creating A catalyst for change: a field guide to national parks & public lands
This guide is a visually-driven field guide crafted to support and empower those who are stepping into a national park for the very first time. Created with the belief that design can be both functional and emotional, this guide was built to demystify the experience of visiting public lands—removing intimidation and replacing it with curiosity, preparedness, and care. Every page is intentionally structured to feel calm, welcoming, and informative, providing new travelers with the tools they need to explore safely and responsibly.
The design approach prioritizes accessibility and clarity. Clean, legible typography, soft earth-toned color palettes, and intuitive icon systems help readers digest essential information quickly without feeling overwhelmed. Illustrations and layouts are inspired by vintage park signage and field journals—connecting the user to a sense of place and history. Alongside practical guidance (what to pack, how to stay safe, park etiquette), the guide introduces readers to the deeper story of the parks, including Indigenous land acknowledgment, the impact of climate change, and the importance of Leave No Trace. This blend of form and function transforms the guide from a simple checklist into a meaningful entry point for conscious adventure.
For Americana Creative House, this guide embodies everything we believe in: design with purpose, work that advocates for the planet, and storytelling that inspires action. This project represents our commitment to protecting public lands through education and beautiful communication. It's more than a guide—it’s a call to connect with nature in a way that’s rooted in responsibility and respect. By making environmental stewardship feel accessible, we hope to turn first-time park visitors into lifelong advocates.
the project
breakdown
01. Empathize: Seeing Through the Eyes of a First-Time Visitor
We began by channeling what it’s like to visit a national park for the very first time—feeling unsure of where to go, what to bring, or how to respectfully engage with the land. Whether someone is planning a quick weekend trip or seeking a deeper connection with nature, our goal was to create a guide that feels welcoming, not overwhelming.
02. Define: The Gap in First-Timer Resources
Much of the available information for park visitors is either overly technical or buried in dense websites and signage. Many first-timers don’t know where to start—and often miss the broader context around public lands and their protection. We wanted to fill that gap with something beautifully accessible, blending practical tips with environmental and cultural awareness.
03. Ideate: A Friendly, Nature-Inspired Visual Language
To strike the right tone, we explored design styles that feel fun, inviting, but help the reader to understand the urgency of public policy. Inspired by vintage park guides and modern editorial design, we leaned into clean shapes, natural palettes, and thoughtful iconography to help readers move easily through the guide while connecting emotionally to the subject matter.
04. Prototype: Designing for Usability and Impact
We built layouts that support a range of learning styles—from visual learners to checklist lovers. Every section was tested for flow, clarity, and readability, ensuring that the information felt useful to both casual readers and those seeking to understand the deeper importance of land stewardship.
05. Deliver: A Guide That Educates, Inspires, and Activates
The final guide isn’t just about visiting—it’s about engaging. Every design choice supports the mission of turning new visitors into lifelong advocates. With a mix of trip-ready advice, Indigenous land acknowledgment, and accessible language around public lands policy, This guide is both a tool and a gentle call to action.