10 great national parks that will engage your kids

— -- With families planning their summer vacations—and this being National Park Week —who better to ask for advice thanTrefoni Rizzi, author of Teddy's Travels: America's National Parks (teddystravels.com), a guide for families? He shares his list of favorite sites with Kathy Baruffi for USA TODAY.

Statue of Liberty National Monument& Ellis Island Immigration Museum New York Harbor, New York/New Jersey

"Inside the statue base is a museum with an actual-size replica of Lady Liberty's foot. It's a great way to show children how large she really is," Rizzi says. "Board the ferry in Lower Manhattan or across the Hudson River in Jersey City. Point out Ellis Island on your boat trip and involve the children by asking them to imagine being a child on this huge journey across the ocean, coming to live in a strange country." 212-363-3200; nps.gov/stli

Cape Hatteras National Seashore North Carolina

"This park is filled with the history of pirates, shipwrecks and lighthouses. Check out the many Especially for Kids programs at the visitor centers to learn more," Rizzi says. "Kids will love taking the ferry from Hatteras Island to Ocracoke Island, and, best of all, it's free." A side trip to the Wright Brothers National Memorial is a great way to learn about the history of flight. 252-473-2111; nps.gov/caha

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Tennessee/North Carolina

"This is the Salamander Capital of the World: At least 30 species of salamanders are found here. Go on a hike and see the wildlife, including bears," Rizzi says. "Bring your camera and capture one of the many waterfalls. Great programs for kids include the Ranger-led interpretive talks, historical buildings, museums and two working gristmills." Drive along the Blue Ridge Mountain Parkway for a wide-angle view. Take a picnic and stop at one of the scenic lookouts. 865-436-1200; nps.gov/grsm

Mount Rushmore National Memorial South Dakota

"The sheer size of the sculptures can put a child's world in perspective. Join a Ranger-led tour to the base of the sculpture to learn why the presidents on the mountain were chosen," Rizzi says. "Attend the Evening Lighting Ceremony for breathtaking views and drama." Nearby are Wind Cave National Park and Jewel Cave National Monument. 605-574-2523; nps.gov/moru