Published: December 16, 2024
By Adriene Engstrom
When our family received orders for a PCS move from the East Coast to the Southwest, we knew it would be an adventure. Little did we know just how true that would be. Our journey started with excitement and a hint of nostalgia as we packed up our lives and hit the road in our faithful red truck, “Victory,” towing our flatbed car trailer and carrying our dreams.
About two-thirds through our journey, disaster struck. Victory, who had been a reliable companion for many years, failed us. Stranded far from home and still miles from our new destination, we faced an unexpected challenge. But as is often the case in military life, we adapted and overcame. In a necessary, impromptu decision that would change the course of our travels, we purchased a new truck and continued on our way.
“Liberty,” we so aptly named her, quickly became more than just a vehicle; she symbolized the adventurous spirit that our family embraced. With our new duty assignment, new truck, and a growing sense of wanderlust, we decided to turn our next chapter into a grand adventure. We added a family travel trailer and set an ambitious goal: to visit all of America’s National Parks.
We’ve visited 27 national park sites, forests, and monuments spanning the southwest to the northeast and many spaces in between. The rugged landscapes and breathtaking views of Big Bend National Park were the perfect backdrop for a renewed sense of freedom and excitement as we explored the vast desert terrain and marveled at the starry night sky. Petroglyph National Monument’s ancient carvings told stories of the past, connecting us to the rich history of the land we were now calling home. Each park we visited added a new chapter to our family’s story, filled with unique experiences and treasured memories.
Some of our favorite stops were the quirky and unexpected giant Pistachio in New Mexico near White Sands National Park and an RV park that hosted an entire reproduction of the Flintstones town of Bedrock outside of the Grand Canyon National Park. These fun roadside attractions added a touch of whimsy to our travels, reminding us to embrace the unexpected joys along the way.
We’ve even braved boondocking (camping without hookups) during winter camping, which presented its own set of challenges but also brought unparalleled beauty. Waking up to a snow-covered landscape with crisp air and serene quiet was a magical experience. It reminded us that the most rewarding adventures often come with their own set of hurdles to overcome.
Through all the ups and downs of our PCS move and new duty station, Liberty has been a steadfast partner. She’s not just a truck; she’s a gateway to adventure, a vessel for our dreams, and a symbol of our ability to persevere as a military family. Every mile we travel and every park we visit brings us closer together and fills our hearts with gratitude for the journey we’re on.
Our goal to visit all the National Parks is ambitious, but it’s also a testament to the adventurous spirit that was sparked during our PCS move. With each new destination, we discover more about ourselves, our country, and the incredible beauty that lies just beyond the next bend in the road. Whether it’s the towering cliffs of Big Bend, the ancient wonders of Petroglyph, the quirky charm of the giant Pistachio, or the serene beauty of winter camping, we’re embracing every moment.
One way that you can start your own National Park adventure is through the Military Families Outdoors program. Administered by the Defense Health Agency and the National Park Service, it brings together the expertise of Blue Star Families, Wilderness Inquiry, YMCA of the USA, and The Center for Health & Nature to provide engaging outdoor wellness experiences for service members and military families across the country. This program is helping more families like ours to discover the wonder and accessibility in the outdoors.
Learn more about the MFO program and find events happening near you. Adventure awaits!
Posted In: Military Families Outdoors