With the summer months approaching, it can get more difficult to secure a campground in one of the United States’ national parks.

Plus, you’ve already camped in Yosemite, hiked the trails of Yellowstone and admired the Rocky Mountain National Park from its peaks.

Before you announce that America has no natural wonders left to discover, check out these lesser-known National Park Service or U.S. Forest Service designated lands that will help you rediscover America’s beauty—from the mountains to the prairies.

With the dollar’s exchange rate collapsing like a house of credit cards, it’s tempting to put off travel plans, or erase them from the calendar altogether.

But don’t cancel your flight just yet— check out these creative ways to stay and eat for free abroad … in return for a little work.

One of the oldest work-stay programs has been around since 1971. World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF) have been putting travelers in touch with farmers all over the world who offer free room and board in exchange for four to six hours of work per day.

As many backpackers may know, hostels can sometimes be crowded, uncomfortable, and downright grungy.

Here are some more unusual, affordable and creative options.

If you’re traveling to Germany, why not sleep in the world’s first youth hostel?

The Altena Youth Hostel opened in 1912 and is housed in a 12th century castle, where some of the original rooms are on display.

In Natal, Brazil, travelers can stay at the Lua Cheia Youth Hostel located along the country’s Atlantic coast.

The hostel, which costs about $24 a night, is modeled after a medieval fortress, complete with a drawbridge, tavern and dungeon.

If you’re looking for something a little closer to nature, check out the Treehouse Youth Hostel in Mission Beach, Australia.

For about $30 a night, you can …

It’s a delightful dozen. Twelve inns, hotels and resorts on Amelia Island, Florida, have joined together to offer a third night free for guests who book a two-night stay between now and the end of February 2008. These properties include the renowned Amelia Island Plantation (rates range from $179-$989 a night), Amelia Hotel at the Beach (about $104- $249) and Florida’s oldest surviving hotel, the Florida House Inn ($159-$199). For a complete list of participating lodgings and rates, visit www.ameliaisland.org.

There’s a heavenly deal at Heavenly Mountain Resort. Starting at $450 per person, book three nights’ accommodations at the four-diamond resort Ridge Tahoe and two days …

Celebrate the New Year in San Diego at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego. The New Year’s package includes three-night stay and two-for-one, 50 minute spa treatments, dinner, ice cream and a freebie Starbuck’s beverage. The package rate is $259 per night for the first two nights and the third night free when checking in December 28 through December 31. Or, for $595 per couple, enjoy deluxe accommodations and entry to an exclusive New Year’s party at the 40th-floor Sky Lounge where you can catch the fireworks over San Diego Bay. www.ManchesterGrand.Hyatt.com

Vegas is going (even more) gay! The city of straight sin is welcoming gay and lesbian visitors with …

Set sail with great deals from Norwegian Cruise Line. Act fast and book a trip on the Norwegian Sun for January 12, 2008. This seven-day Western Caribbean cruise travels roundtrip from Miami and stopping in Rotan, Belize City, Cozumel, and Great Stirrup Cay all for $529 per person. Or, board the Norwegian Jade on February 29, 2008 for a 13-day transatlantic cruise from Miami to Barcelona. Stop in Samana, Tortola, St. John’s, Bridgetown and Castries for $729 per person. Mention promo type PGSD1 to cash in on these deals, which are valid from through December 7, 2007. 866-234-0292, www.ncl.com

Ready for a weekend away with the …