5 lesser-known u. S. Islands for family nature adventures

ISLE ROYALE NATIONAL PARK LOCATION: Houghton, Michigan, in the middle of Lake Superior HOW TO GET THERE: Public ferry, sea plane or private boat ISLAND HIGHLIGHTS: Isle Royale National Park

is a group of more than 400 islands, but most people go to the main island of Isle Royale. It’s one of the least traveled to national parks, which means you’ll be able to explore and

appreciate nature without anyone obstructing your view. One of the most iconic mammals of the island is a moose. Typically, you can see them feeding in the lakes or beaver ponds, but be sure

to keep a safe distance. The island also is known for having wolves, which can be seen along lake shores. However, you are unlikely to see one since they are wary of people. Theresa

Russell, 70, a travel writer, visited the island for a meeting with other professionals. They stayed two nights at the Rock Harbor Lodge, the only full-service accommodation on Isle Royale.

You also can stay at Windigo Camper Cabins or bring your own tent to stay at one of the campgrounds. Bring food, bug spray, water and other supplies. Russell says, “there’s just a tiny store

on the island so bring everything you’ll need.” While there she saw a moose exhibit, hiked on an easy trail and kayaked. “I think it’s good for families,” she says, since there are options

for long or short walks and ranger-guided nature hikes. This is the view when you step off the ferry at Cumberland Island National Seashore in Georgia. Getty Images CUMBERLAND ISLAND

NATIONAL SEASHORE LOCATION: St. Marys, Georgia HOW TO GET THERE: Public ferry or private boat ISLAND HIGHLIGHTS: Cumberland Island offers over 50 miles of trails and roads, allowing you to

hike or bike while visiting. Since most of the roads are not paved, you may experience rough terrain. There are 22 different trails you can explore and downloadable maps for each one.

Besides hiking, biking or swimming, the other popular activities on the island are beachcombing and birdwatching. Overnight stays are available on five different campgrounds. Before your

trip, stop by the visitor center located in St. Marys for ranger assistance with planning. There’s also a museum providing information about the island’s history. If you are traveling with

kids, grab a Junior Ranger activity booklet that offers fun things to do while exploring. The island has three main ecosystems — salt marsh, maritime forest and beaches — that support an

array of wildlife such as sea turtles, feral horses, alligators and armadillos. If you want to immerse yourself in history, there’s a free ranger-guided tour of Dungeness Ruins, a former

mansion that caught fire in 1959. Or, you also can go on a free ranger-guided tour of Plum Orchard Mansion, a 22,000-square-foot mansion.