Not only did Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore welcome a record number of visitors last year, but most came from out of the immediate area, demonstrating the pull sandy beaches and cool waters can have during a hot summer.

Need a reason to become a National Park Service ranger? Some get to live in really cool accommodations, such as the Rangers Club at Yosemite National Park. This video explores the facility and some of its history.

The winter months bring the "dry season" to Everglades National Park, and that means more favorable conditions for hiking, boating and other outdoor activities. The park's winter schedule for guided ranger programs is underway, and they include Slough Slogs, Croc Talks, Nike Missile Tours and a host of other great activities.