America’s National Parks Podcast

Exploring Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial: A Journey Through FDR's Legacy

By the start of 1933, thousands of banks across America had already closed their doors. 13 million Americans were unemployed and the stock market had crashed, leaving the United States in the worst economic crisis in modern history. In the twelve years that would follow, the Dust Bowl would ravage the plains and render former farmland useless, heightening the impacts of the depression as the Second World War brought the entire world to a standstill. 
But Franklin Delano Roosevelt, or FDR as many would come to know him, would take it all in stride. Born in Hyde Park, New York in 1882, he was elected to the New York Senate in 1910, would go on to serve as the Assistant Secretary of the Navy under President Wilson, and finally as the Governor of New York before being elected President of the United States in 1932. Perhaps best known for his sweeping economic programs, a deep connection with the American people, and his incredible strength shown amidst personal disaster, he would guide the country through the turbulence with courage, resilience, and, above all else, optimism. 
In the heart of Washington D.C., a tribute to Roosevelt sits in a secluded corner of the National Mall. Designed by renowned landscape architect Lawrence Halprin in 1974, the memorial stretches across 7.5 acres, making it the largest of any National Mall Memorial. The initial plans would wait for more than 20 years before Congress could approve the appropriate funding, but it was eventually dedicated on May 2, 1997, by President Bill Clinton. Consisting of more than 30,000 granite stones from South Dakota and Minnesota and with over 100,000 gallons of water flowing through seven fountains and pools, it is a stark contrast to the monuments that surround it, telling the story of an unprecedented presidency through elements of stone, water, and earth. 
This week on America’s National Parks, take a stroll through the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial and the lasting legacy of the 32nd President of the United States.
Hosted by Jason Epperson
Written by Lizzie Tesch
Use code PARKS30 for $30 off of a $500 or more booking at www.rvshare.com.

Exploring Katmai National Park: Bears, Volcanoes, and a Wild Adventure

On this episode of America's National Parks podcast, we explore the incredible Katmai National Park and Preserve in Alaska. Discover the park's unique geological features, including one of the world's most active volcanic areas, and witness the annual spectacle of brown bears gorging on salmon during Fat Bear Week. Learn about Katmai's rich biodiversity, fascinating history, and the essential role of conservation. Get ready for an unforgettable wild adventure in one of America's most remote national parks.
 
Written By Jennifer Molidor
Hosted By Jason Epperson
 
Use the code PARKS30 for $30 off a $500 or more RV rental booking for your next national park adventure at rvshare.com. 
 
00:00 Introduction to Katmai National Park
00:42 Geography and Wildlife of Katmai
02:08 The Volcanic History of Katmai
04:39 Cultural and Historical Significance
06:12 The Salmon Run and Brown Bears
13:08 Visiting Katmai National Park
15:58 Conclusion and Additional Resources
 

Forest Service Cuts Nearly ALL Campground & Trail Workers, Hurricane Recovery, New DC Memorials | National Park News

 
Join Jason Epperson for crucial updates on the ongoing recovery efforts in National Parks affected by hurricanes. Other stories include the renaming of Clingman's Dome to Kuwohi, new memorials in Washington, D.C., and the 2025 U.S. Forest Service hiring freeze. Stay informed about park closures, maintenance needs, and the latest developments in our national parks!
 
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Yorktown: Battleground of Two Wars

This episode of America's National Parks delves into the historic significance of the Yorktown Battlefield within the Colonial National Historic Park. It explores the climactic moments of the American Revolutionary War in 1781, where British General Charles Cornwallis surrendered to George Washington, highlighting Washington's tactical brilliance and the dire conditions faced by both armies. The episode also examines Yorktown's role during the Civil War, focusing on General George McClellan's hesitations during the Siege of Yorktown and contrasting them with General Ulysses S. Grant’s aggressive tactics at the Battle of Shiloh.
Hosted by Jason Epperson
Written by Lizzie Tesch
Use code PARKS30 for $30 off of a $500 or more booking at www.rvshare.com.

Utah's First National Monument — Natural Bridges

From the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon to the cliffs of Capitol Reef, there is no shortage of beauty in Utah. Still, the stunning landscape of Utah goes far beyond the “Mighty Five.” A wealth of National Monuments, Historic Parks, Recreation Areas, and Historic Trails can be found within its borders, and in the southeastern corner of the state sits one unit that receives barely over 100,000 visitors per year. Natural Bridges National Monument protects a collection of canyons and a trio of natural rock bridges. Those who do make the trip to the Monument find a delicate and desolate landscape that tells an intricately woven story of the people who called it home, of time, and above all else, of water.
Hosted by Jason Epperson
Written by Lizzie Tesch
Use code PARKS30 for $30 off of a $500 or more booking at www.rvshare.com.

Why Your National Park Trip SUCKS! (and how to fix it!)

In this episode, we're sharing some national park trip tips for those who feel that national parks aren't all they've cracked up to be.
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Rocky Mountain Chase, Grand Canyon Water Crisis, EBike Ruling, and More | National Park News

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In this episode, we cover a high-speed chase through Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Canyon's water crisis and recovery, Yosemite's indefinite closure of the historic Wawona Hotel, Death Valley's record-breaking summer temperatures, and the adoption of electric bikes and buses at various parks. Learn about these critical updates and more to stay informed on what’s happening in America's cherished natural landscapes.
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Dude Ranches and the Origins of Grand Teton National Park

This episode delves into the history of the Teton Valley, focusing on early settlers, dude ranches, and the eventual creation of Grand Teton National Park. Highlights include transforming harsh, isolated land into thriving dude ranches by pioneers like Struthers Burt and Louis Joy, the romanticized Western experience sought by Easterners, and the rise of commercial developments that threatened the region's authenticity. The ranchers that opposed federal control eventually became the new National Park's biggest champions.
 
Hosted by Jason Epperson
Written by Lizzie Tesch
 
Use code PARKS30 for $30 off of a $500 or more booking at www.rvshare.com.