Nature Preserves

One of the biggest islands in the River Po is a protected nature reserve, reachable only by a seasonal ford rich with endemic fauna, fossils, and late 19th-century buildings.

One of the northernmost occurrences of western juniper can be found in the sand dunes of Washington's Palouse.

Thousands of rock-cut tombs fill the cliffs of this Sicilian nature preserve.

This natural spring is the winter home to the largest gathering of manatees in the world.

An American industrialist hoped this nature preserve could help save the North American bison.

Named for a self-taught botanist who cataloged hundreds of native plants, this garden continues her work of preserving California plant life.

The sump of the landlocked Carson River is a haven for wildlife.

In addition to fishing and camping, this spot in Nebraska’s Sandhills is one of the world’s darkest places.

This 4,000-acre restored grassland in northern Illinois is home to a range of native flora and fauna, from clovers to plovers to a herd of bison.

West Virginia’s largest bog is home to rare carnivorous plants.

A beautiful botanical garden in the heart of the Natural State.

One of Indiana's only natural sandstone arches is nestled between resort ruins and an old Boy Scouts camp.

A famous—but endangered—plant is on view at an unassuming nature preserve a quick drive from Myrtle Beach.

A wildlife-filled oasis just off the coast of Myrtle Beach.