There are over 650 million acres of federal public lands in the United States. Public lands are accessed and used for a variety of different activities, ranging from preservation to recreation and resource extraction. They are the public’s resource for accessing nature, and the benefits that nature entails. Regardless of proximity, public lands belong to everyone in the United Sates. From January to August 2016, I conducted open-ended interviews collecting candid attitudes and emotions toward public lands in two contrasting states: 16 interviews in Arizona, a state with 38.5% federal public lands; and 16 in Texas, with only 1.5% federal public lands. My research documented attitudes, opinions, and ideas about public lands. These interviews provide insight into the many different perspectives that people from various areas and backgrounds have about public land, and also act as a medium for outreach and education, which is crucial for public land survival. Opinions can influence management policy, and public land designation and regulation. Public lands affect our natural and social environments, the wellness of such natural environments and those using and enjoying them, along with the potential to create community and affect surrounding communities. Results showed that all interviewees appreciated access to nature through public lands, regardless of their experience with or knowledge about these lands. Most interviewees were familiar with national parks, but not other designations that make up the majority of our public lands. Several themes emerged, including access issues, extractive industries such as grazing and mining, and discussions of federal versus state management.  There are many benefits of public land; these areas are extremely important in our ever-growing, expanding, and demanding world. Hopefully the public lands of the United States continue to be a source of pride that are valued, protected, enjoyed, and studied for years to come.