monument is a “in the field” museum, which shows ancient history in the shape of the Dinosaur remains that have been, uncovered there, the Indian art that was discovered and also the more modern history of settlers. It’s a unique experience to record for your vacation photo album.

You and your family are weighing some creative ideas, but know you’d like to enjoy relatively peaceful activities. You might do very well to consider one of the great state parks in Nevada with its incredible desert.

If that’s you, then read on for an overview of the best state parks in Nevada. You’ll also find info on prices, facilities and where to go for more information.

Spring Mountain Ranch

Spring Mountain Ranch started its life as a resort and retreat for the wealthy. It was a working cattle ranch with a retreat house for visitors from California and Nevada. The park covers 520 acres and stretches from the base of the incredible Wilson Cliffs of Red Rock Canyon, offering visitors incredible views alongside the beauty of the desert.

Spring Mountain was eventually purchased by the state of Nevada and remains intact as a wilderness preserve and desert oasis. The property consists of a main office and house, ranch outbuildings and beautiful grounds. The park is open daily from 10am to 4pm, and guided tours along with self-directed hikes are both available.

Valley of Fire State Park

The Valley of Fire is just 55 miles northeast of Las Vegas and is Nevada’s biggest and oldest state park. The park offers visitors an incredible glimpse into the beauty of the Mojave Desert. With its red rocks and ancient trees, you will be stunned by the silence and beauty this spot offers.

Camping, hiking and picnicking are all available. If you’re camping in the winter, remember that temperatures can drop to freezing throughout the days, so be prepared. All the campsites at the Valley of Fire state park are issued on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Echo Canyon State Park

Though small, this is one of the most popular state parks in Nevada. Located about 12 miles from Pioche, Echo Canyon State Park spans 65 acres and offers camping, picnicking facilities, a boat launch, nature tours, fishing and hiking trails.

Because of its desert reservoir, the area attracts numerous birds and other wildlife, making it a great spot to do a photography safari of the Nevada desert. The climate in the area is arid and hot – however, snow can be expected during the winter months.

Where to Find More Information

A great resource for those who want to learn more about Nevada parks is the pamphlet Nevada State Parks. It’s portable, and a great guide that covers the basics on all the state parks in Nevada. You can obtain a copy by calling 1-800-638-2328 or by visiting the Nevada Commission on Tourism website.