1. Trans-Alaska Elite Trail Suit

In the concrete jungle we’re usually worried about keeping our fingers from freezing while texting. When you’re out in the wild, it’s a full-body freeze you should worry about, and this insulated trail suit will keep you toasty and warm, whether you’re sitting around waiting for fish to bite or mushing across an arctic tundra. Available at Cabelas.com, $299.99.

2. Ice Arctic Angler Glove System

Believe it or not, there are a lot of ice fishing gloves out on the market these day, and none seem quite as practical as this neoprene model from Bass Pro Shops. Not only are these mighty mitts warm and waterproof, but the are designed with finger dexterity in mind, so the next time you need your fingers to use your Pocket Ranger® app  just use these built-in slits for easy access to your digits. Available at Basspro.com, $24.99.

3. Eskimo Mako Ice Auger

Drill, baby! Drill! Ice fishing is a great way to play with power tools and hunt all at once. This high-performance drill allows you to safely and effectively bore through solid ice so that those fishies don’t stand a chance. Available at Cabelas.com, $259.99.

4. Celsius Ice Fishing Dry Bag

Things can get pretty wet and cold out on the ice—mostly cold, but definitely wet. This handy back will keep your belongings safe from any damage  caused by moisture with its waterproof and leakproof features. Perfect for toting around mobile devices, tools or snacks, this dry bag is a must-have for ice anglers. Available at Dickssportinggoods.com, $19.99.

5. Clam Ice Fishing Twin Hub Shelters

For the solo sportsman out there, this one-man shelter is the perfect place to take cover. Lightweight, durable and easy to set up, this tiny tent is truly a fisherman’s best friend. Available at cabelas.com, $90.99.

6. JB Lures Big Max Jigs

Any fisherman knows that lures (in addition to saint-like patience) are the key to making the big catch. For all the squeamish sportsmen out there, you can rest easy knowing that worm season is over. Big lures catch even bigger fish, so Big Max is sure to get one nasty nibble if you play your cards right. Available at Cabelas.com, $1.37.

7. Eskimo® Redneck Dual Headed Bucket Ice Chisel

In cold climates ice freezes FAST, so you’ll need to be on top of your chipping if you want to reel in the big ones. This small, but mighty ice chisel should do the trick, and clear your watering hole of any unwanted ice and frozen debris. Available at Basspro.com, $24.99.

Randy Newman

For avid outdoorsman Randy Newman, a position as Fort Macon State Park’s superintendent is a dream come true. Spending the majority of his days outdoors presiding over this North Carolina treasure, Newman educates visitors on the wonders of his surroundings, wildlife and more. We caught up with the busy state park superintendent long enough to learn about the park’s impressive war history, get some pivotal plant advice and find out what few know about this praiseworthy position.

My name is… Randy Newman.

I am currently a.. Superintendent at Fort Macon State Park.

I became a Park Ranger… because of my love for the outdoors.

The best part of my job… is working in an outdoor setting.

The biggest challenge so far… has been getting funding for special projects during the down economy.

Each year I look forward to… fall season at Fort Macon State Park because of the large visitation of school groups to the park.

The funniest thing that ever happened to me while at work was… when I was wearing my dress hat and Peregrine Falcon dove at me thinking I had a small mammal on my head.

The most surprising part of being a superintendent…is the amount of meetings and phone inquires you receive.

Fort Macon State Park

An interesting fact about Fort Macon State Park…is that the fort was used in the Civil War, Spanish American War and WWII.

Best advice I’ve ever gotten about the great outdoors is…when you see leaves of three, leave it be. It can be Poison Ivy!

Most underrated aspect of my job is… the time spent in keeping the park appearance at its highest level.

If I could design my own state park… it would have to have a quality staff such as the staff members that I have be fortunate to work with over my career.

When I’m not working you’ll likely find me…spending time with my wife and four children.

My outdoor goals for 2012 are…to participate in more outdoor camping and hiking across the State of North Carolina.

The best reason to bring along your own Pocket Ranger® is…the amount of information available about camping and trails in parks.

My favorite mobile app is…the North Carolina State Park Pocket Ranger® app!

Strawberry Surprise, $776.

Our aversion to glamping not withstanding, introducing a little whimsy to a camping trip is by no means uncalled-for. Barring what we’ve come to know as eye candy (personally, we’d prefer picking our camping companions based on survival skills and strength rather than how well they wear their hiking gear), we’re turning our eyes to a cool, new brand of tents. FieldCandy seamlessly marries creativity and convention to create tents that are imaginative yet old-fashioned in structure and performance.

Don’t think of FieldCandywhen it’s time to replace that super-sturdy, all-weather tent you’ve had for 20 years. These design-inspired tents are meant to be a fun, addition to your arsenal of outdoor equipment. The tents are larger than most two-person tents and are made of high-performance cotton in order to minimize condensation outdoors. FieldCandy camping tents come in an array of colors and designs, including the Bricks and Mortar brick-print tent; Tweedle Do, a smart tweet-print tent; and, our favorite, the dessert-inspired Strawberry Surprise tent. All that’s missing is the equipment entrée—pizza sleeping bag, anyone?

No matter what your political affiliation we can all agree that being the President of anything let alone a country, is definitely not Easy.  While people may complain and say “Things Ain’t How They Used To Be,” let us relish in the wonderful things the great outdoors have to offer and remember how beautiful America is. So on this President’s Day, let’s be thankful for our forefathers since The Ghost of Them Lingers… even if you did not get the day off.

Check out the rest of this week’s President’s Day themed selections to get you breaking a sweat no matter the weather.

Below, we’ve rounded up some of what’s in store but, for the full scoop, be sure to download the Pocket Ranger® app (www.stateparkapps.com) and click through to the events tab to find out what’s going on at a state park nearest you.

Valley Forge

February 19

Lincoln Day

Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial, Indiana

Good ol’ Abe Lincoln’s eponymous memorial celebrates its 50th anniversary with a special reading by Robert Bray, author of the book Reading with Lincoln.

George Washington’s Birthday!

New Jersey

New Jersey State Parks is throwing several bashes for the first U.S. president. Here’s where to go to celebrate:

Allaire State Park, 1 p.m. (732.919.3500)
Rockingham Historic Site, 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. (609.683.7132)
Washington Crossing State Park, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. (609.786.6445)

Brandywine Zoo

Brandywine Zoo, Delaware

U.S. President’s have done a great deal for our country—and our animals! Come down to the Brandywine Zoo to learn all about our nation’s animal-loving presidents, Delaware’s wildlife and fun, arts and crafts.

Did we miss any? What’s going on at your nearest state park?

Sweet and Spicy Oatmeal

Whether you’re pent up in the office or rising and shining outdoors, oatmeal is great way to start the day off on a tasty note. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day even if you’re waking up in a sleeping bag, so a hearty bowl of oatmeal is sure to warm you from the inside out, while giving you the sustenance you need to continue on your trek. Here’s a recipe for campfire oatmeal that can be enjoyed just about anywhere, just as long as you have a spoon and appetite handy! Jazz up these wild oats up with fresh or dried fruits for a natural indulgence few can resist.

Ingredients 

3 cups rolled oats

3 cups whole grain cereal flakes

1 cup dried dates, raisins or cranberries

1 cup dried apples

1 cup chopped nuts

1 cup packed light brown sugar

2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon each of ground ginger, turmeric and cloves

Directions

In a 3 quart container with a lid, combine all ingredients. For a single serving, bring 1 cup of water to a boil over campfire. Stir in 3/4 cup of oatmeal mixture until well-combined and thoroughly heated, about 5 minutes. Remove pot from heat and cover, allowing to stand for 5 to 10 minutes, or until thickened. Serve warm, topped with fresh fruit or apple sauce.

Bangin’ Breakfast Bowl

We can’t stress enough how important a good, hearty breakfast is, which is why we’re including more early morning eats for the campfire. If you’re more of a meat and potatoes kind of mountain man or ma’am, and fruits and grains don’t really get you going, then this next dish is for you. Packed with all sorts of breakfasty goodies, these Egg Bowls pack a mean, morning punch.

Ingredients

6 large eggs

1/3 cup milk

1/8 teaspoon each of salt, garlic powder and ground black pepper

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/4 cup green bell pepper, chopped

4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled

4 links brown-and-serve sausage, cut into bite-sized pieces

2 green onions, chopped

Directions 

On a small skillet, brown sausage pieces, set aside. In a small bowl whisk together eggs, milk, salt, garlic powder, and pepper. Pour mixture into greased disposable foil tart pans and top with cheese, bell pepper, sausage, bacon and onions. Cover pans with aluminum foil and place over heat for 20 minutes more until eggs are firm.

Killer Kabocha Squash Soup

Don’t put away your bowl just yet, ’cause lunchtime brings even more gut-warming meals like this recipe for squash soup. Don’t be fooled, this is no weak broth. Kabocha squash lends its full-bodied flavors and rich texture to this creamy soup, making it a meal all on its own.

Ingredients

1 medium kabocha squash

14 ounce can white beans

1 small onion

1/2 cup olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

4 teaspoons vegetable bouillon

1 tablespoon harissa spice mix

1/2 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced

Red pepper flakes, to taste

Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

Wrap the squash in aluminum foil and place directly on the fire.  Allow squash to roast until tender, about 1 1/2 hours. Carefully remove with tongs and set aside.

Cut onion in half, setting one half aside for later use, and fry in 3 tablespoons of olive oil until brown and crispy. Remove from heat and set to the side. Fry mushrooms in 3 more tablespoons of olive oil.

Once squash has cooled unwrap, slice in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds. Note: seeds can be saved and roasted for a quick and tasty snack. Scoop the squash’s flesh out into a small bowl and set aside.

Finely chop the remaining half of onion and add to a large stockpot along with the last two tablespoons of oil and garlic cloves. Sauté until garlic has softened and onions appear translucent.

Stir in beans along with their juices, squash flesh, bouillon, spices, and 4 cups of water. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for about 10 minutes. Using a potato masher or wooden spoon, mash mixture until creamy and well-incorporated. Spoon into bowls and garnish with shiitake mushrooms and fried onions.

Marvelous Mashed Potatoes

Nothing says warmth and comfort quite like a heaping plate of mashed potatoes, and this campfire twist on the American favorite is sure to bring the feeling of home to your tent or cabin. Serve with a hearty meat or veggie side for an extra helping of home.

Ingredients

5 medium Yukon gold potatoes, washed, peeled and quartered

2 medium yams peeled, and quartered

2 turnips, washed and quartered

5 carrots washed, peeled and chopped

1 white onion, quartered

2 tablespoons butter

Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

Bring 5 cups of water to a boil in a Dutch oven. Place all vegetables in a mesh bag and tie shut. Drop bag into water and cover Dutch oven with lid. Bag should not float to top, if you notice it is use a weight such as a rock to keep it fully submerged. Allow to cook for 15 to 20 minutes or until ingredients are thoroughly softened. Remove bag from pot and drain of any excess water. Pour vegetables into foil pans or aluminum pie plates. With a wooden spoon or ricer mash ingredient until desired consistency, season with butter, salt and butter. Serve hot.

Tiffany, The Campy Mom

Just when you thought a busy mother of three young children couldn’t possibly add one more thing to an already jam-packed schedule, Tiffany Akin proves there’s always room for adventure. The Campy Mom, as Akin’s known in the blogosphere, not only makes time for the outdoors but she also makes sure it’s part of her family’s daily life, just as it was for her growing up. Over the last few years, Akin’s channeled her passion for nature and family through her blog, A Little Campy, where she shares anecdotes, tips and advice for exploring the great outdoors.

Here The Campy Mom fills us is on growing up with nature, great outdoor gear, her plans for this year and more! Be sure to check out her blog for the full scoop.

What do you do?
I am a full-time stay-at-home mom and a part-time Registered Respiratory Therapist. I am also a blogger. I have a family camping blog, where my readers and I discuss all aspects of family camping, from pitching tents to pitching fits.

At what age did you have your first outdoor experience?
Actually, I was raised around the outdoors.  Both sets of my grandparents enjoyed camping and fishing.  My paternal grandparents had four ponds on their land, where I fished pretty much every time I went to visit them.  They also took my sister and I camping every summer in their camper. My dad has owned a boat as long as I can remember. My mom and stepfather took us tent camping, fishing, crawfishing and crabbing.  Oh, and did I mention that I grew up in a log cabin out in the woods of Louisiana?  I guess that is one reason I love tent camping.  Cabin camping would just be redundant.

Looking back, how did that first experience shape what you do today?
These early outdoor experiences shaped me into the confident and independent woman I am today.  When you enjoy the outdoors, you want to experience all the activities to the fullest extent.  For me, this meant digging my own worms, baiting my own hook and taking the fish off the hook.  I never wanted to ride on the back of a four-wheeler; I always wanted to drive it myself.  I have always loved learning new outdoor activities whether it was archery, canoeing, or tubing down a river. This self-confidence has spilled over into other areas of my life.  I can change a flat tire and jump-start a car (these skills came in very handy in college).  In college, I was required to take a gross anatomy class and I was able to handle that.  Ultimately, I believe this confidence instilled at an early age, has led to success in many areas of my life.

Why’d you start blogging about the outdoors?
Actually, I love to write. When I considered writing a blog, I asked myself what I loved enough that I could write about it every day without burning out.  The answer was easy.  I love camping. I love the outdoors.  And I love my family.  My family camping blog combines my passion for writing and my passion for the outdoors.  It has been so much fun!

What’s the most difficult thing about what you do?
I think the most difficult thing about writing my blog has been time management.  I have three kids.  My youngest child is a toddler who needs constant attention.  My two older children are in elementary school and they require a lot of carting (carting to school, from school, and various school and extra-curricular activities).  My house quiets down at night after the kids go to bed.  That’s when I do most of my blogging. 

What’s the funniest thing to ever happen to you on a camping trip?
Well, we had taken the kids camping and woke up early to go fishing.  We were letting the kids fish with bobbers and worms.  They were catching tiny perch and having a great time.  We were placing the fish in a five-gallon bucket.  We like to fish like the pros-catch, photograph and release.  I picked up my rod and reel and cast out a few times with a purple worm.  Boo-ya! I caught about a three-pound bass.  We were all so excited.  We put it in the five-gallon bucket while my husband turned to walk back to the truck and get the stringer.  My fish flounced out of the bucket onto the bank and then flipped into the water. My husband chased after it.  He was knee deep in the lake before he admitted defeat.  I hadn’t even taken a picture of the fish, yet.  But you know your husband loves you when he is willing to jump into the lake to get your fish back!

Like father, like daughter: Tiffany on a fishing trip with her dad to Caddo Gap, Arkansas.

We know it’s like picking your favorite kid, but what’s the most memorable place you’ve visited?
My most memorable camping experience was my first camping trip that I can recall.  I was about seven years old. We went to Caddo Gap, Arkansas.  I camped with my parents and grandparents.  My grandparents took me on a short hike.  My grandfather found him a good walking stick and then found one for me.  I have a picture of my dad and I standing in the river, fishing.  My dad had his rod and reel and I had a smaller version of it.  I don’t remember if we caught any fish, I just remember fishing.  I love that memory.  My grandparents have passed away.  And I have moved out of the state, so I don’t get to fish as much with my dad as I would like.  I still have this wonderful memory from more than 30 years ago.  That is why I take my kids camping.  Camping memories last a lifetime.

What would few people know about you?
I have been known to twirl fire from time to time (back in high school).

What outdoor experience or advice do you hope to pass on to your children?
I hope to instill in my children the same love of the outdoors that I have.  I do this by consistently exposing them to the outdoors and various outdoor activities.  While camping, I teach them to respect nature, respect the animals and respect the other campers.

Georgia State Parks Pocket Ranger® hit the market recently. What’s your favorite feature so far?
My favorite feature of the Georgia State Parks Pocket Ranger app is the Event tab, which allows me to enter the date we would like to camp and it brings up events from all the Georgia State Parks. There are some great events happening in the Georgia State Parks and the Pocket Ranger® app gives me this information quickly.  We choose where we will camp based on the events and activities available.  Otherwise, we would be missing some wonderful programs.  I also love that I can upload pictures to Flickr right from my phone.

What’s the question you get asked most by your readers?
How do you tent camp with a toddler?

If you could design the state park of your dreams, what would it look like and where would it be?
My dream park would have a river for fishing /tubing/canoeing.  Or it would have a nice lake for fishing and boating.  Either way, there would be plenty of fish to catch.  It would have lots of wooded areas, hiking trails and geocaching.  It would have some green grassy areas perfect for picnicking or touch football, spacious campsites and a swim area.  Most importantly, it would always be clean and well maintained. I think my dream state park would have daytime programs occasionally for stay-at-home-moms and their children or moms of home-schooled children. A bring your own picnic and learn to fish or hike a short trail with your child and other moms.  If you want to get more people camping, it starts with the moms.  Give them easy, safe and inexpensive programs and they will come.  Never underestimate a mother’s influence on her family.

Tiffany and co.

What’s next for you, your family and blog in 2012?
Well, my family plans to do a lot more camping and fishing in the coming year. And we want to learn to geocache.  In 2012, A Little Campy will feature more camping tips, camping recipes and gear reviews of the latest, greatest and oddest camping equipment to hit the market. I even plan to have a few contests so my readers will have a chance to win some great gear.  Mostly, there will be more chatting, learning and laughing.  It’s kind of what we do!

The Campy Mom’s Bests

• Outdoor apps: Georgia State Parks Pocket Ranger® app
• Outdoor snacks: homemade peanut butter granola rounds and Little Debbie Oatmeal Pies
• Memorable place you’ve visited:  As a family, we still talk about our trip to Cloudland Canyon State Park in Georgia.  Beautiful scenery—hiking trails and waterfalls—and it is very close to Chattanooga, TN, which has some great kid-friendly venues (aquarium, children’s museum and Rock City).
• Gear: My favorite camping equipment is not camping equipment at all.  It is foam floor tiles.  You usually see these in preschools in bright, primary colors. We use these as flooring in our tent.  They make walking around in the tent more comfortable.  They are also wonderful if you are camping with a baby or toddler. This gives them a place to crawl, walk and play at the campsite.  We found ours at one of the large warehouse clubs.
• Keepsake or memento you picked up along your travels that you treasure most: I collect refrigerator magnets.
• Outdoor soundtrack (natural sounds count too!): I like listening to the sounds of nature. The sounds of the night in the woods: crickets, owls, frogs and the rustling sound of leaves as critters prowl around in the night.
• Outdoor companion:  My family: hubby and three kids.
• Outdoors Advice:  When it comes to the outdoors, leave it like you found it.

This or that?

Trail mix v. nutrition bars: trail mix.

Tents v. Yurts: I’m a tent girl, but we recently rented a yurt and it rocked!

Fall/winter camping v. spring/summer: I am going to be difficult and pick summer and fall.  I love the water activities available in the summer. But I love the beautiful scenery and crisp air in the fall.

BYO prepped meals v. cook at campsite: We do a little of both at the campsite. I love to cook at the campsite, when my husband is the one doing the cooking. ; ) He really does cook  some great breakfasts for us (and my kids argue over who is going to help him cook). I also like to cook some one dish meals ahead of time and take with us (chili or veggie-beef soup).

♥ Stargazing

They say diamonds are a girl’s best friend, and we like to think of the billions of shimmering stars in the night sky as Mother Nature’s bling. This Valentine’s Day, present your loved one with the big, blue yonder, and watch his or her eyes light up as the gaze up at the countless number of twinkling lights that seem to shine for you two only. Score extra points by doing a little research beforehand, so that you can point out the various constellations and planets visible from your location. Many state parks offer brochures and stargazing programs for those looking to learn more about those glittering gems we call stars. To find out which parks are great for gazin’, check out one of Pocket Ranger®‘s many official state park apps.

♥ Pack a Picnic

Woo your boo by packing a picnic for two! State parks offer some prime picnicking spots, from grassy knolls to beachfront tables, and not to mention the natural backdrops beat the pants off of your backyard. Bring a basket filled with sweet and savory snacks, such as cheese, grapes, strawberries and, if the park allows, wine, and cozy up with your cutie on a blanket or bench.

♥  Pedal Boating

Let’s face it, these two-person watercrafts were just made for romance. Take a cruise around a like or pond with the one you love and take in the enchanting sights and sounds of your local park. Activities like boating are especially fun when done together, and give you the time and privacy to talk or gaze longingly into each other’s eyes! Put the pedal to the metal and download one of our apps to get the scoop on boat rentals and pedaling hot spots.

♥ Camping

What’s so romantic about sleeping on the ground, you ask? Think campfires, think peace and quite, think sleeping bags built for one! Before you book that pricy hotel room, you might want to consider spending a night out under the stars, nestled next to your loved one in the cozy comfort of a tent or cabin. Build a fire and watch it burn like your desires—just don’t start a forest fire!

♥ Hiking

A couple that sweats together, stays together, and the same goes for exploring too. Whether you choose to hold hands on a romantic stroll along one of your local park’s nature trails or backpack to a mountain’s summit to let your love confessions echo across the land. Just make sure to pack extra lip balm, because a smooch fest in cold weather can leave lips high and dry!

Whether you currently find yourself Lovesick or with nothing more than a Friend Crush, Valentine’s Day can be complicated. Before you drive yourself crazy asking Why I Love You about a Shady Love, or wishing that someone was Thinking About You, get outside and fall in love with nature with inspiration from this extended Valentine’s Day playlist. Even if you’re Not In Love, these tunes will get you thinking about a True Love Fantasy  with the great outdoors, whatever your romantic situation.

Check out the rest of this week’s Valentine’s Day-themed selections to get you breaking a sweat no matter the weather.

♥ Delaware State Parks

Take your romantic getaway to the state park with an overnight stay in a cozy cottage at Delaware Seashore State Park. Enjoy a slew of discounts when you book, such as Valentine’s Day chocolates, a gift card towards the purchase of dinner at the marina and more. The best part? The deal is good through the end of February, perfect for that procrastinating special someone in your life. Click to book.

♥ Kentucky State Parks

Take your Valentine’s Day celebration to the next level with an overnight stay at one of Kentucky State Parks’ resorts. Pick from a raucous dance party to an interactive murder mystery game, all paired with equally festive fare ranging anywhere from complimentary continental breakfast and room service to a multi-course meal. Click for a list of events.

♥ Missouri State Parks

Love is in the air at Dr. Edmund Babler Memorial State Park the weekend leading up to Valentine’s Day. Come join The Mating Game as the park’s wild inhabitants on their quest for a sweetheart. You’ll be amazed at the crazy antics! Sign up to play.

♥ North Carolina State Parks

Enjoy buy-one-get-one-free admission to Chimney Rock State Park February 9 through February 13 and celebrate early on a hike with your honey. Visit the state park’s site for more information. On the day of, opt for a guided hike or an evening under the stars with a movie by the lake. Click for more details.

♥ Pennsylvania State Parks

Because few things say “I love you!” like taking a stroll hand in hand, a Valentine’s Day stroll is mandatory. Kick start the celebration early on the Valentine Prediction Run/Walk at Presque Isle State Park. For another activity made better by a little hand-holding, there’s always a traditional jaunt around the ice rink at Parker Dam State Park (now through February 17).

♥ South Dakota State Parks

Strap on your snowshoes and head to Custer State Park for the Lover’s Leap Snowshoe hike. This guided snowshoe hike takes participants through a dense pine forest, meandering near Grace Coolidge Creek. Snowshoes are provided but it’s BYO date!