Casual Adventure Outfitters 3451 Washington Blvd Arlington, VA 22201 REI 2020 Old Brick Rd Glen Allen, VA 23060 REI 3509 Carlin Springs Rd Bailey's Crossroads, VA 22041 Walkabout Outfitters 1560 S. Main Street., Suite 100 Blacksburg, VA 24060 Walkabout Outfitters 90 N. Main Street Harrisonburg, VA [...]
ENO's Parkway Adjustable Hammock Stand allows you to relax in a hammock anywhere.
Sierra Club's Military Outdoors program provides our veterans the chance to get outdoors and opportunities for community, camaraderie, and healing.
Senator Tim Kaine gives us a glimpse into his journey to walk the Appalachian Trail, ride the Blue Ridge Parkway, and paddle the James River in his book "Walk Ride Paddle - A Life Outside"
Kelty Highroad Shelter provides you extra space for car camping and your weekend adventures.
PyreLogs makes building and maintaining your campfire a breeze.
Farm to Feet socks provide the comfort needed for long days outside.
Otterbox 2-in-1 Crossbody Strap is a game changer for my dog walks.
The Landmark Project Smokey Bear puzzle will bring all ages together to play.
The Landmark Project playing cards will keep you entertained and telling stories late into the night.
The Smokey Bear mug will tap into nostalgia as you practice what he taught you when you are outside.
EcoFuego allows you to enjoy the warmth and ambiance of a fire, without the mess.
The Keepa magnet provides an extra hand on the trail, campsite, or around the house.
The Ruffwear leash allows me to have my hands free on a hike.
Park passes make a great gift for your friends and family. The list below links to states and federal parks passes. State Park Passes Alaska Arizona California Colorado Delaware Florida Georgia Idaho Indiana Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New [...]
State & National Park Passes make a great gift for the holidays, and brings joy throughout the year.
The Radiant Revolve Light helps illuminate the trail on a night walk.
The NutLit is whimsical and functional. It's easy to hang and provide the perfect light at your campsite, shed, or blanket fort.
Nite Ize dog leash provides visibility on your nightly adventures.
Skmaqn-Port-la-Joye-Fort Amherst National Historic site was home to Mi'kmaq, French, Acadian, and British over its long and rich history. Skmagn, meaning "waiting place" served as a protective fort for Prince Edward Island.
GSI's cutlery set is what comes with me on the trail, at the campsite, or in the van.
ENO Hammock Straps allow you to attach your hammock to trees, poles, and other items when you are out on your adventures.
John Goodwin's "Echoes of the Badge" is a glimpse into stories as an NPS Park Ranger.
My Birdie goes on the trail with me wherever I go. The personal safety alarm alerts those around me that something is wrong.
Yeti's drinkware is my go to to keep drinks hot and keep drinks cold.
Nite Ize GlowStreak Rechargeable ball is a hit for all the dogs in our family.
Teva ReEmber camp shoes are warm and cozy and sturdy enough to be an outdoor shoe for relaxing at camp.
Tick Patrol Tick Remover makes getting rid of ticks an easy task.
The NiteHowl collar is an easy addition to our nightly walks. The additional visibility is good in the campgrounds or neighborhood routes.
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.
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 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!
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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Welcome! I'm Missy Rentz — host, founder, and the person who left a 25-year career in professional sports to spend a year camping across America and came back with a new mission. The Parks Podcast helps people discover, protect, and fall in love with America's public lands. 80+ episodes. 2,300+ monthly listeners. An [...]
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.
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.
Let's dive into the fight for our public lands as we explore the Roadless Rule and why it matters.
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.
Based in Gorham, Maine, Flowfold produces bags and outdoor accessories from recycled sailcloth. Their high-quality process provides a reliable bag for your outdoor adventures.
White Duck Outdoors has modernized the canvas tent experience. Explore the variety of styles for your outdoor adventures.
Flagstaff KOA Holiday provided a place to rest, relax, recharge, and restock.
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.
Teva helps our feet feel more comfortable when we are out playing in nature.
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.
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 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 & 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.
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 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.
Teva helps our feet feel more comfortable when we are out playing in nature.
Teva helps our feet feel more comfortable when we are out playing in nature.
Ombraz Sunglasses rethink the functionality of sunglasses by removing the arms and hinges.
How to prepare for your trip along the Beartooth Highway and into Yellowstone.
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.
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 [...]
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 [...]
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.
LL Bean Waterhog Helinox - Savanna Kuma Outdoors - Bear Buddy Chair ENO - Lounger DL Helinox - One Table
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. [...]
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 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 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 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 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) 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 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, 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, from Virginia Outdoor Adventures, joins me to talk about planning outdoor adventures and learning new hobbies.
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. [...]
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 joins me to talk about how to advocate for parks and visit parks during these turbulent times.
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 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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
I was on a winter hike in Gallatin National Forest, snow on the ground, cold enough that I'd stopped taking my hands out of my pockets. I stopped walking, picked up a handful of twigs, and had a fire going in a stove the size of a coffee mug. Ten minutes later I was holding a cup of [...]
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, 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 is the largest state park in Virginia and has great outdoor recreation, camping, and conservation programs.
Biscayne National Park, off the coast of Miami, is 95% water with a rich history in farming, fishing, and conservation.
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 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 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 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.
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 [...]
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 [...]
Yeti's dog bowl is sturdy for your outdoor adventure basecamp needs.
A long lead that wipes clean, in 10 and 30 foot sizes, so Tootsie can roam the campsite safely.
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! 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 [...]
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.
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 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.
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 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, 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 is a place I keep going back to. When I am in Montana it is one of the stops I end up making, and the reason is simple: it is an easy adventure with a lot of history in it. It sits just off I-94, about twenty-five miles east of Billings — a break in the [...]
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! 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 [...]
