The wonders of Shenandoah National Park include its "Creation" story.

As lovers of national parks look forward to the 2016 centennial of the National Park Service—guardian of ”America’s Best Idea”—there has never been a better time to profile the rise and role of what may be our “Second Best Idea”—the friends groups, trusts, and foundations that support those parks.

Should a state historic district that protects the birthplace of the Pullman sleeping car that once was a hallmark of rail travel be added to the National Park System? A congressional subcommittee is considering that possibility.

Looking for a way to save some money on a national park vacation this summer? You might find some answers at Sequoia National Park's Wuksachi Lodge.