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Parents' Guide to

America's National Parks

By Stephanie Morgan, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 6+

Joyful national parks doc may just inspire your next trip.

TV NatGeoWild Educational 2022
America's National Parks poster

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this TV show.

  • America's National Parks screenshot 1
  • America's National Park screenshot 2

Community Reviews

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age 12+

Based on 1 parent review

RobynH74
RobynH74 Adult
June 2, 2023
age 12+

Educational, but be warned

The docuseries is very well done, but the one thing that caught me off guard is that the video actually shows animals mating. While I know this is part of nature, as a teacher watching with 4th grade students, it was not something that I wanted to explain!
See all 1 parent review

What's the Story?

AMERICA'S NATIONAL PARKS showcases the world-famous and lesser-known national parks so that viewers can discover the diversity and wonder of the United States.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (1 ):
Kids say (1 ):

With story-style narration, fascinating facts, and stunning closeup videography, this is a national parks documentary that's sure to entertain. Narrated by Garth Brooks, each episode of America's National Parks is a delightful hour that will put viewers through the full gambit of emotions while learning all about the amazingly symbiotic relationship between the animals populating each park. There's a lot to learn, from the purpose of both the parks and their rangers in helping the resident animals to the history of the parks and their indigenous peoples.

There are also plenty of fun facts about the animals, some gross enough to enthrall even the youngest viewers (enter the mighty dung beetle). Unlike other nature documentaries, this one doesn't shy away from what happens when humans and the animals interact, choosing instead to highlight the many worthwhile experiences people can have in the national parks. Whether you're watching to plan your next trip or just to giggle at bird mating dances, you're sure to find something to enjoy.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how documentaries like this one are made. How is it possible to film things as small as a dung beetle? What about the nocturnal animals?

  • Do you like how each episode centers on a different national park? Which park was your favorite and why?

  • How much time do you spend outdoors everyday? What do you notice about your mental health when you're in nature?

TV Details

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

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