During the run-up to the 2008 presidential election, Senator John McCain of Arizona was applauded by many as a friend of the national parks. However, some groups are now wondering why the senator is supporting legislation that would increase air tours over Grand Canyon National Park, an experience that offers many incredible views of the park and yet one that others criticize for the noisy intrusion on the park setting.

With its great location in Virginia, Shenandoah National Park is one of those national parks that is within easy reach of day-trippers. With that in mind, the park's concessionaire has developed a number of special events for young and old.

As this is written, we are at the start of our third day at Cavallo Point, located in California’s Golden Gate National Recreation Area. This is our country’s newest national park lodging facility, although a qualifier is required because the lodge is in a century-old U.S. Army post located just north of the famed Golden Gate Bridget.

How would you like to save 20 percent on your lodging bill the next time you visit Yellowstone National Park? It's really quite easy, and you can earn a tax deduction in the process.