National parks are not just breathtaking landscapes but also serve as a backdrop for heartwarming stories that bring families together. This curated list of films showcases the splendor of nature while providing entertainment that appeals to all ages. From educational documentaries to thrilling adventures, these movies highlight the importance of conservation, the beauty of the wilderness, and the joy of family bonding in some of the world's most stunning natural settings.

The Bear (1988)
Description: Set in the Canadian Rockies, this film tells the story of a bear cub's journey to find his mother, offering stunning visuals of the park's landscapes and wildlife, making it a heartwarming family watch.
Fact: The film was shot in the Kananaskis Country, Alberta, which is part of the Canadian Rockies, providing a realistic backdrop for the bear's adventure.


The Edge (1997)
Description: Set in the Alaskan wilderness, this survival thriller provides a backdrop of stunning natural scenery, making it an engaging watch for families interested in adventure and survival stories.
Fact: The film was shot in the Canadian Rockies, which provided the necessary wilderness for the story's setting.


The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)
Description: This film features a journey through Iceland, which, while not a national park, captures the essence of untouched nature, inspiring families to explore the outdoors.
Fact: The film's director, Ben Stiller, chose Iceland for its natural beauty, which served as a metaphor for the protagonist's inner journey.


Grizzly Man (2005)
Description: This documentary by Werner Herzog delves into the life of Timothy Treadwell, who lived among grizzly bears in Katmai National Park, offering a unique perspective on human interaction with wildlife.
Fact: The film uses Treadwell's own footage, providing an intimate and sometimes disturbing look at his relationship with the bears.


Into the Wild (2007)
Description: Based on a true story, this film explores the Alaskan wilderness, showcasing the beauty and dangers of nature, offering lessons in self-discovery and the importance of respecting the environment.
Fact: The film was shot in various locations in Alaska, capturing the vastness and isolation of the wilderness.


The National Parks: America's Best Idea (2009)
Description: This six-part documentary series by Ken Burns explores the history of America's national parks, capturing the essence of these natural wonders and the people who fought to preserve them. It's an educational journey through time, perfect for families interested in history and nature.
Fact: The series took over six years to film and features interviews with historians, park rangers, and visitors, providing a comprehensive look at the parks' impact on American culture.


The Revenant (2015)
Description: While not a family film in the traditional sense, its depiction of the American wilderness, particularly in Yellowstone National Park, offers a raw and intense look at survival in nature.
Fact: The film was shot in various locations, including the stunning landscapes of Kananaskis Country, which stands in for the American frontier.


The Jungle Book (2016)
Description: Although not set in a national park, the film's setting in the Indian jungle, inspired by real locations like Kanha National Park, provides a vivid portrayal of nature's beauty and the importance of conservation.
Fact: The film used a combination of live-action and CGI to bring the jungle to life, with many scenes shot in real natural environments.


Free Solo (2018)
Description: While not exclusively about national parks, this documentary follows Alex Honnold's free solo climb of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park, showcasing the park's majestic beauty and the human spirit's quest for adventure.
Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, and it was the first time a film about rock climbing received such recognition.


Yellowstone (2009)
Description: This BBC documentary series explores the wildlife and natural phenomena of Yellowstone National Park, making it an educational and visually stunning experience for families.
Fact: The series was filmed over three years, capturing the park's seasonal changes and the life cycles of its inhabitants.
