National Park Foundation Releases Online Trip Planning Tool: 'Owner's Guide 2009'

As Americans Head Out for Summer Vacation, New Comprehensive Parks Guide Gives Updated Maps, Highlights and More From All 391 National Parks

WASHINGTON, July 1 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The National Park Foundation launched a comprehensive new online tool today called "National Parks Owner's Guide 2009." The resource is a one-stop online reference guide to the nation's 391 national parks complete with maps, insider hints, and amazing photos of America's National Parks. The guide is free, and is available for download at www.nationalparks.org.

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"We expect more and more people in the national parks this summer as Americans look for economically and environmentally friendly ways to spend their vacations," said Jamie Patten, senior vice president of the National Park Foundation. "Every citizen is a part owner of the National Park System, and this guide has everything you need to get started planning your trip in one place, available for free and online. Getting outside and into the parks has never been easier."

The guide includes practical content for everyone from the novice park visitor to avid outdoors people including:

• A complete directory detailing camping accessibility, fees and junior ranger programs
• Contact information for every single park, including website and phone numbers
• 'What Not To Miss' points for every single National Park in the country
• Full color photos and maps

The National Park Foundation is an independent charitable organization chartered by Congress in 1967 to strengthen the connection between the American people and their national parks. As the official national non-profit partner of America's National Parks, the Foundation raises private funds, makes strategic grants, creates innovative partnerships and increases public awareness about the need and opportunity for park philanthropy. In its 2008 fiscal year, the National Park Foundation distributed grants and program support of $27.3M.

www.nationalparks.org

    Contact:
    Mark Shields
    202-354-6480