Brewed in the Wild: The Story Behind National Parks Coffee
In 2012, I embarked on a journey that would forever change the course of my life. Starting from Texas, I drove to the grandeur of the Grand Tetons, ventured through Yellowstone, and meandered down to the Southwest to marvel at the Grand Canyon and Arches NP , wrapping up my expedition at White Sands (A national monument at the time). This 10-day odyssey sparked a deep, enduring passion within me—a passion for the majesty of America's National Parks. It was also the birth pursuit of a career as a photographer.
For the next eight years, I spent at least three months annually exploring these natural sanctuaries, much of it before the explosion of social media and the modern "park craze." Back then, securing a campsite for under $20 was the norm, and the parks were places of serenity and spontaneous camaraderie. Morning campsite lines at Jenny Lake (GTNP) weren't just queues; they were gatherings where stories and breakfast were shared among strangers turned friends, united by the dawn chorus and a communal love for nature.
These were the days of early mornings by the campfire, where cooking breakfast and brewing coffee were meditative practices in patience and presence. Amidst the crackling fires and brewing pots, a connection to the earth and to each other was rekindled. However, times have changed—speed and technology have replaced stillness and conversation.
Brewed from Memories, For the Future
Founded on these core memories and experiences, National Parks Coffee was born to recapture and share the tranquil spirit of the parks. It's for those who seek to preserve the nostalgia of nature's wonders—a totem from our adventures to remind us of the slow, beautiful rhythms of the wilderness.
As we navigate the fast-paced modern world, our coffee serves as a bridge back to those pristine mornings—each sip a return to your favorite sunrise or a quiet campsite in the early morning light. More than just a beverage, our coffee is an invitation to pause and savor the moment, to carry the essence of the parks with you, wherever you are.
A Tribute to Heritage and Conservation
Every purchase of our coffee not only brings the park experience home but also gives back to these precious landscapes. With $1.00 from every sale donated to park conservation, we ensure that future generations can enjoy the same untouched beauty. You can learn more about our conservation efforts and the specific projects your purchases support [here].
My profound connection to nature is deeply rooted in my Native American heritage on my mother's side. For years, my mom and I have made annual pilgrimages to the Grand Tetons and Yellowstone, where our mornings began with a ritual—a fresh cup of coffee brewed before the first light of dawn. This early morning tradition, shared before we ventured out to witness the awakening of wildlife, became more than just a habit; it was an inspiration. Our love for these wild places and the simple pleasure of enjoying a good cup of coffee amidst such beauty laid the foundation for National Parks Coffee.
Now, as my business partner, my mom brings that same passion and dedication to every aspect of our brand. Together, we honor not only the land but also its original stewards—the tribes whose history and culture are intertwined with every park's essence.
National Parks Coffee is more than a brand; it's a shared journey back to nature, an homage to heritage, and a commitment to preservation. Join us in keeping the spirit of the wild alive—one cup at a time.
-Jay