Join Us on a Journey Through the Top 10 Natural Wonders of the U.S.
From the rugged Oregon coastline to the crystal-clear springs of Florida, our adventure has led us to some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the country. Two and a half years ago, my family and I took a leap that would transform our lives. We traded our routine for the freedom of the open road, exchanged the confines of classrooms for the vastness of the outdoors, and swapped city noise for the quiet beauty of nature.
As a dad, watching my kids grow and learn from these experiences has been nothing short of magical. From the towering cliffs of Oregon to the serene waters of Florida Springs, each stop has been a unique chapter in our family’s adventure-filled story.
In this post, I want to take you on a vibrant journey through some of the most stunning natural wonders we’ve encountered across the U.S. It’s not just about the places we’ve visited, but the incredible beauty that left us in awe, the laughter that echoed in breathtaking landscapes, and the priceless moments shared in these magnificent settings.
These landscapes aren’t merely beautiful to look at—they’ve become the backdrops for some of our most cherished family memories. Every place we’ve visited has been a testament to the awe-inspiring beauty of the natural world we’ve had the privilege of exploring, all while embracing the joys of RV life.
10. Saguaro National Park, Arizona
Our journey begins in the vast desert landscape of Saguaro National Park, located outside of Tucson, Arizona. The towering saguaro cacti here are an unforgettable sight. These colossal cacti, some of the largest in the U.S., can live for over 200 years.
The park also boasts diverse wildlife, including desert tortoises and a variety of bird species. My kids had a blast spotting roadrunners—though, sadly, we didn’t get to witness a chase scene with a coyote!
What truly made this stop special was the Junior Ranger program, which gave our kids the chance to learn about the desert ecosystem. It’s just one of the many reasons why Arizona holds a special place in our hearts.
9. Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico
Next, we descended into the depths of Carlsbad Caverns National Park. With over 119 caves, this park is a mesmerizing underground world, sculpted by sulfuric acid and limestone over millennia.
We were also fortunate enough to witness the evening exodus of thousands of Brazilian free-tailed bats emerging from the cave entrance at sunset. The boys were thrilled, convinced they were witnessing Batman’s bat cave in real life!
8. White Sands National Park, New Mexico
A short drive from Carlsbad is White Sands National Park. Walking across the shimmering white gypsum dunes here feels like stepping onto another planet. The landscape is otherworldly, and we couldn’t resist grabbing sleds from the visitor center to race down the soft hills.
The dazzling white desert, combined with the endless skies, made this stop feel like a surreal experience. It’s a place that makes you feel small in the best way possible.
7. Redwood National Park, California
For an experience that will make you feel truly insignificant, visit Redwood National Park in Northern California. Home to some of the tallest trees in the world, this ancient forest is a wonder to behold.
We hiked family-friendly trails through the towering redwoods, marveling at their immense size and ancient beauty. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot a few elk grazing peacefully in the forest.
6. The Drive Through Utah (Canyonlands, Arches, Moab)
While we didn’t have enough time to explore these stunning landscapes fully, the drive through Utah’s iconic parks—Canyonlands, Arches, and Moab—was enough to leave a lasting impression. From deep canyons to majestic rock arches shaped by time and erosion, the views were simply jaw-dropping.
Although we only passed through, the drive was a reminder of how much there is to explore in this region. One day, we hope to return and truly immerse ourselves in these natural wonders.
5. Florida Springs (Three Sisters Springs, Weeki Wachee)
Florida is famous for its beaches and theme parks, but our favorite part of the state is the springs. These crystal-clear waters remain a constant 72°F year-round, making them perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
We had the unforgettable experience of swimming alongside manatees in Three Sisters Springs. The kids also loved watching the famous mermaid show at Weeki Wachee Springs. Florida’s springs offer a refreshing and magical escape from the usual Florida heat.
4. Bonneville Salt Flats & Silver Island Mountains, Utah
The Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah offer one of the most unique landscapes we encountered. The vast, flat salt desert seems almost otherworldly, and it’s famous for hosting land speed records.
We returned twice because we loved it so much. The open space was perfect for fun photography, and the kids were excited when I floored the vehicle and raced across the flats. Our camp under the shadow of the Silver Island Mountains was the perfect contrast to the stark, white expanse.
3. Yosemite National Park, California
Words can’t quite capture the majesty of Yosemite National Park. With iconic landmarks like El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls, it’s a place that fills your soul with wonder.
We were lucky to spot a few black bears, which added an element of excitement for the kids (from a safe distance, of course!). Yosemite is one of those places that leaves you in awe, with every corner offering a new natural marvel to discover.
2. Pinnacles National Park, California
Before we visited Pinnacles National Park, we hadn’t even heard of it—but it quickly became one of our favorites. This park, known for its dramatic rock formations and volcanic remnants, is an adventurer’s dream.
Our favorite experience was exploring the talus caves, dark and damp but filled with adventure. Pinnacles is also one of the best spots to see California condors, though we weren’t lucky enough to catch a glimpse of these majestic birds.
1. The Oregon Coast
Without a doubt, our favorite destination in the U.S. is the Oregon Coast. We spent time exploring the dunes in Florence and the natural bridges in Brookings, but it was Cannon Beach and its iconic Haystack Rock that stole our hearts. Standing 235 feet tall, Haystack Rock is the third tallest sea stack in the world, and at low tide, we loved exploring the tide pools teeming with marine life.
The area also boasts miles of coastline perfect for sandcastles, kite flying, and beachcombing. The stunning hikes along Tillamook Head offer breathtaking views of both the ocean and lush forests, making the Oregon Coast the ultimate natural wonder.
A Final Reflection: The Magic of America’s Natural Wonders
As I write these closing words, I’m filled with gratitude and nostalgia for the incredible experiences we’ve had. The past two and a half years of exploring America’s natural wonders with my family have been more than just a series of travels—they’ve been a journey of discovery and connection.
Each park, trail, and sunset has taught us something new about the world and ourselves. We’ve shared laughter under starry skies, marveled at the grandeur of nature, and grown closer as a family in the process.
Watching my children’s faces light up with wonder and curiosity has been my most treasured experience. Our journey is far from over, and we look forward to many more adventures ahead.
To all the families dreaming of their own adventures—get out there and explore! Life is short, but the world is vast, beautiful, and waiting to be discovered.
Every family’s list of favorite places will be different, but the joy of exploring the world together is a universal treasure.