The Milky Way arcs over the Mack Reef archipelago at Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge as Perseid meteors streak across the sky. Spanning the Oregon coast, the wilderness islands and windswept headlands of the refuge are celebrated for their abundant wildlife and rugged grandeur. Rocky islands and sheer cliffs provide isolated breeding and resting habitat for diverse communities of birds, marine mammals, and plants along the wave-battered coastline. The area contains rare plants, unique geological formations, and parcels of intact coastal prairie, an imperiled habitat type in Oregon. Because of the important conservation work underway here, much of this refuge is best experienced from hundreds of waysides and scenic viewpoints showcasing the rocks, reefs and islands. Timelapse video by Peter Pearsall, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

If your favorite color is blue, we’ve got the perfect park for you! Crater Lake National Park in Oregon captivates visitors with mesmerizing blue water and gorgeous overlooks. It’s amazing to think that the area was formed by the fall of a volcano. Known as Mount Mazama, the 12,000-foot-tall #volcano, erupted and collapsed to create Crater Lake. The native Makalak legend explains that the fall Mount Mazama #mountain was caused by a brutal battle between the spirit of the sky and the spirit of the mountain, with the eruption marking the end of it. Majestic and meaningful, a trip to Crater Lake holds a sacred look at one of the most unique lakes in the country. Photo by Kimberly Hilsee (www.sharetheexperience.org). 

Whether gliding underwater or hoisting themselves ashore, sea turtles are formidable and fascinating. Today is #WorldSeaTurtleDay, a chance to acknowledge how these spectacular reptiles continue to captivate our hearts and minds. The short clip shows a green sea turtle swimming in a shallow protected lagoon at Palmyra Atoll National Wildlife Refuge, an important feeding area. One of seven sea turtle species, green sea turtles nest in over 80 countries. They can swim at speeds up to 35 mph, weigh between 300-440 pounds, and travel several thousand miles each year. Have you learned anything recently about sea turtles that surprised you? We want to know! Video by Ian Shive, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Sunrise on the beach is a peaceful time. The breeze rustles the sea oats, the birds soar and call, and the sand feels cool under your toes. Gulf Islands National Seashore in Florida and Mississippi offers 13 areas to relax and explore this lovely meeting of land and sea. Millions of visitors each year are drawn to the islands in the northern Gulf of Mexico for the white sandy beaches, the aquamarine waters, a boat ride, a camping spot, a tour of an old fort or a place to fish. Want to meet us there? Photo by National Park Service.

Leave behind the hustle and bustle to spend calm moments at Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge. Lake Mattamuskeet is the centerpiece of the refuge and at 40,100 acres, is North Carolina’s largest natural lake. Promising scenic water views, walking trails and peaceful surroundings, visitors find the refuge a serene excursion while visiting the Outerbanks. Lake Mattamuskeet provides a reliable place to see birds and other wildlife living their best lives. Photo of a sunrise flight by Keith Ramos, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 

There’s nothing quite like a wetlands summer sunset. The colorful sky reflects in the still water as the chorus of frogs and crickets grows louder and louder. At Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge in Vermont, ducks, terns and herons swoop down to find their last snacks before returning to their nests. Grab a comfortable seat by the bog or on the edge of the forest and enjoy the show! Photo by Inna Malostovker (www.sharetheexperience.org).

In the calm of Chippewa Harbor at Isle Royale National Park in Michigan, the waters of Lake Superior look more like a bathtub than the largest lake in the country. The park occupies the entire 40-mile-long island, offering excellent hiking, boating and incredible views of the lake. Put it on your summer bucketlist! Photo courtesy of Kaitlin Knick.

America is a beautiful country with gorgeous natural scenery and an inspiring history. It’s a place worth fighting for. For generations, dedicated people have served and sacrificed to protect our home, our citizens and our way of life. Remember to take a moment this weekend to think about the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice. May they rest in peace. Photo of evening light over Steese National Conservation Area in Alaska by Craig McCaa, Bureau of Land Management.

This time of year, Florida beaches call to people and animals alike. At St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, migratory birds are finding their winter homes in forests and wetlands. Waterfowl populations reach their peak between Thanksgiving and Christmas. The refuge’s 43 miles of gulf coastline are perfect for birdwatching and gorgeous sunsets. Photo by Neil Hostnick (www.sharetheexperience.org).

Strolling by the water at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore in Indiana is a serene experience. The sun sparkles on the water and the breeze blows your troubles off your shoulders. Whether you enjoy scouting for rare species of birds or flying kites on the sandy beach, the national lakeshore’s 15,000 acres will continually enchant you. Even seeing the Chicago skyline 35 miles away across Lake Michigan makes it seem like the rest of the world is far away. Photo by National Park Service.