Our Parks and the Government Shutdown – Day 27 (Episode 44)
Tara Ross from Crime off the Grid Podcast joins me to talk about the status of our National Parks and Public Lands on day 27 of the Government Shutdown.
Maryland Outdoor Recreation Summit (Episode 43)
We talk to Sandi Olek from Maryland Department of Natural Resources and the importance of outdoor recreation in the state. They are hosting the Maryland Outdoor Summit to bring together the industry to discuss Outdoor for All, Recreation with a Purpose, and the Business of Outdoor Recreation. In this episode we learn about how this meeting will impact outdoor recreation through out Maryland and all of the opportunities to get outside in Maryland.
Prince Edward Island National Park – Parks Canada (Episode 42)
Prince Edward Island National Park stretches along the northern shore of Prince Edward Island Province. It's sandy beaches are home plant and animal conservation efforts as well as summer recreation and fun!
Our Parks and the Government Shutdown (Episode 41)
The Government shutdown leads to a lot of questions about how to recreate responsibly in our parks in public lands. John Goodwin joins me to help us all understand the latest news.
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Brand Presentation
Welcome! Thank you for exploring opportunities to: Educate new and would-be park goers Advocate for our wonderful parks and public lands Below is a deck that will share more information on The Parks Podcast. Please explore and let me know if you have any questions. I look forward to working with you! Missy Rentz [...]
Fort McAllister State Historic Park – Georgia (Episode 40)
Fort McAllister State Historic Park marks an important point in the Civil War with General Sherman's "March to the Sea". In this episode we learn about the history of the battle and the environmental wonders of the park.
Inside the Conservation Efforts: Business Champions Advocating for Our Public Lands (Episode 39)
Organizations like The Conservation Alliance have been created by outdoor brands and businesses to help join forces in advocating for our public lands. In this episode we learn more about the hot topics in advocacy and how to get involved.
Why we need the Roadless Rule (Episode 38)
Let's dive into the fight for our public lands as we explore the Roadless Rule and why it matters.
Understanding the Roadless Rule with Katie Johnson from The Conservation Alliance (Episode 37)
At a time where U.S. Public Lands are under attack, we learn more about the Roadless Rule and how we can advocate to protect our Public Lands.
Projo Coffee
Projo Coffee allows you to take your favorite coffee on your next adventure. Just add water and enjoy a variety of coffee flavors.
White Duck Outdoors
White Duck Outdoors has modernized the canvas tent experience. Explore the variety of styles for your outdoor adventures.
Campground Review: Flagstaff KOA Holiday
Flagstaff KOA Holiday provided a place to rest, relax, recharge, and restock.
Lewis and Clark National Historical Park (Episode 36)
The journey of Lewis and Clark stopped in, what is now, Oregon for the winter. The Lewis and Clark National Historical Park holds the environmental and historical conservation so that we can all continue to learn and understand their journey.
Hooks by Craggy Games
Hooks by Craggy Games brings more play to your outdoor fun.
Farm to Feet
Teva helps our feet feel more comfortable when we are out playing in nature.
Mill Springs Battlefield National Monument (Episode 35)
Mill Springs Battlefield National Monument shares the story of one of the few winter battles held during the Civil War and how Kentucky's commitment to. neutrality eventually shifted to have them fighting for the Union.
Missouri Headwaters State Park (Montana)
Black Sandy State Park, located in Helena, MT, is a boaters paradise. With campsites right on the dock, you are always steps away from your boat and great recreation
Black Standy State Park (Montana)
Black Sandy State Park, located in Helena, MT, is a boaters paradise. With campsites right on the dock, you are always steps away from your boat and great recreation
New River Gorge National Park (Episode 34)
New River Gorge National Park & Preserve is one of the country's youngest National Parks. Natural environment, industrial innovation, and the rights of workers all take center stage in this park. And one weekend a year, so does jumping off the bridge.
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.
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
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.
Tim Kaine – “Walk Ride Paddle: A Life Outdoors” (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)
Welcome to Fort Mountain State Park. And what a welcome it was! I drove up the very steep and winding mountain road, through the thick clouds, before entering the park. It was dramatic and mystical. Now, I know not everyone will have such luck, but it was a stunning way to creep up the mountain. Upon entering, you are [...]
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 – Michigan (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 (Episode 23)
Pocahontas State Park is the largest state park in Virginia and has great outdoor recreation, camping, and conservation programs.
Biscayne National Park (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 (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.
RECREATION.gov (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 (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, VA)
Tucker Park is located in Maidens, Virginia (Goochland County) along the James River. And this small park packs quite a punch to soak up some park time. Walking Path The park has a 3/4 mile (approximately) walking path around the perimeter of the park. It's positioned so that a canopy of trees allows for shade on hot [...]
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
Having a good, sturdy dog bowl is important when you are out on the road. I like a metal bowl when possible - I've read that they are cleaner for the dog and I think they keep the water cooler on hot days. My thoughts: I like how sturdy they are. I can toss mine in a [...]
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 [...]
Brands I Like
Finding good, quality, outdoor brands is overwhelming. I've put together a list of brands that I like. Some of the links to products on my site are affiliate links. Making purchases with these links doesn’t change the price for you but does help out the work that we are doing. Affiliate [...]
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 (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 (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.
Stephanie Harrison & New Happy (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 [...]
Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park (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 – Virginia (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 is where I used to find myself and grow. At Val-Kill I emerged as an individual.” -Eleanor Roosevelt I'm writing this post 2 years after visiting Val-Kill, the cottage known as Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site. It's fun to go back and read journal entries about the visit. It was such a different time. [...]
Bryce Canyon National Park (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
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 [...]
Holliday Lake State Park (Virginia)
Park Stats Location: Appomattox, Virginia Park established: 1972 Park size: 560 acres Fun facts: 6 hiking trails 6.7 mile loop around the lake 1 aquatic trail 150-acre lake Home to activities like swimming, hiking, boating, fishing, Near Appomattox Courthhouse National Historical Park - General Robert E. Lee's surrender to General Ulysses S. Grant in 1865. [...]
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 Hike (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 – Montana (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 (Episode 8)
Death Valley National Park is home to the lowest elevation in the United States at Badwater Basin and is the hottest place on earth.
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 (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.