A temporary beach closure is coming to Point Reyes National Seashore in California for the busy Fourth of July weekend so chicks of the western snowy plover, a threatened species, will have some solitude.

It's not often you hear about rangers resorting to a canoe to rescue visitors in need, but that's what happened the other day at Buffalo National River in Arkansas when word came of a snakebite victim in dire need of medical attention.

Often overlooked by visitors seeking memorable experiences at Utah's iconic "Mighty Five" national parks (Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capital Reef, and Zion), the lesser-known Natural Bridges National Monument showcases three stunning natural bridges: Sipapu, Kachina, and Owachomo.

Sun, salt spray, and sand are the main ingredients for a traditional Outer Banks vacation. Here on the North Carolina coast, where barrier islands bare the brunt of the Atlantic Ocean, families have been coming for decades to enjoy not only those aspects of summer but some of the best fishing along the Atlantic coast.