National monuments are generally smaller than national parks and are intended to preserve at least one historic or scientific resource. Locations designated as monuments must exhibit some sort of unique characteristic deserving of protection from further encroachment. Each national monument is administered under the U.S. Department of the Interior in a protective manner to minimize any unnatural change to the original features of the protected area.
The first national monument was authorized by the Antiquities Act of 1906. The law granted the president of the U.S. the authority to establish a monument by executive order. The striking physical features of Devils Tower in Wyoming was the impetus for the first presidential designation in 1906. Congress can also identify and establish protected monuments through legislation.
The intent to protect locations of significant historic or scientific interest results in a diverse array of national monuments. Some are ancient burial grounds for prehistoric populations. Many are areas that contain astounding geological features. Historic military sites comprise several of the monuments. Each monument is different, and its initial authorization by either congress or the president established the ground rules applicable to its specific location.
Public access is generally more restrictive at a monument than at a national park. The potentially fragile nature of the protected location results in limitations on consumptive uses such as hunting or timber cutting. Vehicles must follow specified roads to minimize the impact of visitors. Camping is allowed in established campgrounds, and remote camping may be allowed in some locations. Accessibility is designed to conform to the original protective intent of the regulations.
Visiting a national monument means that the guest can expect to enjoy a truly unique experience. From the Statue of Liberty to the Giant Sequoia, monument visitors are guaranteed to bear witness to a special aspect of history or science. The vast majority of monuments are directly administered by the National Park Service, and some monuments are located within or near larger national parks.
Images via daveynin, Alaskan Dude
