Tip #2 – What to pack for Lake Elmo State Park (Montana)
I recently took the dogs for a walk at Lake Elmo State Park. Learn more about how I prepared and what I learned.
National Hammock Day with ENO & Anna Rawlins
National Hammock Day is June 22nd. We met up with Anna Rawlins from ENO to talk about the history of hammocking, how to do it safely, and why so many people are incorporating hammocks into their lives.
LifeStraw
Teva helps our feet feel more comfortable when we are out playing in nature.
Teva
Teva helps our feet feel more comfortable when we are out playing in nature.
The Landmark Project
Ombraz Sunglasses rethink the functionality of sunglasses by removing the arms and hinges.
Ombraz Sunglasses
Ombraz Sunglasses rethink the functionality of sunglasses by removing the arms and hinges.
Tip #1 – Preparing for Beartooth Highway & Yellowstone
How to prepare for your trip along the Beartooth Highway and into Yellowstone.
General Coffee State Park – Georgia (Episode 32)
General Coffee State Park in Georgia celebrates the rich agricultural history of our country. The park showcases its late 1800s farm and diverse recreational activities.
Mountain House
Fueling our bodies is something to think about when heading to parks and public lands. Mountain House helps us think about that by providing nutritious options in an easy to cook pouch. When I first started exploring parks, I thought these prepared foods were for the hardcore outdoors person. Someone who was packing light and headed to [...]
Learn more about The Parks Podcast
Nice to meet you! Kudos for you for the curiosity! Thanks for checking out The Parks Podcast. I created the podcast to educate listeners about our parks and public lands - why they are were created and how to use them. I believe the physical, mental, and emotional benefits of exploring outside [...]
Lowell National Historical Park (Episode 31)
Step into the rhythmic hum of America’s first planned industrial city—Lowell, Massachusetts. In this episode of The Parks Podcast, host Missy Rentz speaks with Park Ranger Aubrey Brown to uncover the surprising ways Lowell shaped American industry, empowered generations of women, and became a hub for activism and innovation. From textile mills to canal boat tours, boarding houses to bobbins, this episode brings the Industrial Revolution to life with stories that are deeply human and still relevant today.
What’s in the van? – The Front Porch
LL Bean Waterhog Helinox - Savanna Kuma Outdoors - Bear Buddy Chair ENO - Lounger DL Helinox - One Table
Van Life Resources
I want to share some resources that I have found over time. This is in no way an endorsement of the work or services of what is listed. I won't list anyone who has provided me with bad service, but some of the below are things I've found, but not used. [...]
Van Life For Me
I’m eight weeks into Van Life… but staying in a house. Not exactly how I imagined it, but if there’s one thing I’ve learned already, it’s this: Van Life Rule #1 — Be Flexible. For years, I followed #VanLife on Instagram, dreaming of the day I’d hit the road in a cozy, customized van. I made [...]
Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks (Episode 30)
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are home to two of the largest trees in the world. The parks host large conservation efforts and incredible recreation activities.
George Washington Birthplace National Monument Virginia — Missy’s Guide | The Parks Podcast
George Washington Birthplace National Monument is a great spot to explore while visiting the Northern Neck of Virginia. As you walk through the grounds, you are transported to another time and can imagine what life may have been like for George growing up.
Walk, Ride, Paddle: A Life Outdoors with Senator Tim Kaine (Episode 29)
Tim Kaine shares stories from his book "Walk Ride Paddle: A Life Outdoors". The book is filled with stories of his Virginia Nature Triathlon and behind the scenes look at his role as US Senator during a tumultuous time in US History.
Pearl Harbor National Memorial (Episode 28)
Pearl Harbor National Monument honors the lives lost, and those affected, during the attack on December 7, 1941. Planning a trip to Hawaii and Pearl Harbor starts in advance. This episode will help prepare you for your visit.
Trail Review: Lake Loop Trail – Fort Mountain State Park (Georgia)
Trail Review: Lake Loop Trail (Fort Mountain State Park - Georgia) Lake Loop is a very easy hike. It's fairly level (though be aware of swampy puddles if it's rained) and mostly sandy dirt. The views of the lake are really beautiful and peaceful. We started our hike from the lakeside campground, but you can also [...]
Fort Mountain State Park (Georgia)
Fort Mountain State Park near Chatsworth GA — Blue Ridge mountain scenery, hiking, lakeside camping, and the cottages worth every penny. Everything you need to plan your Atlanta escape.
John Goodwin – “Echoes of the Badge” (Episode 27)
John Goodwin, Retired NPS Ranger and author of "Echoes of the Badge" joins us to talk about his adventures as a park ranger. He also shares some tips for your park visit.
Jessica Bowser – Virginia Outdoor Adventures (Episode 26)
Jessica Bowser, from Virginia Outdoor Adventures, joins me to talk about planning outdoor adventures and learning new hobbies.
On the road again – kickstarting van life
I can't believe this day is here. Nearly a year ago, I decided to buy a van and set the end of March as my departure date. Now I'm turning in the keys to my house, closing the door on the storage unit, and hitting the road. [...]
Protect Our Parks – Lincoln Memorial
Saturday, March 15, 2025 Lincoln Memorial Washington, DC John Goodwin, a retired National Park Service Ranger, decided to take an Amtrak from San Francisco to Washington, DC. He shared on his socials that he was planning to protest at the Lincoln Memorial and invited anyone who wanted to [...]
Sandra Ramos – Advocating for our Parks (Episode 25)
Sandra Ramos joins me to talk about how to advocate for parks and visit parks during these turbulent times.
Lancelot Jones
When I visited Biscayne National Park, I was welcomed by vistas of clear water, palm trees, and a few dolphins. I took a boat trip with Biscayne National Park Institute and was introduced to the Jones family through their entrepreneurship stories. The Jones family was a fixture in the region. And while others were [...]
Harriet Tubman
Harriet Tubman was born into slavery in 1822. She was separated from her father as a young child. When she was 6 years old, Harriet was separated from her mother and rented out to other slaveholders. Harriet worked the marshland of the Eastern Shore of Maryland, learning how to navigate the area and making [...]
What to wear for winter park adventures
My grandfather used to say "There is no bad weather, just bad clothing." I'm sure it's not an original quote, but I will always think of him when I hear it. So what is good clothing for winter park-going? In this video, we tackle what to wear when you are [...]
KeeKee Plush
If you have followed us for long, you will have seen KeeKee and Flat KeeKee in photos. KeeKee is a character in Shannon Jones' "KeeKee's Big Adventures" book series. KeeKee's Big Adventures is also a great resource for family travel adventures. The plush is new in 2024 and a great gift to bring to life the stories of KeeKee [...]
Solo Stove
Campfires spark joy and nostalgia for me. With Solo Stoves tabletop stove you can quickly roast s'mores, warm your hands, and create a cozy ambiance. I also pack my stove to go camping and hiking. It allows me to have a small fire and cup of warm tea during a winter hike. My thoughts: Compact and easy to [...]
Gift Guide 2024
HAPPY HOLIDAYS! As you prepare for all of the festive gift giving or are stocking up on gear during holiday sales, I've put together a guide of some of my favorite gear. You can also find other products on the gear page. Happy shopping! Please know that some of these brands are [...]
Election Week Survival Guide
Think through your week and put a plan together. By thinking about it now, you can give yourself time and space to make sure you are including activities that bring you joy and peace. Consider starting this weekend by doing things you love. Fill your cup with joyful [...]
Maybury State Park — The Tuberculosis Sanitarium That Became a Park (Episode 24)
Maybury State Park, located right outside of Detroit, was a community created for patients with Tuberculosis. It is now a spectacular park for recreation and play for the community.
Pocahontas State Park — Virginia’s Largest State Park (Episode 23)
Pocahontas State Park is the largest state park in Virginia and has great outdoor recreation, camping, and conservation programs.
Biscayne National Park — 95% Underwater and 100% Extraordinary (Episode 22)
Biscayne National Park, off the coast of Miami, is 95% water with a rich history in farming, fishing, and conservation.
Pompeys Pillar National Monument — William Clark Was Here (Episode 21)
Pompeys Pillar is located just outside of Billings, Montana. This stop will show your a geological wonder, the signature of William Clark, and stunning vista of the eastern Montana plains.
How to Use Recreation.gov — Your Guide to Booking Public Lands (Episode 19)
Recreation.gov is your go to website for planning trips to our nation's public lands. You can book campsites, reserve passes, and learn more about what's going on in the parks.
Herbert Hoover National Historic Site — From Humble Beginnings to the White House (Episode 20)
Herbert Hoover National Historic Site was home to President Hoover in his youth. He reconstructed the space as a way to show American's that anyone can be successful. His home, prairie, blacksmith shop, and more will allow you to walk through history.
Tucker Park Maidens Virginia — James River Park Guide | The Parks Podcast
Tucker Park in Maidens, VA — 30 minutes from Richmond on the James River. Walking trail, dog park, boat launch, and a river island that's worth every minute of the drive.
Trail Links
Welcome to The Parks Podcast! If you have this link then I've met you in a park, on a trail, or out and about. It was nice to meet you, and I'm thrilled to have you follow along as we explore parks all around the country. Below are some key links I've put together for you. If [...]
Poop bags
Picking up after your pet is very important. You don't want your pet taking anything into the park that one of the native animals picks up. It's one of the rules of the Bark Ranger program. Be kind and follow those rules. I also like poop bags as a trash bag for my own trash. They are a [...]
Dog Bowl
Yeti's dog bowl is sturdy for your outdoor adventure basecamp needs.
Long Leash
Having a long lead is valuable to allow your dog some freedom. I like to have the ability to loop it around a tree, a picnic bench, or just to hold it. This leash is one that I keep in my car most of the time. My thoughts: I like that it's light weight and still very [...]
Packing for Pup
When you are preparing for your trip, make sure you have a packing list for your pup. Below is a list I use...and will continue to update it as my adventures evolve. Car essentials Leash (consider short one for walking and long leash to allow your dog some freedom to run) Water & water bowl [...]
Meet Tootsie
Meet Tootsie! In January 2022 I welcomed a new member to my family. When I adopted Tootsie I knew that I wanted a pet that could explore the country with me, was a good hiker, and could become a good camper. Tootsie is the perfect "best friend" for the job. Tootsie is a 4-year old [...]
Support My Work
The Parks Podcast is listener-supported. Here's every way to help keep the parks content coming — from shopping my favorite gear to following along on social.
Gift Guide: Father’s Day
Need some gift ideas for your dad this holiday? Check out some of my favorite gear. 1 ENO DoubleNest Hammock A hammock will give dad a get opportunity to kick back and relax in the backyard, a campground, a park, and more. 2 [...]
Trail Review: Ousel Falls (Big Sky, MT)
Trail Review: Ousel Falls (Big Sky, Montana) Welcome to Ousel Falls. This trail holds a special place for me. This was my first solo winter hike when I started my year-long adventures. Now it's a regular "must-do" hike when I'm in the area. Ousel Falls is a nearly 2 mile out-and-back hike. While an "easy" hike, [...]
Saguaro National Park — America’s Sonoran Desert Redwood (Episode 18)
Saguaro National Park boasts a diverse ecosystem where you can experience saguaros in one area and pine trees in another. The rich cultural history is worth celebrating in this episode of The Parks Podcast.
Chasing the Northern Lights
I'm sitting down to write this post when I'm still basking in the awe of the weekend. It was a weekend spent chasing the Aurora Borealis on Instagram, every news article I could find, and finally on the road to Shenandoah National Park to see it for myself. In January of 2024, I [...]
Statue of Liberty National Monument — The Story Behind the Icon (Episode 17)
Statue of Liberty National Monument is home to Liberty Island and Ellis Island. Learn about the history - starting with the gift from France through the immigration process for so many coming to the United States.
The Science of Happiness and the Outdoors — New Happy with Stephanie Harrison (Episode 16)
Stephanie Harrison, creator of The New Happy, is launching her book "New Happy". She joins us to talk about the role nature and parks play in finding happiness.
Pompeys Pillar National Monument
Pompeys Pillar is a great stop along I-94 filled with great history and stunning views of the eastern Montana plains. The Pillar is a unique break in the rims that stretch along the Yellowstone River. And is known for having the signature of William Clark, of the Lewis & Clark expedition, etched into the stone. When [...]
Packing up your tent
You've just returned from a great camping trip. You were active, enjoyed nature, saw stars, ate s'mores....life is good. When it comes to tent camping, the trip isn't over when you get home. Now it's time to set out your gear to dry and prepare it for storage. TIPS FOR PACKING YOUR TENT [...]
Nice to meet you
Nice to meet you! It was great to meet you. I look forward to connecting about The Parks Podcast. In the meantime, below you'll find my contact information and links that may be helpful to you. Missy Rentz w: 202-505-1273 m: 202-360-2108 Missy@CatchYourselfSmiling.com Latest Episode [...]
Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park
I thought I knew a lot about the story of Harriet Tubman, but what I was taught was the tip of the iceberg. I'm so grateful for this park, and a place to go to learn more about her story, struggles, and major impact that she made on this country. The headquarters location is home to a Visitor Center [...]
Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad — The Full Story (Episode 15)
Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park brings to life the story of Harriet and the hundreds of slaves she helped to find freedom.
Sky Meadows State Park — Dark Skies, the Appalachian Trail, and a Farm That Saved Itself (Episode 14)
Sky Meadows State Park is outside of the Nation's Capital and provides a great escape from the city with Dark Skies, sensory trails, rich history, and an entrance to the Appalachian Trail.
Home on the road
Building out my car I've been dreaming of this trip for a long time. Twenty years, actually. But it was probably in 2018 that I started to pay attention and thinking about what life on the road may look like and feel like. My "mindless scrolling" would be on #vanlife, #subarucamping, and [...]
Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site
Val-Kill cottage in Hyde Park, New York—Eleanor Roosevelt's personal refuge and the place she called her own. What to expect and stop at FDR Home next door.
Bryce Canyon National Park — Hoodoos, Dark Skies, and the Top of the Grand Staircase (Episode 13)
Bryce Canyon is the 17th National Park and home to hoodoos, a stone formation that creates a beautiful experience in this western park.
Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site Hyde Park New York — Missy’s Guide | The Parks Podcast
I've dusted off journals to share more details about parks and attractions that I visited during my year-long sabbatical. In September 2020, I traveled from New York City north to Hyde Park, New York. It was challenging to be in New York City during Covid. When I caved and bought a car, it provided me with the freedom to [...]
Holliday Lake State Park Virginia — Missy’s Complete Guide | The Parks Podcast
Everything you need to know about Holliday Lake State Park in Appomattox, Virginia — trails, beach, camping, and why you should combine it with a visit to Appomattox Court House.
Death Valley National Park
Park Stats Park Location: Death Valley, California Park #: 53 Park established: October 31, 1994 (designated as a National Monument in 1933) President in office: President Bill Clinton Park size: 3.4 million acres Highest elevation: 11,049 feet (Telescope Peak Summit) Lowest elevation: -282 feet (Badwater Basin) Visitors: 1,128,862 in 2022 Fun facts: 5th Largest National Park [...]
First Day Hikes — The Best Way to Start Your New Year (Episode 12)
First Day Hikes is an initiative of America's State Parks, created to celebrate going outside, getting exercise, and experiencing nature.
Lake Elmo State Park — The Urban Park With a Jazz Club Past (Episode 11)
Lake Elmo, located in Billings, Montana, is home to great recreation, bird watching, and gathering with family and friends.
Belle Grove Plantation (Episode 10)
Belle Grove Plantation, part of Cedar Creek & Belle Grove National Historical Park, is decking the halls and getting ready to kick off their holiday programs.
Cedar Creek & Belle Grove National Historical Park (Episode 9)
Cedar Creek & Belle Grove National Historical Park was the front line of major battles in the Civil War. Learn the story of the region from Backcountry to Breadbasket to Battlefield and Beyond.
Death Valley National Park — The Hottest Place on Earth Has a Lot to Teach You (Episode 8)
The hottest place on Earth, the lowest point in the US, and some of the most stunning scenery you've never imagined. Ranger Abby Wines on Death Valley's history, safety, and how to visit. The Parks Podcast.
Craters of the Moon National Monument
Park Stats Park established: May 2, 1924 (National Monument) President in office: Calvin Coolidge Park size: 750,000 acres Highest elevation: 7729 ft (foothills of the Pioneer Mountains) Visitors: 237,774 in 2022 Fun facts: 16.2 miles of hiking trails Nocturnal animals include packrats, skunks, foxes, bobcats, mountain lions, bats, owls and more Some animals that are only [...]
Craters of the Moon National Monument — Earth’s Most Otherworldly Landscape (Episode 7)
Craters of the Moon National Monument was created from lava flow over the past 15,000 years. Learn how you can experience the unique activities in the park throughout the year.
Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park — Four Battles, One Story (Episode 6)
Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park is located between Washington, DC and Richmond, VA. Learn about four major battles of the civil war and explore the battlefields and historic homes.
Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument — America’s Green Desert (Episode 5)
Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is known as the "Green Desert." Learn about the animals, best time of year to plan a visit, and how to navigate a desert hike.
Trail Review: Uplands Trail Loop (Big Sky, MT)
Trail Review: Upland Loop Trail (Big Sky, Montana) The Uplands Loop Trail is a great hike outside the Town Center in Big Sky, MT. While labeled moderate, it's entirely doable for a beginner. While the hill is steep (they all are in Big Sky), pace yourself and you'll handle it like a pro. They have several benches [...]
Family Travel to Parks — Planning Tips with KeeKee’s Big Adventures (Episode 4)
Shannon Jones, CEO & Founder of KeeKee's Big Adventure, will guide us on planning a trip with your family to the parks.
Shenandoah National Park Virginia — Missy’s Complete Guide | The Parks Podcast
Shenandoah National Park along the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia — seasonal guide, best hikes for every level, what to pack, and why you should get off Skyline Drive and onto the trails.
Pie Iron Pizza Recipe
In my "The Parks Podcast" interview with Karl Rand from Shenandoah National Park, he mentioned that "Pie Iron Pizza" was his favorite campfire activity. It was clear that I needed to expand my horizons by learning about and testing a pie iron. I took my nephew, Teddy, along for the ride. Step 1 [...]
Shenandoah National Park — The Park That Came Home (Episode 3)
516 miles of trails, Skyline Drive's fall foliage, and a creation story most visitors never hear. Ranger Carl Rand on Shenandoah's past, present, and how to make the most of your visit. The Parks Podcast.
Big Bend National Park — The Park at the Edge of Everything (Episode 2)
The darkest skies in the lower 48, 450 bird species, and 10,000 years of human history. Tom Vandenberg on why Big Bend is unlike any other national park. The Parks Podcast.
Little Rock Central High School — Where Nine Students Changed the World (Episode 1)
Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site is our first stop for The Parks Podcast. Explore the history and impact of nine children to help spark desegregation, and social change movements.
Welcome to The Parks Podcast — Missy’s Story and Why This All Exists (Episode 0)
355 days. A packed car. A burnout she couldn't ignore. Missy Rentz introduces The Parks Podcast — and the year that changed everything. Start here.
Hot Springs National Park Arkansas — Missy’s Complete Guide | The Parks Podcast
Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas — Bathhouse Row, the healing springs you can drink from, hiking trails, and why this is the most unusual park in the country. Everything you need to plan your visit.
Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site Arkansas — Missy’s Guide | The Parks Podcast
Little Rock Central High School NHS — the only national park with a functioning school. The bus bench, the window exhibit, and why visiting while school is in session changes everything.
National Park Week 2023 – April 26
#MyParkStory... ...where you were grateful to just be or experience. Yosemite National Park holds a special place in my heart. When people ask me about it I say “it’s spiritual.” By the time I got to Yosemite I was more comfortable with my process, yet the learning [...]
Grand Canyon National Park
Grand Canyon National Park Park established: February 26, 1919 President in office: Woodrow Wilson Park number: 15th I visited in early March, long before the busy season. The benefit of this timing was I arrived before spring break trips and before the summer busy season. The risk is winter weather. I stayed at Mather [...]
National Park Week 2023 – April 24
#MyParkStory... ....where you conquered a personal health, wellness, or physical challenge I pulled out of my driveway in 2021 with great confidence in the year-long trip I had planned. I had prepared for many scenarios of challenging times. I was ready to conquer what was ahead. My [...]
National Park Week 2023 – April 25
#MyParkStory... ...where you created your own tradition with family, friends, or yourself When I began to explore my interest in parks and nature, I thought experiences needed to be planned, mapped out and structured. More like a big vacation than an afternoon of exploring. Through experience, and [...]
National Park Week 2023 – April 23
#MyParkStory... ....where you discovered a personal or family history connection While on my year-long camping and hiking trip around the United States, I visited my brother in Montana. He told me he had my grandparent's journals from their travels around the US & Mexico. My grandparents were avid [...]
National Park Week 2023 – April 22
#MyParkStory... ....where you connect with to improve your mental, physical, and spiritual health, in honor of Park RxDay Most of my healing is done among the trees. Being surrounded by them, particularly tall pines or redwoods, helps me think more clearly and breathe deeper. I realized this [...]
Hitting the Road in 2023
I've decided to go to Big Bend National Park. While that's the main destination, a lot of the fun takes place in the journey. Follow along as I update throughout the planning. 10 weeks out I woke up this morning thinking about Big Bend National Park. This park, [...]
Trail Review: Beaver Lake Trail
Trail Review: Beaver Lake Trail Beaver Lake Trail was the first trail I explored in Pocahontas State Park. I selected it because I love a loop trail, it didn't seem strenuous, and it was a good distance. This was the day I was going to take my new dog hiking. I held my breath that this 2.5 [...]
Pocahontas State Park Virginia — Missy’s Complete Guide | The Parks Podcast
Pocahontas State Park in Chesterfield VA — 42 miles of trails, camping, a waterfall, and 30 minutes from Richmond. The ultimate guide to the Mid-Atlantic's most underrated state park.
Yellowstone National Park
I am so lucky to have gotten to visit Yellowstone quite a bit over the years. During my 2021 adventures, I used Big Sky, MT as my home base. It's about an hour from the West Yellowstone entrance. During the off-season I would pop into the park for a few hours. It afforded me the opportunity to see the [...]
Rumpl Blanket
I bought my first Rumpl blanket mid-way through the trip. I'm a sucker for something lightweight and warm. It only took a few really cold nights before I caved and purchased the blanket. In addition to a great layer for camp sleeping and around the campfire, my blanket gets used a lot in the car, at soccer games, and [...]
Trail Review: Deep Run Park Perimeter Trail
Trail Review: Deep Run Park Perimeter Trail I've been to Deep Run Park multiple times over the past 20 years. At first, it was with nieces and nephews and we would frequent the playground. Eventually, some walking paths were added. When I relocated to Richmond a few months ago I made a commitment to get to know more [...]
Hiking Boots
Oboz Sawtooth hiking boots are sturdy, durable, and comfortable for your long hiking days.
String Lights
I love these lights! They are easy to use, easy to hang and create a festive atmosphere wherever you use them. When the sun sets, it's really nice to have an entire space lit up versus using a flashlight. I would hang them in my tent and it mad it easy to read after dark. It was also fantastic [...]