6 Most Useful Apps for Any Park Explorer

Embracing the great outdoors and the beauty of national parks has never been more accessible and enjoyable, especially with the advent of technology tailored for nature adventurers. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a newbie setting out on your first adventure, having the right set of tools can significantly enhance your experience. Read on and learn about the mobile apps that can come in really handy during your nature-focused journeys.

1. An eSIM app

An eSIM, short for embedded SIM, is a digital version of the traditional physical SIM card. It functions just like a SIM card, providing a cellular connection to keep you connected to the world no matter where you are. The only difference is that it’s virtual, so using it doesn’t require fumbling with those annoying little SIM trays.

The eSIM card, like a traditional SIM card, provides data plans, but you don’t have to stand in line to buy one at a physical store. Such convenience means that the eSIM app is a great tool to have on your phone whenever and wherever you go.

Thanks to a free eSIM download, you can simply choose a data plan before you even set out on your hike and then enjoy full access to maps, updates, social media, and all the good stuff that requires an internet connection. By choosing a local data provider for your eSIM, you can also avoid absurd roaming costs if you travel to visit national parks abroad.

2. National Park Service app

The official NPS app is a must-have item for all national parks enthusiasts. It’s the encyclopedia that everyone uses—and for good reason. The NPS app contains all the necessary information about any U.S. national park you’d like to visit. You’ll find guidebooks, information on parks and monuments, and interactive maps to guide you through the wildest parts of your trails.

The app also includes information on amenities, so you don’t have to blindly hope to encounter a restroom along the way, as well as lots of other useful information. The app also allows you to download content, so don’t worry about the lack of coverage in more secluded areas.

3. AllTrails app

The AllTrails app is well-known among fans of hiking, biking, and all kinds of outdoor activities. It’s your go-to app whenever you need to plan a trail, whether it’s a hiking, biking, or different kind of trip. AllTrails covers many areas in the United States, including national parks, so don’t worry—you’ll find a trail for yourself.

AllTrails allows users to search for trails not only by location but also by length and even difficulty level. It also includes user reviews, so if you want to learn more about a trail, other hikers, runners, bikers, and others will certainly help you out.

4. Google Lens app

Among all the apps that are designed specifically for outdoor use, plain old Google Lens doesn’t stand out that much. But don’t underestimate it—it can prove very useful when you’re on the move.

Google Lens is, simply put, an AI image search tool. It can search the web for things you see in your daily life and spit out similar results. Let’s say you came across a beautiful wildflower and would like to know its name for future reference. Scanning it with Google Lens will likely help you discover all about that plant, allowing you to educate yourself on the go.

5. Merlin Bird ID by Cornell Lab app

While in a national park, you’ll encounter birds—too many to count. And if you’re interested in nature, you may want to know what bird sings so beautifully (or the opposite). Your phone is here to help you—if you have the Merlin Bird ID app installed, that is.

Merlin Bird ID is a small app designed by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology to help users around the world identify the bird species around them. The app can use your phone’s microphone to analyze bird sounds in real time and tell you their names. It can also identify bird species from photos or even ask you some questions to determine what bird you just saw—a useful feature if you’ve only seen a glimpse of the animal.

6. Recreation.gov app

Recreation.gov is the official federal app that will help you find a camping spot for your outdoor adventure. The app gathers all federal camping options, informs you of their availability and allows you to easily compare different sites. It also lets you book a campsite from your phone.

Sometimes, certain activities, such as selected hikes, require permits for use, and the Rec.gov app allows you to easily obtain them by paying the required cost or participating in a lottery.

Apps like this not only make planning and enjoying your trip easier but also ensure you get the most out of every outdoor adventure. So, before you set off on your next journey, make sure to equip your mobile device with all the essential apps to enhance your experience in any national park.