Rivers run fast and tumbling throughout the National Park System, there are streams with lazy meanders, and placid lakes perfect for dipping a paddle. This diversity poses a delightful dilemma when you have the urge to float and paddle. What follows is just a sampling of the experiences that await you, whether you have hundreds of watery miles under your paddle, or are looking for calm waters to take your youngsters.

With the travel season not too far off, you should be planning your national park adventures. If you're looking for a great scenic drive, we offer the following for your consideration.

A Beaufort, North Carolina, company has been awarded a contract to ferry Cape Lookout National Seashore visitors out to Shackleford Banks and South Core Banks.

While you still can climb up the Cape Lookout Lighthouse this summer, you won't be able to reserve your spot in line as the national seashore is cutting various programs to meet budget cuts imposed by the failure of Congress and the White House to solve the nation's fiscal solvency.