I saw 11 national parks in one 30-day trip. Using a few smart strategies and helpful apps, it only cost me $1,500.

I took a 30-day vacation to America's national parks and spent only $ 1,500. A few key strategies and tips helped me do it, but there's one thing I'd do differently

Emily Pennington

• On one road trip, I was able to see 11 national parks in 30 days on a tight budget of about $1,500.
• I saved money by making my own food and using apps to save on gas and lodging.
• The trip was great, but I wish I'd stayed overnight in more national forests and parks.

America's national...